MasterCraft TriStar Boats for Sale

The MasterCraft TriStar lineup was introduced in the mid-1980s as a response to growing demand for larger, more comfortable inboards that could handle family recreation in addition to water skiing. Prior to the TriStar series, MasterCraft’s lineup consisted mainly of low-profile ski boats such as the Stars and Stripes and early ProStar models. The TriStar broke new ground by offering deeper freeboard, expanded seating, and a more open interior while maintaining MasterCraft’s performance reputation.

TriStar 190:
The TriStar 190 was the smallest model in the series, measuring roughly 19 feet in length. It featured a direct-drive layout and a modified V hull that produced soft wakes for slalom skiing while offering better comfort and ride stability than traditional flat-bottom ski boats. The 190 could seat up to seven passengers and was equipped with Indmar or PCM inboard engines ranging from 240 to 275 horsepower. Its compact size and versatile performance made it a popular crossover for owners who wanted a true ski boat that could also handle general family use.

TriStar 220:
Introduced as a larger step up, the TriStar 220 measured approximately 22 feet in length and provided more cockpit space, higher freeboard, and increased storage. It was available in both open-bow and closed-bow configurations and became a favorite among families looking for a comfortable all-around boat that still offered inboard precision. The 220’s deeper hull provided a softer ride in choppy water and a clean, predictable wake at moderate speeds. This model helped bridge the gap between competition boats and luxury cruisers, and it became one of MasterCraft’s best-selling family-oriented boats of the late 1980s.

TriStar 240:
The largest version, the TriStar 240, stretched to about 24 feet in length and offered seating for up to 10 passengers. Like the smaller models, it maintained a direct-drive configuration but featured a wider beam and deeper hull for maximum comfort and stability. The TriStar 240’s layout and ride quality made it well suited for larger lakes and open water, and it provided one of the smoothest rides in MasterCraft’s lineup at the time.

All TriStar models were built using hand-laid fiberglass construction, wood stringer systems (later replaced by composites), and high-quality interior materials that reflected MasterCraft’s craftsmanship. They offered dependable performance with V8 inboard engines from Indmar or PCM and were known for their reliability and easy maintenance.

The TriStar series was eventually phased out in the early 1990s as MasterCraft introduced the Maristar lineup, which carried forward the same concept of a deeper, more versatile inboard design with added luxury and V-drive options. However, the TriStar models remain respected for their role in transitioning MasterCraft from pure competition boats to multi-purpose family inboards.

Today, the TriStar 190, 220, and 240 are still valued on the used market for their sturdy construction, smooth handling, and ability to serve as dependable family boats that also perform well for skiing and light wakeboarding. They represent a pivotal moment in MasterCraft’s evolution and continue to appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate the brand’s classic build quality and balanced design.