Mastercraft introduces DockStar Handling

Tow-sports juggernaut MasterCraft has unveiled a revolutionary new DockStar Handling System designed to enable drivers of any ability to confidently dock an inboard-drive Mastercraft tow-sports boat in reverse and more easily navigate tight docks and crowded marinas.

MasterCraft says its engineering team conquered two equally important charters with the innovative DockStar Handling System: enabling drivers to control a boat in both directions in reverse; and to improve the docking and manoeuvrability capabilities of an inboard-drive MasterCraft.

The innovative DockStar Handling System uses a pair of low-profile, flanking rudders to enable port-side reverse control, which was previously unattainable with inboard towboats due to propeller torque. The new system is said to greatly assist docking and controlling the vessel at low speeds.

Mastercraft says drivers used to traditional inboard handling will be amazed at the boat’s ability to reverse both port and starboard without having to compensate, while newcomers to the inboard category, especially coming out of outboard or sterndrive boats, will instantly feel comfortable manoeuvring in  the tightest spaces.

"MasterCraft and its progression are about making time on the water easier," said Terry McNew, President and CEO of MasterCraft. "After we identified a way to make boating with a MasterCraft even better for our customers, we put our team of experienced designers and naval architects to work.

"The DockStar Handling System improves the on-water experience for boaters and effectively removes any last entry barriers to buying an inboard towboat for owners who typically have preferred the handling and manoeuvrability of a traditional outboard or sterndrive configuration," McNew says.

The patent-pending DockStar Handling System is exclusive to MasterCraft towboats and is available on most 2017 models. The innovative new steering system is said to be one of more than a dozen new upgrades to be announced as part of the 2017 model year lineup in early July.

The DockStar Handling System forms part of a raft of innovations introduced by MasterCraft in the interests of "watersports progression." The Tennessee-based boatbuilder and public company has won a swag of marine-industry and manufacturing awards and served as the official towboat for numerous world records and world championships. More from www.mastercraft.com.