Chris Craft Boats

CHRIS CRAFT BOATS FOR SALE - MIAMI & FT. LAUDERDALE

Chris Craft Boats: Heritage Craftsmanship Meets Modern Sophistication

With a rich heritage spanning over 140 years, Chris-Craft is a renowned luxury motorboat brand. Established in 1874 by Christopher Columbus Smith, this small family business initially crafted wooden boats by hand. Fast forward to the 1930s and 40s, Chris-Craft had become a household name, offering a diverse range of boats for recreational pursuits such as fishing, skiing, and cruising. Today, the legacy of Chris-Craft continues to thrive, exemplifying excellence in craftsmanship and timeless elegance on the water. As an experienced Florida yacht & boat broker, I am proud to offer these iconic boats to my clients.

Chris-Craft boats, crafted with unwavering passion and dedication for 149 years, continue to captivate enthusiasts worldwide whether an open bow designed for socializing or a spacious cruiser with a cozy cabin for extended excursions, every inch of our boats is meticulously crafted carefully.

History of Chris Craft Boats

Established in 1883, Chris Craft Boats began as a small boat shop in Michigan. Initially crafting wooden boats, they swiftly gained popularity among the residents. 1910 marked a significant milestone when Chris Craft introduced the first-ever all-metal boat, a groundbreaking design that propelled the company to great success.

With a rich heritage of producing top-notch vessels, Chris Craft has been synonymous with unforgettable fishing trips and delightful family cruises. The turn of the century brought about significant changes, leading to a temporary halt in production in 1931. However, nearly four decades later, the company reemerged, this time focusing on outboard models. Although initially limited to just three models, they garnered an overwhelming response from discerning buyers.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Chris Craft shifted from wooden to fiberglass boats, marking a monumental breakthrough for the brand.

Building of Chris Craft Boats

The Smiths were renowned for crafting boats of exceptional quality, as evidenced by the detailed cutaway illustration provided below. Despite being produced on a larger scale, these Chris-Craft boats from the 1920s and 1930s showcased double-planked bottoms made of solid Philippine mahogany. A layer of oil-soaked canvas, resistant to water, was carefully placed in between. The keels were constructed using Philippine mahogany or white oak, while the ribs were steam-bent oak. Bronze bolts and screws (later replaced by silicon bronze) were used, with the screw holes adorned with Philippine mahogany "bungs," a term borrowed from beer barrels.

The construction features of a Chris-Craft all-wood boat were exemplified by the 22' runabout, impressing customers with its design. Internally, the hulls were coated with linseed oil below the waterline, followed by two coats of Valspar marine varnish and a final layer of paint. Externally, the hull bottoms were generously coated with green or gray paint.

All visible natural wood surfaces underwent meticulous preparation, including the Philippine mahogany on the hull, decks, and cowls. Grain filler was meticulously applied, followed by sanding and four coats of marine varnish. The mechanics would install an inboard engine once the boat was fully assembled, including the upholstery. Subsequently, each boat underwent rigorous testing for speed and handling along a measured course on the St. Clair River.

Only during the few years following World War II, when wood shortages were prevalent, did Chris-Craft deviate from its commitment to quality construction. In place of the scarce Philippine mahogany, the boat company substituted white cedar or any suitable alternative. However, even with these substitutions, management insisted on painting the hulls rather than adhering to the traditional practice of staining and varnishing.

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Chris Craft Boat Models

Whether you are searching for a day boat or a spacious overnight cruiser, your Chris Craft will catalyze countless unforgettable adventures. Here are some of the available models.

Chris-Craft Launch Series
Chris-Craft Corsair Series
Chris-Craft Catalina Series.
Chris-Craft Capri Series.
Chris-Craft Commander Series.

Investing in a Chris-Craft boat is a significant decision, and finding the right partner is crucial to avoid costly mistakes. Christopher is dedicated to helping you discover the perfect Chris-Craft boat that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Call or text Christopher at 561-285-1212 for a no-obligation chat, and let us assist you in making your yachting dreams a reality.