Pontoons
MasterCraft SportStar Boats for Sale
The MasterCraft SportStar is a compact, performance-focused inboard built to deliver tournament-level ski performance in an affordable, family-friendly package. Designed for precise handling, smooth wakes, and reliable power, the SportStar offered the same core engineering and build quality as MasterCraft’s ProStar line but in a simplified design. Its size, efficiency, and balanced hull make it a lasting favorite among recreational skiers and those seeking classic MasterCraft quality at a more accessible price.
The MasterCraft SportStar was introduced in the mid-1990s as a more affordable alternative to the company’s flagship ProStar models. It was developed to give recreational skiers access to the same performance and craftsmanship that made MasterCraft famous, while offering a simplified layout and a slightly lighter build for easier ownership.
Measuring approximately 19 feet 6 inches in length with a beam of about 90 inches, the SportStar featured a direct-drive configuration and a tournament-style running surface derived from the proven ProStar hull. This design allowed it to deliver small, soft wakes at skiing speeds and predictable handling, making it suitable for both slalom and recreational skiing. Its compact size also made it easy to store, tow, and launch, appealing to families and individual owners alike.
Power for the SportStar came from Indmar inboard engines, typically small-block V8s producing between 275 and 310 horsepower. These engines were known for smooth acceleration, reliable operation, and efficient fuel use. Combined with the boat’s lightweight construction, the SportStar provided quick planing, steady tracking, and an agile feel on the water.
Inside, the SportStar was designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. It generally seated six to seven passengers, with a driver’s bucket seat, a small observer’s seat, and a rear bench. While less feature-rich than the ProStar models, it maintained MasterCraft’s high standards for construction, including hand-laid fiberglass, composite stringers, and stainless hardware. The minimalist design helped keep weight low and focused the boat’s performance squarely on skiing.
In later model years, an open-bow version known as the SportStar 19 Open Bow was introduced, adding extra seating and versatility for families. Both closed-bow and open-bow configurations shared the same hull and performance characteristics, delivering clean, consistent wakes for recreational skiing.
The MasterCraft SportStar remained in production through the early 2000s before being phased out as the company shifted its focus toward more feature-rich models. Despite this, it remains one of the most respected entry-level ski boats ever built. Owners appreciate its simplicity, reliability, and true inboard performance that still rivals newer boats in its class.
Today, the SportStar is a sought-after used boat for budget-conscious buyers who want authentic MasterCraft quality and tournament-level ski performance without unnecessary complexity. Its straightforward design, durable construction, and excellent wake characteristics continue to make it a strong value in the used inboard market.