Wellcraft 28 Series To Make U.S. Debut at Miami

BoatBlurb Contributor
11 minutes ago
3 min read

The revival of Wellcraft continues unabated as the longstanding company will bring its newest offshore dayboat to American audiences with the launch of the all-new Wellcraft 28 Series.

The new lineup, consisting of three models, will make its U.S. debut at the Miami International Boat Show from February 11th-15th, 2026.

The 28-foot platform, which is first being unveiled to international audiences at boot Düsseldorf this weekend, represents another significant expansion of the iconic American brand’s product lineup with a renewed focus on versatility, performance and modern dayboating lifestyles.

The Wellcraft 28 will be offered in multiple configurations, including the 28 T-Top, 28 Explorer, and a 28 Speedster version set to follow later in the model rollout. Designed to appeal to a broad range of boaters — from coastal cruisers and families to anglers and adventure-minded owners — the new platform blends offshore capability with flexible social spaces and customizable layouts.

The four configurations include:

Speedster- Open-air, lightweight, built for speed and quick handling.
Explorer- Enclosed wheelhouse with overnight comfort for longer journeys.
T-Top (High)- Enhanced coverage with a taller high windshield for extra comfort.
T-Top (Sport)- Streamlined protection with a lower sport windshield for open-air feel.

The iconic brand has undergone a steady and significant overhaul in recent years. Since 2022, the company first showcased their new design aesthetic with the Wellcraft 355, followed by a Fast Cruiser in 2023, and the flagship Wellcraft 435 in late 2023. They also debuted their first center consoles in 2024 with the launch of the 38 T-Top last year at Miami.

Now at 28' (8.56 m) LOA with a 9'6" (2.89 m) beam, the new 28 Series is engineered to maximize usable space while maintaining the brand’s reputation for offshore performance. It features a twin-stepped hull designed by Navia, paired with what the company calls Wellcraft Infujection Structure Engineering, or W.I.S.E. construction, which integrates the hull and stringer system into a single molded structure. The result is increased rigidity, reduced weight and improved efficiency, with performance expected to exceed 55 mph depending on engine configuration. Other keynote construction features include a closed transom with high bulwarks, oversized handrails and dive door, a one-level walkaround deck, and a distinctive 'Z-line' silhouette with American strength and European style. Power options will include a single 225 hp or twin 250 hp outboards.

The standout feature of the Wellcraft 28 is unquestionably its adaptive cockpit design. Owners can choose from four layouts tailored to different boating styles. The Lounge configuration prioritizes entertaining, with wraparound seating and a wet bar. The Barracuda setup leans toward fishing, offering rod holders, livewells and fish storage. The Relax layout emphasizes sunpads and comfort, while the Sleeper option — available on the Explorer model — introduces a compact cabin space suitable for overnighting.

Cockpit layouts include:

Lounge – Standard social layout for up to 13 guests with 9 forward-facing seats for safety at speed
Barracuda – Fold-up seating, live well, fish box, bait drawers, and rod holders — built for anglers
Relax – A full sunbed, hidden storage, and added seating. Available on Wellcraft 28 T-Top and Wellcraft 28 Speedster only
Sleeper – Exclusive to the Wellcraft 28 Explorer, featuring two berths and smart lounging for overnight stays

North American boaters can catch the new 28 Series at the Miami International Boat Show running February 11th–15th, 2026. Wellcraft representatives will be on hand to showcase the boat’s modular features, performance credentials and design philosophy at the show.

While the Wellcraft 28 is already getting fanfare thanks to boot Düsseldorf, the Miami showing carries added significance with the company's heritage as an American brand. Given ongoing trends with offshore capable dayboats, Wellcraft is positioning the 28 as a modern interpretation of its classic offshore DNA with an evolving design philosophy focused on comfort, customization, and multi-purpose use without sacrificing speed or seaworthiness.

Pricing and engine packages for the U.S. market are expected to be announced closer to the show.