What You Need To Know
First impressions are important and at first glance we liked what we were seeing. With an impressive manufacturing background, NauticStar shows off those resources with its all-new 223DC Sport Deck. On this sporty model, a spacious deck boat interior merges with a runabout type v-hull to create a great all-around boat.
The Highlights
Starting at the helm, the fiberglass console includes easy-to-read gauges with a functional design. Complete with a stereo, MP3/iPod jack, 12-volt outlet, as well as mounted Humminbird depth finder, all the basic needs for the captain are met. For those cooler mornings, the panoramic view walk-through windshield, plus a center folding divider, offer great protection from the elements and really add to the sporty look of this boat.
Another key feature we like is the large head compartment directly across from the helm console. Inside we found a sink with pressurized water, a mirror, trash bag receptacle, portable toilet, as well as additional storage options for your removable table.
There are plenty of great places to store your gear onboard and we especially like the hinged seat cushions that allow easy access below. There is also a deep in-floor ski locker that is plenty big for wakeboards and other water toys. Speaking of watersports, the stainless steel ski/tow bar will see plenty of great use on this boat and we love the removable back rest in the stern that makes it easier for passengers to keep an eye on the tubers being pulled. We also like the flip-up seat at the walk thru transom entrance that is part of the aft chaise with removable back rest.
Other key features include leather-touch upholstery, Deutche electrical connectors, two stainless boarding ladders, bow anchor compartment with anchor and a built-in battery switch. There are a lot of great amenities onboard, with only a handful of them being options. The rest are all included in the standard price, which is something we always like to see.
Inspection Notes
From a construction standpoint, we like that no wood is used on this boat. The 100 percent composite construction on the hull includes a one-piece molded stringer system. The 223DC earned high marks for fit and finish work and for its family-friendly design. As far a maintenance, with the self-bailing cockpit, cleanup is a breeze. Just unsnap the optional carpet and wash the boat clean. Even in the under-the-seat storage compartments the water will run out the scuppers. After inspection, some possible missing items would include adding a tower for wakeboarding because the hull has so much to offer, and maybe a designated spot for your iPod or MP3 at the helm. But realistically, this boat has a lot to offer and is great as tested.
Performance Evaluation
It's the unique hull design that we probably like the most about this NauticStar. The shallow dead rise at the transom provides great stability at rest, yet the forward full vee gives you a softer ride in rough waters. Plus the hull incorporates an air assist chine that releases water, helping it plane quicker and lift higher. With a Yamaha 150 four-stroke on the back we had plenty of power to be able to appreciate the hull.
Our zero to 20 mph time of 5 seconds was quite impressive, as well as our overall top speed of nearly 45 miles per hour. With the standard SeaStar hydraulic steering, the boat is smooth and easy to handle.
Final Thoughts
Rated for up to 10 people there is plenty of room onboard for everyone and their gear. The added depth of the seating with the tall seat backs earn it a high score for safety and the overall design seems well-thought-out with plenty to offer everyone.
Number of Occupants 10
Price As Tested With Power $51.3K
Maximum Speed 44.9mph
Wild Ponies 150hp
No. of Gates 2
0-20 MPH 5.1 seconds
Ladder Measurement 35" deep
Why we love this boat.Great multi-purpose deck boat with a unique hull and plenty of great storage options
Just being picky.The helm console could have been a little more elaborate or sporty to match the performance of the boat, yet we still consider the console to be very functional
NOTABLE STANDARDS
LED Courtesy Lights, JBL Stereo, Panoramic Wrap Around Windshield, Portside Mid Ship Enclosed Dressing Room, Exclusive V Hull Design w/ Air Assist Chine, 11 Drink Holders, Color Matched Umbrella Bimini Top, Leather Touch Upholstery, Easy Access Cooler Storage, Easy Access Under Seat Storage, Oversized Floor Storage-15.5 Cubic Ft, 7 Storage Compartments.
OPTIONS ON TEST BOAT
Humminbird Depth Finder, Tonneau and Cockpit Cover, Snap-in Carpet, Stainless Steel Prop.
VITAL STATS
LOA 22'7"
Beam 8' 6"
Hull Design V
Dry Weight 2873 lbs.
Fuel Capacity 66 gallons
TEST DRIVE
Engine Yamaha F150 XA
Cylinder Type In-line 4
Cubic-inch Displacement/Horsepower 162.8/150hp
Lower Unit Gear Ratio 2.00:1
Propeller SS 17 X 14 1/4
RPM vs. SPEED vs. DB-A
800 3.3 77
1000 4.3 78
1500 6.8 86.5
2000 8.6 85
2500 11.5 89
3000 16.3 95.5
3500 25 98
4000 30.3 98
4500 34.4 100
5000 38.9 103
5500 42.7 105.5
6000 44.8 107
6200 44.9 106
Amory, Miss.
662-256-5636
nauticstarboats.com
