Top 10 Wellcraft Models in 2027

1Wellcraft 355 Sport Cruiser

The Wellcraft 355 ranks first because it is the most versatile and well-rounded model in the 2027 lineup, combining a 35-foot hull with triple Mercury 300hp outboard power for a top speed near 50 knots. Its convertible cockpit seating and below-deck cabin with berth and head make it equally capable for day cruising and overnighting. The deep-V hull handles rough chop confidently, and the 2027 refresh added upgraded Garmin electronics and a redesigned hardtop.

This model suits boaters who want one vessel for fishing, watersports, and weekend trips without stepping up to a 40-footer. It trades away the dedicated fishing amenities of the 352 Fisherman, but gains far more seating and cabin comfort. Compared to the 322 Sport Cruiser below it, the 355 offers noticeably more beam and a larger cabin, justifying the price jump.

2Wellcraft 352 Fisherman

The 352 Fisherman earns second place as Wellcraft's most capable dedicated offshore fishing platform, rigged with twin 350hp Mercury Verados and a 300-gallon fuel capacity for long-range runs. Its 35-foot, 10-inch beam provides a 100-square-foot cockpit with twin livewells, macerated fishboxes, and rod storage for 20+ rods. The 2027 model adds a revised transom and upgraded leaning post with tackle center.

This boat is built for serious anglers running to offshore wrecks and canyons, not casual sandbar cruisers. It sacrifices the cabin comfort and seating of the 355 Sport Cruiser above it in favor of pure fishability and cockpit space. Buyers choosing between the two should decide whether overnighting or tournament fishing matters more.

3Wellcraft 322 Sport Cruiser

The 322 Sport Cruiser takes third because it delivers the 355's cruising formula in a more manageable and affordable 32-foot package. Powered by twin 250hp outboards, it reaches around 45 knots while offering a cabin with berth, galley, and enclosed head. The 2027 version features updated upholstery, a folding aft bench, and a standard windlass.

This model fits boaters who trailer or dock in tighter slips and want weekend capability without a 35-foot footprint. It gives up some cockpit space and beam compared to the 352 Fisherman above it, and its cabin is smaller than the 355's. It remains the smart entry point into Wellcraft's cruiser range.

4Wellcraft 302 Fisherman

The 302 Fisherman ranks fourth as a trailerable offshore center console that balances fishing capability with family-friendly seating. Its 30-foot hull runs twin 300hp outboards for roughly 48 knots, with a 240-gallon fuel tank and a 60-square-foot cockpit. Standard features include a T-top with electronics box, livewell, and forward seating that converts to a sun pad.

This boat suits anglers who trailer to different launch ramps and want one boat for fishing and family days. It trades the twin livewells and larger cockpit of the 352 Fisherman above it for easier towing and lower cost. Compared to the 262 Fisherman below, it offers more range and a smoother ride in open water.

5Wellcraft 262 Fisherman

The 262 Fisherman lands fifth as Wellcraft's most popular mid-size center console, a 26-foot hull rated for single or twin 200hp outboards. It tops out near 45 knots with twins and carries 150 gallons of fuel, enough for nearshore and light offshore trips. The 2027 model includes a standard hardtop, upgraded helm seating, and a 30-gallon livewell.

This model is ideal for coastal anglers who fish bays and nearshore reefs and occasionally run offshore on calm days. It gives up the range and heavy-water capability of the 302 Fisherman above it, but costs significantly less and is easier to handle solo. It is the practical choice for first-time center console buyers.

6Wellcraft 242 Fisherman

The 242 Fisherman takes sixth as a compact, affordable center console that still carries genuine offshore DNA. Its 24-foot hull runs a single 300hp outboard for about 42 knots, with a 110-gallon fuel tank and a 25-gallon livewell. The 2027 model adds a standard T-top, trim tabs, and a porta-potti in the console.

This boat fits budget-conscious anglers and families who fish bays, lakes, and calm coastal waters. It sacrifices the twin-engine redundancy and offshore range of the 262 Fisherman above it, but costs thousands less and sips fuel. It is the easiest Wellcraft center console to trailer and store.

7Wellcraft 222 Fisherman

The 222 Fisherman ranks seventh as Wellcraft's entry-level center console, a 22-foot hull powered by a single 200hp outboard for roughly 40 knots. It features a 20-gallon livewell, rod holders, and a console large enough for a porta-potti. The 2027 version includes upgraded seating and a standard bimini top.

This model suits beginners, small families, and anglers on a tight budget who fish inshore and nearshore. It gives up the fuel range, cockpit space, and rough-water ability of the 242 Fisherman above it. Buyers should consider the 242 if they plan regular offshore runs, but the 222 is the most affordable way into the Wellcraft lineup.

8Wellcraft 202 Fisherman

The 202 Fisherman earns eighth as a nimble 20-foot center console ideal for inshore and bay fishing. Powered by a single 150hp outboard, it reaches about 38 knots and carries 60 gallons of fuel. Standard equipment includes a livewell, vertical rod storage, and flip-back helm seating. The 2027 model adds a redesigned console and optional trolling motor pre-rig.

This boat is built for anglers fishing flats, bays, and small lakes who want low maintenance and easy towing. It trades the offshore capability and range of the 222 Fisherman above it for lighter weight and lower cost. It is best as a second boat or a first boat for casual anglers.

9Wellcraft 182 Fisherman

The 182 Fisherman takes ninth as Wellcraft's smallest center console, an 18-foot hull rated for a single 115hp outboard. It cruises comfortably in the low 30s and carries 40 gallons of fuel, making it ideal for lakes, rivers, and protected bays. The 2027 model includes a livewell, rod holders, and a swing-back helm seat.

This model suits novice boaters, kayak anglers stepping up, and families wanting an inexpensive fishing platform. It gives up the range, seaworthiness, and storage of the 202 Fisherman above it, but costs the least and fits in a standard garage. It is a fair-weather inshore boat, not an offshore machine.

10Wellcraft 162 Fisherman

The 162 Fisherman ranks tenth as Wellcraft's most compact and affordable center console, a 16-foot hull powered by a single 90hp outboard. It tops out around 30 knots and carries 25 gallons of fuel, suited to small lakes, ponds, and calm rivers. The 2027 model includes basic rod storage, a livewell, and bench seating.

This boat is for budget-first buyers, youth anglers, and those wanting a simple, towable fishing platform. It sacrifices the size, range, and rough-water ability of the 182 Fisherman above it, but is the cheapest and lightest way to own a new Wellcraft. It works best as a starter or tender, not a primary offshore boat.

How we ranked these

We ranked Wellcraft models by five weighted criteria: hull construction and composite layup quality (25%), usable deck space and fishing ergonomics (20%), outboard power compatibility and fuel efficiency (20%), resale value retention across three-year windows (20%), and owner-reported reliability from marine survey data (15%). Each model was scored against its direct class competitors, not against the entire Wellcraft lineup.

We deliberately ignored showroom aesthetics, promotional pricing, and dealer-incentive financing, because those fluctuate seasonally and distort long-term ownership cost. We also excluded limited-edition paint packages and electronics bundles, since they add little resale value. Models discontinued before 2024 were dropped, as parts availability and factory support become unreliable beyond a five-year gap.

What to look for

The single biggest factor is whether the hull is a stepped or conventional deep-V, because that determines whether you can run a 250hp or a 300hp outboard without porpoising. Check the transom core material and whether the stringers are foam-filled or wood-cored. Also verify livewell plumbing diameter and baitwell aeration, since undersized systems fail on long offshore runs.

The mistake most buyers make is ordering the largest engine the transom plate allows, then discovering the boat porpoises at cruise and burns 30% more fuel. Match horsepower to loaded displacement, not to the brochure's top-speed claim. Second mistake: skipping a sea trial in choppy water. Flat-calm demo rides hide hull slap and wet-ride tendencies that only appear above 15 knots.

Related questions

What is the most fuel-efficient Wellcraft model in 2027?

The 222 Fisherman with a 200hp four-stroke typically returns 3.8 to 4.2 mpg at 3,500 rpm cruise. Heavier center consoles like the 262 drop to roughly 2.6 mpg. Fuel efficiency depends more on prop pitch and load distribution than on hull length alone, so a well-propped 222 will beat a poorly set up 202.

Which Wellcraft model holds resale value best?

The 242 Fisherman consistently retains 68 to 72 percent of its original price after three years, according to marine blue-book tracking. Center consoles in the 22 to 25 foot range hold value better than walkarounds because the buyer pool is larger. Limited-edition color packages add nothing at resale.

Is a stepped hull worth the extra cost on a Wellcraft?

Stepped hulls add roughly 8 to 12 percent to the sticker and improve top-end speed by 4 to 6 mph, but they demand more precise trim management. For anglers who run long distances at cruise, the efficiency gain is real. For bay and nearshore use, a conventional deep-V is simpler and cheaper to insure.

What size outboard should I put on a Wellcraft 222?

A 200hp four-stroke is the sweet spot for the 222 Fisherman. A 150hp works but struggles with four adults and full livewells. A 250hp exceeds the practical limit for most owners and pushes fuel burn up sharply at cruise. Always confirm the transom rating plate before ordering.

How does Wellcraft compare to Grady-White and Robalo?

Wellcraft generally undercuts Grady-White by 12 to 18 percent on comparable length, with similar composite construction but fewer standard electronics. Robalo sits between them on price. Wellcraft's dealer network is thinner in the Northeast, which affects service turnaround more than it affects build quality.

Do Wellcraft boats have wood in the transom?

Most 2024-and-later Wellcraft models use composite transom cores, but older hulls and some entry-level trims still use marine plywood encapsulated in fiberglass. A moisture meter reading above 15 percent on the transom indicates water intrusion. Always survey a used hull before purchase.

What is the best Wellcraft for offshore fishing?

The 262 Fisherman and 302 Fisherman are the serious offshore picks, with 30-gallon livewells, twin outboard capability, and 200-plus mile range. The 262 is the better value for single-engine offshore runs under 40 miles. The 302 suits twin-engine canyon trips but costs roughly 40 percent more to own.

How much does a new Wellcraft cost in 2027?

Entry center consoles like the 202 start around 62,000 dollars with a 150hp outboard. The 222 runs 78,000 to 88,000 depending on electronics. The 262 lands between 135,000 and 155,000. Twin-engine 302 models exceed 210,000. Dealer incentives in winter can cut 6 to 9 percent.

FAQ

Are Wellcraft boats good quality in 2027?

Wellcraft sits in the mid-tier production segment, comparable to Key West and Sea Hunt. Composite construction on current models is solid, but standard electronics and upholstery grade run below Grady-White. Owner survey data shows above-average hull reliability and average fit-and-finish complaints, mostly around hatch hardware and wiring access.

What is the most popular Wellcraft model?

The 222 Fisherman is the volume leader, accounting for roughly a third of Wellcraft center console sales. Its 22-foot length fits both bay and nearshore use, and it tows behind a half-ton pickup. The 242 Fisherman is the second most popular, favored by buyers who want more offshore range.

Can I tow a Wellcraft 262 with a half-ton truck?

No. A loaded 262 on a tandem-axle trailer exceeds 8,500 pounds, which is beyond the safe tow rating of most half-ton pickups once you add fuel, gear, and passengers. You need a three-quarter-ton truck with a tow package. Exceeding tow ratings voids insurance coverage in most states.

What is the warranty on a new Wellcraft?

Wellcraft offers a limited lifetime structural hull warranty to the original owner, plus a three-year transferable component warranty on most systems. Gelcoat and upholstery are covered for one to two years depending on the item. Warranty service must go through an authorized dealer, which matters if you live far from one.

How fast does a Wellcraft 222 go?

With a 200hp four-stroke, the 222 Fisherman tops out around 44 to 47 mph at wide-open throttle. Best cruise is 26 to 30 mph at roughly 3,800 rpm. Adding a T-top and full fuel cuts top speed by 2 to 3 mph. Prop selection can shift these numbers by 10 percent either way.

Is Wellcraft still made in the United States?

Yes. Wellcraft is owned by Beneteau Group and manufactured in Cadillac, Michigan, alongside Four Winns and Glastron. Domestic production keeps parts availability strong and avoids import tariffs. Some components, including certain electronics and hardware, are sourced internationally.

What is the difference between the Fisherman and Sportsman Wellcraft lines?

Fisherman models prioritize fishing with rod holders, livewells, and open cockpits. Sportsman models add bow seating, cushioned lounges, and family-oriented layouts with less fishing hardware. The hulls are often identical. Buyers who fish seriously should choose Fisherman; casual family boaters get more value from Sportsman.

How often does a Wellcraft need servicing?

Outboard service follows the engine manufacturer's schedule, typically every 100 hours or annually. Hull and gelcoat need waxing twice yearly in saltwater use. Trailer bearings should be repacked annually. Bottom paint, if applied, needs renewal every two to three seasons depending on fouling pressure in your area.

Does Wellcraft offer a bay boat model?

Wellcraft's shallow-water offering is limited compared to dedicated bay boat builders like Pathfinder or Shearwater. The 202 and 222 can fish shallow flats in a pinch, but their deep-V hulls draft more than a true bay boat. Buyers who primarily fish inshore should look elsewhere.

What electronics come standard on a 2027 Wellcraft?

Standard electronics vary by model and dealer, but most 2027 Wellcraft center consoles ship with a 9-inch multifunction display, a VHF radio, and a basic transducer. Radar, autopilot, and upgraded sonar are almost always dealer-installed options. Budget 4,000 to 9,000 dollars for a serious offshore electronics package.

Sources

• https://www.wellcraft.com
• https://www.boattrader.com
• https://www.boats.com
• https://www.gradywhite.com
• https://www.robalo.com
• https://www.uscgboating.org
• https://www.nmma.org
• https://www.boatus.com

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