Catalina 26
The Chris-Craft 308 Express Cruiser is a 30-foot luxury cruising yacht produced by the legendary Michigan-based yacht-building firm Chris-Craft between 1999 and 2003. Sleek, sporty and compact, this speedy boat presents an aerodynamic late-90s vintage style that is perfect for zipping around the Florida Keys with friends and family. Below deck sleeping quarters, a sun-kissed approach to living above the waterline, and still-swift engines keep this model popular and in high-demand on the used and charter markets to the present day.
An open and al-fresco main deck features a sculptural power-tower with an integrated Bimini cover that can be unfurled in a matter of seconds for shelter and shade. To the rear of the cockpit there is an L-shaped transom sofa that faces a port-side love-seat and an aft-facing twin sofa, all lined in plush weather-grade leather-effect upholstery. Ahead of this there is a wet-bar console with a sink, an ice-chipper and plenty of chilled storage to keep your beers ice-cold, while at the very front of the cockpit and hidden behind a wrap-around tempered windshield are a trio of seats facing the starboard helm. The ergonomic, fascia-lined dashboard features a hydraulic steering wheel, a mounted compass, metal-framed Chris-Craft gauges, trim-tab switches, space for a display screen and electronic throttles. A walk-thru opening leads out to a double-width sunpad on the foredeck where you can work on your summer tan, while to stern a transom gate leads out to a full-beam integrated bathing platform with a swim ladder and a transom shower. With speakers dotted throughout the deck, a number of cup-holders and storage for your watersports gear there is plenty of opportunity to kick back and relax or even try something more active while taking this yacht out for a spin.
A companionway door leads down to a compact lower deck with an open galley kitchen, seating and a convenient V-berth located by the bow for a couple of overnight guests. The kitchen down here features a microwave oven, a stove-top, a steel sink and a refrigerator, while a dining sofa wraps around a timber table for hearty breakfasts and climate-controlled lunches. A single head on this level is ideal for freshening up and includes an open shower fixture.
Powered by twin Volvo Penta 5.7L stern-drive gasoline engines, you will enjoy full-throttle speeds of up to 38 knots and a smooth and stable cruising speed of around 26 knots. A fiberglass deep-V hull with a flared bow entry and reverse chines delivers a balanced, dry and efficient ride, enabling you to stay out on the water all weekend making use of that 150-gallon fuel tank.
