Catalina 26
The Chris-Craft Launch 27 is a 26-foot bowrider yacht that was launched by iconic Michigan-based boat-builder Chris-Craft in 2017. Chris-Craft has a heritage that stretches back to the 1870s - and the company has clearly drawn on some of that inspirational heritage to give this vessel sleek classic looks that hark back to the golden age of mid-century yachting. A low-slung presence on the water, a streamlined form, steel accents, teak brightwork, a sophisticated navy-blue livery and sedate leather surrounds would not look out of place on Lake Como, while a rugged deep-V hull with a flared bow, a tumblehome feel and a shallow draft make this the perfect option for luxurious cruising across stunning coasts and lakes.
Optimized for sun-lovers, this al-fresco yacht seems to be lined in understated and captivating seating areas from tip to toe. Head beyond a tempered glass walk-through passage to the bowrider lounge and discover wrap-around seating lined in diamond-stitched leather available in a range of demure tones like cream or mocha. Up to four guests can relax out here, while backrests can be utilized to turn this space into a pair of forward-facing chaise-longues for two guests. To stern, meanwhile, there is a full-beam bathing platform with a swim ladder perfect for enjoying salt-water swims, as well as a transom shower, an optional ski pylon and a generously proportioned sports lazarette. A step up leads to a full-beam sunpad wide enough for a trio of guests to work on their summer tan simultaneously, while the cockpit welcomes you with edge-to-edge seating with plush backrests, a teak-lined pop-up table, integrated cup-holders and plenty of hidden storage. Look underneath a port-side seat, for instance, to find a slide out ice-box, while further chilled storage is located in-sole.
There’s a traditional vibe to the starboard helm, with a mahogany-lined steering wheel, a metallic horn, a fascia-lined dashboard and a pair of Art Deco-inspired leather-backed swivel chairs. Yet get to grips with the controls and you will find that this is a thoroughly modern ride, with power-steering, Lenco trim-tabs, an LCD depth-finder, Garmin VHF radio, a Garmin ten-inch touch-screen and a high-speed compass on hand to help guide your voyages. A built-in Fusion stereo system, meanwhile, is connected to a set of JL Audio speakers dotted throughout the deck via Bluetooth so that you can control the vibes while also working on navigation. To port there is a console that hides an enclosed lower-head complete with a Porta Potti toilet, a mirror and a sink, ideal for freshening up after a long day socializing.
There are plenty of engine options available to power this sublime watercraft, with top-of-the-range motors with up to 430 points of raw horsepower on offer. Choose a Volvo V8-CE 6.2L stern-drive or a Mercury V8 8.2L BC engine to propel you to top speeds in excess of 45 knots and a silky-smooth cruising speed in the mid-20 knot range. Designed to be a super-efficient performer, you will be impressing envious onlookers and less fortunate peers from dawn to dusk and beyond thanks to a 77-gallon fuel tank.
