Licensed Yacht BrokersSales and service of yachts and shipsPresented by Shestakov Yacht Sales and broker Andrey Shestakov, the Custom RunaboutfromChris-Craftis a compactmotor yachtin therunabout classbuilt for uncomplicated time on the water and easy ownership.
Selecting a Custom Runabout
If you’re seeking a nimble day boat for relaxed cruising with family or friends, the Custom Runaboutis an appealing choice. With an LOA of 20 ft (6.1 m) and a 6 ft (1.96 m) beam, it’s sized for simplicity while still accommodating up to 6 aboard. Power comes from a single inboard gas engine by Chris Craft, paired with a 30-gallon fuel capacity—straightforward, proven ingredients for enjoyable outings.
Features of the Model
- Builder: Chris-Craft
- Model: Custom Runabout
- Classification: motor yachtin therunaboutsegment
- Seating for up to 6 people
- Single inboard gas engine (manufacturer: Chris Craft)
- Practical dimensions for simple handling: 20 ft LOA, 6 ft beam (6.1 m x 1.96 m)
- 30-gallon fuel capacity for casual day cruising
Technical Specifications
- LOA: 20 ft (6.1 m)
- Beam: 6 ft (1.96 m)
- Engines: 1
- Engine manufacturer: Chris Craft
- Engine type: Inboard
- Fuel type: Gas
- Accommodation: 6
- Fuel capacity: 30 gal
Pricing and Ordering
Pricing and availability are provided on request. Contact Andrey Shestakov at Shestakov Yacht Sales to discuss the Custom Runabout, arrange viewings, and coordinate purchase logistics.
Questions and Answers
- What type of boat is the Custom Runabout?
- It’s a motor yachtin therunaboutcategory, ideal for short, relaxed trips on the water.
- How many people can it carry?
- The Custom Runabouthascapacity for 6passengers, making it a comfortable choice for family or small-group outings.
- What is the engine configuration and fuel?
- It’s powered by 1inboardgasengine manufactured byChris Craft, delivering straightforward operation and maintenance.
- What are the key dimensions?
- LOAis 20 ft (6.1 m) andbeamis 6 ft (1.96 m), dimensions that support easy handling and docking.
- What is the fuel capacity?
- The fuel capacityis30 gallons, suitable for casual day boating without complex refueling planning. For pricing, availability, and guidance, Shestakov Yacht Sales and Andrey Shestakov are ready to assist.
Owner Experience Review
Owners who step into the 20' Custom Runaboutfrom lighter racing runabouts consistently describe a heavier, more settled feel that pays off in real-world conditions. It is used for family day-cruising, weekend social outings and bigger-lake runs, and several call it "more comfortable and social" than the lighter racers. Many examples are restored and kept as seasonal leisure or show boats rather than daily drivers, which shapes expectations for how these boats are used.
On the water, owners say the Custom Runaboutrides smoother and handles larger chop better than the featherweight options—"the 20 custom was the finest runabout... It rides much better, although not as fast with the same power." With periodChris-CraftModel M/MBL-type power, reports for a 20' boat center around roughly 39 mph top, while 19' racing runabouts with the same engines are about 5 mph faster. The trade-off is clear: a calmer, more confidence-inspiring ride in exchange for a few miles per hour.
For comfort and finish, post-war Customs are noted for genuine leather upholstery, upgraded hardware and a four-piece folding windshield, which add to the social feel. Space works well for small groups, but more than four adults on a regular basis will feel tight. Ownership centers on upkeep: bottom seams, caulking and old fasteners often need attention, and owners recommend vigilance with bilge pumps and hull seams to avoid dockside issues. Major restorations are common—new decks, chine planks, refastening, no-soak bottoms and full varnish—and many boats carry repowered or rebuilt Chris-CraftModel M/MBL engines; as one owner puts it, maintenance can be "easy and fun" if you keep up with it each year.
Pros and Cons
- Smoother, more settled ride than lighter racing runabouts, especially in chop and on larger lakes.
- Social, comfortable setup with genuine leather upholstery and a four-piece folding windshield on post-war boats.
- Annual, incremental upkeep is considered manageable by owners who stay on top of it.
- Lower top speed than 19' racing runabouts with the same power.
- Cockpit space feels tight with more than four adults aboard.
- Bottom seams, fasteners and bilge-pump vigilance demand ongoing attention, especially on older hulls.
Comparison with Other Models
| Model | LOA | Beam | Draft | Speed (Cruising/Max) | Gross Tonnage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Custom Runabout | 20' 0" (6.10 m) | 6' 0" (1.96 m) | - | - | - |
| Dory | 22' 0" (6.71 m) | 8' 0" (2.44 m) | 9' 10" (3 m) | - | - |
| Launch 32 | 34' 0" (10.44 m) | 10' 0" (3.10 m) | 6' 3" (1.92 m) – 10' 8" (3.25 m) | - | - |
| 381 Catalina | 38' 0" (11.58 m) | 14' 0" (4.27 m) | 9' 10" (3 m) | 17 kn / 24 kn | - |
| CATALINA 34 | 34' 0" (10.44 m) | 10' 0" (3.30 m) | 6' 0" (1.83 m) – 9' 7" (2.92 m) | - | - |
| 34 Catalina | 34' 0" (10.44 m) | 10' 0" (3.30 m) | 6' 0" (1.83 m) – 9' 7" (2.92 m) | - | - |
| Corsair 25 | 25' 0" (7.62 m) | 8' 0" (2.59 m) | 9' 7" (2.92 m) – 9' 10" (3 m) | - | - |
| Dory Skiff | 22' 0" (6.71 m) | 8' 0" (2.44 m) | 6' 7" (2 m) | 18 kn / 22 kn | - |
| 26 Continental | 26' 0" (7.92 m) | 8' 0" (2.44 m) | - | - | - |
| cadet | 22' 0" (6.71 m) | - | - | - | - |
Learn more on the “Chris-Craft - Custom Runabout”
To learn more on the “Chris-Craft - Custom Runabout” or to get advice on how to buy or sell a yacht or get a great price for a yacht charter
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