Beginner's Guide to Wakesurfing in Kelowna: Step-by-Step Setup and Safety Tips

Rock The Boat Rentals
Jun 28
4 min read

Wakesurfing on Okanagan Lake is an exciting way to enjoy the water, especially if you are renting a Moomba CRAZ from Rock the Boat Rentals. To make your experience safe and fun, you need to know exactly how to set up the boat and use its features properly. This beginner wakesurf guide walks you through every step of the Moomba CRAZ wakesurf setup, focusing on safety and ease for first-timers. Follow this step-by-step tutorial to learn how to wakesurf confidently and safely behind the boat.

1. Find a Safe Location to Stop

Before you stop the boat to set up for wakesurfing, make sure you are in a safe spot. Choose a location at least 100 feet away from other boats, shorelines, docks, buoys, swimmers, and any other structures. This distance helps prevent accidents and gives you enough space to surf safely.

When you fill the ballast tanks, do it only where you plan to surf. Driving long distances with full ballast puts unnecessary strain on the boat’s engine and hull, so avoid filling the tanks until you are ready to surf.

2. Fill All Ballast Tanks to 100%

The Moomba CRAZ has three ballast tanks that you need to fill to create the perfect wave. Start by filling all three tanks. Use the ballast switches located on the right side of the control panel labelled: LEFT BALLAST, FRONT BALLAST, RIGHT BALLAST up to the FILL position.

You can monitor the level of each ballast by looking at the main Moomba Screen. There are three gauges on the bottom right of the screen that tell you how full each ballast is on a 0-100 scale. Once each tank has reached 100 on the screen, return every ballast switch to the Neutral position.

3. Prepare Life Jackets and Attach the Surf Rope

While the ballast tanks fill (this usually takes 5 to 10 minutes), get your life jackets ready. Find them stored under the left rear seat. Make sure each life jacket fits snugly but comfortably. A proper fit is essential for wakesurf safety.

Next, locate the green surf rope stored under the seat behind the driver. Attach this rope to the stainless steel tow point on the back of the boat. Do not attach the rope to the black plastic navigation light, as it is not designed to handle the tension.

Handle the rope carefully to avoid tangles or knots. Keep it coiled neatly and ready for the surfer to grab.

4. Choose Your Surf Side and Set AutoSurf

Decide which side of the boat you want to surf on. The Moomba CRAZ has a feature called Moomba AutoSurf that helps create the best wave on either the left or right side.

Set the AutoFlow SURF switch located to the right of the steering wheel to either Left or Right, depending on your choice.

Then, press the furtherest left button on the Main Moomba Screen twice to activate the system. Never press this button while the boat is out of the water. The higihlighted section bellow will turn orange and say "AutoWake ON", this is how you know the boat is ready to surf.

5. Basic Wakesurfing Tips

Now that your boat is set up, here are some beginner tips for how to wakesurf:

Getting up: Hold the rope firmly and start in a crouched position on the board. Let the boat pull you forward, then slowly stand up as you gain balance.
Stay close to the wave: Keep your weight centered and ride the wave created by the boat’s ballast system.
Release the rope: Once you are stable and riding the wave, let go of the rope and enjoy the ride. The wave will keep you moving without the rope’s pull.

6. Switching Surf Sides

If you want to switch sides, follow these steps carefully:

Turn AutoWake off by pressing the furthest left button once.
Set the AutoSurf switch to Neutral.
Check the ballast levels. AutoSurf redistributes ballast automatically to build a larger wave on the chosen side.
Refill the ballast tanks to 100% if needed.
Return all ballast switches to Neutral.
Select the opposite side on the AutoSurf switch.
Enable AutoWake again.

This process ensures the wave is perfect for your new surf side.

7. Driver Tips for a Smooth Ride

The driver plays a key role in wakesurf safety and wave quality. Here are some tips:

Maintain a steady speed of 10 to 12 mph using the cruise control.
Drive straight to keep the wave consistent.
The driver should watch ahead for obstacles, while a spotter watches the surfer.
Use clear hand signals before turning or when the water is rough to communicate with the surfer and spotter.

8. Finish by Emptying Ballast Tanks

When you are done wakesurfing, empty all ballast tanks completely. Use the ballast switches to drain the water from each tank.

Return every switch to Neutral before you start driving. This step protects the boat and ensures safety for everyone on board.

Enjoy Wakesurfing Kelowna Safely

This beginner wakesurf guide covers everything you need for a safe and fun Moomba CRAZ wakesurf setup. By following these steps, you’ll enjoy smooth waves and a great time on Okanagan Lake. Remember, safety comes first: always wear life jackets, keep a spotter on watch, and communicate clearly.

If you’re renting a boat for the first time, Rock the Boat Rentals in Kelowna offers expert advice and well-maintained boats to help you get started. Now you know how to fill ballast tanks, use Moomba AutoSurf, and ride the waves like a pro.

Get out there and enjoy the best wakesurfing Kelowna has to offer!