A hull designed by Michael Peters
While the 355 took on the characteristics of a sporty commuter capable of tackling the worst conditions, the new Wellcraft 435 is presented as a Performance Cruiser, whose program will focus on fast cruising on a premium vessel.
Based on the same hull as the Jeanneau DB43, Wellcraft's designers have integrated comfortable accommodation, all powered by an outboard motor. The version on display was the most powerful, with three Mercury blocks delivering a total of 1050 hp.
A modular deck plan
The aft cockpit is equipped with tilting bulwarks, which increase the living space at anchor and enhance swimming sessions. The L-shaped aft bench seat faces a table that seats six, with stools housed in a small cabinet.
The cockpit floor conceals a very large locker, which houses the optional seakeeper. As the wheelhouse is asymmetrical, access to the bow is best via the starboard gangway, which is slightly wider.
A special feature is the companionway door, which facilitates boarding in longside berths. On the other hand, the port gangway is narrow and rather high, and should be reserved for experienced crew.
The foredeck has a very large sundeck, which can be protected by a shade cloth. The upholstery features an opening in the hatch that opens directly onto the double berth in the forward cabin, offering a beautiful view of the starry sky.
Further forward, the bow is equipped with a double bench seat for a pleasant aperitif at the end of the day.
A high level of equipment
The very wide wheelhouse is bright and airy, thanks to its electric sunroof.
The aft wheelhouse houses an L-shaped bench seat to starboard, facing a full-length galley. The aft cockpit houses an optional plancha-grill to complement the standard galley equipment.
Further forward, the cockpit offers a host of features. The rider can adjust his driving position thanks to a multitude of settings, and can also take advantage of an adjustable steering wheel.
The cabins are accessed via a 4-step companionway. The forward master cabin boasts a very spacious bathroom. Carpeting, varnish and modern trim give this interior a very cosy feel.
The aft cabin doesn't benefit from the same headroom, but features a double berth combined with a single bed.
Three engines as standard
The Wellcraft 435 comes standard with three Mercury V10s developing 1,050 hp. With this powerful engine, the shipyard claims a top speed of almost 41 knots. Cruising speed is set at 26 knots, at an engine speed of 4,500 rpm. With 1,290-liter fuel tanks, the Wellcraft has a range of 166 miles at this speed.
Premium pricing
The base model, with three Mercury V10s and a total output of 1,050 hp, is available for ?882,000 incl. VAT. The visited model, with the same engine but a large number of options, is priced at around ?1,100,000 incl. VAT.
While retaining some of the aesthetic codes of its younger sibling, notably a large wheelhouse with an inverted windshield, Wellcraft has designed this 43-footer for fast cruising, with a very high level of equipment. While this segment is already dominated by premium builders such as Targa and Nimbus, the American shipyard's flagship has a number of arguments in its favor.
