![MasterCraft XT23](https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/btg0118_mt2_01b-1024x782.jpg)
We Say: MasterCraft’s XT23 aims to be a crossover between the brand’s premium X models and the entry-level NXT line while proving itself worthy of surf, wake and ski duty. The latter is a challenge, because the weight that makes for good boarding and surfing isn’t the best for minimizing the wake for skiers. Yet we noted a surprisingly small wake at slalom speeds. Where the XT23 truly excels is at wakeboarding and wakesurfing. Credit the hull and primarily the boat’s 2,600-pound ballast capacity, along with MasterCraft’s optional Gen 2 Surf System ($6,820).
The XT hull also offers a mega cockpit. There’s U-shaped seating, with a doublewide observer seat and a flip-over backrest in front of the sun pad that makes for the perfect spectator seat. The captain enjoys total control of features through an intuitive touchscreen display.
![MasterCraft XT23](https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/btg0118_mt2_02-1024x684.jpg)
![MasterCraft XT23](https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/btg0118_mt2_06-1024x682.jpg)
Our test boat featured the optional Ilmor 6000 GDI, a 430 hp direct-injection 6.0-liter engine that planed us in 5.3 seconds and peaked at 44.5 mph. Engage Launch Control and the Gen 2 Surf System plates help achieve plane even with a full load of ballast. Another cool option? MasterCraft’s Dockstar system ($3,160), a pair of pivoting rudders forward of the prop that allow the boat to back up with handling comparable to a sterndrive.
Who’d Want One: Boaters seeking to ski, wake and surf in style.
![MasterCraft XT23](https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/btg0118_mt2_04-1024x682.jpg)
![MasterCraft XT23](https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/btg0118_mt2_05-1024x684.jpg)
Another Choice: Nautique‘s 22-foot Super Air Nautique GS22 ($111,896 with 400 hp PCM ZR4 6.0L) follows a similar ski/wake/surf theme and features a comparable interior layout, as well as 2,250 pounds of factory ballast and the optional Nautique Surf System for wake-shaping.
Bottom Line: $121,960 (with test power); mastercraft.com
![MasterCraft XT23 Certified Test Results](https://www.boatingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/mastercraftxt23specs.jpg)
How We Tested
Engine: Ilmor 6000 GDI
Prop: 15″ x 16″ 4-blade Nibral
Gear Ratio: 1.57:1
Fuel Load: 55 gal.
Crew Weight: 835 lb.