The tail of the 86 has been made slightly narrower and the board has been given more V, which - like the slightly lowered mast track - should improve control in chop. At Starboard, the rear strap is double-bolted and extra-thick screws are used throughout. The footpads are grippy and offer above-average cushioning in the heel area. In 2026, the side fins are also fitted in so-called "Starboxes", which are compatible with accessory fins for US and slot boxes.
Speed like a rocket
"It takes off like a rocket!" - every one of our testers would put their name under this quote. While the Ultra is still quite demanding in chop and when crossing white water, it accelerates with the first gust more powerfully than almost any other board in the group. The planing position is sporty and lively, which is ideal, especially in lighter planing winds, because the board encourages you to chase through the line-up at full throttle, always looking for the first ramp. When fully powered up, you sometimes even wish for a slightly more relaxed pace; the Ultra is not a board for leisurely cruising.
Compared to our last test of the 2024 model the board remains true to its line, but is less bitchy on the straights. The board feels extremely agile when riding, small steering impulses are implemented immediately and the potential for 360s and radical cutbacks is extremely high. In the bottom turn, however, the Ultra needs to be stabilised with skill and input. If you are still a little hesitant in your turns, you will be penalised with unsteady edging, which also applies when jibing.
surf verdict of the Starboard Ultra Carbon 86
The new Starboard Ultra scores as a fast, planing and extremely manoeuvrable board in small Baltic Sea waves as well as in clean ocean waves. Wave newcomers will sometimes find the board too demanding in rough conditions.
Ease of turning, planing
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Control in chop
Video test of the Starboard Ultra
Technical data Starboard Ultra Carbon 86
- Weight: 6.15 kg*
- Length: 223.5 cm*
- Width: 58.3 cm*
- Price: 3099**/2599*** Euro
- Info under star-board.com
*surf measurement
**Carbon Reflex / ***Wood-Sandwich
Starboard Ultra: Available sizes and data
| Size | Width | Length | Weight | Fins |
| 72 | 54,5 | 220 | 5,7**/k. A.*** | 18/11 |
| 78 | 56,5 | 222 | 5,8**/6,2*** | 18/11 |
| 82 | 57,5 | 222 | 6,1**/6,5*** | 18/11 |
| 86 | 58 | 223 | 6,1**/6,6*** | 19/11 |
| 93 | 59,5 | 225 | 6,4**/6,8*** | 19/11 |
| 100 | 60,5 | 227 | 6,5**/6,9*** | 20/11 |
| 110 | 61 | 229 | 6,7**/7,2*** | 21/11 |
**Carbon Reflex / ***Wood-Sandwich; without straps and fins; manufacturer's specification
