Starcraft SLS5 Sport

First Impression

Clearly this Starcraft is centered around the massive wakeboard tower—as well as being centered on having fun. Plus we’re a big fan of unconventional colors, especially when they add a sporty touch to a high-end-looking boat.

Breakdown

Starting with the exterior of the boat, the standard black rails can be paired up with eight different panel colors, including black, that really flow nicely with the black trim and black painted pontoons. The green accent exterior graphics (also available in blue) are part of the Sport Package that also includes a splash of green inside the boat to offset the cream-colored vinyl seats. Another great option is the sea weave flooring that again is just one of the many choices offered to help customize your ‘toon.    

According to the manufacturer, this layout is its best-selling because of the three designated conversation areas which include tall seatbacks. There are two chaise lounges in the bow and two more rear-facing ones in the stern. It’s important to point out that when not being used as a lounger it can be used as a regular bench seat which comes in handy when you’re pushing its 14-passenger capacity rating.

 At the fiberglass helm console the lighted toggle switches and chrome accent gauges tie the look together. Built into the center of the console is an optional Humminbird 5-inch GPS. Dual high-back helm seats ensure the captain and first mate will be comfy, and just forward of the helm is a hand pump faucet and sink.

It may be an option, but wow, are we impressed with the well-braced wakeboard tower. The black frame includes lighted built-in logos on the side, a light bar on top, plus a full Bimini that includes a zipper so you can access the top of the tower to secure your rope. There is even a standard ski pylon for a second towing option for the enthusiasts onboard. If we had to be picky, the only thing that appears to be missing is storage for those water toys. An in-floor ski locker is available as an option, but on the particular boat we tested we couldn’t find a good place to store boards or skis.  

More and more consumers are looking for a little more deck space outside the gates, especially those who enjoy water sports. On the SLS 5 Sport the rear platform extends out over the extra-long transom, creating extra space to board using the four-step telescopic ladder.

One other amenity worth noting is the pop-up changing room (65 inches tall when open) that is built into the back of the bow chaise lounge and includes room for a designated portable toilet. 

Inspection

With the PR25 Performance package you gain a full-length center pontoon, which at 25 inches in diameter provides a very solid foundation. There are lifting strakes on both sides of the center tube and on the outsides of the outer tubes.

From a safety standpoint, we like that the railing is a consistent 27 inches tall around the boat. Overall the SLS 5 earned high marks for its quality fit and finish work and construction. 

Handling

With the Yamaha 250 SHO performance outboard on the back we comfortably hit the 40 mph mark and then some at full throttle. She banks slightly into the turns and is very responsive and fun to drive. With a quick zero-to-20-mph time of just over five seconds, it was easy to put a smile on our faces.

Final Thoughts

Comfortable, sporty and well-built, this Starcraft has a lot going for it. The more we looked the more we loved about this SLS 5 Sport.

Boat Specifications

Number of Occupants            14                   

Maximum Speed                     44.0 mph                    

Wild Ponies                             250 hp

No. of Gates                           3

0-20 MPH                               5.15 seconds  

Ladder Measurement             3’ 8” deep

Why we love this boat…The sporty look rightfully steals a lot of the spotlight, but the comfort and practical layout with great standard features shouldn’t be overlooked.  

Just being picky…Beautiful wakeboard tower with a sporty overall look that wakeboarders will love, yet no designated storage room for your water toys.   

NOTABLE STANDARDS

HMX Performance Strakes w/ PR25 performance tube, black painted tubes, black rails, ski pylon, pump faucet and sink, pop-up changing room, boarding ladder and dual helm chairs.

OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT

Wakeboard tower and sport colors (green interior and graphic), sea weave flooring and Humminbird GPS.

VITAL STATS

LOA                  26’ 10”           

Beam                 8’ 6”

Hull Design       Three Pontoons

Dry Weight       2,471 lbs.

Fuel Capacity    60 gallons

TEST DRIVE

Engine                                                             Yamaha 250 SHO

Cylinder Type                                                 V6

Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower           254ci/250hp

Lower Unit Gear Ratio                                   1.75:1

Propeller                                                          15 1/2 X 16

RPM     vs.      SPEED     vs.    DB-A

1000                4.2                     81

1500                6.1                     83

2000                8.9                     85

2500                11.5                   89

3000                16.7                   93

3500                22.8                   95

4000                25.9                   95

4500                30.0                   96

5000                32.9                   98

5500                38.0                   99

6000                44.0                   102

New Paris, Ind.

574-831-2103

www.starcraftmarine.com