Chris-Craft elevates the boating experience with a reimagined Launch 27 designed for effortless enjoyment
Rhea-AI Summary
Chris-Craft (WGO) unveiled a redesigned Launch 27, debuting at the Miami International Boat Show Feb 11–15, 2026. The next-generation model features a new hull, refreshed interior, upgraded materials, a Garmin 1543 XSV Ultrawide helm display, optional power Bimini, premium JL Audio options, and expanded storage and seating.
The Launch 27 emphasizes refined comfort, modern technology integration, and classic Chris-Craft styling, with a full-beam swim platform, teak accents, folding cockpit steps, and concealed Bimini design.
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News Market Reaction
On the day this news was published, WGO declined 1.74%, reflecting a mild negative market reaction.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
Key Figures
Market Reality Check
Peers on Argus
WGO was down 0.49% while key peers were mixed: MBUU +1.56%, MCFT -0.59%, MPX +0.86%, LCII +1.24%, PII +2.59%. With no peers in the momentum scanner and no same-day peer headlines, the move appeared more company-specific than sector-driven.
Historical Context
| Date | Event | Sentiment | Move | Catalyst |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 22 | Innovation award | Positive | -3.9% | Barletta Boats wins 2026 innovation award for pontoon stabilization technology. |
| Jan 21 | Tech partnership | Positive | +4.9% | Seakeeper Ride partnership brings stabilization tech to Barletta pontoons. |
| Jan 14 | Product showcase | Positive | +0.0% | New RV models and features highlighted at Florida RV SuperShow. |
| Jan 13 | ESG report | Positive | +3.0% | 2025 Corporate Responsibility Report outlines ESG progress and goals. |
| Dec 19 | Earnings results | Positive | +8.4% | Q1 FY26 results show revenue growth, margin gains and raised guidance. |
Recent positive news (innovation awards, partnerships, earnings beat) has more often aligned with positive price reactions, though one innovation-related headline saw a selloff.
Over the last few months, WGO news has focused on innovation, brand showcases, ESG progress, and financial recovery. An innovation award for Barletta Boats on Jan 22, 2026 saw shares fall 3.94%, while a Seakeeper Ride partnership the prior day saw a 4.93% gain. Corporate responsibility highlights on Jan 13, 2026 coincided with a 2.95% rise. Strong Q1 fiscal 2026 results on Dec 19, 2025 drove an 8.43% move higher, underscoring sensitivity to financial milestones.
Market Pulse Summary
This announcement highlights continued product innovation in WGO’s marine portfolio, with the reimagined Launch 27 emphasizing upgraded design, comfort, and integrated technology, such as the Garmin 1543 XSV display. Recent history shows the stock reacting most strongly to concrete financial milestones, including Q1 fiscal 2026 results and raised guidance, while innovation and ESG news have had mixed effects. Investors may watch how this and other launches convert into revenue growth and margin performance across upcoming quarters.
Key Terms
bimini top technical
sonar technical
AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.
America’s Boatbuilder introduces redesigned boat with sleek new hull, interior design and technology at Miami International Boat Show
MIAMI, Feb. 09, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Chris-Craft, America’s Boatbuilder Since 1874, will unveil the all-new Launch 27 at the Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show®, February 11–15 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Reimagined from bow to stern, the next-generation Launch 27 blends modern performance with timeless design, offering boaters a more refined, more connected and more effortless experience on the water.
For more than 25 years, the Launch 27 has been one of the most beloved models in the Chris-Craft portfolio—known for its iconic silhouette, smooth ride and unmistakable craftsmanship. The newly redesigned model elevates everything owners love: richer materials, enhanced comfort, and advanced technology that brings luxury and usability together in a fresh, contemporary expression of a Chris-Craft classic.
“The Launch 27 has long been an iconic model in the Chris-Craft portfolio, and we set out to thoughtfully reimagine the boat—building upon its timeless foundation of classic elegance, design excellence, and exceptional craftsmanship,” said Ron Berman, engineering lead at Chris-Craft. “Our goal was to seamlessly integrate the latest marine technologies to elevate performance, comfort and the overall on-water experience.
The exterior design of the Launch 27 has a sleek sporty profile, combining stainless steel, teak and hardware for an elegant appearance. A cross-curve glass windshield blends seamlessly into the design.
The interior is spacious with abundant seating and puts passenger experience above all else. Every detail of the upholstery design has been elevated. The cockpit includes folding steps with grab rail system that provide easy access to and from the cockpit. Additionally, the cockpit includes large storage compartments beneath the seat cushions, a teak table and recessed side storage with cup holders and accent lighting. Wrap around seating in the bow area provides a spacious and comfortable seating arrangement. Standard on the Launch 27 is a concealed Bimini top that stows neatly out of sight when not in use, ensuring maximum comfort without compromising the boat’s clean lines. For the first time, customers can also opt for a power Bimini that deploys at the push of a button—an innovative feature designed to make time on the water easier and more enjoyable.
The Launch 27’s helm provides the feeling of driving a sports car with classic and sporty touchpoints. The Innovative Chris-Craft User interface elevates the experience with a new Garmin 1543 XSV Ultrawide display that allows for audio, switching, engine data, sonar and navigation information integration in a single Interface. The standard audio system includes a Fusion source unit and 4 JL Sport grill M3 speakers. The available premium audio system delivers an elevated listening experience, featuring custom‑tuned JL Audio speakers engineered exclusively for Chris‑Craft.
Celebrated for bringing the family together in style, the boat features a full beam wrap around swim platform with a manual swim step and safety interlock function. The engine hatch includes fixed sun pads and removable center section for easy access to the cockpit.
“As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday this year, it’s worth noting that the Chris-Craft story is an American story,” said Chris-Craft President Steve Heese. “For more than 150 years, we have carved out a proud place in our nation’s history and in the hearts of boat lovers around the world. We are committed to building on this legacy by investing in new technologies and designs that expand our offerings and upholding the Chris-Craft standards of excellence in boat design,”
For more information about the Launch 27 from Chris-Craft, visit www.chriscraft.com. To see the boat at its world debut at the Miami International Boat Show, please visit the Miami Beach Convention Center – MB 1966.
ABOUT CHRIS-CRAFT
Chris-Craft, America's Boatbuilder Since 1874, leads the industry in craftsmanship and quality which represents the company's enduring devotion to its proud past. Chris-Craft is headquartered in Sarasota, Florida and has developed the following sterndrive and outboard power boat models for the 2026 Collection: The Sportster, Launch, Launch GT, Calypso and the Catalina; which range in length from 25 to 35 feet. For more information, please visit: www.chriscraft.com. Chris-Craft is a fully owned subsidiary of Winnebago Industries (NYSE: WGO), a 68-year-old manufacturer of innovative outdoor lifestyle products.
For more information, contact:
Allison Scharnow, Chris-Craft
+1 (305) 360-6821 | allison@chriscraft.com
FAQ
When will Chris-Craft (WGO) unveil the redesigned Launch 27 at the Miami International Boat Show?
What new helm technology does the Chris-Craft Launch 27 (WGO) include?
Does the 2026 Chris-Craft Launch 27 (WGO) offer a power Bimini option and what benefit does it provide?
What audio and comfort features are standard or available on the Chris-Craft Launch 27 (WGO)?
How does the redesigned Launch 27 (WGO) improve passenger access and storage?
