This model is the most innovative yet, boasting several cutting-edge features while maintaining the classic design and styling that make it uniquely Chris-Craft. Available with the option of either sterndrive or outboard propulsion, the Launch 35 GT can be customized to the owner’s needs and wants.
Chris-Craft’s dayboat family has grown by one with the introduction of the Launch 35 GT, which is the largest dayboat, in the five-model family. The smallest is the Launch 25.
Outboard power is a pair of 425-hp Yamaha XF425 4-strokes complimented by Yamaha’s Helm Master joystick system and digital engine controls, and multifunction engine gauges. A Garmin GPSmap xsv multifunction display and a Yamaha CL7 7-inch touchscreen were mounted in a blacked-out dash panel that looked like the display on Tesla’s Model S electric car.
If you go for the inboard version you have the option of either Mercury or Volvo from 300hp to 380hp in sterndrive configuration. The Launch 35 GT is also available with a Wake Surf (WSX) package which includes the Volvo forward drive, 10″ Volvo Wake Sport Glass Cockpit with speed control, Wake Worx surf tabs, and rearview mirror.
There are three editions on offer; Standard, which includes synthetic teak coverings and accents, the Heritage Trim Edition , which is finished in real teak and the Heritage Edition which features teak accents, boards and a full teak floor.
As you would expect from a big dayboat, the Launch 35 GT’s deck spaces are laid out with comfort and relaxation in mind. Far aft is a swim platform that increases in size with inboard power. The platform is abaft a sunpad that has an adjustable seat back. Forward of the sunpad is an L-shaped lounge, and a teak table that stows under the seat cushions. An electric grill, pull-out refrigerator and sink with freshwater mixer are to starboard, just forward of a hull-side door for stepping onto and off the dock.
Twin captain’s chairs are abaft the dual consoles and the curved windshield, which is trimmed in polished metal. The port console houses a head compartment with a sink and freshwater mixer, and the starboard console has a cabin with a berth.
An aluminum hardtop with an electric SureShade provides shelter for the L-shaped lounge and captain’s chairs. The U-shaped bow lounge, accessed through an opening windshield section, is one of the most comfortable social areas I’ve enjoyed on a boat recently. That’s in part due to the handcrafted upholstery with custom stitching.
The Launch 35 GT sports a five-part paint process that requires meticulous preparation and skillful application. The result is a finish that appears deep and luxurious, from the aluminum hardtop down to the centerline.
Details like the mahogany and teak brightwork further enhance the overall look and feel of the Launch 35 GT and make this model a viable option for a person in the market for a well-crafted dayboat with wicked-good performance.
