RealTruck, MasterCraft Restore Iconic Boat & Build Custom Truck to Match

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, MasterCraft Boat Company and RealTruck announced a one-of-a-kind collaboration featuring a reimagined and customized Chevrolet Colorado paired with the restoration of MasterCraft’s iconic 1975 “Stars & Stripes” ski boat, company officials stated in a press release.

The pairing will serve as the centerpiece of a charitable fundraising effort benefiting Building Homes for Heroes, a national nonprofit that builds and modifies homes and gifts them, mortgage-free, to veterans and first responders. As Building Homes for Heroes marks its 20th anniversary in 2026, the organization will reach its milestone 500th home before the end of the year, and anticipates reaching a record 50 homes constructed, modified and gifted in 2026.

A Tribute to MasterCraft’s Iconic Tournament Ski Boat

Originally introduced in the 1970s, the MasterCraft Stars & Stripes helped establish the company as a leader in the towboat industry and became synonymous with competitive water skiing. Featuring a patriotic red, white and blue design, the tournament ski boat helped define the standard for waterski performance during its era and remains one of the most sought-after MasterCraft classics among collectors and enthusiasts today, noted the release.

“Few boats are as closely tied to MasterCraft’s heritage as the beloved Stars & Stripes models,” said Krista Schipner, senior vice president of marketing and communications for MasterCraft Boat Holdings Inc. “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we’re proud to restore this iconic boat and pair it with a custom Chevrolet Colorado. Together with RealTruck, we’ve created a tribute to American craftsmanship that honors our shared values, inspires adventure, and gives back to those who have served our country.”

Custom Chevrolet Colorado Build Details

Inspired by the classic two-tone paint jobs of a 1985 square-body Chevy truck and building on the 1975 MasterCraft Stars & Stripes boat theme, the distinctive color of the customized Chevrolet Colorado is a fusion of design and style that forms a striking combination on both land and water, the company said. From its Ohio-made RealTruck’s A.R.E. Z2 Cap to the America 250 flag prominently placed on the roof, every detail was chosen to celebrate American innovation and patriotism. The truck also features the RealTruck A.R.E. Rod Pods (pole holders), A.R.E. Ascend Roof Basket, Elevate Rack and Go Rhino Xplor Lighting, and a DECKED Storage System.

“RealTruck and MasterCraft offer a natural collaboration, fusing two brands known for elevating outdoor adventures and enhancing life’s greatest moments,” said RealTruck vice president of marketing Lee Riser. “Bringing this truck to life is a testament to our ongoing commitment to American innovation and aftermarket truck customization.”

Warren Zeiders Joins the Cause

Country music star Warren Zeiders has joined the initiative as an official partner. A passionate collector of classic vehicles, a truck enthusiast and an avid boater and outdoorsman, Zeiders brings an authentic connection to the collaboration, according to the release. His support for military and first responder organizations further strengthens the project’s philanthropic efforts.

As part of the partnership, Zeiders will leverage his expansive social media following to help raise awareness for the initiative and engage fans around the opportunity to own the one-of-a-kind, America-themed truck-and-boat pairing. In addition to taking home the custom build, the eventual winner will also receive VIP concert tickets, an exclusive meet-and-greet experience with Zeiders and a personally signed guitar.

“This project brings together several things I’m passionate about. I’m an avid boater and a longtime fan of classic trucks and cars, so getting involved was an easy decision,” said Zeiders. “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, it’s an honor to support an initiative that supports our military and first responders while celebrating the craftsmanship and ingenuity that have long been part of the American story. Giving back is one of the most meaningful ways we can show up for one another, and I’m proud to be part of something that will make a real difference.”

Where to See It

The truck-and-boat pairing will go on a roadshow and be unveiled at numerous high-profile events, including the American Century Championship Celebrity Golf Tournament from July 8-12 in Lake Tahoe, displayed at Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas in September, SEMA 2026 in November and Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale in January 2027.

Additional details on how to participate and have a chance to take home the truck and boat will be announced at a later date.