Chris Craft Riviera
 

I am looking to buy a restored Chris Craft Riviera, preferably a 1953. Any comments on how they ride or places on the lake that might service them?

Phil Spencer. Lakes Region Boat Restoration.

or Mark Mason in Guilford

New England Boat & Motor
 

Mark Mason in Gilford, New England Boat & Motor Company. Great guy and loves his wooden boats.:D

I'd check with Charlie Gath in Meredith. He often knows about boats that are available. Great guy!! Also worked on my boat that took first prize in its class in the Meredith ACBS Show one year.
http://www.360boating.com/company.cfm?id=34698


Curious as to why you want a 1953?? ;-)

1953 was the year I was born. :-)
Any comments on the Riviera boat itself ? How it rides, etc.
And thanks for the names of people to contact.


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Know The Feeling
 

I know the feeling. I've been on the hunt for a 1956 Chevy Pickup (year I was born) as well. Restored or not, doesn't matter. I wonder if its my second mid-life crisis? :look:

www.woodyboater.com might have the info/opinions you're looking for. Check out ChrisCraft dedicated sites as well. Happy Hunting. ;)

18 Ft Riviera
 

I know of a 1954 with KBL 131HP . Numbers matching Hull & Engine. Instruments and hardware. Needs restoration. Could be a good deal.

Thanks for the info. I'll check it out :-)


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Is this the boat, if so it is beautiful!:cool:

http://www.yachtworld.com/core/listi...7263&noOfPic=1

Good luck

The 18 foot Riviera has a lot of bounce when riding half throttle and its bow rides high at that speed, so most operators like to sit on top of the seat back to see. Once on plane and you are in the cockpit it goes like hell. The engine noise is classic, that's why most people who have these boats are partially deaf. It doesn't take waves too well but the seats have enough cushion and spring to take the pounding out. It is a great cruiser and head turner, just like the cars of that era. You can contact me and I will put you in touch with my dad who has lots of experience with these boats or call Phil Spencer or the other guys, they all know each other and are willing to share stories. My Dad currently has a 21 Capri that is gorgeous, he moved up to the 21 from the 18 Riviera, that is how I know.

The Riviera came out in 1950. The 16' Riviera with 60 HP...The 18' Riviera with 131 HP, and the 20' Riviera with 158 HP. The last two with ... 6 cylinder "In Line" engines.

The picture in a previous post has a modern "Closed Cooling" V-8. The upholstery does not appear to be "correct" as the original was "Dark Red":) NB

REF: Robert Speltz: The Real Runabouts. Vol I & Vol III.

Yes, that is the boat, but the interior seats should be red, as No Bozo pointed out. It is a beautiful boat. Cool breeze, I would like to talk to your dad about the Riviera, since he owned one. I saw a beautiful Capri at the Wolfeboro boat show last year. maybe that was your dad's boat?!


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Yes, if the name was Sumday, that is his Chris. He has, with the help of some of his friends, restored that boat to show room condition. We all are really proud of him and the boat. He is a humble guy with a wealth of knowledge. I am sure he would offer some of his time to guide you. You can contact me and I will get you his info.