Crest Continental
Crest Continental
/Crest/Continental
Project:
03. -
Crest Continental
Overview
As the Director of Design at Crest Pontoon Boats, I led the development of the Crest Continental series (introduced around 2015, with models like the 250 Continental and evolving into the Continental NX line), a groundbreaking luxury pontoon that addressed a key user and dealer need for enhanced protection and a more refined, sporty experience. The primary innovation was the integration of a full glass (wraparound/walk-through) windshield directly into the side rails/fence, creating an industry-first feature that blurs the line between traditional pontoons and high-performance fiberglass sport boats. This design delivers the spacious, social layout of a pontoon with the wind protection, reduced noise, and sleek aesthetics of a luxury cruiser, allowing it to compete directly with fiberglass boats.
Contribution I managed the project from inception through to the completion of two prototypes. I created detailed profile renderings showcasing the fully integrated windshield in the side rail, highlighting its functional and aesthetic advantages. I selected premium vinyl, foam, and other materials, and produced component renderings for the boat’s luxurious interior. Additionally, I developed the comprehensive 3D model used to build plugs and fiberglass molds for production, ensuring precise fit, structural integrity, and seamless integration of all components.
Outcome The Crest Continental series received widespread acclaim as an innovative breakthrough, earning praise in reviews for its cruiser-like ride, exceptional protection, and bold styling—often described as turning heads and redefining what a pontoon can be. It established Crest as a leader in luxury performance pontoons, appealing to buyers seeking elevated features without sacrificing space. This project demonstrates my expertise in marine innovation, full-cycle project management, integrated design solutions, and delivering transformative products that compete across categories.
