Introduction: Getting to Know the Chris Craft Calypso 28

Deciding to buy a Chris Craft Calypso 28 is a big step for anyone who loves time on the water and values easy days with family or friends. Chris Craft is a well-known brand with a reputation for solid construction and attention to detail. The Calypso 28, in particular, has features designed for fun, comfort, and smooth outings—regardless of your boating experience. If you’re new to this brand or looking to upgrade, it’s important to understand exactly what makes the Calypso 28 stand out. Getting the facts and learning what to check helps you make a smart decision and prevents surprises down the road. This guide will help you break down every part of the boat, from the hull to the electronics, so you’ll know what to look for, what to ask about, and how to make the most of your buying experience.

The Chris Craft Calypso Line: Brand History and Design

The Chris Craft brand stands out in the boating world with a history stretching back generations. The Calypso models were built to create a sense of versatility and relaxation for day trips, fishing, and group outings. The 28-foot Calypso fits perfectly in busy marinas and is big enough for serious cruising but still easy enough to handle for people without years of boating experience. The design generally features a deep-V hull, which is known for providing a smoother ride over chop and stable turns. Owners of the Calypso 28 consistently mention the balance between usable space and manageable size, making the boat ideal for families, couples, or small groups.

One excellent reason for choosing a Calypso 28 is its open layout. With generous bow seating, a well-designed helm, and a cockpit area that can be adapted for lounging or activities, the boat feels much larger than a typical 28-footer. The walk-through windshield means moving from the helm area to the bow is safe and straightforward. Chris Craft offers several choices in upholstery, surface materials, and color trims, letting buyers personalize the look without worrying about whether features were added after-market. Many Calypso 28s include convenient swim platforms, heavy-duty boarding ladders, and thoughtful drink and storage spaces throughout the design.

Construction: Hull Material and Structural Details

The base of any good boat is its hull, and the Chris Craft Calypso 28 uses a fiberglass hull construction. This material is chosen for its balance of strength, flexibility, and resistance to weather and water. The hull on this model is engineered for durability, with layers of fiberglass set in resin then finished with gelcoat that adds a shiny, protective layer to the exterior. A well-maintained gelcoat will be smooth and even, without chalky or faded patches. When looking at a pre-owned Calypso 28, carefully inspect the hull sides and bottom for any visible damage, including chips, large scratches, or signs that repairs may have been done. Pay special attention to areas near the bow where impacts are most likely to occur.

The deck construction is self-bailing, which means any water that lands inside will naturally drain overboard, keeping the floor dry and safe. Non-skid surfaces cover most flat areas, reducing the risk of slips, especially when wet. The stringers—internal bracing beneath the deck—should feel solid, as these support structural loads. Tap along the floor and listen for solid feedback rather than hollow sounds, which could mean water intrusion or rot. Stainless steel hardware, like cleats and hinges, is another sign of a Calypso 28’s quality build, as stainless steel resists rusting even when exposed to saltwater environments.

Deck Layout: Social Spaces, Functionality, and Storage

One of the first things you’ll notice on the Chris Craft Calypso 28 is the emphasis on open spaces and easy traffic flow. Starting at the bow, deep seating with thick, weather-resistant cushions forms a comfortable spot for relaxing, sunbathing, or watching the action ahead. The seating wraps around, often convertible to a sun pad, with storage compartments tucked underneath for stowing gear like life jackets, towels, or lines.

Moving aft, the main cockpit area features a flexible layout that can adapt to your activities. Removable tables, flip-up benches, and fold-away seating are common. The wide beam gives extra room to move around, and the walk-through center keeps people from having to climb over seats. The helm features a captain’s chair with adjustable bolster, making it comfortable for standing or sitting while driving.

Besides seating, the Calypso 28 usually includes thoughtful storage options: under-seat lockers, side cubbies, and insulated coolers for food and drinks. There’s often a built-in sink and prep area near the cockpit, perfect for making snacks or rinsing hands. The swim platform makes water access easy, with a sturdy ladder for climbing back aboard. Look for details like cup holders in every seating area and USB charging ports hidden near armrests—these small features make a difference during long days on the water.

Engine Options and What to Look For

The Calypso 28 is typically powered by outboard engines, with many models having twin outboards for extra speed, reliability, and control. Brands like Yamaha and Mercury are common choices, and each engine comes with its own reputation for service and reliability. When reviewing engine options, think about how much power you’ll need: twin 200-300 horsepower setups are popular, letting the boat cruise at relaxed speeds without straining the engines.

If you’re considering a used Calypso 28, always ask for engine logs. These should show regular oil changes, gear oil checks, fuel filter changes, and impeller replacements (which help keep cooling water flowing). Higher engine hours aren’t always a concern if maintenance has been regular—many outboards are built to last if taken care of properly. Start the engines cold if possible, listening for quick, smoke-free startup and a smooth idle. On your test run, note how quickly the boat accelerates to plane, how it holds speed in a turn, and whether there is any vibration or odd noise.

Check the outboard cowlings for cracks or loose parts and peek underneath for signs of salt buildup or corrosion on the lower unit. Make sure the trim and tilt mechanism works, lifting and lowering the engines easily. Look at the propellers—they should be free of dings or bent blades.

Helm and Driver Experience

A good helm makes every outing more enjoyable and less stressful. The Calypso 28’s helm is built for both comfort and clear visibility. Most helms have a tilt steering wheel, giving drivers of different heights a comfortable grip. There’s space for installing multi-function displays, showing GPS maps, depth readings, and engine data.

Switches and buttons are clearly marked and placed within easy reach, allowing the captain to control navigation lights, bilge pumps, livewells (if equipped), and other essentials. The shift/throttle controls are smooth, and there is typically a VHF radio for communications. Gauges are easy to read in sunlight, giving quick feedback on things like fuel, speed, and engine RPMs.

Many Calypso 28s have digital controls, including touchscreens for chart plotting and entertainment systems. Bluetooth audio controls often let you play music from your phone, while integrated speakers deliver sound into both the bow and main cockpit areas. The windshield is tall enough to shield you from wind while underway, and often includes a pass-through door to reach the forward deck safely.

Electronics and Navigation Systems

Today’s boating means having strong, modern electronics. The Calypso 28 often comes with factory-installed GPS/chart plotters, depth finders, and sometimes radar or fish-finding sonar for more advanced needs. The displays should be bright and visible even in direct sunlight. Make sure the GPS unit locks onto satellites quickly and that chart data is up to date.

A VHF radio is a core safety tool, letting you call for help or talk with other boaters in your area. Check that the microphone works, channels change cleanly, and emergency channel 16 comes through loud and clear. If you have a stereo system with speakers, test each zone (bow, cockpit, sometimes stern) for clear sound and adjust balance/fader settings as needed.

The electrical panel will have labeled switches for lights and accessories; make sure none of the switches feel loose or “dead.” Bilge pump alarms and high-water alarms (if fitted) should chirp when tested. Some Calypso 28s come with accessory power ports or even full 12V or USB outlets for charging phones, tablets, or cameras. Check the circuit breakers or fuse blocks for corrosion—clean and shiny connections are most reliable.

Seating and Upholstery: What Comfort Looks Like

Boat comfort comes down to soft, durable seating and usable spaces. The Calypso 28 has deep cushions finished in marine vinyl, often accented with contrast stitching or embossed logos. Check stitching for any frayed bits or loose threads, especially around seams that see lots of use. The foam inside should bounce back when pressed and not feel lumpy or flat. Stains on cushions can mean water has been seeping in; mildew or a sour smell points to poor storage or lack of cleaning.

Convertible seating is a big plus. You’ll usually find backrests that flip to face either the bow or stern, letting riders watch watersports or talk with others. A folding or hide-away table can easily turn a sitting area into a picnic spot or snack bar. Under-seat lockers are lined to keep things dry, whether you’re storing towels, extra life jackets, or sunscreen.

Pay attention to the canopy or shade structure onboard. Many Calypso 28s have a strong bimini top or retractable shade system; these should open and close smoothly, with canvas that isn’t torn or faded. Check that all latches and support poles are sturdy.

Galley and Food Prep Space

While not a “cruising” boat, the Calypso 28 is ready for snacks and drinks. Look for a compact galley or prep area in the cockpit—these sometimes include a sink with running water, a small cutting board, and a space for a carry-on cooler. Even without a full kitchen, these amenities make family outings or entertaining smoother. Under the prep area there might be drawers or cabinets for utensils, paper towels, or other gear.

Test the sink’s water flow, especially if the boat has been stored for a while. If the boat is fitted with an optional fridge or icemaker, open the door, run the power, and make sure everything is working and cold inside. Clean, rust-free hinges are a good sign of careful ownership.

Storage: Where to Put Your Stuff

Staying organized keeps any boat day stress-free. The Calypso 28 has storage under nearly every seat—these are good places for stowing dock lines, safety gear, and extra clothes. The starboard side often houses a deep locker for fenders or big gear, and in the stern there can be a transom trunk for water toys or fishing rods.

Some models include an in-floor ski or wakeboard locker. Pull up the hatch and check for dry, clean walls and a working latch. Bow storage is sometimes split between anchor locker access and rider storage—confirm there’s no sign of rust on hinges or the anchor rode.

A glovebox or waterproof electronics bin near the helm gives you quick access to phones or sunglasses. Look for liners in storage bins—bare fiberglass is fine, but a soft liner keeps things quieter underway.

Heads/Restroom Comfort

Some Calypso 28 models offer an enclosed head (toilet) inside the port console. This space is designed for convenience and privacy. The door should latch securely, and the toilet, sink, and fittings all need to be clean and functional. Some heads use portable chemical toilets; others use marine plumbed systems with holding tanks. Ask how the system works, and look for water supply lines, waste tank connections, and a working exhaust fan if fitted. Inside, check for signs of leaks, odors, or mildew—fresh-smelling, clean spaces are best.

Fishing and Watersports Features

For buyers who want to fish, the Calypso 28 can be fitted with rod holders in the stern and gunwales, insulated fish boxes, and sometimes a raw water washdown for cleaning up after landing a catch. The livewell—used for keeping bait alive—should have a working pump and no cracks or leaks.

Watersports fans should look for a sturdy tow point above the engine or on a ski pylon; both should be tightly bolted and show no wobbles. The wide swim platform makes getting in and out of the water a breeze, and the telescoping ladder should fold out easily and lock into place. Storage lockers for boards or waterskis should be easy to access.

Lighting and Nighttime Use

LED lighting is common on newer Chris Craft Calypso 28s. These are energy-efficient and give good visibility around the boat after dark. Courtesy lights along the deck, under seats, and in lockers make moving around safer. Navigation lights at the bow (red/green) and stern (white) are important for legal use at night; flip these on and walk around to check brightness and colors.

Some boats add underwater LED lights, which not only look cool at night but help attract fish or make swimming more fun. Test all switches from the driver’s seat and look for even lighting with no flicker or dim spots.

Safety Gear

Every boat must be equipped with the right safety gear before heading out. The Calypso 28 usually comes with railings and grab handles positioned along high-traffic areas. Stainless steel or powder-coated finishes hold up better over time. Check for US Coast Guard-certified life jackets for each passenger, a throwable flotation device, fire extinguishers, and a working first aid kit.

The horn, especially on busy waterways, is critical. Test it for a loud, clear sound. The anchor line should be strong, with a clean, tangle-free rope and undamaged anchor. Emergency flares, whistles, or signaling gear must also be handy and up to date.

Practical Considerations: What Else To Think About

Boat History and Ownership

Ask questions about where the boat has been stored—indoor storage means better protection from sun and rain, while a boat kept in the water full-time could have more wear. Search for registration records and see if the vessel has moved between fresh and saltwater (saltwater use can result in more corrosion unless thoroughly rinsed). Find out how the previous owners used the boat: regular weekend trips, family cruises, or longer stretches of inactivity.

Insurance and Registration

Make sure the registration numbers and hull identification numbers (HIN) match paperwork supplied by the seller. Ask about any needed title transfers, and review whether the boat has a clear title or any liens. Request current insurance information—this can give an idea of claims history and prior incidents.

Working with a Professional Broker: The Benefits

Dealers or brokers take the mystery and confusion out of buying a used boat. With years of experience, they can review title and service records, line up qualified marine surveyors, and give honest insights about models like the Chris Craft Calypso 28. Many brokers have a checklist process that covers everything from the hull and engines to little cabin systems some buyers overlook. During negotiations, a broker often knows true market values and can prevent you from overpaying.

A broker can also help set up a sea trial, arrange for insurance quotes, and walk you through closing steps, making sure registration is correctly transferred and all legal details are covered. Look for firms that specialize in these kinds of boats, and expect straightforward answers to your questions. If any documentation is missing or incomplete, your broker can help run down what’s needed.

Buyer’s Inspection Checklist: All the Details

Hull Exterior

• Scan for cracks or scraping along the keel and chines
• Check around through-hull fittings for any drips or salt stains
• Feel for any unusual “waves” or bloating that could mean prior hard impact

Deck Hardware

• Test the tightness and proper function of cleats, rails, and swim ladders
• Inspect bimini mounts and hinges, confirming they aren’t wobbly
• Open every hatch—check for sticking, warped lids, or missing seals

Seating and Interior

• Press cushions to feel the foam; replace if it stays compressed or waterlogged
• Look under seats for drainage holes and dry surfaces
• Open storage bins: sniff for mildew, spot-check for bugs

Helm and Instruments

• Toggle every switch and button, watching for flickers or dead controls
• Start the chartplotter, wait for full map load, and check program updates
• Review engine data: oil pressure, temperatures, and voltage from digital readouts

Engines and Mechanical

• Start cold and warm—listen for ticking or grinding as RPMs rise
• Inspect under the cowling for belt or hose cracking, loose clamps, and fuel leaks
• Pop the lower unit plug to check gear oil (should be clean, not burned or milky)
• Trim engines up and down, listen for smooth movement and clicks

Plumbing and Bilge

• Operate all pumps; open the sea strainer and check for clogs
• Flush the head and check for leaks at connections
• Run the freshwater system and inspect lines for drips

Electrical

• Test USB and 12V power outlets by charging a phone or accessory
• Watch for signs of corrosion behind breaker panels
• Flip master battery switch and observe power delivery to helm

Preparing for the Sea Trial

Before the test run, make sure all recommended equipment is onboard. Note how the boat feels leaving the dock: does it idle smoothly? Are controls responsive? At speed, listen for loud rattles, pay attention to steering, and see how long it takes for the boat to plane. Circle a few times and notice the wake—Calypso 28s are built to produce a clean, even wake for kids or tow sports.

Try bringing the boat to a stop from speed—does it respond quickly without pulling to one side? Observe how people move around while underway; handholds should be close to every seat. Reverse the engines to check for steady, predictable motion and easy shifting.

Making the Final Choice: Wrapping Up the Process

Before signing any paperwork, review every form, including bill of sale, registration application, and transfer documents. Double-check all serial numbers and the proof of insurance, and ask for printed or digital copies for your records. If any part of the buying process is unclear or you find damage, bring it up before finalizing.

Resist rushing through the decision—take pictures, make comparisons, and gather other opinions if needed. Experience and preparation matter, but professional support makes the difference.

Why Talking to a Professional Helps

Whether you are new or experienced with boats, having someone knowledgeable to answer questions and help sort through details can keep the process from feeling overwhelming. Brokers understand what to look for and can judge overall condition. If you want clarity, fast answers, and ongoing help, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. The staff at Fly Yachts are ready to walk you through every option, so you can enjoy shopping for your Chris Craft Calypso 28 and make a choice that works for you and your family.

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