Catalina 26
The Chris-Craft Launch 31 GT is a 31-foot bowrider-style powerboat that was launched by the renowned Michigan-based yacht-building company Chris-Craft in 2019. A modern take on a classic form, this model features signature Chris-Craft details like teak brightwork, plush leather, a flared bow and a traditional tumblehome transom for a timeless appeal. A cutting-edge hull, powerful propulsion options and high-tech navigational tools offer a contemporary piloting experience, while a 21st century level of space, comfort and amenity promises guests a lavish and deluxe time out on the water.
Enter into the bow lounge via a walk-through pane in the tempered glass helm windscreen to discover a chic space with a U-shaped sofa that traces the edges of the bow, features padded backrests and comes lined in cross-stitched leather-effect upholstery. A pop-up cocktail table with a beveled edge to prevent spillage adds a dash of convenience, while sloping backrests resting up against the helm console feature arm-rests and can be used to transform this area into a pair of stylish chaise-longues.
Seating in the spacious cockpit is even more impressive. Here an L-shaped sofa occupies a premier position by the transom and to port, and has been paired with a slide-out refrigerator beneath the cushions, a pop-up dining table in teak and a wet-bar station to starboard with options like an outdoor grill, additional refrigeration or an ice-chipper. The sole back here is lined in your choice of woven Seagrass or authentic teak, there’s a dive-door to starboard and a transom gate that leads out to a full-beam bathing platform with extras including a swim ladder, a flagpole, a ski pylon and sports storage. Just a single step up from the platform there is a double-width sunpad perfect for soaking up the rays while enjoying views out to sea. The sunpad features a unique sliding backrest that can be pushed aft to turn this area into a stern-facing sofa or pushed forward to give guests the opportunity to lie flat.
A pair of comfortable and demure piloting seats face a helm with a classic feel thanks to its rounded lines, mahogany fascia and a mahogany-and-steel steering wheel. There are also modern touches here, including power-assist on the wheel, an Active Trim system, an Axius joystick, bow thruster controls, VHF radio and a Garmin Glass Cockpit touch-screen with bundled instrumentation like a depth-sounder and autopilot. A stereo system at the helm is linked to the yacht’s integrated speaker system, while behind the helm console itself there is a hidden head compartment with a flush toilet, a ceramic bowl sink, storage units, a vanity mirror and surrounds in options like walnut or silver oak.
Available as a stern-drive or as an outboard-powered model, the Launch 31 GT is bound to impress onlookers with its soaring speeds and immense agility. Opt for twin 300HP Mercury Verado outboards, a pair of 430HP Volvo V8 6.2L stern-drives or two 430HP Mercury V8 8.2L DTS stern-drives for highly competitive top speeds and fuel-efficient cruising speeds. A fuel tank holding 132 gallons will keep you cruising all day long, while a category-C deep-V hull crafted from robust fiberglass has been precision-engineered for a dry ride in coastal and lake settings.
