A brand new hull optimized for outboard motorization
The Merry Fisher range is currently composed of 4 models from 5.79 to 8.90 m. But a big sister - the Merry Fisher 1095 - will make its appearance in a few days on the Paris Nautic. This 10.5 m weekend cruiser is intended for family sailing and benefits from a new hull specially designed to accommodate an outboard engine, as Vincent Piel, product manager for powerboating at Jeanneau explains.
"It's a completely new hull, optimised for the outboard, in the sense that we wanted a boat that can sail properly. We're not looking for speed here, even though it's a gliding boat and should reach speeds in excess of 30 knots*. We've designed the hull to be well supported at the stern to benefit from good acceleration and good trimming. Tests were carried out in the hull tank on various full-scale models to validate choices and exclude certain solutions."
Developing an outboard motorisation on a model over 10 m long was an ambitious challenge for the Vendée boatyard, as Vincent Vincent explains "Up until now, outboard motors have been used on fast boats. Now, however, we're looking for pleasure at speeds that aren't necessarily fast, and with this type of motorisation, we're also gaining space on board. We've been looking to make a pleasure boat, with maximum comfort on board."
Maximum space on board
On the Merry Fisher 1095, you'll find the features that have made the range so successful, but also some innovations. Starting with the 3 cabins. "We brought to the 1095 the innovations we had developed on the 855 and the 895. When we launched the 855 six years ago, we were the first on the market to offer two enclosed cabins and a side door in an 8-metre outboard hull. With the 895, we've taken it to the next level and the 1095 brings the innovations of these two models to the next level" explains Vincent.
Living outside..
Outside, there are many comfort elements to maximize living space. Starting with the recessed front porthole that allows safe movement on board - especially for children - and easy entry into the cockpit thanks to the side sliding door. Or the coupé door on the starboard side for easy access on board. The modular cockpit principle with a sunbathing platform that folds back aft to increase space. "The limitation of the outboard is that in the raised position, you have to manage the clutter of the engines in the cockpit. Here, with the sliding bench seat, you don't reduce cockpit space by raising the engines." indicates Vincent.
The aft platforms framing the two outboard engines provide easy access to the water, while the foredeck accommodates a sun deck with lift-up backrests.
...or in it
Inside, the layout of the saloon is clever, with a co-driver's bench that tilts to create a large space for exchange. The saloon also converts into an additional sleeping area. The galley on the starboard side is larger, with extra furniture above the sink to provide even more storage space.
But it's under the bridge where there's the most space.. "The big innovation is to bring more comfort on an outboard boat and in particular more storage space. Hence this 3 e cabin that can be transformed into additional storage space. It depends on the customer's wishes: more sleeping capacity or more storage space" details Vincent.
Below deck, the Merry Fisher 1095 has an owner's cabin at the bow, a guest cabin to port and a bathroom with separate shower to port. The 3 e cabin is on the starboard side.
Light also takes up a lot of space with opening roofs, bay windows and hull windows.
The Outboard Advantage
On the engine side, the Merry Fisher 1095 will receive 2x300 hp. " The Merry Fisher 1095 is aimed at customers who already have a twin outboard engine, but who want to upgrade to a larger boat size for more space and comfort, while still using this type of engine."
A choice of engine that has proven to be quite relevant," continues Vincent "Today's speedboats are very reliable, with lower maintenance costs."
For the price, you will have to wait for the Paris Boat Show, from 2 to 10 December 2017.
*At the time of the interview, the sea trials had not yet been carried out
