Extensive interior restoration was completed aboard this classic 1964 Chris-Craft Constellation. When we arrived, the entire interior of the 57′ cabin cruiser was finished in its original mustard yellow stain, and topped with varnish that had dulled over time. Leaking hatches and windows had caused staining and rot in several areas, and the overall aesthetic no longer suited the owners’ vision. As part of a major refit, they sought a cleaner, more modern interior in preparation for the yacht’s new role as a charter vessel.

Before any restoration began, all areas not being worked on were meticulously masked and protected. An essential step, as the yacht had already received new white carpeting and headliners. With the interior protected, the existing stain and finish were carefully stripped and hand-sanded throughout. This was a significant undertaking due to the large surface area inside, and also on the plywood panels, where only a thin mahogany veneer remained. In areas compromised by rot and water damage, new mahogany panels and trim were fabricated to match the original joinery.

Working closely with the owners, new stain colors were sampled and selected to achieve the desired look. Once approved, stain was applied and built up with a minimum of eight coats of high gloss varnish. Each coat was sanded smooth before the next, resulting in a deep, glossy finish that transformed the interior from dated to modern while preserving the yacht’s classic character.