1988 Wellcraft Nova 27 foot

Slide into the cockpit and you’ll notice how deep and secure it feels for a 27-footer, with coamings high enough to lean into when the chop picks up. The helm has that classic late-80s performance layout: big, easy-to-read gauges, throttles right where your hand falls, and clear sightlines over the bow when you bring her on plane. Down below, the cabin is surprisingly bright thanks to the forward hatch and side ports, with enough headroom to move around without hunching. Wide side decks and sturdy bow rails make anchoring or handling lines less of a circus act. The Nova’s long, lean hull rewards a steady hand, tracking straight even when you’re crossing wakes at speed.

This Nova 27 shines in waters where conditions can change from glassy to lumpy over the course of a day. The wide beam and deep-V profile help soften wind chop and boat wakes, so runs between anchorages stay comfortable. It’s small enough to slip into tighter marinas and shallow coves, yet has the stance and weight to feel sure-footed in open stretches. The enclosed cabin gives you a dry, secure retreat when a passing squall moves through, and enough overnight comfort for quick weekend escapes. For boaters who split time between relaxed cruising and spirited runs, this hull delivers a satisfying mix of speed, stability, and practicality.