Ski-Dart 17ft (1960) Custom Built Wooden Boat

The 1960 Century Ski-Dart 17 is a lean and athletic classic runabout, designed specifically for the rigors of water skiing and high-speed lake activity. With its clean lines, low-profile hull, and functional open-cockpit layout, the Ski-Dart emphasizes performance over ornamentation. It is a quintessential "driver's boat," offering a raw and connected experience to the water that few vintage vessels can replicate. Our workshop builds faithful recreations of the 1960 Ski-Dart using premium marine Mahogany, Western Red Cedar, and Teak-reinforced with fiberglass cloth and sealed with high-grade marine epoxy. Each boat is handcrafted using traditional plank-on-frame methods, finished with multiple coats of marine spar varnish to highlight the natural beauty of the wood while providing a rugged, durable finish. The hardware is kept period-correct, focusing on the functional elegance original to the 1960 design. Typical build time ranges from 4-6 months depending on customization. General Characteristics: - Functional open cockpit optimized for gear and movement - Flat-bottom hull design for minimal wake and superior tracking - Mid-mounted inboard engine for ideal weight distribution - Classic vertical-slat mahogany transom Dimension: - Length Overall (LOA): 17ft - Beam: Approx. 6.8ft - Draft: Approx. 2ft - Passenger Capacity: Typically 5-6 persons - Original Power: Inline 6-cylinder or small V8 inboard Performance & Use: Designed for explosive holeshot power and precise handling, the Ski-Dart 17 is the perfect choice for active families and vintage ski enthusiasts. Its lightweight construction and powerful inboard drive make it an exceptional performer for towing, while its classic wood aesthetic ensures it remains a head-turner at any local dock or classic boat show. Disclaimer: Ski-Dart 17ft is a design by Century Boats. Wooden Boat USA is not affiliated with or endorsed by Century Boats in any way. The 1960 Century Ski-Dart 17 was introduced as the ultimate purpose-built machine for the burgeoning water skiing craze of the early sixties. Unlike the more ornate and heavy luxury cruisers of the time, the Ski-Dart was engineered with a focus on utility, agility, and a flat wake. It was a "no-nonsense" tow boat that offered Century's legendary wood craftsmanship in a lighter, more athletic package, making it an immediate favorite for ski schools and competitive enthusiasts who needed a reliable workhorse with a stylish edge. The 1960 model is particularly significant as it refined the Ski-Dart's hull for better tracking and stability during sharp turns. Built primarily with African Mahogany, it featured a minimalist interior to maximize floor space for ski gear and observers. While other Century models leaned into "Space Age" chrome and fins, the 1960 Ski-Dart remained a pure driver's boat-renowned for its rapid acceleration and the ability to pull multiple skiers with ease, cementing its legacy as one of the pioneers of the modern ski boat.