Sunsation Expanding Lamination Capacity, Considering 39-Foot Center Console

With several orders for its new 32 CCX center-console in addition those for other models in the CCX series, Sunsation Boats is in the process of expanding its lamination department. That’s the word from Wayne Schaldenbrand, one of the owners of the Algonac, Mich., performance center console and sportboat company.

“We have a whole rash of 32s coming through here including one with triple Verado 400 outboards for the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout,” he said. “We’re only using half the space we have in our lamination department, so we’re going to double it. Usually, expansion projects like this become pretty complicated but I brought in a specialist and this one actually looks simpler than I thought it was going to be.”

Still in the early planning stages, Sunsation’s 39-footer will resemble its 34 CCX model (above).

The extra space to lay-up boats could be particularly handy if the company adds a 39-footer to its center console line as planned. The new CCX model currently is in its very early stages of development, which includes hull design by Tres Martin, who has consulted with Sunsation on several projects and is the founder and owner of the Performance Boat School that bears his name.

“We may have the plug cut at Vector Works in Florida or possibly at a local place that does a lot of automotive work,” said Schaldenbrand. “Basically, we’re look at something similar to the 34 CCX but five feet longer with lounge seating the front, which is so popular in the 32, and a single door in the back. We’re adding four feet to the back of the boat and only one foot to the front, so we’re being very careful with the design and styling so it doesn’t look too ‘cab forward.’

“It’s in the really early stages,” he added. “I’m still putting together a pro forma on exactly what it’s going to cost to bring it to market.”

Schaldenbrand also said that he’s designing the hardtop for the CCX 34 with a “pickle fork” shape and molded-in speakers, and that the new top will be significantly lighter than the existing version. A version of the new top, he said, also could find its way onto the planned 39-footer.

Related stories

Sunsation Building Triple Verado 400R Outboard-Powered 32-Foot Center Console
A Year in the Making: Sunsation’s 32 CCX