Chris Craft Rocket

1945 Chris Craft 16' Rocket / Special Runabout

Engine model K 95hp straight 6 SN 206114

Boat info

The Special Runabout was not a runabout at all, but a deluxe utility with a wide center deck that created a separate forward cockpit. Called the ROCKET by Chris-Craft, these boats were nearly identical to the pre-war 16 Deluxe Runabouts which in turn were lengthened versions of the 1938 15-1/2 Deluxe Runabouts. The Rocket was offered varnished or painted, with choices of white, black, red and blue sides. According to Chris Craft factory production records 1,040 Rockets were built from late 1945 through 1948 with only 40 boats being produced in 1947.

I bought the rocket from a previous owner who restored her, and decked over the engine cover to be a split cockpit instead of a utility style. Bottom was refinished with 5200 system prior to my purchase. I could NOT find a hull number on the boat. Please note this is not a restored-to-spec show quality boat, but she is a fun little number, and quite the looker!!

Boat is in great above average condition, lovingly enjoyed the past 2 summers I owned her. Engine is well cared for, properly winterized each year and maintained throughout the summer season. Starter coil and 12v marine battery replaced summer of 2013. Boat is winterized in October and spends the winter indoors covered on trailer. All that's needed for launch is a new set of spark plugs, and an oil change!

Boat Inventory

Custom heavy duty trailer

Battery maintainer and shore power adapter (both new 2013)

Backup solar power trickle charger (new 2012)

Bilge pump (automatic replaced spring 2013)

K Engine documentation / manual

Chris Craft bow pennant

Stern light pole

US Flag and US Ensign flags and clips for stern pole

Anchor

4x lifejackets

2x fenders

Throwable cushion

First aid kit

4x docklines and extra lines

Mooring cover (full boat cover to protect varnish) and spare