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.

Overview

When it comes to premium watersports-specific boats—think top luxury, killer tech and jaw-dropping performance—there are plenty of choices. One not to be ignored is the Ultré 23ZX from Texas-based Tigé. Whether you’re running it, riding in it, shredding behind it, or looking at it from across the lake, this 23-footer hits with a slick combination of beauty and beast.

Interior and Accessories

Pronounced “ultra,” the Ultré ZX is just that in every facet. Its simplified badging, clean lines and custom details scream “means business.” Once on board, the luxury and innovative features are instantly noticeable. The premium vinyl and signature stitching, along with the complementary patterns of the soft-touch flooring, help set the Ultré ZX apart. Padding is supple and bolsters reside in all the right spots—your crew will appreciate the curved backs of the wraparound seating. The aft bench flips into the cockpit to become rear-facing, and the back can be lowered to act as a tabletop. But Tigé also provides a unique, hidden table that slides out from under the walk-through.

A special feature of the wraparound seating is what Tigé has dubbed its FastFlip Co-Captain’s Chair. Resembling seating found aboard sterndrive runabouts, it features a convertible backrest that can face either forward or aft. Both options proved comfortable, and a bolster adds support when facing forward. A touchscreen beside the seat allows the co-captain to control the Ultré’s audio, lighting and even a heater­—one of the coolest features that sits at their feet, literally.

A built-in electric cooler adds both luxury and convenience to the Ultré ZX. The UltréChill keeps your beverages and snacks cold and fresh, and can continue running with the ­engine off. (The cooler shuts down if the battery levels drop to a certain point.) Positioned just right and upholstered, it serves as a footrest for a co-captain facing forward. Before decrying this cooler as taking away a common wakeboat storage spot, know that Tigé has ­integrated ample space beneath the seat.

With a very high gunwale, the Ultré 23ZX offers added comfort and security when cruising. This deep cockpit also helps maximize storage. The space beneath the wraparound seating rates as some of the deepest I’ve seen aboard a watersports boat—in fact, it was large enough for my 6-foot-1-inch, 190-pound self to crawl inside and close myself in. So, yes, the space is large enough to hide a body.

Speaking of bodies, several can lounge comfortably in the bow, which is a hybrid between traditional and pickle-fork styles. Tigé carried the Ultré 23ZX’s depth through the bow, making it one of the more secure-feeling I’ve seen. The space is customizable to become a playpen or have a padded walk-through, while the backrest at the front also flips down, revealing a padded step to aid in boarding over the bow. Storage abounds underneath, and a dedicated locker handles the anchor.

For the indecisive loungers on the boat—the Ultré 23ZX can accommodate up to 16—Tigé has integrated dual-facing transom seats. Above the engine compartment, you can flip up a backrest and face into the wraparound seating area. Or flip the opposite section up and face the water. Both proved very comfortable. The padded walk-through bisecting the transom lounge provides easy swim-platform access, where you can find two more comfy seats. The high gunwales make for a big step down to the platform, but Tigé offers an optional step that floats just above the swim platform. Push a button and the rear section of the power platform lowers into the water, making entry and exit much more comfortable. A giant surf locker underneath the transom seats offers room for multiple boards and other pieces of gear.

Ballast

When it comes to riding, the Ultré 23ZX delivers, thanks in large part to its 7,400-pound dry weight, 4,000 pounds of ­internal ballast and the integration of the TAPS 3T system. The wakes and waves are clean, crisp and fun for all levels because riders can adjust them easily to suit a variety of skills and styles. Making those adjustments is as simple as a finger tap. The helm of the Ultré ZX is outfitted with one large touchscreen, which keeps the sightlines clean without losing any functionality. Tigé calls it the Go System. Simply tap the “Go” icon on the screen, select your discipline (wakeboard, surf, foil or ski) and your level, and the boat does the rest. The head-up display in the center of the screen features mph, rpm and other essential data, while other functions “float” on the sides. Simply drag in the icon and you have access to make adjustments as needed. Stern-thruster controls come via a toggle switch at the front of the throttle, while a second toggle by the thumb allows for redundant control of TAPS. It’s all simple and highly effective.

Luxury wakeboat buyers can compare the Ultré 23ZX to MasterCraft’s redesigned XStar 23, which has its own unique luxury and tech features, but comes at a higher price (starting at $395,000). What makes the Ultré 23ZX stand out among its other premium-class peers are not only the features that can’t be found on other boats, but also how much you wish other boats had them after using them. And if you’re worried a 23-foot boat isn’t enough for you, don’t fret. Tigé also offers the Ultré ZX in a 25-footer.

How We Tested

• Engine: Indmar 6.2L Roushcharged 575
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/17″ x 15.5″ Acme 3077
• Gear Ratio: 1.76:1 Fuel Load: 38 gal. Crew Weight: 750 lb.

High Points

• Smart steering wheel allows quick and easy adjustments the audio system, TAPS, surf side, video camera display and more.
• Alpha E3 SolidShade tower raises and lowers quickly while offering integrated, portable board storage. 
• Integrated high-pressure air-pump system is great for families who like to tube or bring inflatable air mats to the lake.

Low Point

• The SolidShade tower is tall and the position of the wakeboarding tow point above it is very high, making it hard to quickly attach a wakeboard rope.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Tigé Ultré 23ZX appeared first on Boating Mag.

In The Fly, a scientist tested his ­molecular transporter with a fly in the chamber, and the scrambled result was the source of horror. But the engineers at Montara decided that putting a water­sports boat and a pontoon boat through a similar genetic scramble would work. And it did, beautifully, resulting in the Montara 2.0 23 CWDH—a 23-foot, 6,000-pound wakesports boat with an aluminum hull and the capacity to carry 3,000 pounds of ballast to shape fantastic surf wakes.

From the rub rail up, you’d think it was a pontoon boat complete with apparent acres of comfortable lounges, with an optional convertible aft sun pad designed to let loungers face forward or aft to monitor the surfing arena. The 23-footer seems to have enough deck space to hold a dance recital. 

From the rub rails down, it’s an all-welded aluminum hull shaped to make epic wakes for surfing or wakeboarding. The PCM 6.0-liter V-drive in our test boat powered the rider up quickly, and the wake-shaping ballast and tabs carved a steep wake with a crisp edge and a powerful swell to drive the surfer. Our professional rider even foiled on the wake for miles, effortlessly swooping around in the swells.

The dashboard is kitted with a digital touchscreen panel that manages all wake profiles. Tactile switches are also included for a few of the most used things, such as navigation lights, the horn and more. 

Our tester had a Bimini top that raised and lowered at the touch of a button on the dash, handy for compact storage, as did the engine compartment cover ­beneath the spacious aft lounge. 

One cool option on this well-equipped boat is the stern thruster that not only mitigates the task of steering in reverse, but also helps nudge the boat to or from a pier or dock. Its battery system is charged with an onboard charger. 

When you first see this cool new wakeboat, your first thought is pontoon. But when you see it carve an epic wake while transporting your boating buddies in lounge-lizard luxury, an entirely new paradigm in wakesports enters your world.

High Points

• The 2.0 23 complements Montara’s 2.0 25, awarded ­Boating’s 2024 Boat of the Year.
• Premium audio includes Boston Acoustics speakers and optional  sub and amp.
• Optional stern thruster impressed us.

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM 6.0L 409 hp
• Drive/Prop: V-drive
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 40 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 700 lb.

Pricing and Specs

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Overview

In 2024, Centurion introduced its Fe model as a way to get new customers into the Centurion lineup for a lower price, as well as to cater to legacy Centurion customers looking for a new model without fully upgrading. For 2025, Centurion has taken that approach a step further. The popular Fe line is now available in three sizes with a plethora of options. Introduced for 2025 is the Nv line, featuring the Nv213 and Nv233. The all-new Nv models have a bold new look, killer ­performance and a more ­palatable price for many.

I was able to test the Nv233, which measures 23 feet, 3 inches and holds up to 14 people. At first glance, the Nv233 looks unique because it is so different from anything else in the Centurion lineup. The hullsides feature angular faceted designs, giving the Nv233 an ­aggressive yet clean look. It also sits lower in the water compared with its Fe siblings, adding to its sleek, aggressive stance. The large Centurion badging toward the transom further sets it apart as something different and new. Watersports enthusiasts with a keen eye might see some similarities to the now-retired Supreme ZS232 of years past (­Centurion owns the Supreme brand), but the Nv233 is 100 percent new and 100 percent Centurion. 

Engine and Ballast

Of course, being built in the Centurion family means the Nv is ­constructed around the acclaimed Opti-V hull design, which offers 21 degrees of deadrise at the transom. This deeper-V design not only provides for a more comfortable ride in choppier waters, but it also makes it easier to be displaced by the ballast, which in turn kicks up sizable wakes and waves for riding fun. When it comes to ballast, the Nv233 packs a punch, with the total available weight adding up to a whopping 5,000 pounds. More than half of this total can be filled in less than 90 seconds if you opt for the ­available RAMFILL2 system when ordering yours.

To shape that displaced water into a fun riding surface, the Nv233 can be equipped with another of Centurion’s acclaimed systems: QuickSurf Pro. These transom-­mounted plates deploy at the push of a button and create solid wakesurfing waves that feature a clean, consistent face and a large pocket with plenty of push. The optional center-mounted Silent Stinger Wake Plate can be adjusted to change the size and shape of the wave—­allowing riders of all skill levels and styles to enjoy riding behind the Nv233—but it also incorporates the boat’s exhaust, keeping it underwater to reduce overall engine noise. The Silent Stinger Wake Plate also adjusts the size and shape of the wakeboarding wake and the Nv233’s running attitude. With a couple of clicks of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the captain can quickly and easily make ­adjustments.

Interior and Accessories

The helm is clean and simple, avoiding the clutter found aboard a lot of other boats. A wide-screen touchscreen offers the captain easy, intuitive control of all the boat’s systems. The new user interface is simple. From ballast and surf setups to lighting, navigation and more, it’s all right at your fingertips. Another nice feature is the new Wet Sounds head unit, just to the left of the steering wheel, for quick control of the tunes. The windshield doesn’t wrap all the way around, but that has advantages for when a captain needs to quickly get behind the wheel without having to walk around the tower to board the boat.

Roswell’s tried-and-true Battle Advance tower is standard on the Nv233, and it not only looks great with the new lines of the boat, but also offers versatility with an oversize ­Bimini overhead for added shade and ­comfort. For interior amenities, ­Centurion doesn’t skimp just to keep the cost of the Nv233 down. The same Spradling vinyl with a 17 mm topcoat found in the top Ri265 model will be found here. Stitching is strong, cushioning is supportive, and you’ll never have to worry about stepping on upholstery. To help you avoid it, though, ­Centurion has added a step into the rear bench when accessing the transom. Beneath all the seats, storage is plentiful for all the requisite gear needed for a day on the lake. For added comfort on cooler days, the Nv233 can also be equipped with extendable heater vents. ­Despite its lower profile, the wraparound seating is well below the gunwales, offering ­comfortable and secure seats for all on board.

To shop against the Nv233, buyers should take a look at the Moomba Mojo, ­another 23-footer that comes well-equipped at $123,910, and is known for its ease of use and solid performance. While the Mojo has less total ballast, it is rated to hold 17 passengers.

Read Next: Centurion Fe22

Whether you’re a buyer looking to move into the V-drive watersports market or you’re looking for high-end performance at a very approachable price, the Nv233 should be on your list. Centurion has done a terrific job of blending new stylings and creature comforts with the on-water performance for which it is known.

How We Tested

• Engine: Crusader 6.0L L96 409 hp/409 ft.-lb.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 2907 16″ x 15″
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 47 Crew Weight: 550 lb.

High Points

• Single screen and new interface makes the Nv233 easy to opeThe single screen and new interface make the Nv233 very easy to operate.
• Battery isolation and PDM systems are ­integrated into the glove box, so you don’t have to crawl into a hatch to find them.
• Transom lockers allow for convenient spots to put wet ropes and life jackets, and all underseating storage is Rhino-lined, adding a finished touch while helping dampen sound and vibration.

Low Point

• It lacks a convertible rear bench, which is standard in many of today’s ­wakeboats.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2025 Centurion Nv233 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Montara’s 2.0 25 came to market in 2024 and captured Boating’s coveted Boat of the Year award. It was a ringer when considering nobody ever melded an aluminum wake-making hull with the living-room comfort of a pontoon boat. And the wake? Riders love it.

We proved that in our testing of the 25 SL on Tellico Lake last October. The boat carries 4,200 pounds of ballast, has surf-tuning tabs, and features a digital touchscreen that offers control of ballast, speed and acceleration for up to 1,000 profiles, should you have that many friends—and with this boat, you probably will.

From the bow, the 25 SL looks like a triple-tube pontoon, but it is actually more akin to a tri-hull runabout. It has a center ski locker one might expect to find on a pontoon, but that’s the end of pontoon comparisons. Our professional riders surfed, wakeboarded and foiled, enjoying long rides in powerful, crisp wakes—something nobody ever expected from an aluminum hull with a pontoonish-­looking deck. But there was our guy, enjoying the wake’s powerful push and shredding it for all he was worth.

When the Montara is just cruising, its passengers sit high off the water on the tall hull, affording a better view of the passing scenery or the zigzagging rider. We ran the SL version with a broad stern lounge, leaving just enough room to starboard to access the generous swim platform equipped with a tow pylon and boarding ladder. The stern lounger has a reclining back that swings forward for an aft-facing lounge or swings to center for a back-to-back transom lounge. 

The 25 SL has stylish custom-contoured bow and stern corners that stiffen the sleek profile. To combat the single-direction reverse steering, Montara offers a stern thruster that mitigates so seamlessly, it was fun to experiment with it near docks. It will be handy at raft-up parties too.

The Montara 25 SL is the boss of the Montara line, which now includes a 23-footer that sacrifices nothing in terms of wake and comfort while saving space in the garage for those long winter days. We expect some owners to buy a little thicker wetsuits to extend their season and ­expand their circle of riding friends.

High Points

• Hull is a durable 4 millimeters thick.
• Combines the wake of a wakesports boat with the comfort of a pontoon.
• Electrically actuated power tower lowers quickly for storage.
• New convertible stern lounge adds sunning flexibility.

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM 6.2L DPI 465 hp
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/15.5″ x 15″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 104 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 Montara 25 SL appeared first on Boating Mag.

Montara’s 2.0 25 came to market in 2024 and captured Boating’s coveted Boat of the Year award. It was a ringer when considering nobody ever melded an aluminum wake-making hull with the living-room comfort of a pontoon boat. And the wake? Riders love it.

We proved that in our testing of the 25 SL on Tellico Lake last October. The boat carries 4,200 pounds of ballast, has surf-tuning tabs, and features a digital touchscreen that offers control of ballast, speed and acceleration for up to 1,000 profiles, should you have that many friends—and with this boat, you probably will.

From the bow, the 25 SL looks like a triple-tube pontoon, but it is actually more akin to a tri-hull runabout. It has a center ski locker one might expect to find on a pontoon, but that’s the end of pontoon comparisons. Our professional riders surfed, wakeboarded and foiled, enjoying long rides in powerful, crisp wakes—something nobody ever expected from an aluminum hull with a pontoonish-­looking deck. But there was our guy, enjoying the wake’s powerful push and shredding it for all he was worth.

When the Montara is just cruising, its passengers sit high off the water on the tall hull, affording a better view of the passing scenery or the zigzagging rider. We ran the SL version with a broad stern lounge, leaving just enough room to starboard to access the generous swim platform equipped with a tow pylon and boarding ladder. The stern lounger has a reclining back that swings forward for an aft-facing lounge or swings to center for a back-to-back transom lounge. 

The 25 SL has stylish custom-contoured bow and stern corners that stiffen the sleek profile. To combat the single-direction reverse steering, Montara offers a stern thruster that mitigates so seamlessly, it was fun to experiment with it near docks. It will be handy at raft-up parties too.

The Montara 25 SL is the boss of the Montara line, which now includes a 23-footer that sacrifices nothing in terms of wake and comfort while saving space in the garage for those long winter days. We expect some owners to buy a little thicker wetsuits to extend their season and ­expand their circle of riding friends.

High Points

• Hull is a durable 4 millimeters thick.
• Combines the wake of a wakesports boat with the comfort of a pontoon.
• Electrically actuated power tower lowers quickly for storage.
• New convertible stern lounge adds sunning flexibility.

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM 6.2L DPI 465 hp
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/15.5″ x 15″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 104 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 Montara 25 SL 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

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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

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Yamaha long ago cemented the jet drive as a reliable, performance-minded alternative to prop-driven power. Models like the 255 XD now prove jet drives as safe, versatile choices for wakesurfing. Combining the layout of a family-friendly bowrider with the latest wake tech and award-winning sound system, the 255 offers room for a crowd, a versatile hull design, and a wave ready to please beginner and midrange surfers alike.

The XD hull is designed to naturally produce a surfable wake, but it’s the combo of ballast and trim tabs that does the heavy lifting. Yamaha spreads 1,600 pounds of weight between a trio of plumbed-in water-­ballast bags to build the wake. WakeBooster trim tabs then shape the wake on a ­surfer’s preferred side. Electrically actuated, each tab deploys to produce a respectable curl. Which tab deploys, as well as towing speed, ballast load and even acceleration profiles, can be dialed in via the 12-inch Connext touchscreen at the helm. 

As noted, the layout serves both surfer and leisure passengers. A roomy bow invites stretching out while socializing with fellow crewmates. The port companion seat swivels to serve as a spotter perch or to let its occupant chat it up with those seated on the wraparound bench that rings the remainder of the main cockpit. When not underway, slide movable backrests forward to fashion twin rear-facing recliners flanking the transom walk-through. Or enjoy waterfront seating on the two-level, EVA-padded swim platform. Padded backrests provide comfort for those seated at water level. A telescoping ladder, cup holders and audio remote are at hand. 

Newly repositioned jet nozzles tweak that surf wake but also push already-nimble handling to the extreme at speed. Top speed is a heady 57 mph. During low-speed maneuvering, Yamaha’s Drive X system adds paddle shifters for forward and neutral, and buttons on the wheel hub that mimic a joystick’s response. Crab the boat sideways into an open slot at the dock, spin the boat within its own length, or hold the boat against the dock while passengers load or unload. 

High Points

• Throttle includes push-button start/stop, rpm engine sync, and single-lever throttle pairing.
• Folding aluminum wake tower has swivel board racks and integrated Bimini. 
• Hertz sound system with seven cockpit speakers, two tower speakers, subwoofer.

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin 1812cc Yamaha SVHO
• Drive/Impeller: Water jet/160 mm high-pressure pump with stainless-steel impeller
• Gear Ratio: 1.00:1 Fuel Load: 55 gal.

Pricing and Specs

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An all-new design for 2025, the Nv233 features eye-catching hullside effects. 

The spacious Nv233 sits at the sweet spot of performance and functionality. It’s a sleek-looking boat, thanks to a lower profile and stance in the water compared to the Fe and Ri lines. Along with the aforementioned hullside shapes, the large Centurion badging toward the transom further sets this boat apart. 

Riding the acclaimed Opti-V hull, the Nv233 offers 21 degrees of transom deadrise. This deeper V makes it easier to be displaced by the ballast (5,000 pounds available), which in turn makes it easier to kick up sizable wakes and waves. The deep deadrise also delivers a smoother ride in choppy water. Opt for the Ramfill 2 system and fill more than half of the total ballast in under 90 seconds. 

Equip the Nv233 with Centurion’s QuickSurf Pro system to create solid wakesurfing waves with a clean, consistent face, large pocket, and plenty of push. The center-mounted Silent Stinger Wake Plate adjusts to change the size and shape of waves for riders of all skill levels and styles. It also keeps engine exhaust underwater and reduces engine noise.

At the helm, the Nv233 features a wide-screen touchscreen for easy systems control. Use its intuitive interface to operate ballast, surf settings, lighting and more. Centurion’s signature steering-wheel paddle shifters allow instant adjustment of the Stinger Wake Plate and cruise-control speed without the need to take your eyes off the water. The Wet Sounds head makes for quick control of the tunes. 

The Nv233 comes with Roswell’s Battle Advance tower. This looks great, offers versatility, and keeps a Bimini top overhead for shade. More comfort comes from the plush Spradling vinyl upholstery. The Nv233 can even be equipped with heaters for cool days. Despite its lower profile, the wraparound seating is well below the ­gunwales, offering a secure seat for all.

If you’re a buyer looking to move into the V-drive watersports market or for high-end performance at a very approachable price, the Nv233 should be on your list.

High Points

• Battery and PDM systems are in the glove box, so you don’t have to crawl into a hatch to find them.
• Transom lockers conveniently stow wet ropes and life jackets.
• Single screen  and new interface makes the Nv233 easy to operate for riders and captains.

How We Tested

• Engine: Crusader 6.0L L96 409 hp/409 ft.-lb.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 2907 16″ x 15″
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 47 Crew Weight: 550 lb.

Pricing and Specs

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