Starcraft

RX 25 DL DC

First Impression

The dual loungers (DL) and dual consoles (DC) set this Starcraft apart from its competition by offering a high-end pontoon, complete with an optional color-matched sport arch tower that ties it all together. It’s loaded from bow to stern with a long list of standard features and just the right mix of optional upgrades.

Highlights

New this year, the cognac vinyl with a gray accent for the upholstery provides a high-end vibe, but it’s the actual layout that impressed us most. The long benches in the bow are truly inviting –complete with recessed cupholders and USB ports–but it’s the multi-use lounger in the stern that draws you in. With the dual swing back loungers you can face the seats together with a table in between or lay one completely flat for a rear-facing lounger. There are a variety of different ways to use the space and included in the area is a stereo remote, 12-volt, wireless phone charger and C-Zone lighting controls.

Access to the extended swim deck is through the stainless stern gate and here you’ll find the massive ski/tow bar that has been upgraded from the standard pylon. There is also the upgraded REVO boarding ladder from LilliPad Marine that makes re-entry from the water extremely easy.

We love the symmetrical look of the raised dual helms with each having a high back helm chair with flip-up bolsters. For the first-mate console there is a nice storage compartment and for the captain the dash includes a display of push button controls and a standard Simrad touchscreen with a set of multi-function chrome accented gauges in between. Also at the helm are the controls to the JL Audio sound system as well as a small storage area for your phone that includes ports for charging.

Why we love this boat…Dual helms and luxurious seating are key factors, but it’s the versatility of the dual swingback loungers with the additional controls the consumers are going to love.

Also worth noting on this new side gate model is in-floor storage, vinyl weave flooring, and a high-end galley that includes a freshwater faucet and sink, 12-volt outlet and counter space with storage below.

Inspection

It’s an option, but after seeing the color-matched tubes you might view them as a must-have upgrade. The three 25-inch diameter pontoons include lifting strakes on the inside of the outer pontoons and on both sides of the center tube. There is also a full aluminum skin to protect the cross members that improve the overall ride.

Up top there is nearly 22 feet of usable deck space from inside the rails with the rail height varying from 29 inches tall in the bow to 25 inches in the stern for a nice, family-friendly design.

Just being picky…With an inviting seating arrangement along with a sink, the boat should practically come with food and drink included. The only thing missing is a designated area for a trash can.

Performance

Firing up the Mercury 400hp Verado is as simple as pressing a button on the provided wireless key fob. With the throttle down we just missed the 50mph mark after an impressive zero-to-20 mph time of less than 4 seconds. With the hydraulic steering with power assist she easily banks into tight turns and handles like a dream.

Final Thoughts

Born to entertain, there is a lot to love on this latest offering from Starcraft. The added touches and thoughtful features only confirm that the engineers designing these luxurious pontoons are also boaters who live to spend time on the water.