Starcraft MX 23 Q Review

Pontoon boats shine with their stability, creature comforts, incredible versatility and sporty handling. One of the most exciting models introduced for 2020 is the Starcraft MX 23 Q, which sets new standards for family-friendly value.

It all starts with fresh, contemporary styling and bold graphics that give the boat a playful, sporty look. Retractable stainless steel cleats fold flat when not required, maintaining the boat’s clean lines while eliminating a tripping hazard and protecting against painful stubbed toes.

The plush bow lounge seats offer ample space to sprawl out, with large storage lockers in the seat bases.

Up in the bow of the Starcraft MX 23 Q, that thoughtful attention to detail continues with a wide centerline entry gate and twin lounge seats. The seat bases conceal a pair of stereo speakers, while stainless steel piano hinges allow the cushions to be tilted up, providing easy access to large storage lockers for gear. At floor level a discreet LED courtesy light provides added comfort and safety when boating early or late in the day.

The big Starcraft’s contemporary helm console centers on a Simrad touch-screen display mounted to the right of the sport steering wheel.

The helm console, topped by a sporty, black-framed, low-profile bubble windshield, features a stitched dash brow that on our review boat protected a pair of Yamaha integrated Command Link digital gauges. To the right, a flush-mount Simrad multi-function display is easily seen no matter how the tilt steering wheel is adjusted. The center of the helm over the wheel provides a small, protected tray for cell phones complete with 12V and USB outlets and topped with a clear acrylic lid. To the left of the wheel is an array of 12 chrome-on-black toggle switches to control electrical functions while the control head for the boat’s Bluetooth-enabled Polk Audio stereo system sits just below. A large storage locker in the base of the console provides a secure spot to stow bulky gear.

The Starcraft MX 23 Q’s helm console sits on an elevated fiberglass platform, providing the driver with enhanced visibility. The driver’s helm seat is a wonderful Captain’s chair with fold-down arm rests, mounted on a swiveling pedestal base.

The large L-shaped lounge seat in the main cockpit offers a variety of seating possibilities with the flip-flop seat backs of the companion seat forward and the transom seat aft.

Instead of the traditional matching Captain’s chair for the co-pilot, the Starcraft MX 23 Q gets a double-wide bench seat on the port side with an adjustable back that allows forward-facing or aft-facing seating. Lift the seat cushion and there’s a large storage compartment in the base. This seat adjoins a spacious L-shaped lounger in the main cockpit that runs along the port side of the boat and nearly full-width across the stern. As in the bow, the seat bases provide massive storage spaces while housing additional stereo speakers and LED courtesy lights. A removable, pedestal-mount table with five integrated, stainless steel beverage holders that install in the floor turns this spot into a wonderful area for socializing, drinks or lunch. Overhead, a sturdy Bimini top on a beefy aluminum frame protects the entire cockpit from the mid-day sun.

A stern entertainment unit includes a sink with faucet, a twin-level solid-surface countertop, dual stainless steel drink holders and a ton of storage space below.

The stern portion of this big L-shaped lounge also features a flip-flop seat back for forward-facing or aft-facing comfort. Set in its aft-facing mode, it works well with an extended seat base located in the stern to form a sinfully comfortable aft-facing double lounge that’s the idea spot to work on that tan. Lounge here at your own risk, because once you settle in, you won’t want to give it up. A neat fiberglass console in the aft port corner of the Starcraft MX 23 Q provides a couple of stainless steel beverage holders and a remote control for the stereo – a truly thoughtful touch that will be appreciated by all who enjoy that aft-facing lounge. There’s another stereo speaker in the corner, along with a USB port to keep electronics fully charged. A neat stainless steel rail across the stern provides a bit of extra security when enjoying this space when underway.

The large extended aft swim platform includes a stainless steel retractable boarding ladder. Our review boat also came with a stylish tower tow point for water sports.

The large, extended swim platform in the stern includes a stainless steel, four-step retractable boarding ladder, making it easy to re-board after a refreshing dip. Our review boat also came with a ski tow platform, speaking to its sporty intentions. A large pop-up change room – accessed by lifting the stern seat cushion – provides a discreet spot to swap wet swimwear for shorts and a t-shirt.

Kick back on that aft-facing double lounge seat and enjoy the ride! An overhead Bimini top provides protection if the mid-day sun gets too warm.

What better way to stay cool after a swim than with a cold drink? The Starcraft MX 23 Q covers all the bases here with its integrated stern entertainment unit. A split-level, solid surface countertop caps a neatly designed bar unit that runs along the boat’s aft starboard quarter, complete with a sink and faucet, two more drink holders, another stereo speaker, and quite a bit of secure storage space beneath.

Rated to handle outboards of up to 150 horsepower on a twin-tube chassis and a whopping 300 horsepower in a tri-toon configuration, this is a pontoon that’s definitely designed with performance in mind. Our review boat came with the three-tube hull and a Yamaha V-MAX 250 bolted to the transom. This makes a really nice package, with the muscular Yamaha easily pushing the Starcraft MX 23 Q to speeds in excess of 50 mph while still delivering excellent fuel economy.