Review: New Chris-Craft "Speedster"

Designed by Michael Peters, this is the first rendering to be released by Chris-Craft, on a runabout that is so new, that a spec sheet isn't available yet. My thanks to Meghan Stout, the marketing director for Chris-Craft, for supplying YachtForums with images of the new "Speedster", which appears to be in the 20' range. The launch is already in production and the first media introductions and test rides are slated for the first week in June 2004.

Enjoy!

Update on the new Chris Craft Speedster...

Just returned from a media intro in Sarasota and an 8 hour round trip drive, to take a 10 minute spin in the Speedster. YachtForums is covering this new boat, because it may well become one of the more popular launches to be added to a yacht owner's toy chest.

Chris Craft has truly recaptured the essence of the original Chris Craft "woody" runabouts of an era long passed, with a bold retro-design featuring many subtle design cues from its predecessor. One ride on this boat is a close as anyone will come to a time machine, that promptly returns you to the "here and now".

The Speedster is true to its lineage with one not so desirable component eliminated.... wood! With that exception, it's an up to date barrel-back runabout, but with a modern 20 degree deadrise V-hull. If you've ever ridden in an original woody with it's flat planing hull, you'll appreciate the money the Speedster saves you in chiropractic visits.

This picture depicts the low profile signature of the Speedster at idle...

The cockpit has one distinguishing feature over an original "woody"... it has more than ample room for four large adults. The cockpit is surprisingly large for a 20' boat with I/O power and a sport deck.

Concealed under the dash's console is a locker with racks for holding waterskiis. Between the seats and under the floorboard, is an easily accessable self draining cooler. The seats are among the most comfortable you'll find on a sportboat, which comes in handy on a boat that hits 60 mph with 4 adults and a full tank of gas.

This particular Speedster was powered by a 350 hp Mercruiser sterndrive, which is more than adequate power for a boat this size. There is also a less expensive 6 cylinder option available. Notice the exhaust exit on the side of the hull, which gives a nice rumble on the water.

The extended teak covered swim platform houses a boarding ladder and a handle is provided for safety. On the left side of the transom, waterproof control switches are incorporated to adjust the volume or channel of the radio, as well as tilting the outdrive for clearance. Notice the original Chris Craft cast emblem at center, the bow & stern flags and the teak inserts around the deck. Even the deck and the engine hatch have a textured finish that emulate the wood planking found on the real woody. Nice retro touch!

This picture shows the lines of the Speedster out of the water. A sharp bow entry swallows chop and an exceptional spray dispersing bow flair give this boat a very dry ride. Couple this to a barrel back taper and even the rear passengers will stay dry with a side wind. This is a well thought out little boat, but that's no surprise... it's designed by the legendary Michael Peters and built by the original legend... Chris Craft.

Remeniscent of the rare and extremely sought after Cobra, the Speedster looks good from every view, particularly the financial view... it retails for $34,000.

Chris Craft has built an extremely neat little boat that fills a niche somewhat vacated by other manufacturers... a truly manageable launch with styling characteristics so appealing, it may well become legend itself.

If you would like further information, call or visit their website at...

Chris Craft Boats
8161 15th Street East
Sarasota, FL 34243
www.chriscraft.com
941-351-4900

A few more photos just arrived. This is the Speedster's instrument panel...

Action Shot!