Introduction
Choosing a boat is a decision that blends excitement with the need for real, practical answers. For those drawn to simplicity, function, and reliability on the water, the Chris Craft Launch 31 GT stands out. This vessel is well-known for its quality build and attention to the details that matter most to its owners. In the following sections, you’ll find everything you need to decide if this boat meets your needs, based solely on factual specifics and professional insights. From precise measurements and features to construction quality, use cases, technology, and maintenance, this guide aims to cover every angle using only verified reference material and user-led feedback. Whether you boat solo or with family, are new to the water or experienced, knowing these fine points lets you make an informed and confident choice.
Full Specifications Breakdown
A major reason people look at the Chris Craft Launch 31 GT is its size—a thoughtfully designed 32 feet in overall length, measured with the swim platform included. The beam measures an even 10 feet, giving a balanced feel underfoot and providing the kind of stability that reassures both new and returning boaters. With a maximum draft of about 34 inches, the boat allows access to most lakes, bays, and inshore waterways while still offering enough hull for a comfortable ride. The weight of the Launch 31 GT typically lands near 10,500 pounds with engines and ready-to-use equipment aboard, contributing to its smooth and stable performance even in choppy water.
The fuel capacity is a standout at approximately 165 gallons, giving long range between fill-ups for extended afternoons or weekend use without concern for frequent stops. A 30-gallon fresh water tank supports the onboard wet bar, sinks, and optional transom shower, all arranged for easy rinsing and clean-up. The Launch 31 GT holds up to twelve people in full comfort and is yacht-certified for safety by national standards, meeting important requirements for family outings or taking along a crowd. Standard power is built around twin stern drive or outboard engines, such as twin 300-horsepower Mercury or Volvo setups, with top speeds that approach 60 mph or, depending on engine selection, a bit more.
Cockpit and Bow Seating Details
The Launch 31 GT’s interior layout is designed for both socializing and comfort, with wraparound bow seating that offers wide cushions and deep seatbacks. Passengers benefit from a spacious U-shaped settee in the cockpit—a spot that feels almost like an outdoor living room. All seating uses marine-grade vinyl in neutral tones, helping it resist wear from UV rays and spills from drinks, food, or wet swimsuits. The bow seating area features pop-up armrests, under-seat storage bins for towels and bags, and secure grab handles for added safety. With the addition of comfortable fillers, the bow can convert into a full sunpad lounging space, where two adults can easily stretch out.
Further aft, the cockpit seating wraps around the space, with wide cushions and armrests. Every person aboard can find a spot to sit during the ride, and every seat includes easy access to cupholders and personal storage bins. The captain and co-captain enjoy dual bolster seats, meaning they can stand or sit while driving, with a rotating function for socializing at anchor. The cockpit table is quickly installed or removed, making it flexible for different uses. Interior lighting, including courtesy and accent LEDs, creates a relaxed environment after dark and contributes to safer movement on deck.
Swim Platform, Water Access, and Storage
A key part of the Launch 31 GT’s appeal is its full-beam teak swim platform, set just above the waterline. This easy step-down platform is perfect for swimming, lounging, or helping guests board from the dock. The platform is made from marine-grade teak for grip and durability and is joined by an integrated swim ladder that folds out for safe, stable access from the water. Many people use this space to set up chairs or enjoy the water, knowing the nonskid surface means fewer slips and falls.
Storage is a highlight throughout the boat, and nowhere is this more obvious than around the swim platform and cockpit. Under each seat are deep lockers, lined to resist water and fitted with drainage holes. The transom locker, easily accessible when the boat is docked or anchored, holds large items such as wakeboards, water skis, fenders, or cleaning supplies. The cockpit sole holds a full-length locker perfect for fishing rods or other long items, and the helm console is equipped with glove boxes and phone trays. Everything is designed with the everyday user in mind, keeping your gear tidy and close at hand.
Helm Station and Controls
Behind the classic Chris Craft steering wheel, the helm of the Launch 31 GT balances simplicity with state-of-the-art controls. Analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and trim are combined with easy-to-read digital displays that show everything from depth to water temperature. The dash finish stays true to Chris Craft’s classic design cues, often trimmed in teak or high-gloss wood grain, while being resistant to glare and easy to wipe clean. Controls for the engine, lights, and entertainment system are all placed within easy reach, so the driver doesn’t need to stretch or search.
Modern conveniences, like push-button start, digital switching, and integrated trim tabs, are standard or available as upgrades. The helm also features a built-in compass and, in upgraded packages, large touchscreen chartplotters to make navigation simpler. Additional helm benefits include a tilting steering wheel, adjustable seat, and footrest to fit different drivers. The windshield uses shatterproof glass and is curved for wind protection, featuring a center section that opens to allow direct access to the bow for docking or anchoring.
Entertainment and Refreshment
Chris Craft knows the importance of refreshment while spending time on the water, so the Launch 31 GT features a well-equipped wet bar in the cockpit. This station includes a freshwater sink, solid-surface countertop, and an optional electric refrigerator or ice maker. The bar is positioned so guests don’t crowd the helm, and the countertop space is enough for preparing simple snacks, making the area useful for picnics or parties. A removable teak table, which stows easily when not needed, serves as the gathering spot for food, games, or drinks.
Entertainment comes from a premium marine sound system as standard equipment. Typically, you will find a multi-speaker setup with waterproof housings, Bluetooth pairing, and multiple control points located throughout the boat. Backlit speakers and subwoofers can be added for even richer sound. Many owners use the boat for music-filled gatherings, aided by USB and AUX ports for charging devices or playing personal playlists. For night use, LED courtesy lights set the right mood while preventing accidents with tripping or stepping in the dark.
Wet and Dry Storage Specifics
Practical use on the water calls for smart storage options, and the Launch 31 GT delivers in several ways. In the bow, storage lockers beneath each seat are deep enough for stowing life jackets, dry bags, and fenders. In the cockpit, under-seat coolers help keep drinks cold, while deck compartments have removable liners for easy cleaning. The transom houses a dedicated locker for wet gear, separate from dry storage, so wet towels and swimsuits don’t mix with clothing or electronics.
Additionally, the floor-mounted storage compartment is long enough for fishing rods, paddles, or inflatables, and includes tie-down points to secure loose gear. Smaller glove boxes and dash trays store sunglasses, phones, or sunscreen, keeping essentials at reach without cluttering the boat’s open areas. For additional security, many storage areas have lockable lids—useful when leaving valuables on board at the dock.
Engine Options and Mechanical Layout
Engine selection is a crucial part of customizing the Launch 31 GT experience. The boat is often available with twin outboard or stern drive engines. Outboard options such as Mercury Verado, 300 horsepower each, offer top speeds around 55-60 mph and easy maintenance, as the motors are out of the water when the boat is on a lift or trailer. Inboard stern drive powerplants from Volvo or Mercury, paired with duo-prop systems, deliver efficient cruising and strong acceleration while keeping noise levels low at idle and on plane.
The engine compartment, accessed by an electronically assisted hatch, is roomy compared to other boats in this class and allows clear access to all service points. Bilge blowers, automatic fire suppression systems, and sound-dampening panels are standard, keeping the engine space clean, cool, and quiet. Large fuel and water separators, along with easy-to-drain filters, simplify routine maintenance and contribute to a long engine life.
Technology Features
Today’s boaters expect simple, functional technology, and the Launch 31 GT integrates these expectations throughout. Besides digital dashboards and touch-screen chartplotters, the Launch 31 GT includes GPS positioning, sonar or depth sounder capabilities, and, if equipped, radar integration for serious navigators. Digital switching means you can turn on lights, pumps, and electronics with the touch of a button, and for those who prefer voice controls, certain audio systems offer support for smartphone voice assistants.
Lighting includes LED navigation lights, anchor lights, cockpit floor and step lights, as well as underwater transom LEDs. These not only increase safety and visibility but also attract fish or add ambiance to evening gatherings. Standard USB and 12V outlets keep all devices powered, and an automatic battery charger maintains voltage without needing dockside access. Optional Wi-Fi boosters support strong signals, while smartphone-compatible apps let you monitor the boat’s bilge, batteries, or GPS remotely when equipped.
Shade, Covers, and Weather Protection
Shade on the water adds comfort, and the Launch 31 GT provides several easy-to-use options. Standard Bimini tops, supported by stainless steel hardware, are quick to deploy and sturdy against wind. Owners may upgrade to full cockpit enclosures using zip-in isinglass panels for protection against rain or cool wind, or choose powered sunshades that extend or retract at the touch of a switch. Canvas covers for the bow and cockpit protect against sun and dust when docked, while mooring covers can be custom-fitted for trailering or longer storage.
The windshield gives ample wind and spray protection for the driver and forward passengers, and drains on the sole help keep decks dry even after a downpour. The side decks include toe rails and drainage for safely moving forward in wet conditions. This level of weather readiness means no need to rush home when clouds appear—owners can stay out and continue enjoying their time on the water.
Safety Systems and Standards
A standout point on the Launch 31 GT is the attention to safety throughout the build. The hull is foam-filled for flotation and meets or exceeds national safety standards for vessel certification. High freeboard and deep cockpit shelter children and pets while underway, while the wide gunwales include strategically placed grab rails for secure handholds. The non-skid deck surface is extended from bow to stern, covering steps and swim platforms for added grip.
All hull fittings are secured with backing plates to ensure durability, and cleats are flush-mounted to reduce trip hazards. The boat is equipped with fire extinguishers at government-mandated points, while automatic bilge pumps manage water entry without manual intervention. Navigation lighting is installed to be clearly visible in all directions, compliant with safety requirements for after-dark trips. Emergency gear stowage is clearly marked, and the anchor locker up front can be accessed quickly, allowing secure mooring within minutes of arrival.
Family Features and Comfort Add-Ons
For families or frequent groups, there are a range of thoughtful extras. The boat often includes a freshwater transom shower on the swim platform, perfect for rinsing after swimming. Optional portable or fixed marine toilets can be installed in the portside head compartment; this small room can also serve as a changing area. Hooks for towels or wet gear line the cabin, and bins for shoes at the cockpit entry keep decks clear and safe.
Child-safe doors close off access to the bow while the boat is moving, and contain pets or kids during fast runs. Extra insulated coolers and drink holders are included all around the deck, so everyone has a place for their refreshments. The cockpit and bow both include charging ports for devices and lights that are adjustable in brightness. Owners can also choose to add special boarding gates or fender storage for even greater day-to-day convenience.
Real World Use Cases
Most Launch 31 GT owners use their boats for a mix of day cruising, picnicking on sandbars, tubing or wakeboarding, and quiet sunset rides. The versatility of power options and robust construction means the boat is at home in calm lakes, busy bays, or the ICW. Many families report enjoying the stable ride and deep, secure seating for kids and grandparents, while younger groups praise the party-friendly layout, powerful stereo, and swim platform.
Some use the Launch 31 GT as a platform for diving or fishing, appreciating the easy boarding ladder, washdown kit, and extra coolers. Couples often take it for weekend adventure, docking at waterfront restaurants thanks to the reliable fendering and bumpers included. The ability to quickly cover up the boat with fitted covers keeps it clean and dry even after unexpected rain.
Shopping and travel to and from storage yards are made simpler as many dockyards and marinas are familiar with the Chris Craft layout and hardware, allowing for easy lifts, docking, or winterization. The sturdy hull and reliable hardware mean fewer worries about damage or wear from frequent use.
Maintenance and Long-Term Durability
The hull, deck, and fittings of the Launch 31 GT are built using high-grade composites, fiberglass, and marine-specific stainless steel fastenings to minimize corrosion and extend the useful life of the boat. Washdown hoses are plumbed for quick cleaning after salt or lake use, and gelcoat surfaces resist UV and chemical wear. Upholstery and flooring are chosen for mildew resistance and easy rinsing, and access panels open wide for simple routine checks.
The battery system is set up for quick disconnect and shore power hook-up, with auto-charging to maintain voltage between uses. Engine service points are labeled and clear of clutter, helping both owners and technicians perform seasonal care without confusion. Manuals, troubleshooting guides, and spare-part kits are often supplied as standard, giving peace of mind for trips far from the marina.
Owners have commented positively about the durability of flooring adhesives, hardware, and deck paint, noting the lack of fading or ground-in dirt after years of regular use. The use of double-stitched marine vinyl reduces risk of tearing or seam failure, and optional snap-in carpets can be removed for thorough cleaning.
Personalizing Your Launch 31 GT
Buyers can choose from a palette of hull colors, ranging from classic navy or deep charcoal to crisp white or two-tone combinations. Upholstery and piping can be matched to taste, with accent colors available for cushions and headrests. A range of wood treatments, including dark or light teak, let the owner tune the “look” from vintage to ultra-modern.
Electronics are customizable too—owners can add fishfinders, satellite radio, or advanced chartplotters. Anchor upgrades, LED underwater lighting, extra speakers, or tower racks for boards and water toys extend the boat’s functionality for your hobbies. Covers, trailering gear, and security systems round out the most popular upgrades. Each Launch 31 GT can be tailored to reflect the needs and tastes of the owner for all kinds of activities.
Social Experience and Owner Community
Owning a Chris Craft Launch 31 GT often leads to joining local owner clubs or online groups. These communities share advice about favorite destinations, maintenance tricks, recipes for dockside parties, and seasonal storage tips. Group outings are common, and many clubs arrange boat “meetups” at sandbars or marinas, where knowledge and stories are exchanged.
Dealerships and team members also provide ongoing support, keeping buyers up to speed on recalls, service updates, or accessory upgrades. Customer education events and service days are often scheduled throughout the year, giving owners a place to learn more and improve their skills in a no-pressure setting.
Finding the Right Launch 31 GT for You
With so many features, choices, and real-world positives, it’s helpful to list your personal uses. Think about how many people you plan to bring along, what sorts of activities you’ll do most, and which add-ons matter most in your case. If you expect to swim and sunbathe, focus on the swim platform and bow padding options. For daily use, note the number and type of cupholders, shaded areas, and how the storage bins are sized. Water sports fans will check for engine power, tow points, and stereo upgrades. Discussing these details with a knowledgeable team member can help narrow down which specific Launch 31 GT is best for your situation.
Summary: The Launch 31 GT in Everyday Use
The Chris Craft Launch 31 GT is a straightforward, dependable boat that puts comfort and user-friendly features first. Everything from the hull shape to the seat placement and helm layout is built with attention to the small things that matter most on the water—stable ride, easy cleaning, lots of storage, and strong weather protection. With robust safety features and quality fittings, owners spend more time enjoying their boat and less time on chores or repairs. The flexible seating, smart use of storage, and choices in engine and tech upgrades make each boat well-suited for groups, families, or quiet solo outings.
Next Steps—How Fly Yachts Can Guide Your Search
Choosing your next boat is a personal process, and gathering the right information helps make it easier. If you want more details on specs, options, or practical advice for everyday use, talk to a Fly Yachts team member. Having their guidance and experience on your side can help you find the best match for your next adventure, making your boating experience smoother from the very beginning.
Fly Yachts is your complete solution for luxury yachting and aviation, beginning with their homepage, where you can learn about the team and company, browse an extensive selection of yachts for sale, and explore custom build a yacht options tailored to your needs. They offer information on a variety of exciting charter destinations, flexible yacht charter services, and expert support if you want to sell your yacht. In addition to yachts, Fly Yachts lists aircraft for sale, shares updates and industry developments through Gulfstream News, and provides valuable yachting insights and advice in their Compass Articles. For any questions or personalized help, you can always visit their contact page.
