Description

1962 CHRIS CRAFT HOLIDAY RUNABOUT

FULLY BUILT AND READY TO DISPLAY BOAT MODEL

Dimension approx.: 32″ (long) x 8″ (beam)
The model is already built. THIS IS NOT A MODEL SHIP KIT

By 1962, Chris‑Craft had become a defining name in American pleasure boating, a company whose runabouts were as familiar on summer lakes as the scent of varnish and gasoline. The Holiday line, already a long‑running favorite, represented Chris‑Craft’s commitment to building boats that were both spirited and approachable—runabouts that families could enjoy without sacrificing the elegance and craftsmanship that had made the brand famous.

The 1962 Holiday models carried forward a lineage that began in the 1930s and evolved through decades of refinement. Offered in 18‑ and 20‑foot lengths, these boats balanced sleek styling with practical comfort. Many still featured the warmth of mahogany construction, while others reflected Chris‑Craft’s gradual shift toward fiberglass. At their heart was the dependable Chris‑Craft 283 V8, delivering 185 horsepower and the confident inboard performance that defined the era.

The Holiday’s design captured the optimism of early‑1960s American recreation. Its low, sporty profile and open cockpit invited easy cruising, while optional hardtops on the 20‑foot models added versatility for changing weather. Interiors were simple but welcoming, with clean lines, brightwork accents, and seating arranged for conversation as much as for motion. These were boats meant for weekend outings, for towing skiers, for quiet fishing trips, and for the simple pleasure of cutting across open water.

Several 1962 examples have become part of the Holiday’s lore. An 18‑foot Holiday once owned by Andy Rooney of 60 Minutes later received a meticulous restoration, including a 5200 “no‑soak” bottom, rebuilt engine, and fresh upholstery—an illustration of how well these boats respond to careful preservation. A 20‑foot Holiday, restored to show condition, earned the Best Chris‑Craft Award at the Alexandria Bay Boat Show in 2004 and continued to appear at Clayton and Alex Bay events, a testament to the model’s enduring appeal among collectors.

In the broader context of 1962, the Holiday stood at the crossroads of tradition and modernization. Inboard runabouts were still the preferred choice for mid‑size recreational boating, and Chris‑Craft’s strategy was to offer boats that were reliable, stylish, and accessible to a growing middle class. The Holiday embodied that philosophy—solidly built, easy to maintain, and unmistakably Chris‑Craft in its lines and character.

Today, restored 1962 Holiday runabouts remain prized for their blend of mid‑century design and practical usability. Collectors seek out original manuals, build sheets, and period brochures, often turning to the Chris‑Craft Antique Boat Club’s Historic Archive for documentation. Whether preserved in private collections or displayed at classic boat shows, the 1962 Holiday continues to represent the charm and craftsmanship of an era when boating was as much about the experience as the destination.