Starcraft Majestic 256 Starlounger

Starcraft Majestic 256 Starlounger

Starcraft Majestic 256 Starlounger

Starcraft Majestic 256 Starlounger

Starcraft Majestic 256 Starlounger

Starcraft Majestic 256 Starlounger

We Say: Fitted with richly upholstered lounges, faux teak decking, stowage lockers that swing open on articulating hinges to allow two-handed access, and LED lights above and below the waterline, this pontoon rivals top runabouts for comfort, function and style. How does it perform?

With a single F150 Yamaha outboard, Starcraft‘s Majestic 256 Starlounger topped 30 mph. Sight lines remained clear, thanks to the raised helm. It planes quick enough for family tubing, though with a full crew aboard, this boat won’t thrill an experienced skier. Demo the boat with the Performance Package ($3,500), which includes a round center tube, strakes and in-sole stowage, if you’re looking for more get-up-and-go.

The accommodations are divided into three distinct conversation areas. In the bow are facing chaise lounges and a pop-up changing room. Opposite the helm, a bench seats a companion for the captain. Aft, two rear-facing lounges round out this big ’toon’s 14-passenger capacity.

The Majestic 256 Starlounger features a welded .190-gauge aluminum transom, .80-gauge tubes and 3/16-inch hat-channels for durability.

Who’d Want One: Boaters seeking an affordable pontoon with amenities.

Another Choice: Sun Tracker’s Party Barge 250 XP3 ($39,999 with a 200 hp Mercury) has a standard center tube but smaller fore and aft decks.

Bottom Line: $48,277 with test power; starcraftmarine.com