In detail Chris Craft Scorpion 230 restoration process of restoration with support of crowdfunding backers across world. We intend to restore these beauties to make them publicly available in Croatia and Malta for oldtimer boat tours and rent a boat.

From Rust to Past Glory: Your Support Brings the
Scorpion 230 LTD Back to Life For Public Use

“Sharing this project on social media, websites, forums, and other platforms is also a way to support us, and it would mean the world to us. Thank you.”

You can support this project on our official chris craft scorpion 230 crowdfund project.

Our Goals

At SkipperCro, our mission is to restore classic speedboats, such as the Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD, and reintroduce them as integral parts of public boat tours and excursions along Croatia's stunning Adriatic coast. By reviving these maritime treasures, we aim to offer unique, nostalgia-infused experiences that blend the timeless allure of vintage boating with the natural beauty of the Croatian seascape. Your support enables us to preserve maritime heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and create unforgettable adventures that echo the spirit of iconic routes like Route 66.

Rewards

As a token of our appreciation for your contribution to our restoration projects, we're excited to offer exclusive rewards:

• Early Access and Pre-Booking Opportunities: Be among the first to embark on our distinctive tours aboard the restored vintage speedboats. Your support grants you priority booking privileges, ensuring you secure a spot on these sought-after excursions.​

• Special Discounts: Enjoy reduced rates on our tours, exclusively available to our crowdfunding backers.​skippercro.com

• Behind-the-Scenes Updates: Receive regular insights into the restoration process, with detailed progress reports, photos, and stories that bring you closer to the heart of our mission.​

• Commemorative Merchandise: Depending on your level of support, receive limited-edition SkipperCro memorabilia, such as branded apparel or keepsakes, celebrating your role in bringing these classic vessels back to life.

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Our Tours

Once restored, our vintage speedboats will host a variety of exhilarating tours designed to immerse you in the Adriatic's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Here are some highlights:

• Born to Be Wild Speedboat Tour: An old-school rock cruise aboard a classic Chris-Craft speedboat, featuring whiskey tastings and pure adrenaline as you explore hidden gems along the coastline. ​

• The Outlaws Run Boat Excursion: Experience the thrill of a high-speed chase inspired by smuggler routes, uncovering hidden drop points and indulging in black-market whiskey tales. ​

• Dalton Highway Survival Speedboat Expedition: Test your limits on this survival-themed excursion where comfort is left behind, embracing the raw beauty of the sea and the challenges it presents. ​skippercro.com

Each tour is meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled adventure, combining the elegance of vintage boating with thematic experiences that resonate with the free-spirited essence of legendary journeys like Route 66. Your support not only aids in the restoration of these magnificent vessels but also ensures the continuation of unique, culturally rich excursions that celebrate both maritime history and the thrill of exploration.

A Story of Passion and Heritage: Why the Scorpion 230 LTD Means So Much to Us

Whenever We imagine the Scorpion 230 LTD gliding through the water, We feel like I’m stepping back into an era where power, elegance, and adventure defined boating. This boat represents more than just a vessel—it’s a living piece of history that transports us back to a time when every wave carried the promise of discovery and excitement. To me, it’s a symbol of all that I love about the sea and the timeless beauty of classic craftsmanship.

Before we started this project, my colleague and I spent countless hours researching the history and unique features of the Chris-Craft Scorpion series, imagining what it would be like to bring one of these classic boats back to life and witness the beauty of craftsmanship and engineering excellence from a bygone era. We both share a deep love for old things—engines, technology, and the traditional methods of creation that shaped the past. The intricate details, the sense of purpose embedded in every component of these boats, is something we deeply respect.

When we first saw the Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD, abandoned and forgotten on dry land, it was as if we’d stumbled upon a hidden treasure. It wasn’t just a boat—it was a symbol of past adventures and untold stories, waiting to be brought back into the light. To see such a beautiful, once highly valued vessel, filled with history and craftsmanship, left to decay in forests, junkyards, and backyards with no one to care for it was heart-wrenching.

We knew right away that we had to take action. Our mission is not only to restore this boat but to preserve the skills that made it possible, skills that are slowly disappearing in today’s world. Restoring a boat like the Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD requires a deep understanding of many traditional techniques—from engine mechanics and sewing to design, visualization, and woodworking. These crafts, once essential, have become rare today, but we are proud to have committed ourselves to learning and preserving them through this project.

The journey of restoration is far from easy. It’s not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about reviving a piece of history, and that comes with its own set of challenges. From navigating legal regulations that restrict renovations to the uncertainty of whether the boat will ever sail again, we face obstacles that sometimes feel insurmountable. There are financial hurdles that could threaten to halt the project at critical stages. But through it all, we remain united, choosing to push through every barrier. We are driven by the belief that this restoration must be completed, no matter the challenges ahead.

For me, as a professional captain who has lived and breathed maritime life for the past nine years, rescuing and preserving such boats is not just a hobby—it’s my life’s calling. Shipbuilding and seafaring aren’t merely professions for me; they are my passion, my love, and my mission. In Japanese culture, there is the concept of ikigai—a sense of purpose that arises from what you love, what you’re good at, and what the world needs. This project is my ikigai. It combines everything I love and live for because when the season ends, I always eagerly await my return to the sea, my true home.

As guardians of maritime heritage, we feel it is our mission to preserve this boat, return it to the water, and breathe life back into its story. But this restoration is more than just our story—it’s yours too. With your support, you become part of something bigger. You’re not just backing a restoration project; you’re helping to revive a piece of history, to create a living link to the past. Together, we can bring the Scorpion 230 LTD back to the sea where it belongs, a proud testament to maritime heritage, craftsmanship, and shared perseverance that connects us all.

Once we’ve restored this first boat, our dream expands. We plan to restore several more and open them for public tours across the Adriatic Sea, primarily along the Croatian coast. Our vision is to create a fleet of vintage Chris-Craft speedboats, stationed in the four most popular cities on the Adriatic: Pula, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik—key hubs for nautical and elite tourism. These cities are steeped in history and natural beauty, and there is no better way to experience them than by sailing aboard a piece of restored history. We’ll promote this fleet as a vintage collection, offering a one-of-a-kind experience to anyone looking to escape the ordinary. Imagine cruising along the coastline, feeling the wind in your hair as you take part in an adventure that blends the past with the present. Each ticket-selling post will prominently display the Chris-Craft brand, both physically and across our social media channels, inviting the world to reconnect with the beauty and elegance of classic boats.

We are currently organizing a crowd funding campaign to raise the necessary funds, as the cost of materials continues to rise daily in our region. Your contribution will help us overcome these hurdles and bring our vision to life. In return, our backers will have the unique opportunity to be directly involved in the restoration process, to join a community of restorers and vintage enthusiasts who are passionate about keeping these crafts alive. You’ll not only help restore a boat but will become part of a success story that is truly one-of-a-kind in the Southern European region.

We believe that backers like you—people who value history, adventure, and trying new experiences—will find immense joy in becoming part of this journey. You’re not just supporting a project; you’re stepping into a story that bridges the past with the future, creating something lasting and special. Imagine being able to say you helped restore a fleet of classic boats, that you’re part of a unique community dedicated to keeping these experiences alive.

With your help, we can turn the Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD into a proud example of maritime heritage and offer unforgettable tours along the Adriatic coast—tours that blend history, beauty, and adventure in a way that no other experience can. Your support in any form—whether financial or by sharing this project with others—keeps this journey alive and brings us closer to reviving the legacy of the Scorpion 230 LTD. Together, we can create something truly remarkable, something that will last for generations to come.

Neglect and First Impressions

As you can see in the pictures below, the Scorpion 230 LTD was left forgotten by its previous owner, parked at the edge of a forest near his backyard with no care given to this beautiful vessel. Remarkably, its hull had somehow stayed preserved from rot, but it was covered with vines and layers of vegetation. It took us around 20 hours of careful work just to clear away the overgrowth and prepare it for further inspection

Engine Issues and Internal Damage

After moving and thoroughly cleaning the Scorpion, we discovered that the engine was beyond functional, riddled with serious issues. From a damaged outboard motor to burnt-out water cooling and fuel pumps, the challenges were stacking up. The wiring leading to the cockpit was also significantly deteriorated from years of neglect. The main relay was seized with corrosion, and even the flaps and outboard hydraulics were completely malfunctioning.

Wiring and Cockpit Deterioration

The wiring leading to the cockpit showed extensive damage, deteriorated after years of neglect. The main relay was seized with corrosion, making electrical connections unreliable. Even the flaps and outboard hydraulics were nonfunctional, adding yet another layer of complexity to the restoration process.

Outboard Troubles

The Scorpion’s outboard motor revealed further severe issues. It couldn’t intake water through the openings near the propeller, and upon opening it up, we discovered that the impeller was completely worn out, encased in thick layers of corrosion that had built up over years of disuse.

Fuel Tank Concerns

Finally, just before we moved the boat to our workshop, we realized it was filled with water—a concerning discovery that raised immediate suspicions about the fuel tank. This 220-liter tank, likely corroded, would need to be replaced. New tanks cost approximately €10 per liter, and, after removing the deck to access the old tank, we found numerous small holes. The foam around the tank was saturated with gasoline fumes, confirming our worst fears.

Restoring this Scorpion will take more than time and effort; it requires dedication to preserving a piece of history that’s been overlooked for too long. But we’re ready to turn each challenge into an opportunity, bringing this classic boat back to life and giving it the care and respect it truly deserves.

The Time and Dedication Behind Restoring the Scorpion 230 LTD

Restoring a classic boat like the Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD is not just a labor of love—it’s an intricate and time-consuming process that demands skill, patience, and above all, dedication. From the moment we first laid eyes on the Scorpion, we knew it would require hundreds of hours of detailed work to bring it back to life, but the journey itself is something we embrace wholeheartedly.

With just two of us working on the restoration, we estimate that it will take approximately two months per boat, or roughly 400 working hours per person, to complete the restoration of each Scorpion 230 LTD—provided all the necessary finances and materials are in place. This is assuming full-time dedication, meaning that both my colleague and I will be fully immersed in the project, working tirelessly every day to ensure every detail is perfectly restored, from the engine to the hull, to the final touches of craftsmanship.

These 400 hours are not just about manual labor; they represent the time spent navigating the complexities of sourcing the right materials, overcoming unexpected challenges, and paying careful attention to the fine details that make a Chris-Craft boat so special. Every step of the restoration process, from sanding the wood and reviving the fiberglass hull to restoring the engine and the wiring, requires a meticulous approach. We are dedicated to ensuring that every part of the boat is not just restored, but brought back to its original glory—or better.

However, as much as we plan and prepare, restorations of this scale are rarely straightforward. There are always challenges that crop up—whether it’s the legal hurdles, unexpected wear and tear we discover along the way, or delays in sourcing rare materials. These factors can sometimes extend the timeframe, but we remain committed to seeing each restoration through to the end. What keeps us going is the knowledge that every hour we invest is another step closer to reviving a piece of history, and knowing that you—our supporters—are alongside us on this journey, makes all the difference.

With the right financial backing and your support, we can streamline this process, minimize delays, and dedicate ourselves fully to bringing these beautiful boats back to life. Together, we’ll not only restore one Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD but also build a legacy of vintage boats, each representing months of hard work, passion, and dedication.

A Journey into Boating History

The Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD isn’t just a boat—it’s a living piece of history, an embodiment of American craftsmanship from an era when speed, power, and elegance ruled the waters. Built in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Scorpion 230 LTD became a legend in sport boating, known for its unique combination of power, comfort, and durability, all wrapped in a timeless design. For those who appreciate its history, the Scorpion represents more than performance; it holds the spirit of discovery, the thrill of open water, and a sense of craftsmanship that feels almost sacred in today’s world.

Owning a part of the Scorpion’s legacy means being connected to something larger—a tradition of innovation and adventure that carries the stories of past voyages and the promise of new ones. Through this crowd funding campaign, we’re not just reviving a classic; we’re reigniting a legacy, celebrating a heritage that deserves to endure. This project is an invitation for you to join us in bringing a piece of history back to life, giving it a chance to inspire awe on the water once again.

Chris Craft scorpion 230 The Heart of a Legend

Core of the Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD’s spirit lies its deep-V hull—a design that transformed boating by making waves seem to melt away under its prow. This hull was crafted not just to navigate but to conquer the water, delivering unmatched stability and comfort, even in the roughest seas. Unlike many boats of its time, the Scorpion’s design absorbs the impact of waves, giving everyone on board a smooth, exhilarating ride, whether they’re racing along the shoreline or enjoying a peaceful family outing.

Every curve and contour of the Chris Craft Scorpion tells the story of Chris-Craft’s dedication to excellence. The hull is constructed from hand-laid, multi-layered fiberglass, chosen not only for its strength but for the skill it represents. This attention to detail ensured that the Chris Craft Scorpion 230 wasn’t just built to endure; it was crafted to perform with grace and control at high speeds, standing out as a masterpiece among its peers. This is not simply a boat—it’s a testament to a tradition of engineering that values both form and function.

The Heartbeat of the Scorpion Chris Craft Scorpion 230

Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD’s power is a marinized Chevrolet V8 5.7-liter engine, meticulously adapted by MerCruiser, one of the most trusted names in marine propulsion. This engine doesn’t just propel the Scorpion; it brings it to life with a strength that embodies endurance and resilience. Producing between 260 and 300 horsepower, this engine isn’t just about speed—it’s about the thrill that comes from feeling the raw power beneath you, knowing it’s as reliable as it is exciting. It’s the heartbeat of the Scorpion, promising not only exhilarating speed but decades of dependable performance.

MerCruiser’s enhancements, from corrosion-resistant materials to advanced cooling systems, ensure that this engine will weather the harshest conditions, just as the boat itself was designed to do. This powerful combination allows the Scorpion to reach speeds exceeding 50 mph, making it perfect for watersports or simply embracing the rush of open water.

Balance and Precision: A Symphony in Motion

Every inch of the Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD reflects Chris-Craft’s commitment to precision and balance. The engine’s placement—positioned mid-to-rear—optimizes weight distribution, creating a seamless harmony between power and control. This isn’t just a boat that moves; it’s a vessel that dances over the water, merging high performance with an effortless grace that offers peace of mind to everyone on board.

The Scorpion’s exceptional power-to-weight ratio was groundbreaking in its class, offering lightning-quick acceleration and impressive top-end speed—all while maintaining the stability and comfort that made this boat so beloved. It’s not just a vehicle; it’s a carefully crafted experience, meant to make every journey a lasting memory and every ride an unforgettable thrill.

Craftsmanship and Comfort: A Boat Made for Lasting Memories

Beyond its powerful engine and unmatched handling, the Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD’s interior was crafted with care and purpose, designed to create memories that would last a lifetime. The spacious bow rider seating invites laughter, stories, and shared experiences, whether during family outings or days spent adventuring with friends. The interior’s premium marine-grade vinyl upholstery was selected for its resilience, built to withstand saltwater, UV rays, and the natural wear of life on the water, ensuring that comfort and elegance endure.

From the chrome-trimmed analog gauges on the dashboard to the precisely stitched upholstery, every detail speaks of Chris-Craft’s commitment to quality. This boat wasn’t just built to perform; it was built to be a place where memories are crafted and cherished, year after year.

Timeless Chris Craft Scorpion 230

The Scorpion 230 LTD is a legend of durability. While many boats from the 1970s and 1980s surrendered to the elements, the Scorpion has stood firm, a testament to the strength of its hand-laid fiberglass hull and meticulous construction. This boat was built to last, to weather years of sun, salt, and surf without a single compromise in structural integrity.

Paired with its reliable Chevrolet V8 engine, the Scorpion wasn’t just made for a few summers of fun; it was crafted to endure decades of high-performance adventures. Today, owning a Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD means holding a piece of history a symbol of Chris-Craft’s legacy of excellence and their dedication to creating vessels that stand the test of time.

Distinctive Style and Heritage

The Chris-Craft Scorpion 230 LTD isn’t just a boat—it’s an icon. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile combined with bold 1980s color schemes made it a head-turner from day one, commanding attention both on the water and at the dock. Decades later, the Scorpion still holds its timeless charm, thanks to its elegant lines and high-quality materials that have allowed it to age gracefully. Every aspect of the design, from the precision of the chrome fixtures to the flawless finish of the hull, reflects Chris-Craft’s dedication to detail. The Scorpion remains a standout in any marina, as captivating today as it was in its heyday.

Join Us in Bringing the Scorpion 230 LTD Back to Life

Supporting this project means more than contributing to a boat restoration; it’s a way to preserve a piece of maritime history, a legacy of adventure, innovation, and American craftsmanship. The Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD is more than fiberglass and an engine; it deserves to live on as a symbol of freedom and thrill. With your support, we can give this classic boat a new life, returning it to its rightful place on the water, where it can once again inspire awe. Together, let’s bring the legacy of the Chris Craft Scorpion 230 LTD back to life for future generations to experience and cherish.

Campaign Rewards: A Personal Connection to Chris Craft History

As a backer, you’ll have the rare opportunity to become a part of this legacy and to build story directly with us. Through exclusive behind-the-scenes content, you’ll be with us for every step of the restoration, receiving personalized updates that bring you into the process of returning the Scorpion 230 LTD to life. For higher-tier backers, you’ll have the chance to experience the boat firsthand, with special invitations to take part in its inaugural voyages, celebrating the rebirth of a true maritime legend.