2023 Corvette Nats highlight – Malibu Corvette Z06 ski boat

Critics of the third-generation (C3) Corvettes say they handle like boats, but here’s a “Corvette” that really does handle like a boat!

Powered by a genuine Corvette V8, and with Corvette styling touches inside and out, this boat isn’t a one-off custom creation; it’s actually one of a limited-edition created by American boatbuilders Malibu in 2008.

This one was spotted at the 2023 Corvette Nationals, which had its public Show ‘n’ Shine on the banks of Lake Wendouree in Ballarat, so it feasibly could have been taken for a spin on the water, but remained on dry land for the display day.

The owner explained that, in 2008, US ski boat builder Malibu produced a limited-edition – the Corvette Z06 Sport V – with Corvette mechanical and cosmetic features on the Sport V ski boat base. This followed earlier Corvette limited editions produced by Malibu, inspired by the C4 and C5 Corvette.

Powering the Corvette Z06 Sport V was a 7.0-litre LS7 V8 - the same engine used in a C6 Corvette Z06 - that produced 65mph (about 56 knots or 104km/h) on the water, which Malibu claimed made it the fastest inboard production boat on the market. The engine sat under a clear Lexan cover, so it could be viewed when the rear deck covers were open.

In the cabin, Malibu added genuine, heated Corvette seats and a car-style dash, power windows, a multi-outlet heater and carbon fibre detailing. The amps and speakers for a Rockford Fosgate sound system sat under the “bonnet” up front, while LED lighting featured throughout, including in the engine compartment.

On the outside, Corvette badging was added to the nose, sides and rear, with a C-shaped notch in the flanks said to be inspired by similar styling on the Z06. Chromed exhaust tips continued the car-themed touches and “tail lights” are actually vents for the engine, while a swim deck at the rear could be removed to accentuate these styling features.

Costing a substantial US$124,120 when new in 2008, no more than 25 Corvette Z06 Sport V ski boats were produced by Malibu, with some saying only 19 were made. A matching trailer using Z06 wheels was part of the package for every Corvette Z06 Sport V sold.

The early history of this particular boat, #19 of the 25 (or 19) built, is unknown, with unconfirmed rumours it was bought to Australia as part of a Coca-Cola promotion. What is known is that’s bounced between owners in Queensland and Victoria in the past decade. Its current owner had it for sale at the Nationals. The asking price for this ultimate accessory for the dedicated Corvette (and particularly C6 Corvette Z06) owner had been reduced to $89,000 ono at time of writing.

To see the JUST CARS report from the 2023 Corvette Nationals, click HERE.