Description:
The Chris-Craft Capri is a modern American sport runabout that carries forward the iconic heritage of classic Chris-Craft wooden boats. Revived as part of the brand's contemporary lineup, the Capri blends retro-inspired styling-long foredeck, graceful sheerline, and signature tumblehome stern-with modern hull engineering and refined luxury detailing. She embodies the timeless spirit of American boating with updated performance and comfort.
Our workshop faithfully recreates this celebrated design using premium marine materials-including Western Red Cedar, Mahogany, Teak, and U.S.-made Hexcel fiberglass finished with System Three marine spar varnish-built entirely by hand using the traditional plank-on-frame construction method. Every defining detail-from the elegant deck inlays to the sculpted cockpit layout and polished stainless hardware-is carefully preserved. Typical build time is approximately 4-5 months of meticulous craftsmanship.
Clients may customize dimensions, wood selection, deck finish, upholstery, helm configuration, and engine setup-creating a bespoke interpretation of this American classic while maintaining its unmistakable Capri character.
General Dimensions:
- Length Overall (LOA): 21ft
- Maximum Beam: Approx. 8' (2.4 m)
- Draft: Approx. 2' 6?-3' (0.75-0.9 m)
- Passenger Capacity: 6-8 persons
Performance & Use
Powered by a high-performance stern-drive or inboard engine (commonly 250-350 HP), the Capri delivers strong acceleration and smooth handling, with top speeds typically in the 35-45 knot range depending on configuration.
Ideal for luxury day cruising, lake boating, coastal leisure use, and stylish waterfront entertaining.
History:
The Chris-Craft Capri name first appeared in the 1950s, during the golden era of American wooden runabouts. Produced by Chris-Craft, the original Capri models were positioned as stylish yet slightly more accessible alternatives to the company's premium Custom and Continental series. They retained the long foredeck proportions, elegant tumblehome stern, and rich mahogany construction that defined mid-century Chris-Craft design.
Throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s, Capri models were offered in various lengths-typically between 17 and 21 feet-and became popular for family recreation, water skiing, and day cruising on American lakes and coastal waters. Their clean lines, chrome hardware, and balanced performance made them one of the brand's most recognizable post-war series.
After decades of evolution and ownership changes, Chris-Craft revived the Capri name in the 2000s as part of its modern luxury sport boat lineup. The contemporary Capri reinterprets classic styling cues-tumblehome stern, sweeping sheerline, and retro dashboard aesthetics-using advanced fiberglass construction and modern propulsion systems.
Today, the Capri represents a bridge between heritage and innovation: a continuation of Chris-Craft's mid-century elegance reimagined for modern performance, comfort, and luxury boating.