Project:
Crest Caliber
Crest Caliber
/Crest/Caliber
Project:
05. -
Crest Caliber
Overview
As the Director of Design at Crest Pontoon Boats, I development of the Crest Caliber series (introduced in 2017, with models like the 230 and 250 Caliber, featuring tri-toon configurations for enhanced performance). This innovative pontoon boat was designed to blend the high-speed performance and sleek and modern styling of a sport boat with the spacious luxury and comfort of a traditional pontoon, redefining the category for enthusiasts seeking thrills and sport boat aesthetics. The Caliber targeted active boaters, families, and watersports lovers who desire agile handling, wakeboard capabilities, and premium amenities. It emphasized sporty aesthetics with dynamic lines, an integrated wakeboard arch, and powerful outboard options delivering speeds over 50 mph while accommodating 10–13 passengers with versatile seating and storage.
Contribution I lead the design of the Crest Caliber, focusing on its sporty yet modern identity. This included creating detailed profile and plan view renderings to visualize the dynamic styling, comfortable layout options, and feature integration. I developed the 3D models for all components (console, seat bases, exterior fence and fiberglass components, as well as arch mounts), ensuring modularity for easy configurations and manufacturing efficiency. My work emphasized seamless blending of sharp lines with soft curves for an automotive-inspired aesthetic, while prioritizing structural integrity and premium fit. Additionally, I led the interior design by developing upholstery seating concept drawings that explored ergonomic layouts, supportive contours, seat designs, and stylish stitching patterns). I also led material selection for the upholstery, choosing high-quality marine-grade vinyl’s, foams for enhanced comfort and longevity, and coordinating accents to complement the sport-luxury theme—ensuring the seating delivered exceptional comfort and a cohesive upscale feel that elevated the onboard experience and perception of a pontoon.
Outcome The Crest Caliber received widespread acclaim as a game-changer in the pontoon market, with reviews highlighting its sport boat-like performance, luxurious amenities, and eye-catching design—often called the “hottest pontoon on the market.” It contributed to Crest’s growth as the fastest-growing pontoon brand, appealing to buyers seeking excitement without sacrificing comfort. Although market shifts influenced later lineups, the Caliber’s success solidified its legacy. This project demonstrates my expertise in performance marine design, innovative integration of sport and luxury elements, and delivering models that drive brand innovation and market expansion.
