Introduction to the Chris Craft Boat Launch 35 GT
The Chris Craft Boat Launch 35 GT stands out as a boat that mixes style, practicality, and thoughtful design for those who want to enjoy time on the water with family and friends. Measuring about 35 feet in length, this model is built to offer a smooth ride, easy handling, and enough space to relax, socialize, and participate in water activities all day long. Its balanced design allows for many uses, from casual day cruises to active afternoons of tubing and swimming. A versatile boat like this appeals to people who appreciate mixing relaxation with fun in a single package, and who want everyone on board to feel comfortable, no matter the occasion. In this article, you’ll find an in-depth look at every part of the Launch 35 GT, so you can judge if it really is a match for your lifestyle and preferences.
Overall Dimensions and Exterior Features
At an overall length of 35 feet and with a beam measuring around 10 feet 10 inches, the Launch 35 GT offers a wide deck and good on-board stability, even with a full crew. Its hull uses classic Chris Craft styling, with a clean profile, signature tumblehome stern, and a choice of hull colors for that custom look. The high, sweeping bow helps keep water out in choppy conditions, while the rub rail and stainless-steel fittings not only look appealing but also help protect the boat’s finish. Underneath, the hull is designed for comfort and efficiency, allowing the boat to cut smoothly through the water, reducing bumps and keeping everyone dry.
From the outside, details make the difference. The windshield frame is crafted from real stainless steel, providing both strength and a clean finish. Navigation lights are integrated neatly into the bow rail, and cleats are pop-up style, which means nothing sticks up to trip over. Wide walkways with non-skid materials run from bow to stern, so guests can move around safely. The yacht-style side door on the port side is large enough for most adults to step through easily, making docking and boarding from the pier safe and smooth.
Seating, Lounging, and Social Zones
The interior layout of the Chris Craft Boat Launch 35 GT is thoughtfully arranged for both socializing and individual relaxation. Bow seating includes wrap-around couches with plush cushions that resist sun and salt. There’s a table that can be quickly set up for lunch or drinks, or removed and stored out of the way when not needed. Moving towards the middle of the boat, the cockpit’s U-shaped seating arrangement keeps everyone included—it anchors conversations and creates space for serving food from the small galley or storing coolers.
The helm features a double-wide bench with adjustable bolsters, which allow the captain to sit or stand comfortably while driving. The passenger seat alongside the helm is identical, making sure the co-pilot feels just as important. Aft, the sunpad stretches across the back of the boat and can be set up for lying flat, reclining, or folding into sections for rear-facing views. When you’re swimming or floating off the stepladder, it’s a perfect space to dry off or grab a towel before heading back to your seat.
For groups up to about fifteen people, the GT’s design promotes togetherness but also provides space to break off into smaller groups. Whether you’re chatting at the cockpit table, watching the water from the bow, or grilling at the rear, everyone finds a comfortable spot.
Bow Area in Detail
The bow is accessed through a split windshield and a deep walkway, making it convenient to get from the main cockpit to the front of the boat. The seats are extra-wide and use premium foam, which holds its shape season after season. Underneath the seats, there are storage bins for personal items, lifejackets, or fenders, all of which drain and dry out easily. Cup holders are built into the side panels, and there are USB charging ports hidden in armrests so phones, tablets, or portable speakers stay charged all day. Bow speakers are part of the ambient sound system, offering a nice music experience without being overwhelming.
Cockpit and Main Gathering Space
In the main cockpit, c-shaped seating surrounds a removable table that can be stowed away when you want more space for moving around. The port side door makes it easy to board the boat even when docked beside a pier, and the drop-down swim platform extends the space for watersports or lounging close to the water. Lighting is built into the flooring and under the seats for soft illumination after sunset. Synthetic woven flooring or traditional teak can be chosen as options, both of which provide grip and stay comfortable under bare feet even in summer.
Aft Lounge and Swim Platform
At the stern, the sunpad is wide enough for two adults to lie side-by-side. It can be set in a lounge recliner position or laid flat for sunbathing. A freshwater shower sits by the swim platform, with a storage compartment for wet towels, ropes, or snorkel gear. The optional grill station is positioned just behind the seat backs, so food can be made without getting in the way. There’s a built-in cooler storage so drinks stay cold, and trash is neatly separated in a hidden bin.
Cabin and Overnight Features
The cabin below features enough headroom for most adults to move comfortably, with windows for natural light and ventilation. There is a berth that converts quickly from a couch to a bed, so naps or overnight stays are possible without feeling cramped. The portable table can also be placed inside the cabin for board games or snacks if weather turns or privacy is needed. The entire cabin is climate-controlled with air conditioning and powered by shore power or the generator while on the water.
The enclosed bathroom, or “head” as it’s often called, is big enough for an adult to use comfortably, with a freshwater sink, a solid countertop, and a vanity mirror. The marine toilet has its own supply of fresh water, which helps with odor control, and a holding tank to keep everything clean and simple. There’s extra storage for towels, toiletries, and other supplies, making the boat family-friendly for long outings or overnight trips.
Galley and Refreshment Center
The galley area inside the cockpit is tailored for serving meals and drinks on the go. It houses a stainless steel sink with a pressurized water system, a small fridge for snacks and beverages, and shelving for utensils, cups, and plates. A built-in microwave is included for heating up simple meals or coffee, while additional storage under the countertop keeps the space uncluttered. The galley is positioned for easy access, whether you’re in the main cockpit area or stepping up from the swim platform after a swim.
For those who enjoy outdoor cooking, the optional electric grill can be installed on the swim platform or rear entertainment center. There is also a space for a removable cooler, which can be brought straight from your car or picnic spot, making cleanup and prep much easier.
Storage Solutions Throughout the Boat
The Launch 35 GT doesn’t skimp on storage, since time on the water often comes with a lot of gear. Under every seat, you’ll find easy-lift lids revealing space for bags, water toys, or safety equipment. Below the deck in the cockpit, an in-floor ski and wakeboard locker stretches more than eight feet, letting you pack away large or bulky gear. The cabin also has cabinets, hanging lockers, and cubbies for clothing, shoes, and overnight bags. The stern’s wet storage compartments are designed for ropes and anchors, so they can dry off without getting other gear damp.
Engine and Propulsion Choices
The Launch 35 GT is available in both outboard and sterndrive versions, giving buyers more flexibility based on performance needs and water types. Outboard models can be equipped with twin 350-horsepower Mercury Verado engines or similar options, which are suited to saltwater use and easy maintenance. Sterndrive models use inboard-outboard setups with reliable brands like Volvo Penta, with twin engines up to 380 horsepower each. These combinations allow the boat to plane quickly and reach cruising speeds in the high 20s to 30s, topping out around the high 40s in calm water with a light load.
The steering is power-assisted, with both manual and joystick controls, including a bow thruster for tight maneuvering at the dock. The tab controls can be set to auto, helping trim the boat for balance with heavy loads or crosswinds. Most boats are equipped with digital throttle and shift, making gear changes smooth and responsive.
Technology and Control Systems
The boat’s dashboard houses a multi-function touchscreen, which acts as a central control for navigation, music, lighting, and system monitoring. GPS position, depth readings, engine information, and route planning are all quickly available. Owners can monitor speed, battery voltage, fuel, and other engine stats in real time, while the screen is also wired for optional fishfinders or radar.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities let the system connect to smartphones and tablets for streaming music or checking weather updates. The surround-sound system can be adjusted for each area so the bow, cockpit, and swim platform can all listen at different volumes or turn sound off as needed. Several USB and 12-volt charging pods are available at every seat group.
At night, LED deck and courtesy lighting set the mood and improve safety, while the underwater LED lights can be added for swimming or anchoring in shallow water. The horn, navigation lights, and all system switches are also accessible at the push of a button from the helm.
Safety Equipment and Practical Touches
Safety is part of the build from the start. The Launch 35 GT includes features like a hidden fire extinguisher compartment, emergency cut-off switches on each engine, and an automatic bilge pump system. The side door is reinforced and fitted with a positive latch, making sure it can’t accidentally open underway. Grab rails are positioned everywhere a seated or standing passenger might need them, and the non-slip surfacing throughout the boat helps prevent falls, even when wet.
There are clearly marked steps and lighting for safe boarding at night, as well as high cockpit sides that keep young children well within the deck area. The anchor system can be run by push-button, so no one needs to put hands or feet near moving chains or cables when lowering or raising the anchor. There are also separate storage areas for fire safety gear, flares, and first aid kits.
Practical Everyday Uses
Owners use the Launch 35 GT in many ways, including trips to lakeside restaurants, weekends at sandbars, and spending days with water sports and fun. Its rear platform makes a perfect hangout when anchored in a quiet bay. The optional sunshades over the bow and aft can be extended easily when the sun is intense, and the adjustable seating means everyone, young or old, finds a place to relax.
Getting into or out of the water is simple with the swim ladder and shower system. There’s a washdown for sandy feet, and dedicated space to stow wet towels or water toys so the main seating area stays dry and mess-free.
For families, there’s enough shade, storage, and space for kids to nap or play without parents worrying about safety or mess. For friends, the cockpit serves as a base for sharing meals, music, and memories on the water.
Trailering, Storage, and Transport
When not on the water, the Launch 35 GT fits on a triple-axle trailer for easy storage and transport. Its width fits through standard marina lifts or can be kept in larger home garages or storage sheds. The shape of the hull makes it simple to load and unload, while tie-down points and covers keep it secure on the road. Most marinas find it easy to launch or retrieve, and the boat balances well, even with a full tank of fuel and gear on board.
The covers for the bow, cockpit, and engines keep the boat clean between uses and help protect from UV rays. If stored in winter, all systems are labeled for easy draining and winterizing, making seasonal maintenance straightforward.
Customization and Personal Options
Chris Craft allows you to personalize nearly every visible part. Choose from different hull colors, striping options, upholstery shades, and finishing details like teak packages or chrome logos. Test-drive packages let you see what fits your needs best—like if you want the upgraded sound system, underwater lighting, or added navigation electronics.
Seating setups can be tweaked, extra sunshades added, or switch to different flooring materials. Even the galley and fridge location can be moved based on how you plan to host or entertain. All parts are chosen for ease of cleaning and regular maintenance.
Other options include things like flagpoles, custom monograms, or matching coolers and storage bags designed to fit in the boat’s compartments.
Reliability and Everyday Maintenance
The choice of materials is aimed at worry-free boating. Stainless steel rails, cleats, and hardware keep rust at bay even in saltwater. The wiring is marine-grade and labeled for simple checks or repairs. Fiberglass is hand-laid and uses a gelcoat that withstands years of direct sun. The non-skid flooring in the cockpit and swim area is textured, easy to rinse, and resists mildew.
Checking oil, water levels, and filters requires no tools—access panels are held with simple latches. The boat comes with clear owner’s guides, maintenance checklists, and all major service points are marked. Regular cleaning involves hose-rinsing the exterior, wiping down upholstery with mild soap, and plugging in the battery charger.
For engine service, most tasks are within reach from inside the engine bay, with drip pans and hose fittings arranged to keep spills from spreading. Battery switches are just inside the cockpit door, letting you power off systems quickly before shipping or storage.
Comparison with Other Boats
Compared to other boats of similar size, the Launch 35 GT stands out for its mix of classic design cues, modern features, and overall roominess. The double-wide side door is unusual for this class, giving owners more flexibility at the dock. The volume of the bow seating area rivals that of many larger vessels, while the under-seat storage keeps clutter to a minimum.
The convertible sunpad and rear entertainment area allow owners to switch from quiet relaxation to active hosting quickly, a feature not all boats offer at this size. Controls are arranged so even those new to boating can quickly get comfortable, but with enough precision for experienced captains to appreciate.
The ability to choose from different engine packages matters if your boating takes you from lakes to bay waters or from short family rides to full-day adventures. The hull shape, which draws on proven Chris Craft experience, allows for a dry, stable ride even in shifting wind or light chop, making it suitable for exposed waters as well.
Tips for Test Driving and Hands-On Experience
If you’re looking at the Launch 35 GT, take the time to see it in person. Sit in every seat, check the view from the helm, and test the feel of the controls and touchscreens. Step through the bow door, climb the rear ladder, and try out the sunpad and table positions. Ask to see the covers, flip open every storage lid, and open the cabin to check headroom and sleeping space.
During the test run, pay attention to engine noise, how the boat handles quick turns, and whether the stereo and air conditioning suit your needs. Try docking, using the joystick and bow thruster, and see how you feel about maneuverability and response at low speeds.
Lifestyle Fit: Who Will Love the Launch 35 GT
The Launch 35 GT is a great fit if you value time with friends and family and want a boat that can shift from quiet mornings to lively afternoons. If your priorities include comfort, easy movement from bow to stern, and the ability to handle the boat alone or with help, it offers those advantages.
Its wide variety of features works well for those who like to entertain, but also for owners with young kids, older parents, or anyone who values safety and simple layouts. Whether you use the boat for quick trips to dinner, all-day sun, or just floating quietly, its versatility stands out.
More experienced boaters will enjoy the tech upgrades and performance options, while first-time owners benefit from the logical, labeled controls and ample instruction included at delivery.
More Details on Material Quality
Every surface you touch on the Launch 35 GT is chosen for durability and ease of care. The hull is hand-laid fiberglass, known for its toughness and ability to handle minor bumps without showing cosmetic damage. Teak accents are sealed and finished to resist fading and splintering. Upholstery is double-stitched to prevent seams from splitting, and the foam cores are specially selected to handle temperature swings.
All cabinetry and trim use real wood or durable composites, so they withstand moisture, accidental impacts, and years of use. Drains and guttering help water run off quickly, while ventilation in lockers and under seats keeps gear dry and mildew-free.
Chrome and stainless hardware is polished, rust-resistant, and easy to wipe down after a day on saltwater. Hinges and latches have been selected for smooth action over thousands of cycles, tested to hold up in tough weather.
More on Engine and Performance
Both the outboard and sterndrive engine choices come from brands with widespread service networks, so if you cruise far from home, support and service are easy to find. Fuel systems use large-capacity tanks and water-separating filters to run clean and trouble-free. Engine compartments have automatic fire suppression systems and ventilation fans for added safety.
The throttle-by-wire system provides responsive acceleration, and the cruise control feature can be programmed for wakeboarding or tubing. Digital engine management allows you to set fuel limits, track consumption, and check diagnostics through the touchscreen or your smartphone.
Bow and stern thrusters are available, so handling the boat at a busy dock or narrow space is less stressful. Anchor handling is electric, with hand-held remotes and auto-stop functions for easy, safe set or retrieval.
Tips for Routine Use and Cleaning
To keep the Launch 35 GT in good shape, follow a simple post-outing routine: rinse all exterior surfaces, wash down the cockpit with mild soap, empty the cooler and fridge, and open storage bins to dry. Upholstery can be wiped down with water and a soft brush, and the deck drains quickly even after swimming or rain.
Check battery levels and charging after every outing, and reset any fuses or switches to off before storage. Engine flush is easy; connect a hose to the built-in freshwater inlet, run for a few minutes, and the cooling system is ready for next time.
For longer storage, remove any food or damp towels, power down the main battery switch, and set up the custom covers to protect from dust and UV rays.
More Owner-Friendly Features
One small but welcome feature is the presence of labeled shut-off valves for fuel, water, and waste, so you can quickly isolate systems if needed. The battery charger has a simple indicator light to confirm that systems are charging correctly, while all main systems—like bilge pumps, electronics, and air conditioning—can be checked with a glance at the main panel.
Each locker and storage bin has a drain or vent to keep odor and mildew out, and there are specific bins for waste and recycling to keep the cockpit organized.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The Launch 35 GT is built for keeping everyone entertained. The marine audio system supports satellite radio, streaming via phone or Bluetooth, and has weather-resistant controls at the swim platform and bow. Speakers are placed for balanced sound, so even at lower volumes, everyone can hear clearly without distortion or “dead spots.” Wireless charging pads keep phones ready for photos, and tablet holders let you stream videos or provide navigation to the family on trips.
Lighting is fully customizable, so you can set moods for different parts of the boat. Party lights in the cockpit, soft reading lamps in the cabin, and low-profile step lights make evening trips special and safe.
Cabin Comfort and Overnight Features, Expanded
The below-deck berth is designed for short overnight stays or just retreat from the sun. Ventilated windows swing open for a breeze or close tight in rainy conditions. The berth fits two adults, and the seat back transforms with a quick flip into a full-size sleeping area. Sound insulation keeps the interior peaceful even when docked in a busy marina.
A hanging locker lets you store dry clothes, while the built-in cabinets and bins are great for extra towels, snacks, or even water toys. The head, while compact, feels clean and modern, with surfaces that are easy to wipe down and storage for bathroom supplies out of sight but at hand.
The cabin air system is tied to the shore-power input and the generator, keeping the sleeping area cool and free from dampness or musty smells.
Practical Maintenance and Support
Chris Craft backs their boats with manuals, support from experienced technicians, and available online guides. All filters, hoses, and pumps are standard parts, so replacements are easy to source. Systems are set up to minimize chance of leaks or spills, and the engine area is fitted with containment trays as a backup.
Fuel system access includes clear sight lines for checking levels, and battery switches are grouped on a labeled panel, so owners don’t have to guess which line controls which system.
Environmental Features
For those concerned with their impact, the Launch 35 GT uses EPA-compliant fuel and emission systems, and as standard, engines are chosen for clean, efficient performance. All waste water from the cabin head is contained in an approved holding tank with a deck fitting for pump-out, and the deck drains all run off into the bilge away from the water.
Coolers and fridges are efficient and insulated, keeping energy use low even during long days on the water. If shore power is available, the charging and power management systems automatically prioritize external power, reducing battery drain.
Comparison of Outboard and Sterndrive Options
Outboard engines are easier for maintenance, generally provide better fuel economy at low speeds, and allow for shallower draft operation—perfect for beaching or exploring shallow coves. Sterndrives, on the other hand, offer more traditional handling and a quieter ride underway, as the propellers sit further aft, and noise is carried away from the cockpit.
Both systems allow for digital controls, autopilot features, and basic troubleshooting on screen. Owners can choose based on where they boat and their preference for engine care or hull balance.
Final Thoughts: Is the Launch 35 GT a Good Fit?
The Chris Craft Boat Launch 35 GT offers classic looks, modern technology, and a wide range of owner-friendly features. It is built for comfort, versatility, and thoughtful everyday use—whether your plans involve entertaining, relaxing, fishing, or taking long rides. Its variety of seating, storage, technology, and power options mean nearly any boater can adapt it to their needs.
Before moving forward, think through how you plan to use your new boat, who will join you, and what activities matter most. Getting hands-on with the model and discussing your goals with an expert will guide you to the best choice for your lifestyle.
If you’re looking for a boat that blends function, comfort, and ease of use, it’s well worth taking the time to step aboard and see everything the Launch 35 GT has to offer.
Steps for Taking the Next Step
If you want to see if the Chris Craft Boat Launch 35 GT is right for you, schedule a visit and take your time to examine every detail. Bring your usual crew—family or friends—to test the fit and flow. Take notes on what stands out, ask about optional features, and try moving about from bow to stern, from sunny seats to shaded spots, to envision how you’ll use the boat on real outings.
How Fly Yachts Can Help
A Fly Yachts team member brings experience and insight, helping answer the questions that matter most and pointing out how different features on the Launch 35 GT fit your plans. Whether you want to customize, review options, or simply get comfortable with operation and care, talking to a Fly Yachts team member is a valuable way to learn more. For the best experience and to get started, reach out and talk to a Fly Yachts team member today.
Fly Yachts is your all-in-one destination for luxury yachting and aviation, starting on their homepage where you can find details about the company and its experienced team, view a range of yachts for sale, and explore possibilities with their build a yacht service. They offer extensive options for charter destinations, flexible yacht charter services, and straightforward support to sell your yacht. Beyond yachting, there are aircraft for sale, updates and stories in Gulfstream News, valuable Compass Articles, and an easy-to-use contact page for any inquiries or assistance.
