Test / Merry Fisher 895 Sport S2: how does it stack up against the competition?

Its price may seem high, but what does the Merry Fisher 895 Sport Sérieâeuros¯2 really offer compared to its direct competitors in the 8 to 9âeuros¯mètresâeuros¯ segment? This section analyzes the differences in price, features and equipment to better determine the model's place in the current offer.

A price range in the upper mid-range of the segment

The Merry Fisher 895 Sport Séeuros¯2, equipped with two 200 hp outboard engines, is generally priced between 190âeuros¯000 and 240âeuros¯000âeuros¯euros (incl. VAT), depending on trim and options (electric steering, electronics, comfort packs). This price range places it at the upper end of the sub-9âeuros¯mètres segment, but below more luxurious or larger units.

Quicksilver 905 Weekend: a softer price but significant concessions

Compared with the Quicksilver 905 Weekend, available from 160âeuros¯000âeuros¯â¬ with an equivalent engine (2âeuros¯Ãâeuros¯200âeuros¯CV), the Merry Fisher 895 Sport S2 boasts a significant price differential. There are several reasons for this difference:

  • Jeanneau's interior finish is more elaborate, especially the woodwork and fabrics.
  • A more fluid circulation plan, with a rare starboard side door in this size.
  • A more modular aft cockpit, with folding bench seats, side access to the sea, and a large technical locker.

On the other hand, the Quicksilver remains a serious alternative for a modest family program, with concessions on design, navigation equipment and interior ergonomics.

Antares 9: the logical cousin, but with a less utilitarian vocation

From the same group (Bénéteau), the Antares 9 is a direct competitor. Its prices are close to those of the Merry Fisher, between 185âeuros¯000 and 225âeuros¯000âeuros¯â¬ including VAT, but the two boats have different logics.

The Antares 9 features a more spacious interior, with a wheelhouse oriented towards life on board.

The Merry Fisher 895 Sport S2 is designed for more outdoor use, with better access to the water, greater sturdiness for sporting use, and a cockpit modularity designed for nautical activities.

The Antares 9 is aimed more at boaters looking for interior comfort, while the Merry Fisher 895 Sport Séeuros¯2 targets an action-oriented clientele.

Rodman Spirit 31 OB: marine ruggedness, but a more Spartan design

The Rodman Spirit 31 outboard, often priced at around 220âeuros¯000âeuros¯â¬ with engine, is distinguished by its more utilitarian and marine approach:

  • Sturdy construction, straightforward hull, good sea passage.
  • A more spartan interior finish, less oriented towards family leisure.
  • The layout may be less ergonomic, but the clear outdoor space is ideal for fishing.

The Merry Fisher 895 Sport S2 offers a more versatile response, with more comfort for coastal cruising, and a design more accessible to the general public.

Galeon 300 Fly / HTS: a higher level of luxury, but a larger budget

The Galeon 300 Fly and HTS are positioned above them, both in terms of performance and price. Their prices regularly exceed 250âeuros¯000âeuros¯â¬ in full configuration, or even more depending on engine (inboard), electronics and finish.

  • A more luxurious ambience, with top-of-the-range upholstery, fine woodwork and on-board technology (indirect lighting, home automation).
  • Larger cabins, but less exterior modularity.
  • A design that prioritizes on-board comfort over ease of use and practicality.

In comparison, the Merry Fisher 895 Sport Sérieâeuros¯2 focuses on the essentialsâeuros¯: fast access, maneuverability, modularity, and reasonable range.

Conclusion: positioning justified by versatility and quality of use

The Merry Fisher 895 Sport Sérieâeuros¯2 doesn't aim to compete with the premium stars in the luxury segment, nor to match the entry-level models. It occupies an intermediate position, justified by :

  • A full range of equipment, including twin-outboard motorization with electric steering.
  • Real versatility, whether for fishing, water sports or family coastal cruising.
  • A well-crafted finish, without falling into expensive sophistication.

This price positioning explains its success with customers who want a sturdy, easy-to-handle, comfortable boat for active cruising, without making major compromises on comfort or equipment.

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