Pictures: MasterCraft unveils first outboard towboat in decades

MasterCraft Boats UK has announced an extension of its NXT line with the launch of the NXT20 Global Edition.

It has been more than 20 years since MasterCraft Boats UK launched an outboard towboat.

Now, it has unveiled an extension of its entry-level NXT line with the new NXT20 Global Edition.

The towboat comes with a 175 horsepower Mercury Verado outboard engine as standard, with the option to upgrade to a 225 horsepower model. Both allow owners to easily trim their engines and safely beach their boats.

See pictures of the NXT20 Global Edition below

It is also available as a superyacht tender where it can be customised to match owners’ requirements with a number of bespoke options.

The managing director of MasterCraft Boats UK, Michael Hardicker, said: “We understand that some customers prefer an outboard engine and it’s been great to partner with Mercury Marine to offer a Verado outboard option. Known for its low noise and vibration, low fuel consumption and supercharged power and torque, the Mercury Verado is a perfect fit for MasterCraft,”

“In our Superyacht tenders division we offer a custom install to a Yanmar inboard diesel and work closely with owners and captains to match the perfect watersports tender to their requirements. Having an outboard version just adds to the options available,” he added.

With an innovative crossover hull, the towboat has responsive handling. It has MasterCraft’s signature pickle-fork bow and a modified deck. The outboard engine allows for expanded aft seating, which can accommodate up to 12 people. All the vinyl seats are puncture resistant, and guests can enjoy a billet aluminium finishes and comfortable cabin carpeting.

As standard, the NXT20 Global Edition comes with a five year bow-to-stern warranty, and prospective owners can configure their boats with an almost limitless number of colour options and custom packages.