Wellcraft

American centre consoles for fast and rough waters.

Wellcraft began in 1955 in Sarasota, Florida, with small wooden runabouts and skiffs. In the early 1960s, the brand switched to fibreglass, and in 1970, naval architect C. Raymond Hunt designed the deep V-hulls with step lifts that defined the character of the boats. Later models, such as the V-20 Step-Lift Fisherman, further cemented that image.

Wellcraft has been part of the Groupe Beneteau since 2014, following a period under Platinum Equity. The current range comprises the Fisherman series for sea fishing, featuring models from the 202 to the 352; the crossover centre consoles, including the 28-33 T-Top, Speedster and 38 T-Top; and the Explorer line, comprising the 28-38 Explorer.

Facts & figures

• Founded in 1955 in Sarasota, Florida
• Part of the Beneteau Group since 2014
• Carries the Fisherman, Crossover and Explorer ranges
• Known for its deep V-hulls designed by C. Raymond Hunt
• Focused on fast centre consoles