We had a major case of big hair after testing Starcraft's latest in a long line of deck boats. That's because sitting at the wheel of the Star Step 200 is like driving a Mustang convertible. It's an open-air ride, with no windshield and no portside console, and if it hadn't been 48 degrees during our trial run, we would have peeled off our shirts and left our shoes at the dock.
 
This is the type of boat we have in mind when we think of summer rides to a favorite cove on blue-sky days. The cove or sandbar is where the boat belongs because it has an extended swim platform from an already-generous molded-in platform. There's enough room for a couple people to hang out on the U-shaped sun lounge with three or four more on the platform. The bow also has a wide deck with a fold-out boarding ladder.

Large platforms and a stern-drive engine usually eat up passenger space in a boat this size. But by dedicating the entire port side to seating, the cockpit and bow become a singular living space, accommodating 12 people. The seats have relatively high backs, too, so there's deceptive depth for a boat with this slender profile.

Our test boat was rigged with midrange power, a Volvo Penta 5.0-liter engine and GXi drive. It was to plane in barely three seconds, and it really found its groove from 2,500 rpm to top speed (46.4 mph). Credit for that goes to the stepped-after-plane hull, which helps aerate the running surface without compromising control at the wheel.
 
Whether by intention or not, the gunwale next to the driver is at a height where it can be used as an armrest. With the bolster up, we could see over bow passengers while holding charge over the surroundings. The resulting height of one's hair proves this is a fun boat to captain.

Notable Features
• In-Floor Storage compartment is long enough for a ski, kneeboard or carry-on gear.
• High Seat Backs make the boat safe without taking from the sleek profile.
• Sink on front of driver's console can be used for washing off hands or utensils.
• Transom Walk-Through has a carpeted vestibule on a tier above the cockpit floor. There's also a freshwater shower on the transom.

At a Glance
Gauges are set in individual pods on top of a black-and-silver instrument panel, helping them to stand out and for aesthetics.

Vital Stats
Length Overall: 22'7"
Beam: 8'6"
Dry Weight: 3,850 lb.
People/Weight Capacity: 12/1,700 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 51 gal.
Maximum HP: 260
NMMA Certified: Yes
MSRP (w/ Volvo Penta 5.0 GXi): $35,856

Test Drive
Test Engine: Volvo Penta 5.0 GXi
Test Load: People (190 lb.); Fuel (34 gal.)
Top Speed: 46.4 mph at 5,300 rpm
Time to Plane: 3.1 sec.
Time to 30 mph: 7.2 sec.
Minimum plane: 17.0 mph at 2,400 rpm

Personality Profile
Cruising                4    High Performance
Sport                    5    Entertainment
Protected Water     5    Open water
Value                    5    Premium

More on this boat: www.starcraftmarine.com