Chris Craft Launch 25

Boat Test #1422

Another True Classic from Chris-Craft.

Chris-Craft essentially wrote the book on top-end speedboats. The company has, in various guises, been building their beautiful and functional boats since the late 19th century. Their designs have elegant lines, teak brightwork and stainless hardware, creating timeless classics that always stand out.
The Launch 25 is a mid-sized, multi-functional boat. It is great for simply just speeding around, enjoying the sun and the water, all while being one of the best looking boats out there. There is a removable ski pylon and hidden stowage for skis or boards. Power is provided by an inboard/outboard configuration, with up a range of engine sizes available, from 300 to 430 horsepower.  The engine hatch is constructed with an acoustical barrier. There is a fixed fire-fighting system in the compartment, great for that added peace of mind.

The Launch can carry up to 10 passengers, making entertaining groups large or small easy. There is plenty of seating, including a bow area with forward facing loungers. The aft end of the cockpit has a sunpad, and aft facing loungers on either side. There is even a head onboard, situated on the port side neatly tucked out of the way, but a great addition for long days on the water. The swim platform is deep and wide, with a stainless ladder and neat pop-up handhold that come standard.  A retractable shower hose is located at the stern as well.
There is stowage for a cooler under the deck, as well as an electric cooler under the aft port bench, plenty of room for food and drinks for you and your guests. If the weather changes, or you need a little respite from the sun, there is a fold-out bimini that is stored in the engine compartment, and deploys effortlessly, much like putting a soft top on a convertible.
Chris-Craft builds quality products. It is simply part of what they do, and what they have done for generations. Many of the artisans that work on building these testaments to craftsmanship have been employed by Chris-Craft for years and years. Skills and knowledge are passed on through the generations, tracing back to the beginnings of the company.
Even though wooden hulls are replacing fibreglass these days, the workmanship is still evident in the Launch 25. Even without a wooden hull, Chris-Craft still maintains a significant amount of wood on their designs. Wooden decks of raw teak are available, which are great for bare feet and also add a simple beauty. There are wooden grab bars and trim pieces throughout the boat as well, adding elegance and tying the whole design together.
There is a high level of customization available with Chris-Craft, even for the stock designs. Gel coat colours are an available option. The options extend much further though, to the upholstery, with many different options, and even the colour of the caulking in the decks, which can be black or blonde.
The Launch 25 by Chris-Craft is a superb example of a mid-size, multi-role day boat. You can use it for pretty much anything while out on the water, and it will make sure you look very, very good while doing it. With the incredible design and the top-quality construction, you won’t regret buying a Chris-Craft. After all, they have been doing a great job of making customers happy since 1874.
By Rhys Weed