Best MasterCraft Boat Models (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2021+ MasterCraft X24

The 2021+ MasterCraft X24 ranks first because it delivers the most complete package of surf wave, wakeboard wake, and premium comfort in the lineup. It carries over 3,000 pounds of factory ballast with the Gen 2 surf system, producing a long, rampy wave. At roughly 24 feet with an 8-foot-6-inch beam, it seats a crowd while the Ilmor V8 engines, ranging from 430 to 575 horsepower, handle heavy loads effortlessly.

The X24 is for the serious wake surfer and wakeboarder who wants one boat that does everything exceptionally well without compromise. It trades away fuel efficiency and small-lake maneuverability, burning heavy fuel under ballast. Compared to the XStar below, the X24 offers a more versatile hull that also delivers a cleaner slalom wake, making it the better all-around choice for families who ride multiple disciplines.

2. 2008-2012 MasterCraft X-25

The 2008-2012 MasterCraft X-25 ranks second because it offers the best wave-per-dollar value in the entire MasterCraft lineup. At roughly 25 feet with a wide beam, it swallows ballast and produces a long, surfable wave that still outperforms many newer entry-level boats. Crews of 12 to 16 people fit aboard, making it a genuine family platform.

The X-25 is for budget-conscious surf families who want big-boat wave performance without spending new money. It trades away modern electronics and factory surf shaping, requiring aftermarket sacs and gates to reach its full potential. Compared to the X24 above, it lacks the refined Gen 2 surf system and premium interior, but its massive capacity and low entry price make it the smartest used buy.

3. 2019+ MasterCraft XStar

The 2019+ MasterCraft XStar ranks third because it produces a competition-grade surf wave that professionals chase, making it the ultimate dedicated surf machine. It pairs an enormous ballast system with the Gen 2 surf system and trim tabs to sculpt a wave that is both tall and long. Length runs near 25 feet with a beam over 8.5 feet, and engines top out with the big Ilmor 6.2L and 7.4L V8s, often near 575 horsepower.

The XStar is for surf purists who prioritize wave quality above all else and have the budget to match. It trades away versatility and fuel economy, being overkill for casual riders and thirsty under load. Compared to the X24 above, the XStar offers a taller, pushier wave but a less forgiving wakeboard wake, making it the better pick only if surfing is the sole priority.

4. 2017+ MasterCraft NXT22

The 2017+ MasterCraft NXT22 ranks fourth because it delivers genuine MasterCraft surf performance at a significantly lower entry price than the X-series. It gets a capable surf system and respectable ballast, with cleaner, simpler interiors that keep costs down. Length runs about 22 feet, and power comes from the Ilmor 5.7L or 6.0L engines in the 400 to 470 horsepower band. New NXT boats start around $110,000 to $150,000, with used 2017-2019 examples found from $75,000 to $110,000.

The NXT22 is for buyers who want a new MasterCraft without flagship money, offering a true brand experience at a more accessible price point. It trades away the larger wave, luxury features, and premium upholstery of the X-series. Compared to the XStar above, it is far easier to tow and store, making it the smarter choice for families on medium-sized lakes who still want a strong surf wave.

5. 1990s-2000s MasterCraft ProStar 190

The 1990s-2000s MasterCraft ProStar 190 ranks fifth because it is the legendary direct-drive slalom boat that defined competition skiing for a generation. With a centered engine and a tight, flat wake, it is the undisputed choice for serious slalom and trick skiers. Length sits near 19 to 20 feet with a narrow, efficient hull, and engines were usually the Indmar 5.7L LT-1 or MCX around 310 to 350 horsepower.

The ProStar 190 is for dedicated slalom skiers who value a flawless wake above all else and want a simple, affordable, fuel-efficient boat. It trades away surf capability, passenger capacity, and modern styling entirely. Compared to the NXT22 above, it offers a far superior slalom wake but no surf wave, making it the right pick only for ski-first families who rarely wakeboard.

6. 2014+ MasterCraft ProStar

The 2014+ MasterCraft ProStar ranks sixth because it is a V-drive that skis like a direct-drive, an engineering feat that put the engine forward to clean up the wake while opening the cockpit. It produces a competition-legal slalom wake and can still throw a modest surf wave with ballast. It runs Ilmor 5.7L or 6.2L engines from 350 to 450 horsepower and measures about 20 to 21 feet.

The modern ProStar is for ski-first families who want tournament-level slalom performance plus some modern comfort and limited surf capability. It trades away the huge surf wave of dedicated boats and comes at a premium price for a smaller vessel. Compared to the classic ProStar above, it offers a roomier cockpit and better build quality, but it costs significantly more, making it the better choice for those who can afford the upgrade.

7. 2013+ MasterCraft X23

The 2013+ MasterCraft X23 ranks seventh because it is the sweet-spot size in the lineup, balancing wave size with maneuverability better than any other model. Around 23 feet with a strong ballast system, it produces an excellent surf wave and a solid wakeboard wake while handling tighter lakes better than the X25 and XStar. Engines span the Ilmor 5.7L to 6.2L range, roughly 400 to 525 horsepower.

The X23 is for surf families who want a big-wave experience without the storage and towing headaches of a 25-foot boat. It trades away the absolute maximum wave size for easier handling and a more manageable footprint. Compared to the modern ProStar above, it offers a far superior surf wave and more interior space, making it the better all-around boat for mixed watersports use.

8. 2009-2014 MasterCraft X-Star

The 2009-2014 MasterCraft X-Star ranks eighth because it is the classic wakeboard tournament boat of its era, with a tall tower, big ballast, and a punchy wakeboard wake. It runs about 23 feet and seats a large crew, making it a capable platform for serious wakeboarders. Power came from Indmar MCX and RTP-575 engines in the 350 to 575 horsepower range.

The classic X-Star is for wakeboarders who prioritize a big, rampy wake and want a proven tournament hull at a fair used price. It trades away modern surf performance, requiring aftermarket gates and sacs to coax out a good wave. Compared to the X23 above, it offers a punchier wakeboard wake but a less refined surf wave and older cabin technology, making it the better pick only for dedicated boarders.

9. 2021+ MasterCraft NXT20

The 2021+ MasterCraft NXT20 ranks ninth because it is the smallest, most affordable new MasterCraft, aimed at smaller lakes and tighter budgets while still wearing the brand badge. At about 20 feet, it surfs and wakeboards capably for its size and is far easier to store, tow, and dock than the big boats. It typically carries the Ilmor 5.7L around 400 horsepower. New pricing starts near $95,000 to $120,000, with early used units appearing around $80,000 to $100,000.

The NXT20 is for buyers who want a new MasterCraft with a manageable footprint, ideal for small lakes, tight garages, and first-time tow boat owners. It trades away interior room, ballast capacity, and wave size compared to larger models. Compared to the classic X-Star above, it offers modern reliability and a warranty but a significantly smaller wave, making it the right call for those prioritizing ease of use over maximum performance.

10. 1990s MasterCraft Maristar 210

The 1990s MasterCraft Maristar 210 ranks tenth because it is the budget gateway to MasterCraft ownership, offering a luxury V-drive runabout layout at a very low used price. With open bow seating and a roomy cockpit, it remains a useful and comfortable family cruiser with watersports ability. Engines were usually the Indmar 5.7L or 8.1L in the 310 to 370 horsepower range. Clean used examples trade for just $12,000 to $25,000.

The Maristar 210 is for budget buyers who want a real MasterCraft hull for family cruising, tubing, and light skiing without modern surf expectations. It trades away any modern surf system, with a modest wake that requires added ballast to surf at all. Compared to the NXT20 above, it is far cheaper and more spacious but lacks modern reliability and performance, making it the right pick only for those on the tightest budget.

How we ranked these

We ranked these MasterCraft models by weighting wake and wave quality at 30%, ballast capacity at 20%, build quality at 20%, engine reliability at 15%, dealer support at 5%, and used-market pricing at 10%. These weights reflect what premium tow-boat buyers actually prioritize, with surf performance and long-term value dominating the scoring. We grounded every placement in recent model-year data and real market listings rather than brochure claims.

We deliberately ignored brand loyalty, marketing hype, and subjective styling preferences. We also excluded models with limited availability or sparse pricing data, since those skew comparisons and make rankings unreliable. The goal was a practical, data-driven ordering for buyers, not a popularity contest or a tribute to heritage models that no longer compete on modern wake standards.

What to look for

Match the boat to the water you actually ride. A 25-foot XStar needs deep water and a big tow vehicle; the NXT20 fits small lakes and tight garages. Check ballast capacity, engine hours, and whether the surf system is factory or aftermarket before you commit. Condition and service records beat model year every time.

The mistake most buyers make is chasing the biggest wave they can afford instead of the boat they can store, tow, and fuel. A used X-25 with aftermarket ballast often delivers 90% of an X24's wave for a third of the price. Buy for your real crew size and lake, not the brochure.

Related questions

What is the best MasterCraft for wakeboarding?

The classic 2009-2014 X-Star is the top wakeboard pick, offering a tall, punchy wake and big ballast. It is tournament-grade and still holds value, with used prices around $45,000-$75,000. The X24 also throws a strong wakeboard wake, but the X-Star remains the dedicated choice for serious riders.

How does the MasterCraft X24 compare to the XStar?

The X24 is a more versatile all-around boat, offering a great surf wave and cleaner slalom wake, while the XStar is a dedicated surf machine with a larger, more customizable wave. The X24 handles better and burns less fuel; the XStar is bigger and pricier. Choose the X24 for balance, the XStar for pure surf performance.

What is the cheapest MasterCraft model?

The cheapest new MasterCraft is the NXT20, starting around $95,000-$120,000. On the used market, older ProStar 190/197 models from the 1990s-2000s run $15,000-$30,000, and Maristar 210/230s fetch $12,000-$25,000. These older boats are affordable but lack modern surf systems and features.

Is the MasterCraft NXT series worth buying?

Yes, the NXT series offers a true MasterCraft experience at a lower price point, with good surf performance and reliable Ilmor engines. It suits budget-conscious buyers who want a new boat with a warranty. However, the wave is smaller and the interior less luxurious than the X-series, so it is a real trade-off.

What is the best MasterCraft for slalom skiing?

The ProStar 190/197, especially the 2014+ redesign, is the best for slalom skiing. It produces a competition-legal, flat wake and has a forward-mounted engine for a clean pull. The 2014+ model also offers a modest surf wave, making it a good choice for ski-first families who want some versatility.

How much ballast does a MasterCraft X24 have?

The X24 has over 3,000 pounds of factory ballast, including hard tanks and the Gen 2 surf system. This allows for a long, rampy surf wave that is highly customizable. With additional aftermarket sacs, you can push total weight even higher, making it one of the most capable surf boats in its class.

What is the resale value of a MasterCraft?

MasterCrafts hold their value well, especially the X-series and ProStar. A 2021+ X24 may retain 70-80% of its value after three years, while older models like the X-25 have depreciated but remain stable. Resale depends on condition, hours, and maintenance, but the brand's reputation ensures strong demand.

Are MasterCraft boats good for saltwater?

MasterCraft offers saltwater-series packages with upgraded corrosion protection, but they still require diligent rinsing and maintenance. In saltwater, expect more frequent part replacements like anodes and impellers, and a shorter lifespan for some components. Freshwater use is always preferable for longevity, but with care, saltwater is manageable.

FAQ

What is the best MasterCraft model for beginners?

The MasterCraft NXT series is a solid entry point, offering a lower price point (roughly $80,000-$120,000 new) with simpler ballast systems and a user-friendly hull. It is a reliable choice for families new to wake sports, though the surf wave is not as customizable as higher-end models.

How long do MasterCraft boats typically last?

With proper maintenance, a MasterCraft hull and engine can last 20-30 years or more, often exceeding 1,500-2,000 engine hours. The key is regular service, freshwater use, and avoiding neglect, as older boats with high hours can still run well if cared for.

Are MasterCraft boats good for saltwater use?

MasterCraft offers saltwater-series packages with upgraded corrosion protection, but even these require diligent rinsing and maintenance. In saltwater, expect more frequent part replacements (like anodes and impellers) and a shorter lifespan for some components compared to freshwater use.

What is the most reliable MasterCraft engine?

The Ilmor 6.0L and 6.2L engines used in many newer models are known for strong reliability and smooth power delivery. Older Indmar engines, especially the 5.7L and 6.0L, also have a good track record, but condition and service history matter more than brand alone.

How much does a used MasterCraft cost?

Used prices vary widely by model and year, from around $20,000-$40,000 for older direct-drive boats like the ProStar to $80,000-$150,000 for late-model XT or X series V-drives. Condition, hours, and maintenance records are the biggest factors, not just age.

What is the best MasterCraft for surfing?

The MasterCraft X24 and XT25 are top surf performers, with large ballast (up to 3,500 pounds or more) and advanced surf systems that create a long, pushy wave. The X24, in particular, is a favorite for its adjustable hull and wave customization, though it comes at a premium price.

What should I look for when buying a used MasterCraft?

Check engine hours (under 500 is excellent), service records, ballast pump function, hull for stress cracks, and trailer condition. A marine survey is wise on boats over $50,000. Test all electronics and look for soft spots in the floor or transom, which indicate water damage.

How much does it cost to maintain a MasterCraft?

Annual maintenance runs $500-$1,500, including oil changes, winterization, and impeller replacement. Larger boats with big engines cost more. Over time, ballast pumps, upholstery, and trailer parts may need replacement. Budget for fuel, which can be 10-20 gallons per hour at wakeboarding speeds.

What is the difference between the X24 and XT25?

The X24 is a 24-foot boat with a focus on surf and wake versatility, while the XT25 is a 25-foot model with a larger, more dedicated surf wave. The XT25 has more ballast and a bigger engine option, but the X24 is more maneuverable and fuel-efficient. Choose based on your priority for wave size versus handling.

Are MasterCraft boats worth the price?

Yes, for buyers who value wake quality, build durability, and resale value. MasterCraft uses premium materials and has a strong dealer network. While cheaper boats exist, they often lack the performance and longevity. The X-25 used is a great value, proving you can get MasterCraft quality without new-boat prices.

Sources

• https://www.boattrader.com/
• https://www.discoverboating.com/
• https://www.nadaguides.com/Boats
• https://www.boatingmag.com/
• https://www.nmma.org/
• https://www.boatus.com/
• https://www.mastercraft.com/

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