The Wellcraft 28 Explorer is heading to the Southampton International Boat Show for its UK debut, bringing the enclosed-wheelhouse version of Wellcraft’s new 28-foot platform to British buyers. At 8.51 metres overall, the model sits comfortably inside Leisure Boat Guide’s under-12m remit and is designed around year-round offshore use rather than fair-weather day boating alone.
Wellcraft positions the 28 Explorer as the most protected member of its 28-foot family, combining a closed wheelhouse, walkaround deck and multiple aft-cockpit configurations with the performance of a stepped outboard hull. The Southampton appearance gives UK buyers an opportunity to compare that enclosed layout directly with more open dayboats and centre-console alternatives.
All-season wheelhouse in an 8.51m package
The 28 Explorer measures 8.51 metres overall with a 2.90-metre beam and a light displacement of 2,857kg. Its wheelhouse uses wraparound glazing for visibility while protecting the helm and seating from wind and spray, with the deck remaining walkable around the outside.
Wellcraft offers three aft-cockpit arrangements. The Lounge version is aimed at social day use, the Barracuda layout adds fishing-oriented equipment and storage, while the Sleeper version adds two berths to extend the boat’s overnight capability.
Single or twin outboard power
The manufacturer lists a maximum engine power of 400hp and offers several Mercury installations, including single V8 and V10 Verado options and a twin 200hp V6 configuration. Wellcraft quotes a maximum speed of more than 50 knots, although actual performance will depend on engine choice, load, propeller and sea conditions.
The hull is built using Wellcraft’s W.I.S.E. construction process, combining injection and infusion methods to reduce weight while maintaining stiffness. Fuel capacity is 529.9 litres, giving the model a substantial reserve for an 8.5-metre boat intended for longer coastal use.
Designed to switch between dayboat and weekender roles
Below and inside the wheelhouse, the 28 Explorer adds a compact galley, dedicated head space in the bow cabin and optional heating or air-conditioning equipment. The aft Sleeper layout can further expand overnight accommodation without changing the basic enclosed-helm concept.
That flexibility makes the model relevant to buyers who want one boat to cover several roles: protected family cruising, fishing, diving access, watersports and occasional overnight trips. The side dive door and configurable aft cockpit are particularly useful where water access matters as much as enclosed comfort.
UK buyers get their first show look
Southampton’s 2026 boat-debut programme lists the Wellcraft 28 Explorer as a UK debut. For Leisure Boat Guide readers, the key point is not simply that the model is new to a British show, but that it brings genuine all-weather architecture into a size normally dominated by open dayboats and smaller pilothouse craft.
The Wellcraft 28 Explorer is already listed in the LBG production-boat database, allowing readers to move from the news story into the model record for ongoing specifications and future updates as the boat reaches more markets.