Starcraft SCX 230 OB EXT Review

Starcraft made a huge splash when the company introduced its innovative SCX line of crossover powerboats back in 2011. Combining bowrider handling with deck boat seating capacity, the SCX was a huge success – to the point you can now choose from several different models with either I/O or outboard power. The I/O versions always seemed to have a little more versatility thanks to their full-width swim platform, since they didn’t need to give up any space for the engine splash well. But for 2015 Starcraft has completely redesigned the stern of its outboard SCX models, putting the outboard on an Armstrong bracket that allows it to use the same full-width swim platform as the I/O versions. This simple idea has made a great boat even better.

For 2015 Starcraft outboard-powered SCX models get an Armstrong aluminum bracket that allows a full-width swim platform.

The new outboard models with the bracket are called EXT, short for extended. Perhaps the most popular is the SCX 230 OB EXT, a 23-footer with a full windshield that rides on the high performance, reverse-chine SCX hull with its stylish pickle-fork bow and generous interior depth. The hull holds its substantial 102-inch beam for almost its entire length, providing a massive amount of interior space for a 23-foot boat. That’s especially evident up front, where the 230 OB EXT seats four adults in comfort when you pull out the side filler cushions on its “quad pod” seats. Or leave the filler cushions in and you have plenty of space for a couple of people to stretch out and enjoy the sun.

Look between the front bow seats and you’ll note the centerline walk-through that leads to the spacious bow platform, where a telescopic four-step boarding ladder makes loading and unloading for a beach picnic easy. You’ll also find some beverage holders, and the speakers for the Infinity stereo neatly hidden away into the side panels.

Stereo speakers and beverage holders neatly integrate into the gunnels, so they’re always close by, and never in the way.

Back in the main cockpit, the driver and companion ride on comfy bucket seats with flip-up bolsters, while a rear bench seat with storage underneath accommodates additional passengers. To starboard, a transom walk-thru allows easy access to the rear swim platform and the wide transom seat – not only a great place to relax and hang out when at anchor, but the perfect spot to get set up for watersports.

The spacious main cockpit sits behind a full walk-through windshield that provides great protection from cool air, greatly extending the boats usefulness early and late in the season.

The helm sits in a stylish fiberglass console with all the main gauges positioned up top where they’re easily seen, regardless of how the tilt steering wheel is positioned. The passenger console is equally large, concealing a sink and an available Porta-potti inside. Between the front consoles, a large in-floor storage compartment neatly accommodates water skis and other bulky gear.

While the new EXT bracket gives the 2015 SCX outboard models a more usable stern, it also has a huge impact on driving performance. Moving the engine off the transom gives the propeller vastly more leverage and bite. Already a sweet-handling boat, the EXT update gives SCX outboard models even greater control in turns and an improved feel on the steering wheel. The engine trim works more effectively, and the prop runs in clean water, providing improved efficiency.

The rear bench seat folds flat to form an expansive sun pad, that doesn’t inhibit access to the rear swim platform.

Our test boat, rigged with a Yamaha F250 and two of us aboard, jumped up on plane in just three seconds flat, and hit an indicated top speed just over 50 mph – astounding performance for a 23-foot boat that seats 13 people! The efficiency of Starcraft’s reverse-chine hull design contributes to that feeling of moving along effortlessly, even when you’re traveling fast.

Starcraft’s SCX series has already built a solid reputation for performance and usability. But with the addition of its new-for-2015 aluminum outboard bracket, the SCX 230 OB EXT raises the bar even further.

Visit StarcraftMarine.com for more information.

Starcraft SCX 230 OB EXT Specs
Length: 21’ 7”
Beam: 8′ 6″
Dry Weight: 3,550 lbs.
Passenger Capacity: 13
Fuel Capacity: 75 gal.
Power (Max): 250 hp
Power (as reviewed): Yamaha F250