A Bright Spot of Optimism - The Mastercraft 300

If you've spent any time around water sports boats in the US, you are familiar with the name MasterCraft and probably with their large and loyal following. However, the name might not have you immediately thinking of a 30'+ luxury cruiser. That's about to change as MasterCraft has just launched the MasterCraft 300 which takes them squarely into that realm.

At 33. 9" (with Platform) and an 11' beam, the MasterCraft 300 is designed to be a day cruiser with the capability to accommodate overnight or weekend trips gracefully. I asked Jason Boertje of MasterCraft what led the company to step into this new class of boat. He explained that as "MasterCraft Boat Company" they don't feel constrained to limit themselves to a specific niche. The MasterCraft 300 allows them to capitalize on their experience and style, while expanding their customer base. Their team of engineers and designers aren't just experienced in designing performance boats, but many have backgrounds with yacht companies like Hatteras, Hinckley Yachts and Cruiser Yachts. Boertje explains that MasterCraft sees three types of customers that will be interested in the MC 300:

• Tried and true MasterCraft fans looking to upgrade to something larger.
• Luxury yacht owners looking to downsize to something a little more manageable, but without sacrificing any of the luxury yacht amenities.
• Owners of similar day cruiser style boats looking to upgrade in quality and luxury.

With the current economic conditions and softening of boat sales, I had to ask why launch a new model now, particularly one that diverges from your established base? Boertje explained that MasterCraft sales have remained strong with their greatest challenge being the tight credit market that makes it harder for dealers to afford floor units. The MasterCraft 300 will be produced in conjunction with their dealers, but under their new Luxury Retail Program. They plan to produce roughly 2 MasterCraft 300s per month, each to customer specifications. Dealers won't stock these units, but will help bring qualified customers to the program. Customers will visit the MasterCraft headquarters for trials and orientation, then again to customize their new MasterCraft day cruiser, and finally for delivery and sea trials if desired.

For more information on the new MasterCraft 300 visit http://www.mastercraft.com/300/.

MasterCraft 300 sports a twin point bow

The MasterCraft 300

The Real Deal - the MasterCraft 300 unveiled at the 2009 Miami International Boat Show