You don’t have to be a boating expert to know the Chris-Craft name. After all, this brand is one of the best-known in the world and is backed by a wealth of history. Chris-Craft was officially established in the mid-1920s, but founder Chris Smith first started making boats back in 1874, when he was just 13 years old.  While the company started out making high-end and performance vessels for affluent boaters, Chris-Craft went through hard times during the Great Depression and was forced to contribute to the war effort by making army patrol craft.

Chris-Craft didn’t really take off until the 1950s, when it started mass production of boats at its Michigan plant and added new product lines for middle-class consumers. With more than 130 models on offer, Chris-Craft carved out a name for itself during this period. Some of their prestige models included the 57-foot Constellation first built in 1971, while their focus shifted to high-performance craft in the 1980s, such as the Stinger 390X (as seen on Miami Vice!). In the 1990s, the brand was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which went bankrupt just a few years later.

Modern yet classic style
In 2001, the brand was revived, this time under the stewardship of London-based Stellican Ltd., a firm that specializes in breathing new life into reputable brands.

Since then, Chris-Craft has been constantly growing its product line, though everything they make features a classic style and uncompromised quality. Naturally, their prices reflect this philosophy, but it’s true that there are few modern boats that can boast such impressive attention to detail. If you want a Chris-Craft, you’ll have to be ready to pay for it.

We recently tested the Corsair 25, a mid-range vessel measuring 26.8 feet. Since it’s a Corsair, it comes with a cabin. Their bowriders fall under the Launch series.

As soon as you see it, you recognize is proportions, which are much like previous models. The front end is short, the helm station is set forward and there’s a long sunpad in back. Some might mistake it for a Riva, another icon. The colour combination, choice of materials and attention to every minute detail are striking and you can instantly see that this is no entry-level model—especially the one we tested, as it came with an options package that included teak wood across the bow, cockpit floor and swim platform. Several parts are made of stainless steel, including the mooring cleats, rails and front anchor support.

To make sure the colours last, Chris-Craft paints its hulls instead of simply using coloured fibreglass (gelcoat). It’s a nice touch that enhances the model’s high-end appeal. Classy!

Elegant but less functional layout
A big part of the boat is taken up by the massive swim platform and double sunpad that connects to the cockpit. While these are two great spots to enjoy both sun and water, they cut into cockpit space compared to boats similar in size. There are two captain’s seats up front and a deliciously comfortable U-shaped lounge in back for guests. Once again, the craftsmanship is outstanding in the various helm details and teak accents.

As for the cabin, it’s almost more decorative than functional, since headroom is limited and amenities are nil. Two adults can fit in the berth, but it’s not all that comfortable. There is, however, a porthole to let in a little fresh air and light.

On the water
The Corsair 25 can be equipped with Volvo or Mercury engines ranging from 300 to 430 horsepower. Our test model came with the most powerful option, a 8.2L Mercruiser V8 that churns 430 horsepower and is paired with a Bravo III sterndrive. The performance figures are fairly eloquent, with 0-25 mph taking just 2.5 seconds. The model’s top speed is 55.8 mph at 4,850 rpm. At 3,000 rpm it reaches a comfortable 31.7 mph and takes a reasonable 10.13 gph (38.29 L/h).

At cruising speed, the engine releases a rich sound that is evocative without being bothersome. Thanks to its size, the model is stable, even in waves. The hull’s 20-degree V angle and extremely solid construction help cut through waves so that the driver doesn’t always have to cut speed. The boat is compact enough to be practical and agile, yet big enough to cut smoothly through the water.

The Corsair 25 is a great example of the brand’s heritage. Offering irreproachable quality and a fun ride, it takes you back in time while offering a modern twist.