Boat Test: 2025 Tigé Ultré 23ZX

Overview

When it comes to premium watersports-specific boats—think top luxury, killer tech and jaw-dropping performance—there are plenty of choices. One not to be ignored is the Ultré 23ZX from Texas-based Tigé. Whether you’re running it, riding in it, shredding behind it, or looking at it from across the lake, this 23-footer hits with a slick combination of beauty and beast.

Interior and Accessories

Pronounced “ultra,” the Ultré ZX is just that in every facet. Its simplified badging, clean lines and custom details scream “means business.” Once on board, the luxury and innovative features are instantly noticeable. The premium vinyl and signature stitching, along with the complementary patterns of the soft-touch flooring, help set the Ultré ZX apart. Padding is supple and bolsters reside in all the right spots—your crew will appreciate the curved backs of the wraparound seating. The aft bench flips into the cockpit to become rear-facing, and the back can be lowered to act as a tabletop. But Tigé also provides a unique, hidden table that slides out from under the walk-through.

A special feature of the wraparound seating is what Tigé has dubbed its FastFlip Co-Captain’s Chair. Resembling seating found aboard sterndrive runabouts, it features a convertible backrest that can face either forward or aft. Both options proved comfortable, and a bolster adds support when facing forward. A touchscreen beside the seat allows the co-captain to control the Ultré’s audio, lighting and even a heater­—one of the coolest features that sits at their feet, literally.

A built-in electric cooler adds both luxury and convenience to the Ultré ZX. The UltréChill keeps your beverages and snacks cold and fresh, and can continue running with the ­engine off. (The cooler shuts down if the battery levels drop to a certain point.) Positioned just right and upholstered, it serves as a footrest for a co-captain facing forward. Before decrying this cooler as taking away a common wakeboat storage spot, know that Tigé has ­integrated ample space beneath the seat.

With a very high gunwale, the Ultré 23ZX offers added comfort and security when cruising. This deep cockpit also helps maximize storage. The space beneath the wraparound seating rates as some of the deepest I’ve seen aboard a watersports boat—in fact, it was large enough for my 6-foot-1-inch, 190-pound self to crawl inside and close myself in. So, yes, the space is large enough to hide a body.

Speaking of bodies, several can lounge comfortably in the bow, which is a hybrid between traditional and pickle-fork styles. Tigé carried the Ultré 23ZX’s depth through the bow, making it one of the more secure-feeling I’ve seen. The space is customizable to become a playpen or have a padded walk-through, while the backrest at the front also flips down, revealing a padded step to aid in boarding over the bow. Storage abounds underneath, and a dedicated locker handles the anchor.

For the indecisive loungers on the boat—the Ultré 23ZX can accommodate up to 16—Tigé has integrated dual-facing transom seats. Above the engine compartment, you can flip up a backrest and face into the wraparound seating area. Or flip the opposite section up and face the water. Both proved very comfortable. The padded walk-through bisecting the transom lounge provides easy swim-platform access, where you can find two more comfy seats. The high gunwales make for a big step down to the platform, but Tigé offers an optional step that floats just above the swim platform. Push a button and the rear section of the power platform lowers into the water, making entry and exit much more comfortable. A giant surf locker underneath the transom seats offers room for multiple boards and other pieces of gear.

Ballast

When it comes to riding, the Ultré 23ZX delivers, thanks in large part to its 7,400-pound dry weight, 4,000 pounds of ­internal ballast and the integration of the TAPS 3T system. The wakes and waves are clean, crisp and fun for all levels because riders can adjust them easily to suit a variety of skills and styles. Making those adjustments is as simple as a finger tap. The helm of the Ultré ZX is outfitted with one large touchscreen, which keeps the sightlines clean without losing any functionality. Tigé calls it the Go System. Simply tap the “Go” icon on the screen, select your discipline (wakeboard, surf, foil or ski) and your level, and the boat does the rest. The head-up display in the center of the screen features mph, rpm and other essential data, while other functions “float” on the sides. Simply drag in the icon and you have access to make adjustments as needed. Stern-thruster controls come via a toggle switch at the front of the throttle, while a second toggle by the thumb allows for redundant control of TAPS. It’s all simple and highly effective.

Luxury wakeboat buyers can compare the Ultré 23ZX to MasterCraft’s redesigned XStar 23, which has its own unique luxury and tech features, but comes at a higher price (starting at $395,000). What makes the Ultré 23ZX stand out among its other premium-class peers are not only the features that can’t be found on other boats, but also how much you wish other boats had them after using them. And if you’re worried a 23-foot boat isn’t enough for you, don’t fret. Tigé also offers the Ultré ZX in a 25-footer.

How We Tested

• Engine: Indmar 6.2L Roushcharged 575
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/17″ x 15.5″ Acme 3077
• Gear Ratio: 1.76:1 Fuel Load: 38 gal. Crew Weight: 750 lb.

High Points

• Smart steering wheel allows quick and easy adjustments the audio system, TAPS, surf side, video camera display and more.
• Alpha E3 SolidShade tower raises and lowers quickly while offering integrated, portable board storage. 
• Integrated high-pressure air-pump system is great for families who like to tube or bring inflatable air mats to the lake.

Low Point

• The SolidShade tower is tall and the position of the wakeboarding tow point above it is very high, making it hard to quickly attach a wakeboard rope.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation