Catalina 26
The Chris-Craft Launch 36 is a 38-foot luxury powerboat that was produced by the iconic Michigan-based yacht-building firm Chris-Craft between 2014 and 2017. Inspired by the vintage Chris-Craft models of the 1930s, this model adds plenty of heritage touches to a modern and robust deep-V hull-form that is fine-tuned for coastal cruising with the entire family. A wide plumb bow offers immense space up front, while a classically-styled tumblehome feel to aft adds panache and class. Expect a sedate livery, diamond-stitched upholstery, teak brightwork and authentic steel throughout, while open-plan, al-fresco seating areas on the main-deck are complemented by a cozy lower-deck perfect for overnight trips. Stylish enough to lead a flotilla across Lake Como but sporty enough to play in the waters off Key West, the Launch 36 was voted Boating Magazine’s 2014 “Boat of the Year”.
An open-plan, walk-around layout promotes ease of movement as you relax across the teak-lined main-deck, where a sophisticated bow-lounge welcomes guests with a twin seat in plush upholstery right up against the bow. Expect speakers linked to the yacht’s Fusion stereo system, integrated cup-holders and hidden storage out here, along with a double-width, forward-facing sunpad with backrests that is large enough to lie flat and soak up the summer rays. The sunpad can even be connected to the bow sofa to turn this area into one decadent, casbah-style retreat ideal for on-the-water picnics.
Head to stern to enjoy a pair of L-shaped transom sofas that have been paired with a flip-up dining table ideal for lunches and cocktails, while a central transom gate leads out to a full-beam bathing platform with a swim ladder, a wash-down hose, a ski pylon and a pair of sports lockers. Also found in here is a chunky wet-bar station with a prep counter that lifts up to reveal goodies like a microwave, an outdoor grill, a sink, an electric stove, refrigeration options and an ice-chipper. Ahead of this a trio of deluxe helm seats in cushioned leather-effect upholstery face a modern helm with a nod to the old-school. A mahogany-lined steering wheel and chrome-lined gauges have been matched with a sinuous dashboard with a metallic mesh frame, a steel trumpet horn and a mounted compass for a traditional vibe, while next-generation Garmin touch-screen devices, power-assist on the wheel, a depth-sounder, Lenco trim-tab switches, joystick handling and a Skyhook digital anchor add contemporary flair. This area of the boat remains open-air though there is an option to place a hard-top with a glazed sunroof above the helm.
A glazed companionway door leads down to a swish lower-deck lined in walnut and grey oak with ample side glazing, skylights and recessed mood lighting. Down here there is a queen-sized bed by the bow and a compact cabin to aft that can accommodate a trio of guests across a single and a double bed. Freshen up at a generously-proportioned head compartment to starboard with a flush toilet, a mirror and a ceramic bowl sink, or enjoy morning showers in a separate shower cubicle to port.
Powered by a pair of 400HP Volvo Penta D6 stern-drives, you will enjoy top speeds almost touching the 40-knot mark, while at a cruising speed of around 18 knots you will cruise all weekend long thanks to a 286-gallon fuel tank. There’s also the option to equip this vessel with powerful outboard motors, including a triple-set of 300HP Mercury Verados for a more visceral presence on the water.
