I purchased this 1970 Chris Craft Sportfish approximately 6 years ago with plans to move to Manistee Mi. That move never happened and the boat has been stored indoors all of this time. Each year it was launched in the well at the marina and the engines were run for several hours as everything was inspected. It was then re-winterized and put back into storage. I have lost the indoor storage and would prefer to sell it at this time rather than continue this.
This 1970 hull has never been damaged, repaired or painted the fiberglass is in very condition. All structural wood in the hull appears to be mahogany and in very good condition. . The boat has always been used in the Great Lakes, no salt water. The engines are 327Qs. They start easily, no mechanical noise, no smoke, no leaks. I replaced all of the rubber hoses, all ignition components- plugs, wires, distributor caps, installed Pertronics electronic ignition, and coils were replaced. Carbs are original, I purchased two electronic fuel pumps because one of the original mechanical pumps failed. the new pump and all of the original filters on that engine have been replaced. I did not replace the other, but all parts are there to do it. It continues to run fine on the original equipment. There are two new bilge pumps installed, new radio and speakers in the cabin and in the main deck. The main helm functions with the exception of one tach needs a new cable. The bridge helm has a new steering cable and everything works fine.
The cabin is all original, but in very good condition, no mold or stains. Galley has an alcohol stove installed, but I have the original electric stove if someone would want it. The cold plate in the refrigerator was replaced and it works. The original marine head and holding tank were removed and replaced temporarily with a porta-potti. The hot water heater was removed and the previous owner did not reconnect the fresh water system.
This boat needs a few days for someone to set it up the way they like it and just use it, or upgrade it to their liking. If the boat is not sold I will find the time to re-do the fresh water system.
The boat comes with 5 Big John down riggers and has the original Chris Craft outrigger mounts still on it. Though this is a serious Great Lakes fishing boat the large cockpit area makes it a great family or party boat as well.
At this point I have had feedback from two potential buyers that looked at the boat. The first looked at it and realized he was looking for more of floating RV than a sport boat- they ended up buying a Marinette, probably a sedan. The other did not realize how large this boat is for a 31 and adjusted his expectations,. Both did agree that this boat is in pristine original condition.
The key is original. The fiberglass is thick and solid, it still shines; never painted or repaired. The drive components are as basic as you can get, small block Chevy engines (modified by Chris Craft), Paragon transmissions, and 1.25 in. driveshafts. The steering linkage is mechanical, actuated by cable, but easily converted to hydraulic; either way, the rudders are controlled by a simple steel bell crank assembly. The engines are more basic electrical than electronic so what they lack in sophisticated fuel management their simplicity makes up for in timeless longevity. The structural timbers all appear to be made of mahogany well-encapsulated in fiberglass roving and resin; and all in very good condition; what that meant to me is this boat would be a great candidate for someone looking for a 'forever' hobby to invest in and even refit with a pair of diesel engines After all a new 31 ft. cruiser would easily cost $250-$300K, and would lose half of that value in the first 2 years. A classic just gets more valuable with age. Lower quality commodity boats just turn into landfill.
This is a serious boat and a great find for someone younger than myself. All Serious offers will be considered until August 31 2024. After that date Winter storage fees are due and once I pay those the boat will be off the market. Please call or text 314 220-6253 for more info or to discuss. Thank You,
