Starcraft

SVX 191 OB

First Impression

Designed to hit a specific price-point, we absolutely love the added value on this deck boat from Starcraft. For starters there is a lot of room on board, especially for a 19-footer. We also can appreciate the sleek profile and the vibrant red exterior that is sure to grab some attention when out on the water.

Highlights

At first glance your eyes are immediately drawn to the sporty red exterior. The full-colored hull is part of the executive package that includes the diamond patterned upholstery upgrade, a black logo and badge graphics, plus a black rub rail with a stainless steel insert. It clearly gives the boat a high-end vibe.

There is a large platform in the bow as well as the extended swim deck in the stern that includes a ski/tow pylon. Both ends of the boat include the SeaDek non-skid flooring as well as a four-step boarding ladder with each having their own designated compartments.

Another upgrade is the fishing package, which is a great compromise that provides fishing features to a sporty boat geared towards cruising and tube pulling. The package includes two fishing seats and pedestals, along with a livewell in the bow and a trolling motor hookup. The standard in-floor ski locker is also a nice added touch since you can never have too much storage on your boat.

Why we love this boat…Added value is what sets this boat apart from others. It has a lot going for it that makes it not only attractive to first-time buyers but to seasoned veterans as well.

Centered at the helm console is a complete package of multi-function analog gauges located just above the tilt steering wheel. The dash also includes a Helix 5 touchscreen from Humminbird that is extremely useful, even when you’re not fishing. The Wet Sounds stereo controls are also within reach for the captain and rounding out the console highlights are two rows of rocker switches that are lighted and well-labeled. Directly across from the helm is an entertainment center with a sink, USB port and more storage. It divides the long bench seating area on the portside.

Inspection

The solid hull is a new style for the SVX line and rides on a dihedral V-hull with a stern pad that offers superior performance and fuel economy by delivering water to the prop with less resistance. An integrated stringer system uses alternating layers of 24-ounce woven roving and 60 millimeters of fiberglass to fully encapsulate all stringers and components. Starcraft has been building quality boats for more than 60 years and regardless of the price, you can always count on the gel coat and overall fiberglass work to be outstanding.

Just being picky…It would nice to see some of the vibrant red exterior subtly added to the interior and more USB ports, but that’s asking a lot for a boat that starts at $30K so we get it.

Performance

Powered with a Yamaha 150hp outboard we easily cruised to the 45 mph at full throttle after a zero-to-20 mph time of just over 5 seconds. Hydraulic steering is included in the long list of standard features but the turning is still a little stiff. She banks nicely in the turns and earned high marks by our crew for being fun to drive.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to beat the price when you consider all you get in return as tested, including a 150hp outboard. Models such as this one from Starcraft are a big reason the fiberglass boat market continues to grow in popularity as the Indiana-based manufacturer prides itself on offering budget-friendly offerings.