A family hauler and ski platform, Starcraft built the SVX 231 OB well for heavy use on populated waterways. Its deep cockpit gives a “sitting in” rather than a “sitting on” feeling. Fitted with a Yamaha SHO 250 high-performance outboard, it runs in spirited yet thrifty fashion, yielding 51 mph at wide-open throttle and a most economical cruise speed of 25 mph netting 3.8 mpg. It rockets from a dead start to 30 mph in just 4.7 seconds. The ride at cruise speeds was docile and forgiving; carving turns and skipping over lake chop is this boat’s forte. Even at full boogie, it’s very controllable yet offers some driver excitement, rising on the last few feet of the hull at speeds over 45 mph. Getting that last few miles per hour provides good feelings of outboard performance fun.
The deck layout is designed for conversation, with a roomy bowrider section fitted with plush two-tone cognac and white upholstery. Add twin captain’s chairs amidships—one each for the pilot and co-pilot—and a broad-beamed aft L-shaped bench to fit another group behind those in the stern. The captain’s console features an enclosed head underneath and forward of the dashboard with a built-in trash receptacle, while the portside co-pilot’s console features glove-box storage and a built-in sink. Twin captain’s chairs feature flip-up bolsters for those who like to sit up high; both seats swivel and slide fore and aft to accommodate folks of different sizes. Stainless-steel grab handles abound, as do USB charge ports and oversize beverage receptacles.
Astern, there’s deep and roomy storage compartments underneath with great access to rigging, batteries and the fuel tank. A standard ski pylon dominates the aft deck, while our tester featured a beefy optional black powder-coated, welded wake-tower package. The tower is fitted with extra speakers to complement the standard JL marine stereo and fitted with a black storable Bimini top. The aft deck is watersports-friendly, with ample room to sit on or jump off, or don your watersports gear.
High Points
- MarineMat flooring makes for comfy feet and easy cleaning.
- Welded, stainless-steel bow rails.
- Three-color gelcoat gives it contemporary styling.
- A spirited, exciting-to-run family do-all.
How We Tested
- Engine: Yamaha SHO four-stroke 250 hp
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha Saltwater Series II 15 1/2” x 16″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 45 gal. Crew Weight: 250 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $85,730 (as tested) |
| LOA: | 22’8″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Dry Weight: | 3,263 lb. |
| Draft: | NA |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 14/1,900 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 60 gal. |
Starcraft Marine – New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; starcraftmarine.com
