Chris-Craft Commander

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 This article does not cite any references or sources. (November 2007)
Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unverifiable material may be challenged and removed.

Chris-Craft Commanders are a range of cruisers built by Chris-Craft Industries.

The 1964 38’ Commander Express was the first fiberglass cruiser built by the company

"The 38’ Commander Express cruiser was the pivotal boat in the development of fiberglass technology by Chris-Craft Industries. It was the first all-fiberglass cruiser made by Chris-Craft. Its production bridged the past to the future as it was the last design by "Mac" Mackerer who had worked for Chris-Craft as far back as 1925. The 38’ Commander Express proved to be a tremendous success for Chris-Craft resulting in the production of subsequent sedan and sport fisherman models." (Classic Boating, Jan/Feb 1998)

Contents

[edit] "Weekend" Commanders

Weekend Commanders range 19 feet to 28 feet length and are excellent boats for weekend fun. Some are pure runabouts reminiscent of the boating style Chris Craft helped form in the 1920s.

Others are more suited to small sport fishermen or entertaining guests on short cruises. The largest boats in this range also provide for occasional overnight capabilities. The 19' and 23' Commanders feature deep-V hulls designed by Jim Wynne, of offshore racing fame, and are especially well suited for moderately rough water.

The models in the range are:

19'
23'
27'
27' Sports Express
28' Sports Express

[edit] "Mainstream" Commanders

Mainstream Commanders ranged from 31 to 38 feet, and owe their label "mainstream" to the simple fact that they represent by far the largest number of Commanders built. They are all boats that will accommodate families for long cruises with overnight stays, or provide for ample entertainment opportunities at sea or in port. A not-for-profit club formed to celebrate and preserve the full line of fiberglass Commanders exists at CommanderClub.com. A not-for-profit technical forum with manufacturer brochure scans, photo documentation for all models, and technical tips exists at ChrisCraftCommander.com.

The models in the range are:

31 Sports Express
31' Commander
31' Sedan
35' Commander
35' Salon
35' SportsCruiser
36' SportsCruiser
36' Tournament Fisherman
38' Commander
38' Sedan
38' Sport Fisherman

[edit] "Large" Commanders

Large Commanders range from 41 to 47 feet. They typically feature double staterooms, dual heads and shower cabins. Some of the models were available with different interior layouts. These boats will accommodate family or friends for extended cruises and provide for ample entertainment opportunities.

The models in the range are:

41' Flush Deck/Yacht
42' Commander
42' Sports Cruiser
42' Tournament Fisherman
45' Commander Flush Deck
45' Tournament Fisherman
47' Commander
47' Commander YachtFish (aft cockpit)

[edit] "Luxury" Commanders

These Mega Commanders were the state of the art luxury yachts of their time. Today, they are still awesome craft that attract attention anywhere they go, thanks to their classic design and attractive looks.

The models in the range are:

55' Commander
60' Commander