Evander Jones
Some boats are more than just watercraft—they’re floating treasures with stories that still make waves. Whether it’s sleek design, racing glory, or pure luxury, these vintage beauties have earned their spot as high-value collectibles. Let’s take a ride through the tales (and prices) of these ten classics.
Chris-Craft 1948 20′ Custom Runabout
Back in post-war America, this Chris-Craft was the boat everyone wanted to be seen in. Made of rich mahogany with chrome details, it oozes style and power. Today, it can fetch anywhere between $50,000 and $150,000, depending on its condition and restoration quality.
Riva Aquarama
This is the Italian Riviera from the 1960s, and finding one today means dropping anywhere from $250,000 to over $1 million for pristine models. The Riva Aquarama was built for the jet set. Movie stars and millionaires loved its luxury and speed.
Hacker-Craft 1930s 26′ Runabout
The Hacker-Craft 26′ Runabout is a wonder of 1930s craftsmanship. Its classic, hand-built quality still captivates collectors. A fully restored model can easily sell for $100,000 to $250,000, especially those with a documented history or original parts.
Lyman 1957 23′ Runabout
The 1957 Lyman Runabout was a favorite among boaters who loved stability, style, and a dry ride. Restored models often sell for $20,000 to $50,000 today. The runabout’s lapstrake planking (overlapping wooden boards) gave it high durability, making it perfect for fishing trips on the Great Lakes or lazy afternoons on the water.
Boston Whaler 1960s Nauset
$25,000 to $60,000 is a small price for peace of mind on the water. The Boston Whaler Nauset, part of the ‘unsinkable’ legend series, was built to stay afloat on rough waters. There were foam-filled hulls that made it virtually unsinkable—a go-to choice for lifeguards and adventurers.
Amphicar Model 770
Why choose between land and water when you can have both? The Amphicar 770, built in the 1960s, drove like a car and floated like a boat. Approximately only 3,878 units were made, and collectors eagerly pay between $60,000 and $100,000 to own this piece of history.
Correct Craft 1965 Ski Nautique
Water skiing took off in the 1960s, and the Ski Nautique led the charge with its fiberglass hull. Vintage models with less-used looks often sell for $20,000 to $50,000. It’s no wonder skiing enthusiasts still cherish these early towboats.
Century 1950s 22′ Resorter
A stunning example of post-war luxury is the Century 22′ Resorter. Its smooth wood and fiberglass design hints at the mid-century refinement. If you can find a well-restored model today, expect to pay anywhere between $50,000 and $120,000.
Garwood 1930s 21′ Runabout
This one’s a beautiful relic from the 1930s that continues to draw the eyes of collectors. If the condition is good and the history is rich, Garwood boats can easily sell for $75,000 to $175,000. It’s a prized find for people who’re looking for a real gem with 1930s craftsmanship.
Riva Tritone
The Riva Tritone is a dream boat for collectors who admire power and history. Its stunning wooden body made waves in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, a well-maintained Riva Tritone can fetch $200,000 to $500,000. This boat hints at the high society class of that time.
