The first thing I wanted to know about the Starcraft Limited 2018 was how well the vented reverse chines actually did function. Notches in the chine are intended to flow air to the hull to break friction and resistance with the water, much the same way a step does, only not as drastically. Some dismiss these chines as a marketing gimmick, but after rocketing onto plane and feeling the hull quickly settle in, I’d say they work.
The Limited 2018 IO is a sporty and stylish bowrider, capable of exceeding 45 mph with a 190 hp Mercruiser carbureted sterndrive engine — all the speed you really need for a day on the lake. If you’re jonesing to break 50 mph, the Limited 2018 IO can handle the power of a 260 hp engine.
With a full fiberglass liner and standard snap-in carpeting, the Limited 2018 IO distinguishes itself from other bowriders in its class that cover plywood decking with marine-grade carpet. The Limited 2018 IO also comes standard with the extended swim platform, which covers up the lower unit, protecting swimmers from the prop as they approach the recessed swim ladder to starboard.
The best place to dry off on board is the large sun pad over the engine hatch; then simply head into the main cockpit via the starboard walkway and grab a seat, either along the transom bench or passenger-side bucket seat, or up in the bow. There’s room for two to stretch out up front or three to sit (four if it’s all kids). With the stainless-steel grab handles running along the gunwale topsides, everyone will have a secure handhold. With a boat capable of such zippy and nimble performance, it’s good to know everyone on board will feel secure.
Extra Points
The vented chines improve lift and hole shot, bringing the 2018 on plane quickly.
The full fiberglass liner is easy to clean and maintain.
Swimmers and boarders are protected from the lower unit by the extended swim platform.
With the stainless-steel grab rails running along the bow cockpit, everyone up front can hold on.
Test Drive
» Test Engine: Mercruiser 190 HP 4.3L Alpha 1.81:1
» Test Prop: Mercury 14½” X 18″ Four-Blade Aluminum
» Test Load: People (390 LB.); Fuel (25 GAL.)
» Top Speed: 45.7 MPH @ 5,000 RPM
» Time to Plane: 3.5 sec.
» Time to 30 MPH: 8 sec.
» Minimum Planing Speed: 16.2 MPH @ 2,500 RPM
Vital Stats
» Length Overall: 18’7″
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» Beam:** 8’2″
» Dry Weight: 2,345 LB.
» Seating/Weight Capacity: 8/1,200 LB.
» Fuel Capacity: 30 GAL.
» Max HP: 260
» MSRP: $22,146 (w/ test power)
» NMMA Certified
Starcraft Marine – New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; starcraftmarine.com
