What Is the Chris Craft Calypso 35?

The Chris Craft Calypso 35 is a boat made for people who want comfort, space, and versatility on the water. Measuring almost 38 feet in length with a broad beam of nearly 11 feet, the Calypso 35 gives owners plenty of room to move around and enjoy a day trip or a weekend out. This model comes with a dual console design, which means there are two separate control areas and easy walk-through access from the cockpit to the bow. The deep V hull shape is designed for smooth handling and stable rides, even when the seas turn rough. The hull’s 21-degree deadrise at the transom helps the boat cut through chop, delivering a ride that’s both soft and dry for everyone on board.

With a maximum horsepower rating of 1,050 and common setups featuring triple outboard engines, the Calypso 35 can deliver powerful and efficient performance. Whether it’s quick acceleration to get on plane, or reliable cruising speeds for longer trips, these engine packages provide options that suit different needs and preferences. The Calypso 35 is known for its quality craftsmanship and solid construction, built with attention to detail that stands out at first look and under close inspection. Materials are chosen for both their durability and looks—they last well in a marine environment and also give the boat a classic feel.

Chris Craft, as a brand, has a long-standing reputation for building recreational boats focused on comfortable cruising and good looks. The Calypso 35 is designed for all-around use, from simple outings and sunset cruises to day-long trips with friends and water sports. It appeals to owners who want style and comfort, but also value reliability and everyday usability. If you enjoy gathering with friends and family, want easy access to swimming and water activities, and appreciate a boat that is just as happy cruising along the coast as it is anchored off an island, the Calypso 35 offers a package that may fit your needs.

Main Features of the Calypso 35

The Calypso 35 blends features to support comfort, safety, and fun on the water. Here’s a closer look at some of the details that set this boat apart:

• Size and Dimensions: The overall length is 37 feet, 11 inches, and the width, or beam, is 10 feet, 10 inches, giving you a generous amount of space for movement and storage. The draft—how much of the boat sits below the waterline—measures about 2 feet, which means the boat can be used in a variety of water depths, including some shallow areas.
• Engine Options and Performance: The maximum recommended horsepower is 1,050. Most setups involve triple outboards like Mercury Verado V8 300s or similar. These engines offer quick planing and speeds that can comfortably reach 55–60 mph in good conditions and with a moderate load. The engines are mounted on the transom with heavy-duty brackets, ensuring good weight distribution and maximizing the boat’s balance even at higher speeds.
• Hull Construction: The boat is molded with quality fiberglass and finished with a gelcoat that resists chips and fading. The deep V hull and 21-degree deadrise help deliver a smooth ride through rougher water, a big plus for those who may have older passengers or children on board who appreciate a steady ride.
• Deck Layout: The main feature is the dual console design—this means the helm and companion seats are separated by an aisle down the center, making it easy to move from bow to stern. This also helps divide space more effectively for guests who may want separate areas for socializing or relaxing.
• Bow Area: The forward seating area includes plush cushions, armrests, and removable seatback inserts for different seating styles. The optional fiberglass table turns the bow into a perfect spot for snacks, drinks, or games. There are cupholders, USB charging ports, and plenty of storage under the seats for personal items, bags, and safety gear.
• Cockpit Seating: The main cockpit area can be reconfigured with push-button controls. The port and starboard seats can face forward or flip around to create a large lounging or dining area. The aft bench folds out easily for even more seating, and if you want more deck space, it tucks away quickly.
• Side Entry Door: A large side door is built into the cockpit, providing easy water access for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports, or for bringing on board bulky gear like coolers and inflatables.
• Swim Platform: The extended swim platform at the transom, complete with a telescoping stainless steel ladder, is designed for easy water entry and exit. The platform is wide enough that several people can use it at once, making it great for groups.
• Wet Bar/Galley: Located on the port side, the galley features a solid-surface countertop, freshwater sink, pullout refrigerator drawers, and an optional electric grill. This setup is perfect for making sandwiches, drinks, or even simple hot meals during longer outings.
• Hardtop and Sunshade: An integrated fiberglass hardtop provides shade and mounting points for skylights, speakers, lights, and rod holders. The powered SureShade awning extends over the cockpit at the push of a button, giving more protection from the sun.
• Head Compartment: Inside the portside console is a spacious, private head with a freshwater sink, vanity, vent window, and shower. The head compartment is finished with easy-clean surfaces and ventilated for comfort. This area also has space for storing larger personal items or even using it as a changing room.
• Electronics: Dual 12-inch Garmin touchscreen displays are standard for navigation, system monitoring, and fishfinding. The system can be upgraded with radar, autopilot, and VHF radio. Mercury’s joystick system is included with outboard configurations, making low-speed maneuvering and docking much easier.
• Audio: The Fusion Apollo stereo system comes standard, with multiple speakers placed throughout the boat for even sound distribution. Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy streaming from any mobile device, and there are dedicated charging ports at both the helm and in the bow.
• Rod Holders/Livewell: The cockpit features flush-mounted rod holders for fishing and an insulated livewell built into the transom, making it easier to switch from cruising to fishing at any time.
• Storage Details: In addition to under-seat compartments, the floor is lined with huge in-deck storage lockers, including long spaces for rods, skis, or even wakeboards. These lockers drain overboard and have gas-assist struts to keep the lids open safely. Dry storage lockers are sealed to keep items free from spray or rain.

How the Calypso 35 Performs

Performance is a highlight for the Calypso 35. With triple outboard engines, acceleration is fast and responsive. The boat gets on plane smoothly and stays level even with a full crew. The deep V hull handles chop efficiently, smoothing out rough rides and giving passengers a stable feel even at speed. The trim tabs can be adjusted electronically to keep the boat balanced and comfortable no matter its load or weather conditions.

Typical cruise speeds are in the mid-30s to 40s (mph), with fuel economy ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 miles per gallon depending on speed, sea state, and load. At wide-open throttle, the boat can reach around 55–60 mph, giving owners plenty of top-end performance if needed. The helm area has clear, unobstructed views in every direction, and the joystick control makes close-quarters maneuvering and docking almost effortless. The power-assisted steering is smooth, and all controls are grouped right at hand for the driver. The boat turns predictably and tracks straight, important for those learning how to handle a larger boat.

For those who plan longer trips, the 275-gallon fuel tank means you can cover significant distances without refueling. The boat also has a sea keeper gyroscopic stabilizer option, which reduces rolling motion and can make time spent at anchor or during slow cruises much more comfortable.

With the wide beam and hull design, the Calypso 35 resists leaning and rocking, giving a calm ride even in passing wakes. The noise insulation and engine mounting position keep the boat quieter than many others in its class, letting guests easily talk, listen to music, or relax without excess noise from the engines.

Layout and Comfort

The Calypso 35 puts a big focus on comfort throughout. The bow seating, lined with deep cushions, offers a place for a dozen people to sit together. The removable teak table can be quickly added or stowed. Armrests fold down for relaxing, and cupholders are built-in at every seat.

The cockpit is just as inviting, with the starboard and port seats transforming at the push of a button to create a U-shaped lounge, a forward-facing party seat, or split-row seating depending on your group’s mood. These seats are finished with durable, high-quality upholstery that resists sun and moisture. Under-seat storage bins hold all the day’s gear, keeping clutter out of the way.

The transom bench can open or close in seconds, so you can maximize seating or make space for fishing, swimming, or loading coolers.

Lighting is a big part of the comfort factor. LED accent lights are mounted under seats, around the decks, and even inside storage lockers for easy access at night. The cockpit has air vents and optional fans, which move air through even on hot days. The head compartment is tall enough for most adults to stand inside, making it convenient for changing or cleaning up after a swim.

Wide, flat walkways around the consoles and from the stern to the bow make it easy for people to pass each other without tripping or squeezing by. There are grab rails and nonskid flooring everywhere for safety and confidence.

Technology and Controls

The helm area on the Calypso 35 is fully outfitted with technology aimed at making boating easier and safer. The standard setup includes:

• Dual 12-inch Garmin touchscreens: These are networked to provide GPS, depth, fishfinding, radar, and engine information. The screens are bright and easy to view even in direct sun.
• Digital switching system: All onboard systems, from bilge pumps to lights and livewells, can be controlled through the digital screens or standard rocker switches at the helm.
• Joystick control: The Mercury Joystick Piloting system, included with triple outboard packages, gives fingertip control for slow-speed handling. Even if you’ve never docked a boat before, this system helps make parking in tight spaces much easier.
• Smart battery management: You can control battery switches from the helm, and there are automatic charging and voltage monitoring systems to prevent battery drain.
• VHF radio: Mounted at the helm with a long-range antenna for communication and safety.
• Autopilot and radar (optional): Upgradeable options include autopilot for longer trips and radar for safe operation in fog or at night.

Other features include USB charging outlets throughout the boat, a wireless charging pad at the helm, 12-volt and 110-volt outlets in the galley and cockpit, and Bluetooth and SiriusXM capability on the Fusion stereo system.

Practical Details and Storage

Storage on the Calypso 35 is designed for everyday convenience. The under-seat bins can handle bulky items you might want for a day out: towels, bags, toys, life jackets, and more. The in-floor lockers are long and deep, with drains to handle wet gear, and are perfect for water skis or fishing rods.

A large insulated fishbox can double as a beverage cooler, with a capacity to handle enough drinks and ice for a big group. The galley refrigerator drawers keep snacks and food cold, and the optional grill makes it easy to prep hot food.

On deck, there are dedicated storage bins for lines, fenders, and anchor gear. Wet gear locker space is provided aft for storing swimsuits and towels after swimming, so wet things don’t have to come into the main seating areas.

The port console has a dedicated closet for stashing valuables, bags, or backup electronics. A lockable glove box at the helm is good for wallets, phones, and keys.

The deck drains are thoughtfully placed throughout the cockpit, so water moves off quickly even after a big rain or rough splash.

Everyday Use and Versatility

The Calypso 35’s broad beam and dual-console layout make it suitable for all kinds of activities. It can serve as a family picnic spot with its roomy seating, a fishing platform with rod holders and livewell, or a water sports hub with tow-points and the wide swim platform.

Quick-release tables and convertible seating arrangements allow the boat to shift from a dinner setup to an open play area in a matter of seconds. Cushions are supportive yet easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about wear from wet swimsuits or sunscreen.

The boat’s 14-person capacity means you can invite a mix of adults and kids without crowding. This is one reason the Calypso 35 is picked by those who host a lot of gatherings.

Wide, molded steps up to the bow make moving around safe and easy even when carrying gear or food baskets. There are boarding gates at both the transom and side door, so you can load from a dock or after a beach swim.

At anchor, the bow lounge offers privacy and quiet, perfect for reading or soaking up sun while others hang out in the main cockpit. The SureShade awning keeps the aft lounge cool and shaded when desired.

For water sports, the boat’s quick acceleration and level ride make it a good tow boat for tubes, kneeboards, or wakeboards. There’s room on the swim platform for prepping for a ride, and water access is simple thanks to the wide ladder and side door.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Routine maintenance is something every boat owner thinks about, and the Calypso 35 is designed to make upkeep as simple as possible. The main hardware is stainless steel and uses anti-corrosion fasteners for long life.

Hatches and storage lockers have molded gutters and drains, so water doesn’t stand or cause mildew. The boat’s gelcoat is formulated to resist fading, and the upholstery is made from materials that are UV and mildew resistant.

Engine access is provided via wide hatches at the stern, so routine checks or oil changes can be done with minimal effort. All pumps, filters, and batteries are in easy-to-reach locations, and main systems are labeled.

The deck is self-bailing, draining any water that comes aboard straight overboard rather than pooling in the cockpit.

The hardtop and windshield use automotive-grade wipers and drain channels to keep vision clear in wet weather.

Cleaning is easy: the non-skid deck surfaces don’t need special treatment, and most storage bins hose out in minutes. The hull sides and metal fittings are accessible for rinsing after use in saltwater.

Safety Basics

Safety is a key part of the Calypso 35’s design. The bow, cockpit, and side decks all have tall enough rails to give adults and kids support even in waves.

The battery switches are easy to find for quick shutoff in case of electrical problems. The hull has watertight compartments and high-capacity automatic bilge pumps, so it’s well prepared for unexpected water entry.

The cockpit threshold is raised to help keep water from washing in, even when backing down or in rain. The anchor locker is deep and secure, with an electric windlass for easy anchoring.

All required safety gear—life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, horn, and first aid kit—has a dedicated place so it stays organized and out of the way but close at hand if needed.

Night operating lights are installed with bright, energy-saving LEDs, and there are underwater lights available for visibility at night or in murky water.

Each entry point, including the side door and transom, uses secure latching gates to keep kids and pets safely inside the boat. Deck lighting ensures clear paths for moving around during low light.

Why Do Boaters Like the Calypso 35?

People who choose the Calypso 35 say it’s because the boat does so many things well without making anything complicated. Boaters often mention:

• Roomy layout, great for mixing groups of friends and family members
• Fast, easy transitions between activities (eating, swimming, water sports, or sunbathing)
• Real storage for everyone’s stuff: bags, skis, cushions, fishing rods, and groceries
• Reliable electronics and systems that help even new boaters feel more at ease
• Smooth, predictable handling and a sturdy platform for new and experienced drivers

Families like that the Calypso 35 accommodates both more active plans—like tubing or fishing—and quiet, comfortable relaxing, all in the same day. The shade options and full-featured galley are appreciated during long hours on board.

Maintenance is manageable for most owners, and many point out how the self-draining deck and quality surfaces mean less time cleaning and more time having fun.

Docking is mentioned as easier than expected, especially using the joystick and the good sightlines from the helm.

Comparing the Calypso 35 With Other Boats

If you’re shopping in this size range, the things that make the Calypso 35 stand out include its beam (wider than several competing models), passenger capacity, and flexibility of seating design. Many other boats either focus only on cruising or only on fishing, but the Calypso 35 manages to cover both comfortably.

Feature-for-feature, the Calypso 35 stacks up like this:

• Seating and social space: More flexible than boats with static layouts, and both bow and cockpit areas can be adapted for dinner, sunbathing, or open floor space.
• Power: The option for up to 1,050 hp puts it at the top of the bracket for performance if desired. You can cruise efficiently at moderate speeds, with plenty of acceleration for sports or runs to favorite anchorages.
• Standard electronics: Dual big-screen touch displays, joystick steering, and integrated audio often come as upgrades or options on competitors. On the Calypso 35, these are in the base package.
• Maintenance needs: Easy-clean surfaces, well-planned access for repairs, and a full array of drains and hoses make this boat less hassle to maintain than many others in its class.
• Fishing and gear: Dedicated rod storage, livewell, insulated fishbox, and toe rails for standing security support occasional and serious fishing plans.
• Entertaining: With refrigerators, a real cooktop, blender, and tons of cup holders, it’s designed for parties just as much as for action.

If you know your boating days will mix relaxing, swimming, fishing, and water sports, the Calypso 35 is versatile enough to do all of them well with one vessel.

Is the Calypso 35 Right for You?

Think through your regular boating needs: Do you want to bring a full crew for a day on the water and not have to worry about space? Are convenience and comfort at the top of your list, so guests of every age feel at home? Do you want storage, shade, and easy ways to switch from activity to activity without a bunch of setup? If yes, these are the reasons owners gravitate to the Calypso 35.

Likewise, if you have family and friends who love water sports, a wide swim platform, easy water access, and a fast, powerful boat are all must-haves. The Calypso 35 delivers each of these with minimal compromise.

For those who put a premium on flexible seating, real galley features, and up-to-date control systems—and who may not want the complexity of larger cabin cruisers—the Calypso 35 can be the perfect fit.

Final Thoughts

The Chris Craft Calypso 35 mixes comfort, control, and versatility in a way that fits most boaters’ needs—whether sharing a meal, entertaining friends, playing in the water, or just relaxing. All features are practical and designed to keep things easy for both new and experienced users. To see how the Calypso 35 fits with your boating style, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today—our team helps each customer get on the water with the right boat for their life.

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