 MasterCraft MariStar 280 STS: Dream Boat When you think about it, the MariStar 280 STS is a boat could only have come from some wild dream. Until we debuted this 28-foot, 3-inch classic three years ago, who would have envisioned 700 horses of Detroit-forged power pushing a floating fiberglass house at speeds over 50 mph? With up to 700hp, the MariStar 280 STS can out-accelerate MasterCraft's premier ski boat (the ProStar 197) in a head-to-head dual from 0 to 36 mph. The STS can go from 0 to 36 mph in 164 feet -- or less than 6 seconds! And with twin engines, it not only offers twice the power, but also twice the maneuverability. The twin-engine version allows drivers to spin the boat 360 degrees within its length and move in forward or reverse with ease. What is unexpected about the MariStar 280 is its hull shape. At first glance you might think the 280 was an offshore tunnel boat, but in actuality, the boat's bow tapers from two points to a single V-bottom design. This catamaran inspired bow design allows the MariStar 280 STS increased passenger capacity, makes it accessible from the front and enables it to slice effortlessly through oncoming waves. The 280's hull also incorporates hard negative chines and a vented dual-step stern to give it lift and a feather soft ride. The MariStar 280 STS also allows families and friends to spend more time playing and cruising intracostal waterways, and less time making pit stops at the dock. The 280 has an 110 gallon fuel tank, an enclosed head, a Convenience Center that includes a sink, abundant seating, cavernous storage space and a cooler, all dedicated to making long rides and action-packed days seem more like all-inclusive cruises (minus Kathy Lee Gifford) --- hence the name, "Day Boat." Sitting or standing in the MariStar 280 STS's cockpit is an unparalleled experience. The boat's gauges are mounted above the dash in a billet aluminum, bullet-shaped configuration that puts them in full view of the driver. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and has a polished aluminum center. The driver can adjust his/her bench seat to slide forward or backward. The seat sits high off the floor for superior visibility and has a MasterView bolster seat for increasing the driver's elevation. If you prefer to stand instead of sit, that's comfortable too. The remainder of the 280's interior is completely open thanks to the boat's VectorDrive engine transmission. There's plenty of walking room and wrap around seating ideal for hosting a relaxing afternoon cocktail party. This area is also loaded with amenities including 77 cubic feet of storage, 15 drink holders, JL Audio speakers with separates, JL Audio subwoofer, interior lighting, two 12-volt plugs, two floor drains and snap-in carpet. The 280's stern is also spacious and comfortable thanks to the boat's well-designed transom. The transom incorporates a walk-thru that allows passengers easy access to and from the swim platform between two large sun pads. The MariStar 280 also has an enlarged fiberglass platform with teak inlays that is seamlessly integrated into the stern. This oversized area is perfect for boarding the boat, putting on some bindings, launching a tube or just testing the water temperature. The MariStar 280 STS made our dream came true by winning the most prestigious award in boating, Boating Magazine's Boat of the Year. Now it's your turn. |
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