If there is one brand that’s credited with inventing the runabout market in the boating industry, it is Chris Craft. So it’s natural that boating enthusiasts take notice whenever there is a new runabout model introduced by Chris Craft. In an impressive line up to its 2016 models, Chris Craft introduced its latest runabout, the Capri 27 at the September 2015 Cannes Yachting Festival.  The Chris Craft Capri 27 has a design that is based on its rich legacy of vertical bow riders from the 1930’s.

The second model in the Capri range, the Capri 27 is made of fiberglass but its styling reminds one of Chris Craft’s vintage mahogany boats, including the signature sloped tumblehome design. The Capri 27 features a hydraulic walkthrough on the port side for easy boarding, a feature that’s new to the entire range of Chris Craft boats. The walkthrough can be raised or lowered with the press of a button. The deep V-shaped hull bottom with a vertical bow offers the much required stability while cruising at high speeds in rough waters. One glance at the boat’s profile is enough to notice that the finish and attention to detail is amazing.

What’s a Chris Craft without its classic lines and teak accents? And the Chris Craft Capri 27 does not disappoint on that front. If you love the teak-finished look, opt for the Heritage edition. There is a generous usage of teak on its closed foredeck, the swim platform, cockpit floor, footrests, engine hatch floor, along with accents on the bow and side. The swim platform with its retractable 3-step ladder not only offers easy access to the water but is also a nice place to hang out.  It’s fun to dangle your feet in the water on a warm summer day. The teak decked walkway that runs from the swim platform lets you step into the plush cockpit in style. If you thought entertaining is not an option on this boat, then check out the clever cockpit arrangement with foldout teak tables on either side. Get your picnic hamper aboard, listen to your choice of music on the stereo system with speakers and subwoofer, and you have a stage set for entertaining.

The Chris Craft Capri 27 can comfortably seat 6 people. The two bucket seats with flip up bolsters at the helm can swivel 180 degrees and are fitted with stainless steel handrails. There is an additional bench seat at the aft end. The upholstery is a class of its own with the diamond pattern that reminds one of a classic sports car. Add to this a custom fitted mahogany steering wheel, and you have a boat that spells retro chic. Come rain, wind, or sunshine, there is a concealed Bimini top at your disposal tucked away under the aft cockpit seating. The Capri 27 may sport a retro design but it comes with all the modern fixtures and fittings. A hinged door in the cockpit leads to a cuddy cabin under the bow that includes a portable toilet. While it may not offer the luxurious comfort expected for an overnight stay, who says you can’t take a nap? Powered by a standard 300hp Mercury V8 or a Volvo Penta engine, the Capri 27 is capable of providing a pleasant ride even on choppy water. If this is not enough there are other engine choices too. The engine hatch also provides storage space. To take a closer look at this piece of art, get in touch with New York’s #1 Chris Craft dealer and gear up to make a statement on water.