Built to push limits, made to explore together — that’s how Wellcraft is describing its brand-new 28-footer, a bold and versatile addition to its growing offshore lineup. At 8.56 metres (28 feet) overall, this sleek model targets the heart of the active dayboating segment, offering comfort, capability, and plenty of sociable spirit.
It’s a boat made for today’s explorer — whether you’re casting lines with mates, heading off with the family for an overnight on the coast, or chasing sunshine and solitude around the islands. And beneath it all lies a pedigree of engineering and innovation that stretches back nearly 70 years.
A boat brand built on boldness
Founded in 1955 in Sarasota, Florida, Wellcraft made its early mark building wooden runabouts. But it was in the 1960s, when the company pioneered the use of moulded fibreglass hulls with deep-V designs, that Wellcraft truly disrupted the recreational boating market. These were tough, seaworthy boats with sharp looks and plenty of practicality — and international markets quickly took notice.
By the 1970s, the company’s lineup spanned over 20 models, including the now-legendary Scarab range. In 1984, the Scarab 38 KV burst into popular culture as the on-water star of Miami Vice, fuelling a 21% sales increase and cementing the brand’s reputation for offshore attitude and high-performance cool.
Today, Wellcraft continues that same spirit of innovation. Since 2014, the brand has been owned by Groupe Beneteau, operating out of Cadillac, Michigan, and backed by one of the world’s most sophisticated marine manufacturing networks. With an eye on global markets and a sharp focus on quality, the brand has doubled down on engineering-led design, high-spec materials, and real-world performance.
“Our boats have always been built for serious exploration,” says the company. “And that passion for design and engineering leadership is alive and waiting in our dealers’ showrooms.”
Designing for the way people boat today
Wellcraft’s latest models — including the 38 Explorer, 38 T-Top, and flagship 44 Explorer — have helped the brand reclaim its space in the offshore segment. These are powerful, purposeful boats designed for bluewater performance. But with the 28, Wellcraft is doing something different: bringing its offshore DNA to a more social, versatile, and accessible platform.
“The American brand continues its bold and strategic expansion into more purpose-built boat market segments — always built for serious exploration,” states the company.
The new 28-footer delivers that promise in a highly refined package. Built for the most dynamic part of the market — active dayboating — it targets both experienced boaters and newcomers looking for comfort, confidence, and capability in one do-it-all machine.
Features of the Wellcraft 28
Measuring 8.56m overall, the Wellcraft 28 is one of the most spacious in its category. Its layout has been optimised for socialising, with a generous cockpit that’s fully configurable to suit your boating style — be it fishing, relaxing, diving, or watersports. The seating is plush, impact-absorbing, and designed to stay cool even on the hottest summer days thanks to clever ventilation systems.
In terms of construction, Wellcraft stays true to form. The hull is built using W.I.S.E. (Wellcraft Infusion Structure Engineering), a hybrid process that combines resin infusion and injection moulding for lighter, stiffer, and stronger results. This also reduces onboard noise and enhances seakeeping.
Its sleek twin-stepped hull provides fast, efficient planning and quicker lift-off, meaning the boat accelerates rapidly and stays responsive through tight turns or choppy conditions. As Wellcraft puts it, it’s “light, responsive, and powerful — delivering instant acceleration, dynamic navigation, and an exhilarating driving experience.”
Suitable for New Zealand conditions
The 28-footer isn’t just for calm bays and glassy lakes. It’s designed to handle a wide range of coastal conditions, with high freeboards that keep the deck dry, oversized stainless steel handrails for added reassurance, and multiple windscreen and roof configurations to provide varying levels of protection.
As the brand notes, these models are “adaptable to all conditions” and “inspire confidence” with their secure decks and thoughtful detailing. From the spacious layout to the durable copper-tinned wiring (ideal for saltwater environments), every part of the boat has been engineered for longevity and reliability.
The Wellcraft 28’s global premiere but will be available locally
The Wellcraft 28 will make its official global debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2025, with further showcases planned for boot Düsseldorf 2026 and the Miami International Boat Show in February. But for Kiwis wanting to know more now, there’s good news: the model will be available locally through Orakei Marine, Wellcraft’s authorised New Zealand agent.
They can be contacted on (09) 524 8444 or via email at sales@orakeimarine.co.nz for enquiries, orders, or to register interest in test drives once demonstrators arrive.
