At only 16 feet, 10 inches, Starcraft’s SV 16 is one of the smallest deck boats on the market but offers big value for the family buyer looking to spend a great day on the water. In the process, it also never looks cheap. Rather than a simple white base with applied graphics, the hull is available in a choice of bold primary shades, like our test boat’s Electric Blue. That color carries over as an accent onto a generous array of interior upholstery that further belies the boat’s low price tag. Rounding out the standards are MarineMat, EVA-covered bow and stern platforms, and a Wet Sounds MC5 stereo.
The SV 16 carries its beam well forward in typical Starcraft fashion, resulting in a rectangular profile that notably increases the usable interior space. Seating is arrayed into three primary zones. Two lengthwise couches line the bow, inviting a pair of passengers to stretch out and lounge or multiple family members or friends to sit up and socialize. Aft, a three-passenger bench spans from the helm to the portside gunwale. When on the hook or at the sandbar, its wrap-over backrests cushion passengers sitting on a third area, the upper deck of the two-tier EVA-covered swim platform. The latter is a great spot to hang out or gear up for watersports. Stowage awaits below for wet gear like snorkels or watersports towropes.
Our test boat was equipped with a 70 hp Yamaha outboard, a power choice that delivered reliability, fuel efficiency, and enough performance to more than satisfy the intended audience. Slam the throttle down, and the boat reaches a top speed just shy of 31 mph in about 8 seconds flat. Crank the wheel at speed, and the craft nimbly carves a turn, staying hooked up at the stern. Encounter some unwelcome chop on the way back to the dock, and you can hold plane as low as 16 mph for a more comfortable ride.
As to that fuel efficiency, we noted a mere 6 gph consumption at top speed and burned only 2.9 gph at a comfortable cruising speed. The combo makes the SV 16 affordable not only on the showroom floor, but also through years of ownership. Add in all that interior space, and you get more than you pay for.
High Points
- Optional Fun Package includes ski tow bar, bow rails and bow lounge backrest.
- Expansive, EVA-covered bow functions as a boarding or casting platform.
- Underseat storage compartments are covered in a durable, truck-liner-style coating.
How We Tested
- Engine: Yamaha 70
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha 13 1/2″ x 12″ 3-blade aluminum
- Gear Ratio: 2.33:1 Fuel Load: 14 gal. Crew Weight: 155 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $34,228 (with Yamaha 70) |
| LOA: | 16’10” |
| Beam: | 7’10” |
| Draft (max): | NA |
| Dry Weight: | 1,800 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 6/1,600 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 18 gal. |
Starcraft Marine – New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; starcraftmarine.com
