Victory and defeat are not opposites. They go hand in hand.

Sunshine needs clouds to be fully appreciated. Quality needs junk. Winners need losers. And the MariStar 280 needs other brands to be recognized for all the ways in which it overachieves.

Let’s begin with its stylish aesthetic. The MS280 looks and moves with a grace that belies its 28-feet, 114-inch beam. And in any boat but a MasterCraft, you’d immediately have to question performance. Twin Vortec V-8’s make every holeshot a pleasantly thrilling surprise. Plus, counter-rotating props make maneuvering at docks and marinas a breeze.

And let’s talk face time. The ample MS280 features luxurious seating for 15, including our gigantic twin-tip bow which seats five adults comfortably. And full, wrap-around seating can be converted to a passenger lounge for relaxing. And if that weren’t enough, the MS280 is chock full of elegant conveniences such as a freshwater sink with Corian countertop.