First Impressions: Unveiling Our Mary Fisher 895

Embarking on a new journey with our recently acquired Merry Fisher 895, lovingly dubbed "Antoinette," we can't contain our excitement. Despite facing less-than-ideal weather conditions on our first night out, this boat has already proven its resilience. Join us as we share our initial thoughts and experiences with this impressive vessel.

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Setting the Scene: Parked with curtains drawn, the Merry Fisher 895 awaits its next adventure. The fab dock system keeps it dry, showcasing a unique feature—no anti-foul. The absence of an anti-foul system is intriguing, and we're eager to explore its implications on maintenance.

Exterior Walkaround: The exterior reveals a well-packed boat using the fab dock system. A side gate, though a bit high for the pontoon, provides easy entry from the duckboard. The absence of an anti-foul system is emphasized, hinting at a boat designed for low maintenance and high performance.

Driving Experience: The driving position earns high marks, but the long play in the wheel and throttle control nuances are noted. Adjusting to these quirks will be part of the learning curve. A delightful surprise is the presence of a bow thruster, offering an extra layer of maneuverability.

Interior Highlights: Inside, the Merry Fisher 895 impresses with its dual seating positions, especially during family outings. The movable seating arrangement adds versatility to the space. The galley setup functions seamlessly, delivering delightful meals during our first outing.

Comfort and Utilities: The bed receives praise for its comfort, despite differing opinions from some users. The hot water system, operational only on 240-volt power, delivered a consistent and warm supply throughout the night at anchor. The cockpit area, though slightly restricted due to rain, holds promise for future use.

Challenges and Solutions: Not without its challenges, we encountered a battery issue during our first night. Investigating further, we discovered a wiring mix-up in the lazarette, resulting in the house battery draining unexpectedly. Addressing this, we've rectified the wiring and invested in a Victron battery monitor for added peace of mind.

Conclusion: Our initial voyage with the Merry Fisher 895 leaves us eager for more. Despite facing a few hiccups, the boat showcases its potential for comfortable cruising and family outings. Stay tuned for upcoming videos, including a full walkthrough and insights into specific features of the Merry Fisher 895. Until then, happy sailing!

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