Yachts for sale / Wellcraft 47 Excalibur

2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur

Harrison Township, MI, US 47 ft · 12.33 ft' beam
Asking
$159,900
Our Thoughts

The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is a 47-foot fiberglass express cruiser built for serious cruising and entertaining. With a 12.33-foot beam, this vessel delivers the kind of beam-to-length ratio that translates to stable, predictable handling and a spacious interior layout—hallmarks of Wellcraft's design philosophy during this era.

Express cruisers of this class and vintage are designed for owners who want genuine offshore capability paired with comfortable overnight accommodations and social spaces. The Excalibur nameplate carries heritage; Wellcraft positioned this model as a capable, mid-range cruiser suitable for both coastal exploration and weekend getaways. The fiberglass construction provides durability and low maintenance compared to alternatives, and at 47 feet, you're looking at a vessel that's manageable for owner-operators while still offering the volume and systems redundancy serious cruising demands.

This particular 2004 example is equipped with joystick control, a feature that significantly improves docking and low-speed maneuvering—especially valuable for single-operator handling in tight situations. The battery system is in place to support the onboard electrical loads typical of a cruiser in this class, which usually includes cabin systems, navigation electronics, galley appliances, and climate control.

The Wellcraft 47 Excalibur appeals to buyers seeking a proven express cruiser platform with solid construction, reasonable operating economics, and the kind of livable interior space that makes extended time aboard practical. Whether your priority is cruising protected waters, entertaining groups, or maintaining a comfortable floating home base, this vessel represents the kind of mid-sized, fiberglass-hulled platform that has maintained steady appeal in the used market.

Located in Harrison Township, Michigan, this 47 Excalibur is positioned in the Great Lakes region, where express cruisers remain popular for seasonal cruising and weekend use.

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

Introducing the 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur, a stunning express cruiser that embodies both elegance and performance. Crafted from durable fiberglass, this vessel showcases a sleek design that is sure to turn heads on the water. With an impressive overall length of 47 feet, it offers ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is equipped with essential features that enhance your boating experience, including a reliable battery system and joystick control for effortless maneuverability. Whether you're cruising along the coastline or enjoying a day on the water with friends, this boat provides a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Ideal for those seeking adventure and leisure, the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is a remarkable choice for any boating enthusiast. Experience the thrill of the open water with this exceptional express cruiser that promises unforgettable memories.

2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur Express Cruiser for Sale in Michigan
Overview
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur represents a substantial express cruiser built on the platform that defined mid-2000s recreational boating—a fiberglass-hulled vessel designed to accommodate extended cruising, entertaining, and day boating in a single, well-proportioned package. At 47 feet in overall length with a 12.33-foot beam, the Excalibur sits comfortably in the express cruiser category, a class engineered to balance seagoing capability with livable interior volume and modern helm control systems. Wellcraft's Excalibur line earned respect in the express cruiser market for straightforward, functional design. Rather than pursuing extreme sportiness or ultra-luxury appointments, the Excalibur focused on delivering a capable, family-friendly cruising platform with enough performance and comfort to support weekend getaways, coastal exploration, and social entertaining. The 2004 model year places this vessel at the tail end of Wellcraft's Excalibur production run, incorporating refinements developed over years of customer feedback and marine engineering evolution. The fiberglass construction typical of the Excalibur series provides durability, low maintenance compared to wood or aluminum, and the structural integrity required for extended blue-water cruising. This 2004 example carries that heritage into the current market, where express cruisers of this size and vintage continue to appeal to experienced boaters seeking proven designs at accessible price points.
Design and Hull Characteristics
The Wellcraft 47 Excalibur's hull design reflects the express cruiser philosophy: moderate deadrise and beam proportions that support stable cruising at displacement and semi-planing speeds while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency. The 12.33-foot beam provides generous interior volume without creating excessive windage or instability in beam seas—a critical balance in vessels designed for extended cruising rather than high-speed sport fishing. Express cruisers of this generation typically feature relatively moderate freeboard forward, transitioning to higher cabin sides amidships and aft to maximize interior headroom and window area. This profile supports the dual mission of the category: efficient cruising at moderate speeds and comfortable, well-lit interior spaces for overnight and extended-stay cruising. The fiberglass construction throughout the hull and superstructure ensures consistency in structural integrity and simplifies maintenance over the life of the vessel. Unlike wood or aluminum alternatives, fiberglass requires no varnishing, minimal corrosion protection, and straightforward repair procedures when needed—factors that support long-term ownership and reduce the total cost of upkeep.
Helm and Vessel Control
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is equipped with joystick control for maneuvering, a system that significantly improves handling in tight spaces, docking, and low-speed operations. Joystick systems translate intuitive hand movements into coordinated thruster and engine commands, allowing a single operator to control the vessel's position and heading without complex wheel or throttle choreography. This feature is particularly valuable in express cruisers, where the beam and length can make traditional steering challenging in confined marina basins or when positioning for anchoring. The reliability of the battery system supports consistent electrical power for all helm functions, navigational displays, and onboard systems during extended cruising. A robust battery bank is foundational to modern vessel operation, particularly in express cruisers where electronics, lighting, climate control, and galley systems all depend on stable electrical supply.
Interior Layout and Accommodations
The 47-foot length of the Excalibur supports a meaningful cabin layout with separate sleeping and social spaces—a significant advantage over smaller express cruisers. Typical Excalibur configurations include a master stateroom forward with an ensuite head, a guest cabin or convertible dinette cabin amidships, and a main salon with seating and dining areas. This arrangement allows couples or small families to cruise comfortably for extended periods without the spatial compromises of smaller vessels. The cabin design in express cruisers of this era prioritizes natural light through cabin windows and overhead hatches, supporting both the psychological comfort of interior spaces and the practical ability to navigate and operate the vessel during daylight hours without excessive electrical consumption. Headroom in the main cabin and forward stateroom typically reaches or exceeds six feet, allowing most adults to move comfortably without ducking. The galley in a 47-foot express cruiser is typically equipped with a stove, refrigeration, and counter space sufficient for meal preparation during multi-day cruises. This is a meaningful distinction from smaller day boats, where galley functions are minimal. The ability to prepare fresh meals aboard supports the extended cruising mission and reduces reliance on restaurant dining or shore-based facilities. The main salon serves as both dining and social space, with seating that often converts to a sleeping berth if needed. This flexibility is characteristic of express cruiser design, where every interior element often serves multiple functions to maximize utility within the available volume.
Electrical and Mechanical Systems
The battery system specified for this 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur supports the vessel's electrical loads during cruising, including navigation systems, interior lighting, galley and head operations, and climate control. Modern express cruisers of this size often incorporate dual battery banks—one dedicated to starting the main engines and a separate house bank for hotel loads—ensuring that engine starting capability is never compromised by the consumption demands of onboard living systems. The joystick control system itself draws power from the main electrical bus, making reliable battery capacity and charging systems critical to the vessel's overall usability and safety profile. Battery condition and capacity should be evaluated as part of any pre-purchase assessment.
Cruising Profile and Intended Use
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is fundamentally a cruising platform designed for boaters who value comfort, livability, and the ability to reach distant anchorages under their own power. Unlike center consoles or open sportfish designs optimized for fishing, or ultra-luxury motor yachts focused on high-speed performance and formal entertaining, the express cruiser occupies a practical middle ground: sufficient speed and range to explore coastal areas and offshore destinations, interior volume and accommodations for extended stays, and systems designed for owner-operation without professional crew. The express cruiser category appeals to experienced boaters who understand marine systems, can navigate and dock the vessel themselves, and seek the independence and flexibility that comes with private yacht ownership. This is not a boat designed for casual dabblers or buyers expecting turnkey operation; it requires active engagement with vessel systems, regular maintenance, and the knowledge to address routine mechanical and electrical issues.
Why the 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur Merits Consideration
This express cruiser represents proven design, fiberglass construction that supports long-term durability, and the kind of practical cabin layout that defines the category. The joystick control system elevates the operational ease of a vessel this size, and the battery-backed electrical system supports the extended cruising mission that express cruisers are built to achieve. At 47 feet, the Excalibur provides genuine sleeping accommodations for multiple people, a functional galley for meal preparation, and interior volume that doesn't force compromise on comfort during multi-day cruising. The 2004 model year places the vessel at a point in the Excalibur's production run where design refinements were well-established and engineering had matured. For boaters seeking a capable, livable express cruiser with proven systems and straightforward design, the 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur offers the kind of practical foundation that supports years of cruising and exploration. The asking price reflects the vessel's age and the current express cruiser market, positioning it as an accessible entry point for buyers ready to take on the responsibilities and rewards of private yacht ownership.
Length
47 ft
Beam
12.33 ft'
Year
2004
Builder
Wellcraft
Model
47 Excalibur
What type of boat is the 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur and who is it designed for?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is an express cruiser built on a 47-foot fiberglass hull. This class of vessel is designed for boaters who want a mid-sized cruising platform that balances open-water capability with comfortable accommodations for extended trips. Express cruisers like the Excalibur are popular among buyers seeking a boat that can handle coastal cruising, overnight trips, and entertaining guests while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency and ease of operation compared to larger motor yachts.
What are the main dimensions and what does the beam size tell you about the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur's stability?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur measures 47 feet in overall length with a 12.33-foot beam. The beam-to-length ratio of approximately 1:3.8 indicates a relatively full-bodied hull design typical of express cruisers from this era. A beam of this proportion provides good stability in moderate sea states and allows for a wider interior layout, which is characteristic of Wellcraft's design philosophy for comfortable cruising vessels.
Does the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur come with joystick control, and what advantage does that provide?
Yes, the 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is equipped with joystick control for maneuvering. Joystick systems allow the operator to control both steering and throttle with a single intuitive input device, making docking, tight-space navigation, and low-speed maneuvering significantly easier than traditional dual-helm wheel or throttle-lever setups. This feature is particularly valuable for single-operator boating and reduces fatigue during extended cruising or when operating in congested anchorages or marinas.
What is the significance of the battery system on this 2004 express cruiser?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur features a reliable battery system designed to support starting, navigation electronics, interior lighting, and auxiliary systems while cruising. A well-maintained battery bank is essential for extended offshore or coastal cruising because it powers critical navigation and safety equipment, interior comfort systems, and backup power for engine starting. On a vessel of this size and age, the battery system's condition and capacity are important factors in assessing the boat's readiness for extended trips away from shore power.
Is the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur suitable for coastal cruising and entertaining guests?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is specifically designed as an express cruiser with ample space for relaxation and entertainment, making it well-suited for coastal cruising and hosting guests. The 47-foot length provides enough interior volume for comfortable cabin accommodations, a functional galley, and social spaces where multiple people can gather. This makes it an ideal platform for weekend getaways, exploring coastal destinations, and entertaining friends and family while maintaining the maneuverability and efficiency advantages of a medium-sized cruising vessel.
What fiberglass construction benefits does the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur offer?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur is constructed from durable fiberglass, a material that offers several advantages for cruising vessels. Fiberglass hulls are resistant to corrosion, require less maintenance than wood or metal alternatives, and provide good structural strength-to-weight ratios. This construction method allows Wellcraft to achieve a sleek, hydrodynamic hull design while maintaining the durability needed for extended saltwater or freshwater cruising. Fiberglass also provides good sound insulation, contributing to a quieter cabin environment underway.
What should I know about operating a 47-foot express cruiser like the Wellcraft Excalibur?
Operating a 47-foot express cruiser requires familiarity with moderate-sized vessel handling, including understanding weight distribution, fuel and water capacity planning, and navigation in various sea conditions. The Wellcraft 47 Excalibur's joystick control simplifies maneuvering compared to larger yachts, but operators should still be comfortable with docking procedures, anchoring techniques, and basic marine navigation. This size vessel is manageable for experienced boaters, though many owners choose to hire captains for extended offshore trips or in challenging conditions. Proper training and familiarity with the specific systems on your vessel is always recommended.
What does the sleek design of the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur indicate about its performance characteristics?
The sleek design of the 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur reflects a hull form optimized for efficient cruising rather than maximum speed. The streamlined profile reduces wind resistance and hydrodynamic drag, which translates to better fuel economy and more comfortable ride quality in typical cruising conditions. This design approach is characteristic of express cruisers, which prioritize a balance between reasonable speed, fuel efficiency, and sea-keeping ability over the performance envelope of high-powered sportfish or center console boats.
Is the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur a good choice for someone new to boat ownership?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur can be a good entry point to larger vessel ownership for buyers with some boating experience. At 47 feet, it's substantial enough to feel like a serious cruising platform but more manageable than 60+ foot yachts in terms of docking, anchoring, and general operation. The joystick control system simplifies maneuvering, and the express cruiser design means fewer complex systems than larger motor yachts. However, prospective buyers should understand that vessels of this size require regular maintenance, proper insurance, and familiarity with marine systems. Professional survey and sea trial are recommended before purchase.
What makes the Wellcraft 47 Excalibur a practical choice for extended water time?
The 2004 Wellcraft 47 Excalibur combines several practical features that support extended cruising: the 47-foot length provides comfortable cabin space for sleeping and living aboard, the express cruiser hull design offers good fuel efficiency compared to larger yachts, and the fiberglass construction requires manageable maintenance. The vessel's reliable battery system and joystick control reduce operator fatigue during long days on the water. The overall layout and size make it suitable for both day trips and multi-day cruises, appealing to boaters who want genuine offshore capability without the complexity and operating costs of larger motor yachts.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by South River Marine LLC. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel.

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