If you’ve never heard of Chris Casparis, you’re probably not alone. He has been quietly restoring classic Chris-Crafts and Rivas, among other wooden runabouts, plus building and designing his own boats for several years. But among woody aficionados, he’s considered a leader. Do a Google search for information about these mahogany boats, and chances are you’ll come across an owner waxing poetic about his skills and even photos of Casparis’ own Riva, Desafinado.
Because of his passion, Casparis established Sea Sonic Boats in British Columbia about six years ago. He draws upon more than two decades’ worth of experience with each boat he builds, garnered in his native Switzerland and in his time in North America.
Like most handcrafted boats, each Centaur and Sirena – the two Sea Sonic models – are built one at a time. That usually means 10 or 11 months before an owner can take delivery, but they don’t seem to mind. As the video below shows, there’s room for five to eight passengers, depending on the model, and convenient sunpads. Reported cruise speeds of 20 mph and top speeds exceeding 50 mph mean fun trips along the coast or a quick jaunt to a waterfront dining spot.
For further information, contact North 49 Yacht Sales, the North American dealer, or visit the Sea Sonic Web site.
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