A Legacy Continues with the Launch 28 GT
A Legacy Continues with the Launch 28GT
Great Lakes Scuttlebutt Magazine
Friday, July 27,2018
Chris-Craft is truly an American story. Born in 1874, it came of age at a time that defined the notion of American ingenuity. While Henry Ford was creating the first motorcars, his watercraft counterpart, Chris Smith, was developing the very first engine-propelled boats and skiffs. Even during the Great Depression, Chris-Craft thrived because quality has always been prized. During the second World War, the company reinforced its hold on the American imagination when its landing craft transported the first troops to the Normandy shore on D-Day. In more ways than one, Chris-Craft would become a symbol of liberation and freedom. In 1959, Time Magazine would recognize the popular phenomenon of pleasure boating and put Chris-Craft on its cover. Throughout its rich history, a reputation for quality and style have made it the favorite of presidents, celebrities, and icons of American affluence - names like Roosevelt, Kennedy, Vanderbilt, Morgan, Ford, Sinatra, and Hepburn.
Today, we continue to nurture this love affair, driven by the same principles that defined us years ago. We still craft our boats with the same care and attention to detail, but we also use industry-leading equipment in order to deliver the most precisely made and best-engineered boats on the water. Each of our boats is crafted by highly experienced designers at our factory and headquarters in Sarasota, Florida, where we maintain tight control over every detail that defines our particular, yet demanding, set of standards. Our current lineup, consisting of 18 boats, reflects a more modern version of our former self, while paying homage to our unforgettable and solid American heritage. The Calypso, Capri, Carina, Catalina, Corsair, and Launch series make up these 18 boats of runabouts, center consoles, and dual consoles with sterndrive and outboard propulsion. The boats are still handmade to perfection and, although mostly fiberglass, there still exists an element of classic wooden style in each boat. Whether its teak decking or varnished mahogany, Chris-Craft has, and always will, continued to remain true to its roots and the foundation of craftsmanship.
Chris-Craft is excited to debut its newest model, and introduce the all new Launch 28 GT. The Launch 28 GT is the perfect blend of versatility and classic Chris-Craft style. Every detail was considered in the design of this new model. A striking list of features and options allow for custom personalization.
The new Launch 28 GT features multiple entry ways, including a reverse walkthrough transom, three swim ladders, and a side access dive door - the only one in its class. The newly designed cockpit layout is shaded by an electric folding arch tower. When not providing sun protection, it can be completely folded down for storage or towing. There is no shortage of seating while aboard, as the new Launch 28 GT presents multiple seating areas in the bow and cockpit. In addition, the reversible sun pad can be pushed forward for extended cockpit seating or backward to unfold an even larger lounging area - ideal for maximum comfort and relaxation. An innovative new upholstery design can be distinguished throughout the cockpit. The traditional diamond stitch has been transformed into an elegant wave pattern with many color combinations to choose from. True varnished mahogany is infused everywhere throughout this boat, one of many special elements placed in any Chris-Craft boat since the early 1900s. You can choose the optional varnished mahogany covering boards as well as the accented glove box, behind the helm seats, the helm, and delicately accented on a vinyl-wrapped steering wheel. Beautiful teak decking graces our swim platforms, window surrounds, handrails, and name plaques, truly encompassing the classy ambiance of any Chris-Craft model. Available with the option of stern drive or outboard configurations, there is no limit in personalizing the Launch 28 GT.
The new Launch 28 GT will premiere at the Chris-Craft Summer Showcase event in July, along with 14 other models. Contact your local dealer about this new model, or head to chriscraft.com for more information.