Cruising my Chris Craft Corinthian

I self-quarantined two weeks before and two weeks after this video was filmed.
The very first time she's been on the water with two engines in probably decades.
I am unbelievably happy :)
Full length supercut of all footage from the cruise:
• First Cruise Supercut

[@CullenCraft]

If you want to see the full voyage, here's a link to the unlisted "Supercut" with barely any editing. kzbin.info/www/bejne/noO2haqgfLKUrcU It's an hour and 45 minutes long... So if you're into that, give it a look!

[@working2bselfsufficient724]

Congrats, might see you out on the Johns if i do ill try and say hello and toss you a beer.🍻

[@working2bselfsufficient724]

Also if u need a hand with anything just let me know i am a local and ive been boating extensively my entire life from commercial fishing to building my own boats and would be happy to help teach or help out any green horns till get sea legs.

[@working2bselfsufficient724]

Also glad to see new boaters taking pride and putting time in their work. Very satisfying when everyone likes what you have done.

[@stevenpfister6075]

Just acquired the same model boat and it needs quite a bit of work.Wondered if you could share some knowledge?

[@CullenCraft]

Wow! That's awesome! Yeah you can connect with me on twitter and I can give you an email address from there. @cullencraft

[@ronobrien7187]

At 63 years and tens of thousands of miles under the keel, I think, "That's easy", but kudos to this young man with the courage to go forward with this plan. Best wishes.

[@shovelheezy]

When the raw emotion comes out.... I can only imagine what it must feel like to bust your butt working on this boat, then to finally feel her rumbling beneath you. She's a beautiful boat, you made her into something amazing. Congratulations!

[@harrymurphey2634]

I grew up on "Twin Screw" cabin cruisers .... A couple of pointers ... 1st: your bearded friend knows what he is doing !!! 2nd: At slow speeds you steer w/ your engines, not the helm !!! 3rd: Learn to "sync" the engines by "ear" ... "rum ... rum ... rum" (pulsing/throbbing sound) ... you are not "synced' ... set one engine and adjust the other engine throttle in small rpm's .... "rrrrruuuuuuuuummmmm" (no pulsing/throbbing) ... tells you the engines are "synced" (our boat had the same engine sync device, but it was down at the helm station in the cockpit, so when running from the flying bridge you had to do it by ear ...) Safe motoring !!!

[@jaytomson7052]

That is such awesome advice!

[@paulwhite9173]

At slow speeds you steer with the helm and the engines. Learn to walk your boat sideways without making headway or sternway. Practice docking on one engine, because someday you will have too. If you don't have radar, get one and learn how to use it. Same with your other electronics. Learn the rules of the road. Don't be a problem for those of us who run large vessels for a living. Know what you're doing and where you're going. You have a great deal to learn. Good luck.

[@patricia2645]

Hi, I so wish to have and old Chris-Craft. My Grandpa had one when I was little (50 years ago). Mom says it was a mid 50's Chris Craft "sedan" the woodwork was amazing, you could see your self. I loved the sound of it. He was pretty proud of it too! We had a lot of fun in it. Wish I could appreciate it as an adult.

[@steelerdog1456]

Bro had a tear in my eye for you. Worked at Baptist as a nurse right there by the Marina. Down in Daytona now. Great video cap

[@brianparker866]

The man that took the helm is so cool. What a great friend to have. Both guys understand the anxiety you are facing and walk you through the learning process.

[@rickoliver2059]

Hi from NZ , south pacific . I bought a single diesel engine back in 2010 ,my third boat , the first two being trailer boats . It was my lifelong dream to own a fishing launch , anyway aside from jumping off the deep end and having to learn everything about seamanship , maintenance and how to look after my boat . During the first two years , it cost me a lot of money that I had saved after I retired from work , The sternleg had to be fully rebuilt , the motor had to come out and be professionally repaired , and the turbo charger kept fouling up through condensation , from not being used enough !!! I think I aged considerably , because I became weaker and decided to sell my dream and go back to smaller trailer boats . My family had a lot of fun in that boat , but they do cost an arm and a leg to keep going , I hope you enjoy yours for a very long time , cheers .

[@earlalfaro3347]

You're my hero! You're living the dream that I strive for, especially having a classic Chris Craft. The Corinthian seems like a great model with a lot of volume. The bottom shape is unique in a sense since it doesn't seem to follow some of the other models of the same era having a flatter bottom with straight sections, whereas your boat has more of a wine glass shape with a soft turn at the bilge. She's likely more fuel efficient than some of the other models as a result of this. I look forward to your critique a few months from now where you might identify areas where specific features might be handy to have. I've been designing boats for more than 30 years and the older CC's remain my favorites that I hope to draw inspiration from in the future.

[@CullenCraft]

I really like this boat... I feel extremely lucky to have her. Do you have a portfolio somewhere with your designs? I'd love to check them out!

[@CullenCraft]

@@earlalfaro3347 wow! This is awesome!

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Poor fella....I remember when I first learned. I’m a petite 5’1 girl and I love the shock on people’s faces when I handle my 39ft boat....alone. 😂

[@troy9er]

I had Parents that had a 1961 Christ Craft tri cabin. She was a 42 foot beauty all wood construction. I learned to pilot that boat even before I had a drivers license to drive a car! 25 years on Lake Michigan. Spent many a weekends preparing her for each season. My older Brothers would come 1 or 2 weekends to help out. They both had families, so they didn’t have the same amount of time as I. Your doing great and will build experience and confidence with time. I could back that boat in its spot backwards with out touching a docking post, sometimes. Had to account for current and wind upon setup when docking!

[@melodymakermark]

I am soooo stoked for you young man. I’ve owned and been around boats my whole life, but I’ve never owned a big cruiser. As my wife and I approach retirement, I do believe I see one on the horizon. You’re doing it while you’re young. That is friggin’ sweet, and in a classic Chris Craft to boot. Carry on, Captain.

[@CullenCraft]

Woohoo!

[@kenberry9299]

The enjoyment in your face your voice reminds me of myself enjoy your dream and never let anyone steal your joy!

[@normdickson2438]

When you work hard for something you really want and put great effort into it it is very rewarding

[@b.atwater3904]

A tip from a guy who has owned several of these type of boats.. Upgrade to electronic ignition and replace the carbs; both will be money well spent and make her run much better. You can not get the RPM up because the 4 barrel carbs are not working properly. Ditch the old Quadrajets and get some marine Holley or similar quality carbs, you will be glad you did. It will be much easier to learn and practice when those engines are running like they should. ALWAYS RUN YOUR BLOWER BEFORE STARTING AND AFTER TAKING ON FUEL! Have fun with her!

[@matterrill6936]

There’s nothing wrong with a properly running qudrajet . I have the original rochesters on my 1972 350qs in my 31 commander and they run great

[@tuck6464]

@@matterrill6936 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ THIS. Holleys have their place . But the right Q-jet, clean and tuned is better than any Holley for normal driving/boating.

[@LetsGoOutdoors]

You convey a pure joy when out on the water, you have the boating spirit! Wish you nothing but calm seas and light winds. Well done!

[@Mark-pm9nh]

Hi Cullen . WOW that was amazing! Congratulations on your maiden voyage . Thanks for sharing your dream & heart felt emotions with us . I love Christ Craft yachts . They remind me of my childhood & summers on Lake Muskoka in Canada . God bless . Mark (Toronto)

[@CullenCraft]

Thanks for watching, Mark! Stay warm up there.

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Such supportive friends!! 💝

[@royg.greenlee2538]

I really enjoy your watching your boat adventures. You remind me of myself 35 years ago getting into the world of boating. I love to see your passion of owning a boat of that size and learning everything you can to keep her in good running shape. You make me really want another boat again. I hope you thoroughly soak in everything and just remember it’s a love of the water and improving your boat.

[@JJ-sv9kh]

So cool that you shared that whole experience with us. Your emotions of seeing all the hours of your hard work come together were just awesome. Your boat is beautiful and I really like the shade that the top gives you. Keep it going, live the dream👍

[@woodrowweber718]

Every word that you're speaking about being stressed when you're 1st starting to pull out I just went through that I bought a 32' Carver 325 I was excited and nervous as you were stress level was off the charts I don't regret a minute of it I had everyone there to help me just like you do you're gonna love this I know this is a month old but I'm seeing it for the 1st time

[@dewilm78____47]

Awesome job! Your Crew/ buddies are great as well. 👍🏻

[@rosemary5531]

\Loved the emotion you showed towards the end of the video where you're on the fo'c'sle filming your mates behind you. Great stuff. I felt your stress when driving. Practice makes perfect, you'll get there. Would have loved to have had a live-aboard when I was younger. Too late now but I wish you all the best.

[@jasonpongracz]

Seems like you had 2 amazing guys who where so kind and friendly to help you out!

[@joewatson4671]

i very appreciated this video above all your others because that emotion, once you got up and running and out on her maiden voyage, i can so relate!! we just launched after restoring our 1980 Chris Craft 251 and that emotion at that moment of launch to see her in the water and running was amazing!! yeah, i had tears too!!! congrats Captain!

[@CullenCraft]

Thanks!

[@curtkramer5154]

You seem like a genuine dude and you have some great help and friends...

[@2010PAPAITO]

God Bless you Captain…. Excellent job and crews…..

[@peterhall4086]

Nice watching a beginner take his boat out for the first time. Good for you young man. My background is 30 years at sea on war canoes and cargo ships. I'd forgotten what it is like to be a beginner. Nice.

[@CullenCraft]

Haha I'm ready for the beginner phase to be over

[@Secretgardenvintageapartment]

Oh wow I stepped on and met you with your helmsman and also Captain in this video! I’m so glad to see you taking it out and really enjoying all this gorgeous thing can do! 🥺🥂 Here’s to MANY more adventures and more videos to share with us!

[@coldcoffee89]

congrats man, something thats rapidly being lost is that feeling when you bring a dream to fruition through work of your own two hands.

[@working2bselfsufficient724]

Very well said. Im one of the few ODD families around my area today still teaching my kids how to build stuff, take pride in your work etc traditional type values that i feel are fundemental in life and most arnt teaching anymore.

[@pokeygravityryder]

I’m relatively new to twin screws but been boating for over 25 years. I don’t know if it helps, but I always think of my shift levers like the levers on the tracks of a bulldozer or tank. I don’t use throttles or steering wheel while docking and try to be in neutral as much as possible. I know this video was several months ago, so you’re probably well practiced by now! Best of luck and congrats!

[@coolhaitianshow799]

Man seeing the joy you displayed has really motivated me congrats of following your dreams bro. I also love you honest you are in these videos

[@DannyChengofPhoneXchange]

Just took the 40' Holiday Mansion I just purchased out of the marina for the first time and it was definitely nerve-racking to say the least. After watching this I learned to maneuver with the twin engines at slow speed instead of using steering. I was fighting wind and current and it was definitely my neighbor on the dock catching me that saved me from hitting. One of my engines died on the first run and the other is having intermittent issues so it sounds like we are in a similar scenario. Nice to see the update and happy cruising 😊

[@CullenCraft]

Awesome! Well done.

[@Chas1160]

I’m loving this video . Gosh, reminds me when I first got started. I have a 28’ Bayliner single engine 454 HP large block Chevy. She is a fast boat. Engines sound great. Corinthian model. Nice live aboard. I’ve listened to most of your videos. I remember the first time I saw a whale off my starboard side. The whale was as big as my boat. I’m on the West Coast, California. Boating is a blast. San Francisco Bay Area hear.

[@SavorTheJourneyDave]

Soooooo tooootaally awesome!!!!!! I really enjoy experiencing your journey!!!!!! ⚓

[@CullenCraft]

Thank you! It's a long time coming

[@johnnyohness6610]

Congratulations Cullen. Nothing in the world is more gratifying than enjoying the fruits of your labor. This was posted in July and now it's October. Bet you've learned a lot more by now. I shared your tears of joy on the bow. You really got to me big guy. Are you still in the same mariana?

[@CullenCraft]

Yes. For now..

[@bryanhorne8202]

Really enjoyed watching you become a captain of your vessel. Nothing like having your boating cherry popped!!!

[@ronschwolsky1626]

Remember, never approach a dock at a faster speed than you're wiling to hit it. Best of luck. Happy for you.... living the dream!

[@MegaViking00]

Bravo to you sir.Beautiful boat and your over coming new hurdles.Through the highs and lows you will learn and prevail.

[@blackbeardsailing1669]

Wild suspenseful & loved every second capt! You rock bro! 🚢

[@Infernoz04]

Those are genuine tears of happiness bro enjoy it that is a great time

[@verngay6557]

nothing like the joy of a first run on your first boat.

[@donolsen6992]

Great to see you out on the water it's a great thing. Been on the water my whole life boat mechanic for 35 years. Save yourself time and money in have a good mechanic look at the boat. What I heard was hard starting on one engine sounds like timing, Same engine sound like lifters. O their engine same thing lifters And backfiring through carburetor. A good going over the engines will give you good piece of mind and feel safe. Things happened very fast on the water Knowing your engines are running properly Is Half the battle. Good luck and enjoy Being on the water is fantastic.

[@AnthraxBird]

Don Olsen yeah I wonder if he rebuilt the carbs or the points. It’s gonna feel like a new boat to him when he gets the engines tuned and good to go.

[@jasonruffier]

I've seen distributor timing advance freeze up causing same issue.

[@losingatthespeedoflight1832]

Make sure you have good fuel

[@10bbremer]

Well done skipper. Carry on.

[@anthonymurphy1624]

Congrats man, I felt your stress and your joy all the way in Fort Worth Texas!!!!!

[@greasycreekoutfitters5163]

You're awesome, dude. I'm living vicariously through you...waiting for my moment. You rock. Keep taking on challenges and knocking them out! You've got the right friends to teach you, too. Good dudes all the way around.

[@reneweisz9157]

I really enjoyed seeing your emotions going crazy and your eyes filling up with water. I know your exact feelings, I felt the same way after spending 3 years working hard on our boat and then taking her out for her first sea trial. This moment will be forever with you. Congratulations

[@nestatuffgong]

I know that feeling very well. Somewhere between excited and terrified. I still get a bit nervous going out. Especially backing into my slip. It’s all worth it in the end. You and your team did real good! Congratulations!

[@deezostrong6303]

Love this video. Please keep them coming. Thanks!!

[@phillipmullis6986]

You are so real. I love your excitement and wish you all the luck in the world.

[@stephenbabine3325]

That was an authentic (emotion filled) video! Kudos to you for all your hard work and living your dream 👍

[@marcogm55]

Congratulations Happy for you I bought a 42ft egg harbor aft cabin back in November and haven't taken it out yet Thanks for sharing wishing you the best

[@ADVF800GS]

Very well done and your friends seem like true friends, there actually happy for you and how they talk to you is awesome they constantly give you encouragement and positive vibes, wish I had buddies like them

[@BlkVpr4313]

Beautiful boat man. Its awesome to see you with that boat. And the reason that is, is because RJ is my big brother and I've worked on the boat with him and it's great to see that, I'm his little brother and I really wanted to go on the boat with you guys but I had a doctor's appointment which sucks but you guys seem to have a good time.

[@lesles9160]

Congrats! Your friend helping you drive the boat was amazing. Seems like a genuinely nice guy and great teacher, haha.

[@kevinjaye7267]

Nothing like an old heavy Chris craft !

[@michaelgrimes8828]

I am so happy for you. You are doing something I wanted to do for many years. Congrats

[@CullenCraft]

:) thanks!

[@Franklin6300]

congratulations on your boat. great folks you have with you! Enjoy your life. good luck and great boating.

[@ScottAxel01]

Congrats! I grew up on a 1980 Corinthian - great boat!

[@CullenCraft]

Lots of good memories, I'm sure!

[@martinlopezpgara5treestart263]

I'm happy for you bro wish you many safe and happy adventures

[@itsjojo4]

Wow! Such a high level video! Your friends were great! You seem to capture real life so much better than I've seen before. Im hooked for life!

[@CullenCraft]

This makes me really happy to hear. Thanks, JoJo!

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Good job guys. I understand the stress of this trial. People don’t realize how hard it is to bring it in and especially to back in. 😩

[@MakinNbreakin]

Beautiful man. That's a gorgeous boat, enjoy it in good health.

[@mikeg0802]

Proud of you man! A lot of work went into this!!

[@KevinLab010]

Great video buddy. Well done!

[@robertklinger1633]

Love your videos. Good for you for knowing what you want and getting it.

[@CullenCraft]

Thank you!

[@losingatthespeedoflight1832]

You did good and you had great encouragement good luck on the future endeavors

[@frankshubert8008]

I can relate to your passion and bonding that you make with your boat I always get butterflies when I'm taking her out though

[@frankshubert8008]

I love this guy's enthusiasm I've got a similar type boat with 454 and these older boats are a little harder to control next boat will have bow thrusters good luck man I'll keep following

[@alaskanglenn]

Take a USCG course on piloting/boat safety. Good info, even experienced guys take it again now and then.

[@noneyabizz4537]

best advice in the thread...saying that....I'm sure he will...he seems thorough in all he does

[@lydiatressler2248]

I love that you get so emotional , great job !

[@mrwright1969]

Congrats...it is a great feeling standing on the fly bridge as you motor down the water ways. (Chris Craft Constellation)

[@CullenCraft]

I love constellations! What year/length?

[@mrwright1969]

@@CullenCraft 41' X 14' (with fly bridge) counting boat only. Great vids....i have to get with you on your internet set up. I need to upgrade mine.

[@deadbugdoug4158]

Thank you for sharing your story young American. God is good...

[@OBC-radio]

Luckily I never had this experience. I started driving my dad’s boat when I was a little kid, and I was too young and excited to be nervous lol. Congrats!

[@victorsmith4911]

congrats nice video man and you had an excellent crew I can relate to the surreal feelings of pure happiness, joy and freedom that you were experiencing enjoy the rest of your summer you will become an expert at driving and fixing your boat and remember...boating is a way of life not a hobby

[@RuneDShyznit]

Congrats! So much effort paying off :)

[@lydiatressler2248]

You have some great friends there ! God bless you

[@bilgerat711]

Love your boat and now I want one of these!!!, well done and enjoy

[@CullenCraft]

Thank you! There were a few corinthians for sale around america last time checked. The ones in the postings need some love, but i can totally recommend them.

[@bilgerat711]

@@CullenCraft Probably a wee bit too far to ship one to New Zealand, sure we have Chris Crafts here also all the same however going to enoy watching your journey with yours, great stuff

[@lakeemmuhammad8256]

Congratulations and what a great accomplishment.

[@jeffpetrik8713]

Love your videos, you’ll remember this the rest of your life, congrats!

[@CullenCraft]

Thanks! That means a lot!

[@BrianMDIY]

Its funny. He's a nervous wreck, but you have to respect the effort and care being taken. With friends like that, you can do anything. Great video.

[@msacco175]

I can feel your nervousness. I been there with a 26 foot.

[@mrmrlee]

Hey I got super nervous taking my boat out the first time and I'm 50ish!!! You did a great job!

[@Chas1160]

She sounds wonderful. Nothing but fun. Always go out with someone with experience. You will eventually be just fine. Good job bro. I’m loving this video. I remember my first time too. Nothing better, fresh air, and. Good friends .Enjoy. Take a Basic Seamanship course with U. S. Coast Guard or Power Squadron Gives you the basics. Watch temperature gauges and oil gauges. My boat runs at 170 degrees and oil pressure about 40 lbs. Her sweet spot is. 3200-3400 RPM. Love the excitement. Your new home is fantastic.

[@CullenCraft]

Can't wait to get cable controls dialed in so I can really open her up!

[@Chas1160]

Dedelec always check oil prior to departure. The engines might burn a little oil if engines haven’t been running for a while. Go easy on the engines and don’t run them too long at high RPM’s. Ok, initially to get her up on plane but back down on the throttle down to sweet spot. I have a single engine 454 Mercruiser engine. Her sweet spot is 3200-3400 RPM. At 4000 RPM she is drinking fuel and working hard. Remember engine go against current, wind, and weight of boat. They are working really hard at 4000 RPM.

[@kayakchrispy]

Your crew is amazing

[@Chinkathon]

so Glad to see you doing what you want You really deserve it

[@theogdirkdiggler]

That was fun thanks for sharing. Taking your boat out for the first time is always a little stressful! But that docking maneuver was tricky with the current from the river. My experience with those old engines is that they tend to get vapor lock in the fuel lines when they get a little hot. Make sure your engine compartment fans are working good, maybe upgrade. Especially with those aspirated engines. They should be easily worked on and able to find parts.

[@gregorgman]

You have good, open water in that river, go out in the middle and practice so you can feel the motion of the boat changing direction based on what you do with the throttles/controls. We lived in Jacksonville and that current cant be tough so go out in the middle and practice, mostly WITHOUT the steering wheel!! You're doing great, it just takes some time to get comfortable and using the controls without steering will be a whole new world. Best of luck. PS: nobody is being critical in your comments, this just takes some time and you will build your own experience. I would wait till the tide is still and then mess with backing the boat, once you get the feel, the next step is with the tide moving in/out!!

[@mvhassallfree1031]

G'day from Australia, That was such a cool video to watch!!! welcome to the world of boating, I like your boat, and really enjoyed watching your your first real run. I can remember the first time I drove my boat from the marina where I purchased it, to my marina, It was the first time I had ever steered with just using the throttles ( incredibly easy to do now) but I was sweating bullets at the time, good luck and keep the videos coming

[@khill7359]

My gosh dude! You look sooo happy! Good for you man! Realize your dreams now while you are young! I remember bringing my 32' Carver "home", Totally nerve wracking......

[@CullenCraft]

😁

[@jont123]

Thanks for sharing. Good job.

[@bmmrrr]

been watching you....great job.....good friends on board

[@craigmorris4730]

Good for you man,I felt for you when emotionsj erupted ,You worked your ass off,and you a person who takes great pride in hardwork and accomplishment. I just feel the pride you have,.please be careful stay current to whether and coast guard..Enjoy your boat,you sacrificed a lot to get this far. HAPPY Boating..

[@paulww]

Congratulations! You'll experience different situations with every voyage, but soon you'll know how to handle whatever comes your way like second nature and wonder how you could have ever been nervous. (But do me a favor and always, ALWAYS, bring up your fenders at the commencement of every trip!) 🚢

[@robertkreamer7522]

A phenomenal accomplishment! Many many kudos , and your first boat , an excellent choice those older CC are built well. Would love to have permission to come aboard some day, been on the water for many decades but sold my boat when we moved to Jax area a few years ago as sailing seemed limited versus power. The current in the St Johns is very strong indeed.

[@slaphappy2112]

any time you want to meet up at the sanbar, I keep my boat just down the river from you under the matthews. Rock on dude nice boat

[@paulsmith8212]

Wonderful job! You have some fantastic friends! All the hard work pays off! Stay healthy & stay safe . Piloting your vessel will become easier with time .

[@Hotpink0113]

I'm so excited for you! I know you've worked so hard for this. Can you show on a map where you went?

[@TimHilll4U]

Cool Videos and love your home.. Just clicked the video to 1,000 thumbs up :)

[@CullenCraft]

Haha thanks!

[@jgacusana8976]

Great job since your near the Navy Bases I’ll call you from a Navy Vet. Your a SQUID SAILOR 👍