Design meets performance.
By Ken Kreisler
Since 1965, performance has always been a large part of the Chaparral ethos, and to that end, the SSX 8 offers Mercury and Volvo V8 power options from 380 to 430 hp.
Photos Courtesy of Chaparral
This range of horsepower options and manufacturers gives prospective owners the flexibility to choose the performance that best suits their boating style, whether cruising or enjoying watersports. Adding to that is the extended V-plane hull, enabling the boat to deliver controlled movements through the water.
The Chaparral SSX 8 is a smart-looking boat that is sure to be a head-turner whether at the dock or on the water. From her distinctive, modern hardtop to a stainless steel-framed windshield, the SSX 8 is a fully packaged dayboat. You’ll find more than ample seating both aft and fore, in the deep well bow. New this year on the 2026 model is Chaparral’s use of marine silicone upholstery featuring SIO Technology. Free of chemical additives, the material offers superior durability, is resistant to scuffing and scratching, and is quite soft to the touch. The helm features a single, 12-inch Simrad NSS4 chartplotter/multifunction color touchscreen display with a SonarHub Sounder and a SS60 transducer.
For safe entry and exit from the water, this boat offers the company’s patented Infinity Power Step. Once the engines are shut off, the pair of steps can be lowered into the water from the swim platform with the touch of a button, enabling safe and easy access to the water. Once done swimming, press the button again to retract the steps back into the platform.
Choose from a long list of color options for both the exterior and interior, a fully enclosed head compartment, bow seating with storage, a molded-in, insulated ice chest, along with lots of other extras, and your Chaparral SSX 8 will be a personal statement of ownership.
Specifications
- LOA (w/swim platform): 28′
- Beam: 8’6″
- Draft (up): 25″
- Weight (w/engines): 5,900 lbs.
- Fuel Capacity: 80 gals.
- Water Capacity: 15 gals.
- Max Power: 430 hp
- MSRP: $229,650
- Website: chaparralboats.com
DEALERS
- Pier 33
St. Joseph, MI
pier33.com - Irish Boat Shop
Traverse City, MI; Harbor Springs, MI; Charlevoix, MI
irishboatshop.com - Sun Sport Marine Harrison
Township, MI
sunsportmarine.net - Krenzer Marine
Sodus Point, NY
krenzermarine.com





