Starcraft’s SVX 191 OB takes aim at both the first-time boater and the budget family buyer with a familiar deck-boat layout, stable hull and a collection of options that allows users to outfit the boat to fit their lifestyles. That makes it equally at home pulling your favorite tow sport, bobbing in the waters of the latest fishing spot, or just kicking back and enjoying a friend-filled sunset cruise.
The SVX cockpit layout puts passenger comfort—and space—front and center. Comfortably bolstered seating rings nearly every available inch of the cockpit perimeter, with a wraparound, U-shaped bench forward, L-shaped bench aft and swiveling captain’s pedestal at the helm. Seating is interrupted only for bow and stern walk-throughs and a handy portside galley with sink and optional hand-pump faucet and water tank.
Starcraft’s goal with the SVX is to deliver what the company deems the necessities as standard equipment. That includes: a fiberglass helm with full gauge array; upscale steering wheel with leather-like wrap; Jensen Bluetooth-equipped stereo system with four speakers; telescoping ladders both fore and aft; EVA traction mats on bow and stern platforms; a flip-up bolster for the bucket helm seat; the aforementioned galley; and an overhead Bimini. This lets new or cost-conscious buyers further option the boat according to their own wants and needs.
Anglers can opt for the fish package with pedestal seats, trolling-motor rigging and bow livewell, watersports enthusiasts the raised ski pole—and both groups decide whether they want to dress up the craft with interior cockpit mats, an exterior accent stripe, or stainless-steel rub rail.
The SVX 191 rides on an all-new hull for 2020, a dihedral V complemented by a stern pad. Starcraft says the design delivers less water resistance to the prop, resulting in better performance and fuel economy. With an affordable Yamaha 115 mounted to the transom, our test boat dropped onto plane in 5.6 seconds, passed the 30-mph threshold in 12.8 seconds and peaked at 38.4 mph. At a comfortable 25-mph cruising speed, fuel consumption registered less than 5 gallons per hour.
⋅Spacious bow platform works equally well whether casting your line or nosed into the beach.
⋅Deep cockpit sides offer parental peace of mind, particularly for kids in the bow.
⋅Standard EVA matting on bow and stern platforms.
LOA: 18′11″
Beam: 8′6″
Draft (max): 2′2″
Dry Weight: 2,250 lb.
Seat/Weight Capacity: 12/1,600 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 48 gal. Price: $38,346 (with test power)
Engine: Yamaha 115
Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha 131/4″ x 16″ 3-blade aluminum
Gear Ratio: 2.15:1
Fuel Load: 39 gal.
Crew Weight: 340 lb.
Starcraft Marine - New Paris, Indiana; 574-831-2950; starcraftmarine.com