Yachts for sale / Wellcraft 38 Explorer

2025 Wellcraft 38 Explorer

West Palm Beach, FL, US 38.8 ft · 10.75 ft' beam
Asking
Price on request
Our Thoughts

The 2025 Wellcraft 38 Explorer represents a bold entry into the modern offshore cruising market, built on Wellcraft's proven legacy of seaworthy design and American-built marine engineering. This 38.83-foot center console combines purposeful offshore capability with genuine comfort, delivering a vessel that bridges the gap between serious cruising range and livable interior accommodation.

Powered by triple Mercury 350HP V8 XL Cold Fusion engines, the 38 Explorer achieves the kind of dependable performance and redundancy that offshore operators expect. The joystick control system modernizes helm operation, while the electric trim tabs and bow thruster provide precise handling in varying conditions. With a 264-gallon fuel capacity and 42-gallon fresh water tank, the boat is configured for extended time away from the dock.

The wheelhouse design is the standout feature here. Rather than relegating crew to open-air seating, Wellcraft integrated an enclosed cabin with full headroom, leatherette upholstery in Dolce Ivory/Mocca, and genuine climate control via a 12K+8K BTU air conditioning system that operates on both shorepower and the onboard 6.4kVA Fisher Panda diesel generator. The wheelhouse dinette converts to a double berth, and the cabin includes a 110V ceramic cooktop, microwave pre-wiring, and TV pre-installation—practical amenities for multi-day offshore passages or coastal cruising. The hot/cold fresh water system with shore connection and aft cockpit shower add genuine liveaboard functionality.

On deck, the layout is thoughtfully arranged. The stainless steel cockpit arch with integrated fender storage provides secure stowage while maintaining clean sight lines. The bow cockpit features a GRP table and foldable design, while the aft cockpit is equipped with a three-seat bench and wood table, creating defined social spaces. Pop-up lights in the bow and the Lumishore RGB underwater lights add practical and ambient illumination. The windlass with chain counter and remote helm operation, anchoring kit with stainless steel anchor and galvanized chain, and comprehensive fender kit reflect genuine cruising readiness.

Electronics are centered on Garmin 315 VHF with handset, supported by pre-wiring for a 32-inch wheelhouse television and dedicated TV antenna. The Fusion/JL Audio entertainment system provides quality sound throughout the boat. Mosquito screens for hatches, wheelhouse blinds, and the defogger system address the realities of coastal and tropical cruising.

Aesthetic details matter: the all-white hull with jet black stripe creates a refined profile, while teak-deck flooring in both the bow and aft cockpits, along the swimming platforms and gangway, establishes a premium finish that weathers gracefully. The aft sun shade and bow sun shade protect crew from extended exposure, and the electric roof hatches provide ventilation and natural light.

The 38 Explorer arrives in-stock at the West Palm Beach location, fully commissioned, with shipping and commissioning to Fort Lauderdale included. This is a production boat with genuine offshore credentials, practical interior space, and the kind of systems integration that separates true cruising vessels from day-boat designs. It's built for owners who value seaworthiness and comfort equally—and who understand that offshore capability and livable accommodation are not mutually exclusive.

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

Available in Store: Tampa - HIN: BEYWS060F526  Wellcraft 38 ExplorerMercury 3x350HPThe Wellcraft 38 Explorer excels in every aspect: exceptional design, comfort, and, above all, speed and seaworthiness. Built to challenge boundaries—beyond the horizon where the waters run deep and adventure awaits—Wellcraft draws on its rich offshore legacy to boldly enter this new market with American flair and unabashed enthusiasm. This boat is customizable with plenty of add-on comfort features and advanced electronic options so you can make sure every aspect suits your boating style. We’re proud to showcase Wellcraft Boats at all our Florida showrooms, including:Ft. Lauderdale, Stuart, Palm Beach, Sarasota, Tampa Bay and Panhandle

Wellcraft 38 Explorer: A Modern Offshore Cruiser Built for Distance and Comfort
The 2025 Wellcraft 38 Explorer represents a significant entry into the modern express cruiser market, combining the brand's deep offshore heritage with contemporary design, comfort amenities, and intelligent systems integration. At 38.83 feet in length with a 10.75-foot beam, this vessel is engineered to deliver seaworthiness, speed, and livability for cruising families, fishing enthusiasts, and serious boaters who demand both capability and creature comforts in a single platform.
Overview: Design Philosophy and Purpose
Wellcraft's 38 Explorer builds on decades of offshore boat building expertise, translating that legacy into a modern cruiser that emphasizes both performance and habitability. The all-white hull with jet-black stripe presents a clean, professional aesthetic, while the stainless steel cockpit arch with integrated fender storage reflects practical design thinking. This is not a boat designed to sit in a marina; it is built for extended cruising, offshore conditions, and the kind of boating that takes you beyond familiar waters. The vessel's design philosophy centers on delivering exceptional seaworthiness without sacrificing the comfort systems and interior refinement that modern cruising demands. The 38 Explorer bridges the gap between pure fishing platforms and luxury cruising yachts, making it suitable for owners who want serious offshore capability paired with cabin accommodations, a functional galley, and entertainment systems.
Propulsion and Performance
Power comes from triple Mercury 3x350HP V8 XL Cold Fusion engines, a configuration that delivers substantial thrust while maintaining fuel efficiency through Mercury's advanced combustion technology. This triple-outboard setup provides redundancy, reliability, and the kind of performance envelope expected in modern express cruisers. The joystick control system simplifies single-handed maneuvering, particularly valuable in tight marina approaches or anchoring situations where precise positioning matters. The 264-gallon fuel capacity supports extended offshore cruising, allowing owners to venture well beyond day-trip range. Combined with the triple-engine configuration, this fuel capacity enables flexible cruising speeds and operational planning. The 42-gallon fresh water capacity supports the vessel's cabin and shower systems, with hot and cold fresh water available from shore connection, a practical amenity for extended dockside stays. Electric trim tabs provide dynamic hull attitude adjustment, improving ride quality, fuel economy, and handling across varying sea states and load conditions. This system works in concert with the joystick control to create a highly responsive and manageable platform.
Helm and Navigation Systems
The wheelhouse helm integrates Garmin 315 GPS/chartplotter with VHF handset, providing essential navigation and communication tools in a compact, organized layout. The Garmin 315 delivers chart plotting, sonar integration capability, and intuitive user interface familiar to cruising boaters. The VHF handset allows communication with marinas, other vessels, and coast guard services. The helm station includes a windlass with chain counter and remote control, enabling single-handed anchoring operations—a significant convenience feature for cruising couples or solo operators. The anchor washdown system keeps the foredeck clean and manageable. Pre-wiring for a 32-inch wheelhouse television with TV antenna and 300-watt inverter support allows for entertainment and weather monitoring during extended cruising or poor-weather layovers.
Cabin and Interior Accommodations
The wheelhouse cabin features Dolce Ivory/Mocca leatherette upholstery in both the wheelhouse and bow cabin areas, establishing a cohesive, comfortable interior aesthetic. The cabin includes electric roof hatches for ventilation and natural light, defogger systems to manage moisture in humid climates, and mosquito screens on hatches to allow air flow without insect intrusion. Snap-in carpet over wood flooring provides warmth and sound dampening while protecting the underlying deck structure. Wheelhouse blinds offer privacy and light control. The convertible wheelhouse dinette can be transformed into a double berth with optional cushion conversion, providing sleeping accommodations for cruising or overnight guests. Wheelhouse stools in matching Dolce Ivory/Mocca upholstery provide additional seating at the dinette or navigation station. The cabin layout supports the vessel's cruising mission, offering functional sleeping accommodations, a dedicated navigation area, and integrated living space that doesn't feel cramped despite the compact footprint. This is practical marine design rather than sprawling luxury, prioritizing usability and comfort for extended time aboard.
Galley and Cooking Systems
The aft cockpit galley grill provides outdoor cooking capability, essential for cruising families and entertaining. The 110-volt ceramic cooktop inside the cabin offers additional cooking flexibility, supporting meal preparation during extended cruises or inclement weather. The galley layout supports the vessel's cruising and entertaining mission, allowing the operator or crew to prepare meals without excessive motion or exposure. Pre-wiring for a microwave oven adds modern convenience for quick meal options, particularly valuable during longer passages when traditional cooking may be less practical.
Comfort and Seating Systems
The aft cockpit configuration includes a bench with three seats, providing substantial seating for crew, guests, or fishing companions. The aft sun shade and bow sun shade protect occupants from UV exposure during day cruising or anchored time. An optional GRP table for the bow cockpit and folding aft cockpit wood table create flexible entertaining and dining spaces, transforming the exterior into functional gathering areas. The bow sun shade is particularly valuable in southern Florida and Caribbean cruising where UV exposure and heat are constant concerns. These shading systems extend the usable hours on deck and improve comfort during all-day cruising or anchored time.
Climate Control and Electrical Systems
The optional Kenyon air conditioning system with 12K and 8K BTU capacity operates on shore power and genset, maintaining comfortable cabin temperatures in hot climates. This is not a small-boat air conditioner; the dual-zone configuration suggests adequate cooling for the entire cabin volume, critical for comfort during Florida summers or extended southern cruising. The Fisher Panda 6.4KVA diesel genset with 13-gallon tank provides independent electrical power, enabling air conditioning, refrigeration, entertainment systems, and galley appliances when away from shore power. This genset capacity supports comfortable liveaboard cruising without dependency on marina infrastructure. A 300-watt inverter supports 110-volt systems during generator operation, allowing flexibility in power management and reducing genset runtime when full capacity isn't needed.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The Fusion/JL Audio entertainment system provides quality sound throughout the vessel, supporting both cabin and cockpit enjoyment. Optional RGB Lumishore underwater lights add visual ambiance during evening anchoring or entertaining, a modern amenity that enhances the cruising experience without compromising functionality. Pop-up lights in the bow cockpit provide practical deck illumination while maintaining clean aesthetics when not in use. Cabin ambient lights and aft cockpit lights support safe movement and entertaining throughout the vessel.
Anchoring and Seamanship Systems
The windlass with chain counter and helm-mounted remote control simplifies anchoring operations, particularly valuable for single-handed cruising or when crew coordination is challenging. The anchor washdown system keeps the foredeck clean and manageable, reducing maintenance and improving safety around the anchor handling area. The optional anchoring kit includes stainless steel anchor and galvanized chain, ensuring corrosion resistance and long-term reliability in saltwater environments. The optional fender kit with four lines and six fenders with black fender sockets provides comprehensive docking protection and reflects thoughtful provisioning for cruising operations.
Exterior Design and Materials
Teak-deck flooring for the aft cockpit, swimming platforms, bow cockpit, and gangway provides authentic marine aesthetics while delivering superior slip resistance and durability. Teak is the traditional choice for high-end vessels because it weathers beautifully and maintains grip even when wet—practical benefits beyond visual appeal. The stainless steel cockpit arch with integrated fender storage combines functionality with durability, providing a strong structural element while eliminating the need for separate fender storage solutions. This design detail reflects the thoughtful engineering throughout the vessel.
Bow Thruster and Maneuvering Systems
The bow thruster enables precise lateral movement, simplifying docking, anchoring, and tight-quarters maneuvering. Combined with the joystick control at the helm, the bow thruster creates a highly responsive and intuitive maneuvering platform, reducing the physical effort required for precision boat handling. Hot and cold fresh water from shore connection, along with the aft cockpit shower, support hygiene and comfort during extended marina stays or day cruising. The shower system is a practical amenity that many cruising boats overlook, yet it significantly improves quality of life aboard.
Why This Vessel Stands Out
The 2025 Wellcraft 38 Explorer succeeds because it resists the temptation to oversimplify. Rather
Length
38.8 ft
Beam
10.75 ft'
Year
2025
Builder
Wellcraft
Model
38 Explorer
What type of boat is the Wellcraft 38 Explorer and what makes it suitable for offshore use?
The Wellcraft 38 Explorer is a 38-foot center console cruiser designed with offshore capability and seaworthiness as core priorities. Built on Wellcraft's heritage in offshore boating, the 38 Explorer combines a spacious, functional cockpit layout with a fully enclosed wheelhouse cabin that provides weather protection and comfortable accommodation for extended trips. The deep-V hull design and substantial beam of 10.75 feet support stability in open water, while the raised helm position and comprehensive electronics suite enable confident navigation in varied sea conditions. This vessel bridges the gap between day-boat performance and overnight cruising comfort, making it well-suited for anglers, cruisers, and boaters who want to venture beyond protected waters without sacrificing interior livability.
What is the engine configuration of the 2025 Wellcraft 38 Explorer, and how does it perform?
The standard power package features three Mercury 350HP V8 XL Cold Fusion outboard engines, delivering a combined 1,050 horsepower. This triple-outboard setup provides strong acceleration, efficient cruising capability, and the reliability of modern outboard technology. The Cold Fusion designation indicates fuel-efficient combustion engineering, and the XL designation refers to the larger displacement of these V8 engines. The joystick control system integrated with the Mercury engines allows single-handed maneuvering at the helm, which is particularly valuable when docking, positioning in tight spaces, or managing the boat in challenging conditions. The three-engine redundancy also adds a safety margin for offshore operations, as the vessel remains operable if one engine requires service.
Does the Wellcraft 38 Explorer include a generator, and what power options are available aboard?
Yes, the 38 Explorer is equipped with a Fisher Panda 6.4 kVA diesel generator as a selected option on this particular vessel. The generator runs on a dedicated 13-gallon diesel fuel tank and provides 110V power for onboard systems and shore-power conveniences. In addition to generator power, the boat features a 300W inverter that supplies 110V power for devices like the television pre-rig and microwave. The vessel also includes a shore-power connection for when docked at a marina, allowing you to run air conditioning, galley appliances, and other 110V systems without depleting fuel or battery reserves. This multi-source power architecture supports extended cruising and comfortable overnight stays in the wheelhouse cabin.
What electronics and navigation systems are included on this Wellcraft 38 Explorer?
The 38 Explorer is equipped with a Garmin 315 chartplotter and VHF radio system with a dedicated handset, providing essential navigation and communication capability for coastal and offshore cruising. The Garmin 315 is a compact, reliable multifunction display suitable for recreational boating and fishing applications. The boat also features pre-wiring and infrastructure for a 32-inch television in the wheelhouse cabin, which can be powered by the onboard 300W inverter or generator. Additionally, the entertainment system includes a Fusion audio system with JL Audio speakers, offering quality sound throughout the interior and cockpit areas. These electronics support safe navigation, situational awareness, and comfortable entertainment during extended time aboard.
What is the interior layout and sleeping accommodation in the Wellcraft 38 Explorer?
The 38 Explorer features a fully enclosed wheelhouse cabin with a dinette area that converts into a double berth through the addition of cushions (included as a selected option on this vessel). The cabin interior is upholstered in Dolce Ivory and Mocca leatherette, creating a warm, marine-grade finish that is easy to maintain. The wheelhouse includes electric roof hatches for ventilation, mosquito screens for the hatches, wheelhouse blinds for privacy and light control, and snap-in carpet over wood flooring for comfort and durability. The cabin also has pre-installation wiring for a 32-inch television and includes a defogger to manage moisture in cooler conditions. This layout provides a functional sleeping area and shelter from weather while maintaining the open-air feel of a center console through the large windows and helm visibility.
What galley and food preparation features does the 38 Explorer offer?
The 38 Explorer includes both a pre-wired microwave and a 110V ceramic cooktop in the wheelhouse cabin, allowing basic meal preparation during cruising trips. An aft cockpit galley with a grill is included as a selected option, providing additional cooking capability and entertaining space in the open cockpit area. The boat has a 42-gallon fresh water capacity with hot and cold water from a shore connection, supporting both the galley and the aft cockpit shower. The 264-gallon fuel capacity ensures extended range for multi-day trips, and the combination of galley amenities makes the 38 Explorer practical for families or groups who want to prepare meals aboard rather than rely solely on dining ashore.
How is the cockpit designed, and what features support fishing or water activities?
The 38 Explorer features a spacious, well-appointed cockpit with a stainless steel arch that provides structure and fender storage. The cockpit includes an aft bench with three seats (included as a selected option), an aft sun shade, and a foldable GRP table for the bow cockpit, creating flexible seating and dining configurations. An aft wood table provides additional surface space in the cockpit area. The teak-deck flooring on both the aft cockpit and swimming platforms adds durability and aesthetic appeal while providing secure footing in wet conditions. The cockpit also features an aft shower with hot and cold fresh water, allowing rinse-down after fishing or water activities. Pop-up lights in the bow cockpit and RGB underwater lights add ambiance and functionality for evening entertainment or night operations. A bow sun shade provides weather protection in the forward cockpit area. The helm includes electric trim tabs for attitude adjustment and an anchor washdown system for deck maintenance.
What anchoring and deck systems are included on this Wellcraft 38 Explorer?
The 38 Explorer is equipped with a windlass featuring a chain counter and remote control at the helm, making anchor deployment and retrieval straightforward and safe. An anchoring kit with stainless steel anchor and galvanized chain is included as a selected option, providing the essential ground tackle for overnight anchorages or emergency holding. The anchor washdown system allows you to rinse the anchor and chain after retrieval, reducing salt accumulation and corrosion. The teak-deck flooring on the bow cockpit and gangway area provides secure footing and aesthetic appeal in the forward working area. These systems support confident anchoring in various conditions and facilitate the practical deck operations necessary for cruising and overnight stays.
What climate control and comfort systems are available on the 38 Explorer?
The 38 Explorer includes a Kenyon air conditioning system with 12,000 and 8,000 BTU capacity that operates on both shore power and generator power at 110V, allowing climate control whether docked or at anchor. The electric roof hatches in the wheelhouse cabin provide natural ventilation and light, and the mosquito screens allow fresh air circulation without insects. A defogger helps manage interior moisture in humid or cool conditions. The cabin upholstery in Dolce Ivory and Mocca leatherette is designed for durability and easy cleaning in the marine environment. The wheelhouse blinds provide privacy and light control, and the snap-in carpet over wood flooring adds warmth and comfort underfoot. The aft cockpit shower with hot and cold fresh water supports personal hygiene and comfort during extended cruising. These systems collectively create a comfortable living environment for overnight trips and extended time aboard.
What makes the joystick steering system valuable on the Wellcraft 38 Explorer?
The joystick control system integrated with the three Mercury 350HP engines allows intuitive, single-handed maneuvering at the helm. Instead of traditional dual throttle and steering controls, the joystick enables the operator to move the boat forward, backward, and laterally with smooth, coordinated engine and trim tab inputs. This is particularly valuable when docking in tight marina slips, positioning the boat for anchoring, or maneuvering in crowded anchorages where precision and ease of control are essential. The joystick reduces operator fatigue during extended cruising and makes the boat more accessible to operators of varying experience levels. In rough seas or challenging conditions, the ability to make quick, precise adjustments with one hand enhances safety and control. The system is especially practical for a boat of this size, where traditional steering and throttle management across three engines would require significant attention and coordination.
What type of buyer is the Wellcraft 38 Explorer designed for, and what boating lifestyle does it support?
The Wellcraft 38 Explorer is designed for cruising boaters and anglers who want a capable offshore platform with comfortable overnight accommodation and practical amenities. The boat suits buyers who plan multi-day trips to distant anchorages, fishing grounds, or coastal destinations where weather protection and sleeping quarters are essential. The spacious cockpit and entertaining features—including the aft galley grill, sun shades, and flexible seating—make it practical for family cruising and social boating. The triple-engine setup, joystick control, and comprehensive electronics support confident operation in varied sea conditions, appealing to experienced boaters seeking a vessel that bridges day-boating performance with cruising comfort. The customizable options and add-on features allow buyers to tailor the boat to their specific priorities, whether that means fishing equipment, entertainment systems, or additional comfort upgrades. The 38 Explorer represents a middle ground between a pure fishing platform and a full cruising yacht, making it versatile for boaters who want both capability and livability without the complexity or operating costs of a larger, fully enclosed vessel.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Nautical Ventures - Palm Beach. 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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