PERFORMANCE CRUISER
You can have incredible performance and luxurious interiors, and the Wellcraft 355 is a testament to this new class of boat, combining American muscle with European flair.
The US-built Wellcraft 355 is not just a boat, it is an embodiment of opulence, innovation, and sheer power. With over six decades of boatbuilding expertise, Wellcraft has artfully blended design, cutting-edge technology, and relentless performance to create a vessel that sets a new standard in the world of boating. This new Wellcraft 355 is designed for those who seek an elevated experience on the water.
Sitting proudly on the marina outside MW Marine in Sydney Harbour, the first Wellcraft 355 in Australia cut an imposing figure. The luxury is hidden behind a sleek and sporty exterior.
At first glance it looked the perfect boat for the harbour, where we would test it, but also beyond – a boat with the ability to head offshore in all sorts of conditions, taking you to places you’d only dreamed of visiting. It is the type of boat for exploring vast chunks of the coastline.
Orakei Marine in New Zealand certainly thinks so, having also secured a Wellcraft 355 for New Zealand, known for its rugged sea conditions. Robust, with outboard performance and supreme comfort, Orakei Marine is confident Wellcraft’s 355 will fit the bill in New Zealand as well.
Stepping aboard the Wellcraft 355, you’re immediately struck by the meticulous attention to detail that defines this vessel. Every curve, every line, every feature has been carefully conceived to create a seamless harmony of form and function. This is where luxury, versatility and functionality come together.
INTERIOR
The cabin of the Wellcraft 355 exudes craftsmanship. Impeccable materials, exquisite finishes, and intelligent layouts come together to create an elegant and comfortable space. The spacious saloon beckons you to unwind and relax, offering the perfect retreat after a day on the water.
Our southern oceans can be your ally one moment and your adversary the next. The Wellcraft, more so than many other similarly-styled boats, combines plenty of rugged, dependable deck space with the hull performance for thrilling waterborne adventures. And when the going gets tough, you can sit inside in complete comfort, letting the strongly-built hull do its work dancing across the waves.
The cabin of the Wellcraft 355 has been thoughtfully designed. Premium materials and finishes are used throughout, creating an atmosphere of luxury and comfort. The sensible layout maximises space and functionality, making it a versatile living space for extended daytrips or weekend getaways.
One standout feature is a top-hinged window opening onto to the cockpit and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. By upping the boat’s sociability quotient, it’s the perfect complement to a day spent on the water with friends or family.
Whether you’re relaxing in the saloon or preparing a meal in the well-appointed galley, you’ll appreciate the thought that has gone into every aspect of the boat’s interior. The cabin features ample storage space, comfortable seating, and high-quality fixtures and fittings.
Outside, it is a different story. The bow of the Wellcraft 355 is a dedicated space for relaxation and enjoyment. With comfortable seating and unobstructed views, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the sun, enjoy a drink, or simply take in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you’re anchored in a quiet cove or cruising along the coastline, the bow of the 355 offers a peaceful retreat.
The cockpit is purposefully left open and wash-down-friendly. Rugged yet comfortable, it’s perfect for fishing with deep gunwales and a non-slip floor. There’s space along the sides for a couple of fishers to haul in kingfish, snapper, or whatever takes your fancy, and the gunwales offer excellent thigh support. For those looking for even more fun, a water sports tower and easy access into the water allow for deploying inflatables and diving with ease.
Once the fun is out of the way, a well-appointed forward cabin containing a large berth and separate ensuite is much too beautiful to lie in if you are covered in fish. Fortunately, you can clean up first in the ensuite, which has a separate toilet and shower. Space below decks is generous with good head height and ample room around the base of the bed.
Safety is paramount on the Wellcraft 355. The vessel is equipped with the latest navigation and safety systems to ensure peace of mind on every voyage.
The comprehensive electronics package at the helm includes GPS, radar, and communication systems that provide real-time information about your surroundings. In addition, the vessel is equipped with safety features such as automatic fire suppression systems and emergency flotation devices, ensuring that you and your passengers are always well-protected.
Whether you’re navigating through crowded harbours or venturing into unfamiliar waters, you can rely on the 355’s advanced technology to keep you safe.ou safe.
ON THE WATER
Complementing its sleek exterior, the Wellcraft 355 boasts powerful triple outboard propulsion. Its state-of-the-art Mercury outboards deliver exceptional speed, agility, and handling. Whether you’re cruising at a leisurely pace or pushing the throttle to its limit, the 355 responds with precision and power.
One of the standout features of the Wellcraft 355 is its non-stepped hull design, which carries the beam much further forward. This, coupled with a spacious pilothouse and an offset deck layout, contributes to the vessel’s remarkable volume and stability. The hull design, conceived by the renowned Michael Peters, ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even in challenging conditions.
On the water, the Wellcraft 355 truly shines. Its powerful 300hp V8 engines provide exhilarating speed and acceleration, allowing you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently while the hull design offers exceptional stability and control, even at high speeds. A Wellcraft’s ability to slice through chop and waves is, of course, legendary, and the 355 shows off this pedigree – even improves on it.
The Wellcraft 355 handles like a dream, responding to throttle, trim and helm inputs with precision. Whether you’re cruising along the coast, exploring remote islands, or engaging in water sports, this vessel offers a thrilling and enjoyable boating experience.
The helm station is a masterpiece of ergonomic design with everything within easy reach and a comprehensive electronics package that keeps you informed and connected.
Visibility from the helm is exceptional, thanks to the expansive windscreen and well-placed windows. There’s a clear view of the horizon, making navigation a breeze. The helm seats are designed for comfort during long journeys, and the intuitive layout of controls ensures that you can operate the vessel easily and in comfort.
CONCLUSION
The Wellcraft 355 Commuter showcases the company’s maritime engineering and design chops. It combines opulence, innovation, and power to create a vessel that exceeds expectations in every way.
Whether you are seeking a luxurious retreat, a thrilling adventure on the water, or both, the 355 delivers in style.
