Thanks everybody for weighing in on this.
We have quite a few options to consider. We are both 34 mph skiers with a 2010 Response LXi and a 2012 pro star WTT, so the shorter setups should be ok. I have skied quite a few times on a lake that measures about 1850, with one really narrow end, and it does take quite a few times to get comfortable. When you get out of the water, there is no adjusting shorts or wiping water off of your face - get up and get out. Very workable, but not ideal.
We have discussed the 8 buoy course for another site we were both considering buying, as it was about 1800' with limited land to add lengh. I know my buddy has skied on a lake in Mississippi, I think, where they had the extra buoys rigged to a garage door opener to pull them down, which I think is awesome. Without that, I have read on other threads, and seen the layout, that the five ball from the opposite direction is right near your gate turn in - which could either hurt or help.
Regarding other layout otions, the property is faily narrow, 300', with the dog leg, so this limits options on how the lake is oriented.
We have debated islands, and my buddy has spoken to quite a few other skiers about pros and cons, and the debate rages on....obviously from this thread!! I think there are two primary options - blast away to build the ideal set up, or walk away and find another piece of property. I think if he is going to spend the money to build the lake, he won't want to settle for less.
Thanks for the offers of assistance, and we will probably be reaching out to you individually.