Overview

Since its introduction in the late ’90s, the MasterCraft XStar has left an immeasurable mark on wakeboarding, propelling the sport and its riders to unbelievable levels. For 2025, ­MasterCraft completely redesigned the XStar from the bottom up, but it’s now offered as a 23-footer, which we tested, and as a 25-footer. Performance, luxury, technology, fun and functionality have all been enhanced in major ways, taking the XStar to new heights.

Interior and Accessories

Take a look. This XStar not only looks different from any previous iterations, but from the rest of the MasterCraft lineup as well. Gone is the signature sheerline that dipped at the hip, just aft of the tower, and in its place is a look that is both sleeker and bolder. The tower too is all-new. Dubbed the Z100, it power-folds in a matter of seconds, and it’s designed to accentuate not only the exterior look of the XStar, but the interior as well, thanks to upholstered inlays. Speaking of that interior, throughout the boat, the stitching and SeaDek flooring feature a modern linear pattern that lends the XStar a vibe of its own. The seat cushions and upholstery are top-notch, providing ample comfort, while details such as built-in wireless chargers and sunglasses holders in the cubbies help elevate this boat. While previous iterations of the XStar were always known for on-water performance, this offering ­exudes luxury and refinement too.

For seating, the XStar has a new trick up its sleeve—or under its floor. Instead of the typical sliding rear bench, the XStar features what MasterCraft calls a “Murphy seat.” Lift the floor hatch, and a bench easily pulls up into the cockpit. Keep the backrests folded down, and they act as a tabletop for food and drinks. The best seats in the house though are at the transom, and they are easily accessible thanks to a new, cascading walk-through design. Two ­ultracomfy loungers sit on either side of the engine compartment and make for the perfect spot to sit back and relax.

Our test boat came with 26 total speakers: 10 cockpit speakers, four tower speakers, six transom speakers and six subs. The whole system—called MAAX for MasterCraft Aft Audio Experience—is impressive and can be individually controlled in seven separate zones, but the transom setup is unique unto itself. Simply put, audio for hanging out at the back of a boat doesn’t get better. 

The other best seat in the house is definitely the captain’s. It offers plush cushioning and powered fore/aft and vertical movements for a customized combination of visibility and comfort. From here, you command new tech in the form of the dual displays—a 15-inch panoramic center display paired with a 12-inch touchscreen to the right. The screens feature an all-new interface that is equal parts sleek and simple. Quick menu navigation and adjustments happen with just a finger tap or two. MasterCraft went further, adding the MyDrive rotary encoder, located right next to the throttle. This allows quick adjustments on the fly to the most used systems such as surf wave or speed control, all without needing to touch a screen. Got a system or setting you’re regularly accessing? Add it to the “favorites” button for the ultimate shortcut. Captains will also appreciate the ability to customize the center display and choose between the multitude of built-in cameras on the XStar: bow, tower, port stern and starboard stern.

Ballast 

When it comes to wakesurfing, the J shape that MasterCraft has long touted is more evident than ever behind the new XStar, meaning riders can get farther back and still have plenty of push. Much of this is also due to the XStar’s overall displacement, which comes in at 7,600 pounds of dry weight plus 3,850 pounds of ballast. If you’re wondering—and of course you are—that’s an identical total displacement to Nautique’s G23 Paragon. Thanks to SurfStar, the wave is easily adjusted to suit a variety of skill levels and preferences, and the display makes those adjustments even easier to navigate and understand. For wakeboarding, the wakes go from all-pro, when the ­ballast is full, to friendly and ­accommodating, which is great for beginners. Notably, the XStar delivers clean, consistent wakes, even at slower speeds (less than 20 mph), with little to no ballast, ensuring beginners a fun, approachable platform for learning to catch air.

If you’re shopping the all-new XStar against others in the market, the most likely comparison is Nautique’s G23 Paragon (seen advertised for $474,324 with a 630 hp PCM ZZ8 ­engine), which is also renowned for its luxury and wake/wave performance. Just a few inches shorter, it’s also rated for 16 passengers but carries 20 fewer gallons of fuel.

The most surprising aspect of the XStar might actually be the driving performance. As wakesports boats have grown and dwarfed their water-ski predecessors over the years, handling characteristics haven’t kept up. Thanks to its 6.2-liter supercharged Ilmor motor, the XStar delivers serious giddyap, and handling to boot. Throw it into a hard turn at speed, and it tracks and pivots in ways that are reminiscent of those older ski boats. More than anything though, the ample power ensures that the XStar gets on plane quickly, no matter the load or activity of the day.

The XStar was originally given its moniker as an ode to all things extreme, and wakeboarding was the new, cool “extreme” sport at the time. Now the “X” might have to stand for “extra.” If you’re in the market for the ultimate in luxury, styling, performance and fun, put the XStar high on your list.

Read Next: MasterCraft XT25

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor Supercharged 6.2L 630 hp
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 18″
• Gear Ratio: 2:1 Fuel Load: 43 gal. Crew Weight: 700 lb.

High Points

• Stern thruster integrated into the throttle makes maneuvering the XStar in tight quarters a breeze.
• Windshield walk-through utilizes friction hinges—no more worrying about slamming it!
• The wake and wave have to be experienced to be believed, and riders of all levels will love them.

Low Point

• A Bimini top was not available at the time of testing. Without one, board storage is minimal compared with other boats.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 MasterCraft XStar 23 appeared first on Boating Mag.

MasterCraft, one of the most iconic names in watersports, introduces the brand-new XStar 23—a masterpiece of engineering designed for wakeboarding and wakesurfing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the SurfStar system creates powerful, customizable waves and adjustable wakes, ensuring a world-class experience at any skill level.

Unmatched Design & Comfort

This next-generation XStar delivers a bold, aggressive look with signature accents that set it apart from every other MasterCraft boat.

Luxurious, adjustable seating is designed for ultimate comfort on the water.

Immersive sound system featuring 26 powerful speakers across 7 customizable zones for the perfect audio experience.

MasterCraft isn’t just redefining performance—it’s revolutionizing luxury.

Performance Meets Power

The XStar 23 commands the waves with cutting-edge wake technology.

SurfStar System: Dial in the perfect wake with adjustable amplitude and speed settings.

Effortless Handling: Advanced steering technology for precision control and a smoother ride.

Signature Styling: A modern design built for power, prestige, and pure adrenaline.

Every Detail, Designed for Unforgettable Moments

MasterCraft’s flagship boat isn’t just about riding the waves—it’s about living the experience.

Elite craftsmanship and cutting-edge engineering for peak performance.
Premium materials and dynamic aesthetics make every outing unforgettable.
Perfectly tuned for wakesurfing, wakeboarding, and all things watersports.

Ride the Future of Watersports

The 2025 MasterCraft XStar 23 is more than a boat—it’s a statement.

Are you ready to take control of the water?

Reserve your test ride today!

Unleash the Power – Find Your MasterCraft Dealer Now

The post The 2025 MasterCraft XStar – Legendary Luxury Reimagined appeared first on Boating Mag.

MasterCraft is back with its third annual Rule The Water demo tour, headlined by its recently redesigned iconic flagship model, the XStar 23 and 25. In partnership with Chevy Silverado, the 57-stop nationwide tour brings next-level wake performance, unmatched luxury and comfort, along with premium technology to boaters who demand the best. 

Fresh off winning the NMMA Innovation Award at MIBS, the XStar gives boaters at each tour stop the chance to take part in an immersive demo and experience firsthand what sets MasterCraft apart. As home to the industry’s most expansive lineup, MasterCraft will also showcase its full range including the XStar, NXT, XT, and X family – offering attendees the opportunity to explore every model. 

MasterCraft Boat Company, a subsidiary of MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc., in partnership with Chevrolet Silverado, the Rule the Water Demo Tour will embark on a 57-stop journey across key markets, bringing the latest MasterCraft models directly to boating enthusiasts and families. As the brand with the largest lineup of boats in the industry, MasterCraft offers something for everyone, from the revolutionary new XStar models to the NXT, XT, and X-family lineups. Attendees will have the chance to test- drive the XStar lineup and explore MasterCraft’s full range of industry-leading boats, ensuring there is a perfect fit for every lifestyle. Each stop on the tour will be hosted in collaboration with local MasterCraft dealerships, providing attendees with expert insights, hands-on demonstrations, and the chance to connect with fellow boating enthusiasts.

The First 20 Stops for Rule the Water Tour

Check the dates and sign-up for your demo.

You can follow along with the MasterCraft Rule The Water tour 2025 on follow along on Instagram, YouTube, X, and Facebook.

The post MasterCraft and Chevy Embark on the Rule The Water Tour 2025 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Now in its fifth successful year, the MasterCraft Let Her Rip Tour powered by Progressive takes off for 2025. Let Her Rip is about empowering and inspiring women to build confidence and feel their best on the water, and also in all aspects of their lives.  It’s  goal is to get as many women out on the water throughout the summer, with pro athletes from Team MasterCraft.

Part of the Let Her Rip DNA is supporting others who proudly and courageously chase their goals and give 100-percent. MasterCraft encourages your to share how you Let Her Rip on Instagram by using the hashtag #letherrip so we can join you in celebrating your passions.

This year’s program will feature seven stops across the country. The seven-stop tour kicks off in Hot Springs, AR, and runs from May through July. The full 2025 schedule is as follows:

• May 4 – Hot Springs, AR
• June 1 – Denver, CO
• June 5 – Knoxville, TN
• July 15 – Lake Tahoe, CA
• July 24 – Minneapolis, MN
• July 25 – Charlotte, NC
• July 28 – Austin, TX

The 2025 ‘Let Her Rip’ campaign continues MasterCraft’s commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity in watersports.

“Five years later, I’m just as excited to work alongside fellow female athletes to inspire young girls and women to step outside their comfort zones, try something new, and experience the pure joy of getting up on a wakeboard,” said Meagan Ethell, world champion MasterCraft. “I love the opportunity to meet girls from all over the country and connect over our shared passion for being on the water. It’s incredible to see how this sport brings people together, builds confidence, and creates unforgettable memories out on the lake.”

To learn more about MasterCraft, sign up for a Let Her Rip clinic, or to shop Let Her Rip apparel, visit mastercraft.com/let-her-rip-movement/ and follow along on Instagram, YouTube, X, and Facebook.

About MasterCraft

MasterCraft is a world-renowned innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium performance sport boats. Founded in 1968, MasterCraft has cultivated its iconic brand image through a rich history of industry-leading innovation, and more than five decades after the original MasterCraft made its debut, the company’s goal remains the same – to continue building the world’s best ski, wakeboard, wake surf, and luxury performance powerboats.

About MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.

Headquartered in Vonore, TN, MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. is a leading innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium recreational powerboats through its three wholly-owned brands, MasterCraft, Crest, and Balise. Through these three brands, MasterCraft Boat Holdings has leading market share positions in two of the fastest-growing segments of the powerboat industry – performance sport boats and pontoon boats. For more information about MasterCraft Boat Holdings, please visit Investors.MasterCraft.com, MasterCraft.com, CrestPontoonBoats.com, and BalisePontoonBoats.com.

The post Let Her Rip Tour Set for 2025 appeared first on Boating Mag.

For 2025, MasterCraft’s X24 offers new features that drastically change the onboard experience. It starts with the ability to accommodate 18 guests. Couple that with 4,300 pounds of ballast and MasterCraft’s signature SurfStar system, and you’ve got pro-level wakes and waves that can be fine-tuned for any riding level or style. All of the X24’s systems are easily controlled from MasterCraft’s new 15-inch panoramic center display and companion 12-inch touchscreen. The SurfStar system utilizes the ballast and three transom-mounted tabs to shape up the waves, and the Rapid Surf presets make the X24 super easy to get started and adjust on the fly.

Also new at the helm is the MasterCraft MyDrive rotary encoder, a dial that lets the captain navigate menus and select surf settings without tapping a touchscreen. A quick-control audio dial—also new—provides instant audio-volume control. Optionally, buyers can now choose a stern thruster, control of which is built into the knob of the throttle.

While the helm seat is a new design itself, the best seats in the X24 might be aft, where patented lounge seats sit below the rub rail and feature a flip-up headrest. We suggest opting for the flip-out footrest to take the lounge factor to the next level. Seating is customizable throughout, thanks to the convertible rear bench that is one of the easiest to deploy we’ve seen. The scallop-shaped seats in the wraparound add a luxurious feel and comfort, with MasterCraft’s signature stitching running throughout. Another suggestion: Upgrade the phone cradles integrated into the port and starboard cubbies to wireless chargers. 

The X24 comes with MasterCraft’s Z6 tower, but we prefer the optional Z8, which the test boat was equipped with. While not fully electric like the Z10, the Z8 is easily lowered and raised by one person thanks to patented Hydro-Lock technology. The large Bimini is also easily deployed and features integrated board storage.

If you’re in the market for a boat that’s high on performance but doesn’t skimp in luxury or comfort, consider the 2025 MasterCraft X24.

High Points

• Rapid Surf actually diagrams the wave so you can customize it.
• Optional drop-down swim step is a great feature for easier boarding from the water.
• Opt for Ilmor’s  supercharged 6.2L engine to own the most powerful tow boat in the world.

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor 6.2L GDI
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/17.5″ x 16.5″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 35 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 MasterCraft X24 appeared first on Boating Mag.

At 23 feet, 4 inches long and with seating for 16, the MasterCraft XT23 sits right in the sweet spot for wakesports enthusiasts. There’s more room than the smaller models, and it’s more maneuverable and easier to tow than the bigger models. There is plenty of space for family and friends, not to mention loads of tow-sports performance.

Featuring a traditional bow shape and MasterCraft’s signature sheerline, the XT23 is both modern and classic, which should appeal to boaters old and new. What’s all-new and will definitely appeal to everybody is the redesigned helm, dash and operating systems. The XT dash features a 12-inch touchscreen with a new, more intuitive interface. Also, an all-new quick-control dial allows adjusting the stereo without the need to locate audio controls on the touchscreen. Truly cool is the new MasterCraft MyDrive rotary encoder. This dial allows navigating the touchscreen without tapping, while hot keys around the dial offer instant adjustments to surf settings and other features. 

The XT23 is equipped with 3,300 pounds of ballast, plenty to displace the boat and kick up high-level wakes and waves. The Rapid Surf system offers presets for every activity built into the interface. With it, users can quickly pick what they want and start riding, or tweak the plates’ positions on the fly for total customization. Rapid Surf features seven positions and an integrated diagram on the display to show how the wave’s shape will change based on the system’s positioning. With the ballast full and a small crew on board, the XT23’s wave is big, clean and a ton of fun while being easily customizable to accommodate any skill level.

Our tester model was equipped with Ilmor’s new 5.3L GDI HO engine, which comes standard. This engine easily planed the XT23 under a full load and proved itself efficient. Cruising between 26.7 and 31.7 mph, the XT23 achieved 2.5 mpg. While fully ballasted and in wakesurf mode, it burned 10.7 gph, besting other boats in its size and class.

Super-versatile, the midsize MasterCraft XT23 offers a full-size watersports adventure.

High Points

• New XT helm is slick, easy to use, and integrates seamlessly into the boat’s design.
• Optional Z8 tower can be lowered or raised quickly by a single person thanks to Hydro-Lock technology.
• Transom seats bring comfortable lounging to the stern.

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor 5.3L GDI HO
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/16.5″ x 17″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 79 gal. Crew Weight: 600 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 MasterCraft XT23 appeared first on Boating Mag.

For 2025, MasterCraft’s X24 offers new features that drastically change the onboard experience. It starts with the ability to accommodate 18 guests. Couple that with 4,300 pounds of ballast and MasterCraft’s signature SurfStar system, and you’ve got pro-level wakes and waves that can be fine-tuned for any riding level or style. All of the X24’s systems are easily controlled from MasterCraft’s new 15-inch panoramic center display and companion 12-inch touchscreen. The SurfStar system utilizes the ballast and three transom-mounted tabs to shape up the waves, and the Rapid Surf presets make the X24 super easy to get started and adjust on the fly.

Also new at the helm is the MasterCraft MyDrive rotary encoder, a dial that lets the captain navigate menus and select surf settings without tapping a touchscreen. A quick-control audio dial—also new—provides instant audio-volume control. Optionally, buyers can now choose a stern thruster, control of which is built into the knob of the throttle.

While the helm seat is a new design itself, the best seats in the X24 might be aft, where patented lounge seats sit below the rub rail and feature a flip-up headrest. We suggest opting for the flip-out footrest to take the lounge factor to the next level. Seating is customizable throughout, thanks to the convertible rear bench that is one of the easiest to deploy we’ve seen. The scallop-shaped seats in the wraparound add a luxurious feel and comfort, with MasterCraft’s signature stitching running throughout. Another suggestion: Upgrade the phone cradles integrated into the port and starboard cubbies to wireless chargers. 

The X24 comes with MasterCraft’s Z6 tower, but we prefer the optional Z8, which the test boat was equipped with. While not fully electric like the Z10, the Z8 is easily lowered and raised by one person thanks to patented Hydro-Lock technology. The large Bimini is also easily deployed and features integrated board storage.

If you’re in the market for a boat that’s high on performance but doesn’t skimp in luxury or comfort, consider the 2025 MasterCraft X24.

High Points

• Rapid Surf actually diagrams the wave so you can customize it.
• Optional drop-down swim step is a great feature for easier boarding from the water.
• Opt for Ilmor’s  supercharged 6.2L engine to own the most powerful tow boat in the world.

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor 6.2L GDI
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/17.5″ x 16.5″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 35 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 MasterCraft X24 appeared first on Boating Mag.

At 23 feet, 4 inches long and with seating for 16, the MasterCraft XT23 sits right in the sweet spot for wakesports enthusiasts. There’s more room than the smaller models, and it’s more maneuverable and easier to tow than the bigger models. There is plenty of space for family and friends, not to mention loads of tow-sports performance.

Featuring a traditional bow shape and MasterCraft’s signature sheerline, the XT23 is both modern and classic, which should appeal to boaters old and new. What’s all-new and will definitely appeal to everybody is the redesigned helm, dash and operating systems. The XT dash features a 12-inch touchscreen with a new, more intuitive interface. Also, an all-new quick-control dial allows adjusting the stereo without the need to locate audio controls on the touchscreen. Truly cool is the new MasterCraft MyDrive rotary encoder. This dial allows navigating the touchscreen without tapping, while hot keys around the dial offer instant adjustments to surf settings and other features. 

The XT23 is equipped with 3,300 pounds of ballast, plenty to displace the boat and kick up high-level wakes and waves. The Rapid Surf system offers presets for every activity built into the interface. With it, users can quickly pick what they want and start riding, or tweak the plates’ positions on the fly for total customization. Rapid Surf features seven positions and an integrated diagram on the display to show how the wave’s shape will change based on the system’s positioning. With the ballast full and a small crew on board, the XT23’s wave is big, clean and a ton of fun while being easily customizable to accommodate any skill level.

Our tester model was equipped with Ilmor’s new 5.3L GDI HO engine, which comes standard. This engine easily planed the XT23 under a full load and proved itself efficient. Cruising between 26.7 and 31.7 mph, the XT23 achieved 2.5 mpg. While fully ballasted and in wakesurf mode, it burned 10.7 gph, besting other boats in its size and class.

Super-versatile, the midsize MasterCraft XT23 offers a full-size watersports adventure.

High Points

• New XT helm is slick, easy to use, and integrates seamlessly into the boat’s design.
• Optional Z8 tower can be lowered or raised quickly by a single person thanks to Hydro-Lock technology.
• Transom seats bring comfortable lounging to the stern.

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor 5.3L GDI HO
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/16.5″ x 17″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 79 gal. Crew Weight: 600 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 MasterCraft XT23 appeared first on Boating Mag.

MasterCraft Boat Company, a MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc subsidiary and the world’s best-selling towboat brand, today unveiled impressive new upgrades and enhancements to its 2025 model year lineup. With the industry’s most expansive lineup, MasterCraft delivers unrivaled performance in driving waves and wakes, superior comfort, unmatched quality and reliability, and industry-leading technology across its diverse range of models.

For 2025, MasterCraft has taken the industry’s top towboat lineup to an entirely new level – further driving innovation and making the best even better. Boasting a new dash for XT and X models, MasterCraft delivers a superior driving experience through a redesigned helm. Additional upgrades and enhancements include the all-new MasterCraft MyDrive rotary encoder, NXT FasterFill ballast and standard underwater exhaust for the NXT lineup. Ilmor’s 5.3L GDI High Output Engine comes standard on the NXT and XT, delivering powerful performance and improved fuel efficiency.

“Our team is dedicated to creating high-quality, high-performance boats that become the heart of unforgettable moments with friends and family,” said Greg Miller, Vice President of Global Sales at MasterCraft. “The 2025 lineup offers the most extensive selection in the market, with each model showcasing our commitment to reliable craftsmanship, impeccable fit-and-finish, and delivering the unparalleled MasterCraft performance that our customers expect.”

Read Next: Learn About MasterCraft and Surf to Save Lives

Industry-Leading Technology

With industry-leading technology, MasterCraft continues to lead the way in innovation. For 2025, the helm area of the X and XT family has been completely redesigned with upgraded screens and software. The X lineup now comes standard with a dual screen configuration, with both screens being larger than the previous generation. This new setup features a sleek 15-inch panoramic center display and a massive 12-inch touchscreen off to the right side of the helm. Meanwhile, the XT lineup will feature the large 12-inch touchscreen (also on the right side of the helm) standard. A completely updated software interface powers these screens to make them more intuitive, immersive, and customizable.

Additionally, the all-new MasterCraft MyDrive will be standard on XT and X models. MyDrive is a rotary encoder that puts key controls at the driver’s fingertips, making on-the-fly changes easier. The hot keys and the rotary dial allow for effortless adjustments while keeping eyes focused on what’s ahead. Available on all 2025 MasterCraft models, standard telematics capabilities and the MasterCraft Connect App provide users with more connectivity with boat health diagnostics, tracking behind-the-boat activity, locating nearby fuel spots, and a remote battery switch.

Unrivaled Performance

All MasterCraft boats deliver unrivaled behind-the-boat performance. Available in all MasterCraft models except the ProStar, MasterCraft’s SurfStar system provides the best and most customizable waves for any rider at the touch of a button. Riders can quickly create the perfect wave to accommodate everyone’s riding style through the factory-tuned Rapid Surf interface. The Custom Surf interface offers complete control of speed, ballast, and surf device position for riders wanting even more customization.

For 2025, the NXT family continues to receive enhancements, delivering customers the best boat at an attainable price point. All NXT models will now come standard with NXT FasterFill Ballast. FasterFill comes with an extra ballast pump, resulting in fill times under 9 minutes, allowing for less waiting and more time riding. Also new for 2025, the NXT lineup now comes standard with underwater exhaust, substantially reducing noise in and behind the boat and improving air quality for riders by minimizing exhaust fumes.

Additionally, all NXT and XT models will now come with Ilmor’s all-new 5.3L GDI High Output engine, which utilizes the latest in automotive technology to deliver 380 HP, 407 lbs of torque, a 4-star emissions rating, improved efficiency, and approximately 15% less fuel consumption over the legacy 6.0L engine. For even more performance beyond the naturally aspirated 6.2L engine, the XT24 and XT25 have an optional upgrade to the 6.2L Supercharged Engine that produces 630HP and 665 ft-lb of torque, which has previously been available exclusively on the top-of-the-line X and XStar S models. Not only that, but all models will come with a new fresh-air intake, which means more power, better efficiency, and improved performance even on the hottest summer days. Finally, a new rudder position sensor has been added on all models except the NXT and ProStar for 2025, providing an enhanced driving experience. Also, stern thrusters are now optional on all XT models.

Superior Comfort, Quality and Reliability

Exemplifying superior design and build quality, MasterCraft designs all models to deliver a smooth, dry ride that surpasses industry standards for towboats by using the best materials to ensure an incredible, comfortable, on-water experience, even in rough conditions.

In addition to the dash and software upgrades to the helm, the captain’s seat on XT and X models has an all-new design for 2025 that offers unmatched ergonomics and comfort as well as beautiful, modernized aesthetics. A convenient storage cubby and phone holder have also been added behind the steering wheel. Along with improving aesthetics, this redesign allowed MasterCraft to maximize space between the top of the dashboard and the windshield header, providing a larger viewing window for the captain. In addition, NXT models receive an all-new transom walkover, as a non-slip Seadek across the back sunpad allows boaters to walk from the swimpad into the cockpit without stepping on upholstery.

For even more comfort onboard, optional CoolFeel upholstery stays up to 30% cooler than standard marine vinyl. This means there’s no reason to shy away from richer, dark colors complimenting each custom design. For 2025, new optional vinyl Bowmore replaces the current Odesssa and Genesis to provide a new look and texture. Additionally, new exciting gel coat options round out the MasterCraft palette and provide unmatched levels of customization for the consumer, including Stone, Sunset, Laguna Blue with a flake option, and Magnetic Blue with a flake option.

Every boat built directly reflects MasterCraft’s legacy, power, precision, and progression. MasterCraft aims to ensure that customers can rely on MasterCraft’s award-winning dealer network to deliver the best customer experience throughout the building, buying, and boating experience. Every MasterCraft comes standard with MasterCare, the industry’s best warranty on the water, featuring a 5-year, 500-hour comprehensive warranty with minimal exclusions. MasterCraft engines are backed with an unrivaled warranty—7 years or 1,000 hours.

Along with the boat, MasterCraft offers custom trailer options that are designed to fit the hull of the specific boat model to ensure the hull remains clean and secure in transit.

Having already begun shipping, the new features and enhancements for 2025 are now available at MasterCraft dealers around the U.S. For more information, visit MasterCraft.com and follow along on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

About MasterCraft:

MasterCraft is a world-renowned innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium performance sport boats. Founded in 1968, MasterCraft has cultivated its iconic brand image through a rich history of industry-leading innovation, and more than five decades after the original MasterCraft made its debut, the company’s goal remains the same – to continue building the world’s best ski, wakeboard, wakesurf, and luxury performance powerboats.

About MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.:

Headquartered in Vonore, TN, MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MCFT) is a leading innovator, designer, manufacturer and marketer of premium recreational powerboats through its three wholly-owned brands, MasterCraft, Crest and Balise. Through these three brands, MasterCraft Boat Holdings has leading market share positions in two of the fastest-growing segments of the powerboat industry – performance sport boats and pontoon boats. For more information about MasterCraft Boat Holdings, please visit Investors.MasterCraft.com, MasterCraft.com, CrestPontoonBoats.com, and BalisePontoonBoats.com.

The post New Features and Enhancements for 2025 MasterCraft Boats appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

The XT line of boats from MasterCraft is one of the builder’s most popular, largely because of the many customization choices. Now MasterCraft brings back the biggest: the 25-foot XT25. Boasting room for 18, a robust 92-gallon fuel tank, and the comfort and performance for which ­MasterCraft is acclaimed, the XT25 is a must-see for buyers seeking a big V-drive watersports boat.

As mentioned, the XT line can be tweaked and adjusted to accommodate a variety of budgets and preferences. Add on nearly every option, and an XT25 comes close to the specs found in the higher-level X series. Conversely, keep the options trimmed back, and buyers can still get signature MasterCraft styling and performance while keeping the overall cost of acquisition lower. One of the biggest of those options, physically and visually, is the tower. MasterCraft offers three: the Z6, Z8 and Z10. 

The Z6—standard on all models—comes with clamping board racks and now also offers the option to upgrade to power board racks. 

The Z8 tower—an upgrade on XStar S, X and XT models—comes with options for black or silver tower legs; black, titanium or silver tubes; and silver or black clamping board racks. It also features patent-pending Hydro-Lock technology, making it one of the easiest manual towers to operate that we’ve tested.

Our test model featured the powered Z10 tower, which quickly and easily lowered at the push of a button. Clamping board racks are standard, and the oversize Bimini shade features wakesurf- and foil-board storage both above and below. Customize the Z8 and Z10 with colored inlays to add a unique look to your boat

Interior and Accessories

Of course, the calling card of the XT25 is its size. With 3,200 pounds of ballast and room for 18 family and friends, the XT25 stands large and ready for you and your whole crew to have loads of fun on the water. MasterCraft’s SurfStar system, along with its included factory presets—which now include settings for beginner and advanced wake-foil riding—can have you up and riding in no time. The built-in Rapid Surf software allows for quick, intuitive adjustments to the wakesurf waves, where riders can choose from seven different settings between mellow and steep. An intuitive diagram of a wave on the display at the helm makes it even easier to ­understand how changes you make to the ­settings will affect the characteristics of the wave. It’s easy to transition from a brand-new rider to a pro, all with a couple of finger taps on the display. Riders will be stoked to find a large, clean wave that offers a great transition and tons of push; once a perfect wave is dialed in, the rider can save all the settings to their own custom preset.  

All the space aboard the XT25 leaves plenty of room for passengers and gear. Storage is ample throughout, including some cool, new webbed baskets that hang in the bays on each side of the engine—great for letting wet ropes and life jackets drip down and not get in the boat. ­MasterCraft’s upholstery is tops for comfort, with plush padding and solid stitching. The ­convertible rear bench is one of the easiest to operate in the segment—simply pull up from the top with an integrated handle and allow the bench to flip into place. The attention to detail continues with the scalloped seatbacks at the rear of the wraparound area, which add comfort and a high-end look. Opt for the CoolFeel interior, and upholstery temperatures stay lower, even on hot summer days, thanks to the high-tech vinyl used in the upholstery. In the lounge area, cellphone-holder trays are purposely placed above the inset cup holders to keep them out of the sun—and the trays can be optioned with wireless-charging capabilities. At the transom, comfy seat pads above the swim platform are standard, and flip-up backrests can be added to make it a great lounge area. The swim platform itself can also be optioned with a flip-down step, to make for much easier boarding.

Every system on board the XT25 is quickly and easily controlled from the helm, whether you opt for the dual-screen setup—featuring an 11-inch touchscreen to the captain’s right and a 12-inch display above the steering wheel—or go with the standard 7-inch touchscreen. One nice touch from MasterCraft is that even with the large touchscreen, there are still soft-touch analog switches to the side for added convenience and redundancy if ever needed.

Read Next: MasterCraft NXT23

Shop the XT25 against the Malibu 25 LSV ($207,232 starting MSRP), which has a much different look than the lines of the MasterCraft, but is a fellow 25-footer with room for 18 and lots of options.

Overall, the return of the XT25 to the ­MasterCraft line is a great option for buyers who like the look of a traditional bow, want as much room and comfort as possible, and prefer ­customizing their boat through a variety of optional upgrades. Of course, the killer endless waves and fun times on the water come ­standard.

How We Tested

• Engine: Ilmor 6.2L GDI 430 hp/470 lb.-ft. torque
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 16.5″ x 17″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 2:1 Fuel Load: 88 gal. Crew Weight: 370 lb.

High Points

• The XT25 is equipped with telematics, so owners can monitor the boat’s vitals and location through the MasterCraft Connect app, as well as remotely switch off the battery.
• Optional dual-screen display makes navigating the XT25’s functions a breeze.
• Klipsch audio throughout, along with four speakers on the tower, provide killer audio experience.

Low Points

• Rear-facing bench doesn’t offer multiple positions like several competitors do.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

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