Yachts for sale / Meridian 490 Pilothouse

2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse

Anacortes, WA, US 54 ft · 15.08 ft' beam 3 cabins 22 kn kn top
Asking
$239,900
Our Thoughts

2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse – Anacortes, WA

This 2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse represents a well-maintained example of one of the most respected pilothouse motor yacht designs ever built. At 54 feet with a 15.08-foot beam and 4-foot draft, the 490 delivers the ideal balance of seakeeping capability, interior volume, and operational efficiency that has made the model a staple throughout the Pacific Northwest cruising fleet.

Power & Performance

The vessel is powered by a pair of upgraded Cummins 370-horsepower diesel engines—a notable specification, as most 490s in the market are equipped with the standard 330-horsepower configuration. These engines have accumulated only 737 hours and feature electronic controls for smooth, responsive operation. The 370-hp upgrade delivers a maximum speed of 22 knots while maintaining a comfortable 16-knot cruising speed, supported by a 444-gallon fuel capacity and 200-gallon freshwater tank. A bow thruster with controls at both helm stations enhances docking and close-quarters maneuvering, while trim tabs provide additional hull control. The upgraded 13.5-kW Onan diesel generator (1,134 hours) supplies independent electrical power for extended cruising or dock operations.

Navigation & Electronics

The pilothouse is equipped with a newer Garmin touchscreen multifunction display featuring GPS, chart plotter, and sonar capability, paired with a Raymarine RL80C radar and Raymarine ST6001+ autopilot. The flybridge repeats critical systems with a Raymarine RL70C radar and ST6001+ autopilot, ensuring redundancy and helm flexibility. Both stations feature electronic shift and throttle controls, Garmin depth meters, VHF radios (Icom IC-M506 in pilothouse, Uniden UM525 on flybridge), and Fusion stereo systems. A digital TV antenna, Starlink connectivity, and satellite TV capability (currently inactive) round out the communication suite.

Accommodations & Interior

The modified master stateroom represents a thoughtful layout improvement—the original wall between the master and bunk room has been removed to create a significantly larger sleeping area while retaining the bunk space behind custom mirror doors for additional sleeping capacity or storage. This stateroom includes a king-size island berth, dual overhead hatches, full-length mirrors, chest of drawers, hanging lockers, and a dedicated en suite head with full tub, shower, Vac-U-Flush toilet, and vanity.

The VIP stateroom to port features a queen berth, hanging locker, flatscreen TV, and private access to a dedicated day head with full shower. The salon showcases an L-shaped settee to starboard with twin recliners, barrel chairs to port, a hi-lo wood table, and a pop-up flatscreen TV in a port cabinet. The wet bar includes dual stainless steel sinks with solid surface countertops and generous storage. Electric heat registers throughout the interior maintain comfort during cooler seasons.

The galley is appointed with Corian solid surface countertops, a newer Vitrifrigo full-size refrigerator/freezer, a three-burner electric stove, electric oven, GE microwave, dual sinks with pull-out faucet, and abundant overhead and under-counter storage. The open pilothouse design features a captain's helm chair, L-shaped settee to port, folding wood table

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

This 2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse is powered by the upgraded Cummins 370hp engines (which is one of the only 490's with the larger 370hp engines for sale in the country!) that only have 737 hours, Electronic Controls and a Bow Thruster!    This Meridian 490 has a modified Master Stateroom to make it a larger stateroom by taking out the wall between the master and the bunk room. The bunk room has custom mirror doors, but still has the bunks in place for storage or sleeper. This Meridian 490 has Electric Heat, a Pop-up Flatscreen TV in the salon and a newer Garmin touchscreen MFD in the Pilothouse which also includes RayMarine Auto Pilot and Radar at both helm stations.  The current owners have kept it on the hard since they have owned it when they are not using it. They have done many upgrades over the last couple of years, including New Batteries, New Refrigerator, New Microwave, New Ice Maker, Replaced black waste lines and toilets, New Garmin Electronics, New Flatscreen TV, added Starlink, added Fusion Stereo system, added engine oil change system, just to name a few. A few highlights on this 2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse: Bow Thruster Controls at both helm stations Upgraded 13.5kW Onan Diesel Generator  Newer Garmin Touchscreen MFD with GPS/Sonar, RayMarine Radar and Auto Pilot Electric Heat  Inverter Inflatable tender with motorDon't miss your opportunity to own one of the most popular boats in the PNW! Very well equipped and turn key ready for boating! Come see why the Meridian 490 is the best seller and layout of all time for a pilothouse of this size, with its open salon and galley, to the large pilothouse with a great view for all to enjoy.  We usually have one of the best selection of Meridian Yachts by any broker in Washington but have sold many lately, so if you are looking at listing/buying a Meridian, please contact the LISTING BROKER. Located offsite at a secure marina in Anacortes, please contact the LISTING BROKER on his cell phone to set up an appointment to see this great 2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse. 

2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse: Premium Pacific Northwest Motor Yacht with Upgraded Twin Cummins Engines
Overview
The 2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse represents a mature and proven design in the pilothouse motor yacht category, combining a 54-foot hull with the operational flexibility and comfort expected of a serious cruising vessel. Located in Anacortes, Washington, this particular example stands apart through its installation of upgraded 370-horsepower Cummins diesel engines—a specification that distinguishes it from most comparable 490s currently available. With only 737 hours on these powerplants, the vessel demonstrates the benefit of careful stewardship by its current owners, who have invested substantially in mechanical and systems upgrades over recent years. The Meridian 490's reputation as a best-selling pilothouse design of its size rests on a fundamental layout strength: an open salon and galley forward, a commanding pilothouse with panoramic sightlines, and a logical progression of accommodations below. This 54-footer achieves a 15.08-foot beam and 4-foot draft, proportions that support both comfortable interior volume and practical accessibility to many cruising destinations. The vessel's cruising speed of 16 knots and maximum speed of 22 knots reflect the measured performance envelope typical of this class—efficiency and range prioritized over sprint capability.
Layout and Deck Design
The Meridian 490 organizes its interior around three distinct zones: the pilothouse, the salon and galley, and the accommodations below. This vertical separation creates natural traffic flow while allowing each area to serve its purpose without compromise. The pilothouse occupies the upper helm station with a captain's helm chair, port-side L-shaped settee, and folding wood table. Large windows and tinted glass provide commanding views forward and to the sides, essential for safe navigation and situational awareness. A second helm station is equipped identically to the pilothouse, allowing operation from the flybridge in fair weather—a feature that extends the vessel's usability and reduces fatigue during extended cruises. Both helm positions feature electronic shift and throttle controls, bow thruster command, trim tab adjustment, and spotlight operation. The salon flows naturally from the pilothouse, featuring an L-shaped starboard settee with twin recliner chairs, port-side barrel chairs, and a folding wood table that accommodates additional guests. A wet bar with solid-surface countertop and stainless sink provides beverage service and storage. The salon's pop-up flatscreen television, housed in a port cabinet, offers entertainment during anchorage or inclement weather. Electric heat registers and overhead lighting throughout maintain comfort in cooler climates. The galley is positioned forward of the salon with direct access to both spaces. Corian solid-surface countertops, dual stainless steel sinks with pull-out faucets, and a newer Vitrifrigo full-size refrigerator-freezer provide serious provisioning capability. A three-burner electric stove, electric oven, and GE microwave enable full meal preparation underway. Ample overhead and drawer storage, wood flooring, and overhead lighting round out a galley designed for extended cruising. The flybridge extends the vessel's social and operational space, featuring a captain's chair, port-side L-shaped settee behind the helm, and a long bench lounge to starboard. A flybridge wet bar with refrigerator and sink supports entertaining and casual meals alfresco. Canvas covers protect seating cushions and the helm chair when the vessel is unoccupied. A bimini top provides weather protection during operation. Deck hardware reflects the vessel's cruising mission: a rebuilt bow thruster (2022), an updated stainless steel windlass with foot switches, trim tabs for ride control, and a davit crane for launching the tender. The cockpit features bolstered seating, a transom storage box with door, a swim platform, and a transom door for convenient water access. Bow seating with cushions provides a pleasant forward vantage point. A 12-foot Novurania hard-bottom inflatable tender with console and 25-horsepower Yamaha engine is included, extending the vessel's reach to shallow anchorages and remote locations.
Helm and Electronics
The Meridian 490's dual helm stations—pilothouse and flybridge—are equipped with a modern electronics suite that supports safe, confident navigation across a range of conditions. The pilothouse helm features a newer Garmin touchscreen multifunction display with integrated GPS chart plotter and sonar capability. This unit serves as the primary navigation interface, offering real-time depth, water temperature, and target identification. A Raymarine RL80C radar operates alongside the Garmin system, providing weather avoidance and target acquisition in low-visibility conditions. The Raymarine ST6001+ autopilot handles long-distance cruising and station-keeping, reducing helm fatigue and improving fuel economy through more consistent throttle management. The flybridge helm replicates essential systems: a Raymarine RL70C radar, Raymarine ST6001+ autopilot, and Garmin depth meter ensure that the vessel can be operated safely from the upper station during favorable conditions. Dual VHF radios—an Icom IC-M506 in the pilothouse and an Uniden UM525 on the flybridge—maintain communication with other vessels and shore-based services across multiple channels. Both helm stations feature bow thruster controls, enabling independent lateral movement for docking and maneuvering in confined spaces. Electronic shift and throttle controls replace mechanical cables, improving throttle response and reducing the physical effort required during prolonged operation. A Garmin depth meter provides real-time water depth information, critical for safe passage through shallow or uncharted waters. The Fusion stereo head unit with dedicated speakers throughout the vessel provides entertainment and communication capability. The pilothouse includes a compass, windshield defrosters, and spotlight remote control for nighttime operation and docking.
Power and Performance
The Meridian 490 in this configuration is powered by twin upgraded Cummins 370-horsepower diesel engines—a specification that distinguishes this vessel from most comparable examples. The larger Cummins powerplants deliver increased reserve power for challenging conditions while maintaining the fuel efficiency expected of modern marine diesels. With only 737 hours on the engines, the powerplants have received minimal wear relative to their service life potential. Electronic controls on both engines support precise throttle management and smooth operation across the speed range. The engines are supported by dedicated start batteries and a rebuilt bow thruster (2022), ensuring reliable maneuvering in all conditions. The vessel's cruising speed of 16 knots reflects an efficient operating point, balancing fuel consumption against passage time. Maximum speed of 22 knots is available when conditions and schedules demand faster transit. The 444-gallon fuel capacity supports extended range, with the twin engines drawing proportionally from each tank.
Electrical and Generator Systems
A 13.5-kilowatt Onan diesel generator provides independent electrical power for hotel loads, eliminating reliance on shorepower or batteries during anchorage. The generator has accumulated 1134 hours of operation, indicating regular use and maintenance. An Outback 2500-watt inverter supports AC loads when operating on battery power, extending the vessel's time away from shore facilities. Electrical infrastructure includes dedicated start batteries and dedicated inverter/house batteries, segregating engine starting power from house loads. A Link 20 battery monitor in the salon provides real-time state-of-charge information, allowing the operator to manage power consumption intelligently. A 50-amp shorepower hookup and cord enable rapid battery charging and full AC system operation when docked.
Accommodations and Interior Comfort
The Meridian 490 provides sleeping quarters for six to eight persons across three staterooms, with two full heads supporting the accommodations. The master stateroom has been enlarged through removal of the wall between the original master and bunk room, creating a more spacious primary suite. A king-size island berth with under-berth storage, port-side hanging locker and drawers, and starboard hanging locker provide storage for extended cruising. Dual overhead hatches offer natural light and ventilation. Custom mirror doors conceal bunks that function as sleeping berths or storage lockers, adding flexibility for larger parties. A shelf with TV and DVD player supports entertainment. The en-suite master head features a large vac-u-flush toilet, bathtub with shower, vanity sink with hot and cold water, medicine cabinet, and exhaust fan. Privacy doors separate the stateroom and head from the main cabin. The VIP stateroom to port features a queen-size berth, hanging locker, reading lights, drawer storage, and a flatscreen television. A sliding privacy door ensures privacy. The adjacent VIP/day head provides a full-size shower, vanity with medicine cabinet
Length
54 ft
Beam
15.08 ft'
Year
2003
Builder
Meridian
Model
490 Pilothouse
Cabins
3
Max speed
22 kn kn
What makes the 2003 Meridian 490 Pilothouse a good choice for Pacific Northwest cruising?
The Meridian 490 is purpose-built for extended cruising in variable coastal conditions. Its pilothouse design provides protected helm visibility and comfort in all weather, while the 54-foot length with 15-foot beam offers stable, seaworthy handling. The 444-gallon fuel capacity supports 16-knot cruising speeds over long distances, and the enclosed pilothouse with dual helm stations means you can operate the boat comfortably in rain, wind, and fog—common conditions in the PNW. The boat's reputation as one of the best-selling pilothouse designs in its class reflects its proven layout and practical cruising capability.
How do the upgraded Cummins 370hp engines perform on this particular 490?
This vessel is equipped with the upgraded Cummins 370hp diesel engines—a significant specification since most 490 Pilothouses were built with smaller engine packages. With only 737 hours on these engines, they deliver a maximum speed of 22 knots and a comfortable 16-knot cruising speed. The electronic controls and low engine hours mean you're getting a responsive, well-maintained propulsion system. The 370hp upgrade provides better performance and reserve power compared to standard 490 configurations, making this one of the few examples of this engine upgrade available on the market.
What electronics and navigation systems are installed in the pilothouse?
The pilothouse features a newer Garmin touchscreen multifunction display with integrated GPS, chart plotter, and sonar—providing comprehensive navigation and fish-finding capability. Raymarine RL80C radar and ST6001+ autopilot offer advanced navigation safety and hands-free operation. A Garmin depth meter, Icom IC-M506 VHF radio, electronic shift and throttle controls, and a Fusion stereo system round out the primary helm station. The flybridge helm repeats many of these systems, including a Raymarine RL70C radar and autopilot, allowing full operation from either station. This level of electronics integration supports confident coastal and offshore navigation.
How is the master stateroom configured, and what makes it different from standard 490 layouts?
The master stateroom has been enlarged by removing the wall between the original master cabin and bunk room, creating a significantly larger sleeping and living space. The king-size island berth is positioned to take advantage of dual overhead hatches for natural light and ventilation. Storage is extensive, with under-berth drawers, port and starboard hanging lockers, and additional aft storage with drawers and hanging space. The custom mirror doors on the remaining bunks provide flexible sleeping or storage options. This modified layout prioritizes owner comfort while maintaining the flexibility to accommodate additional guests—a practical upgrade from the standard configuration.
What is the galley layout and what appliances are included?
The galley features Corian solid-surface countertops with dual stainless steel sinks, a pull-out faucet, and removable solid-surface covers. Appliances include a newer Vitrifrigo full-size refrigerator/freezer, a 3-burner electric stove, an electric oven, and a GE microwave. A wood floor, overhead lighting, and generous overhead and under-sink storage create an efficient, well-appointed cooking space. The salon also includes an ice maker and wet bar with solid-surface countertops and a stainless sink, providing additional beverage and food preparation capability throughout the main deck.
What helm and pilothouse seating is available, and how is the layout designed for operation?
The pilothouse features a captain's helm chair at the primary control station, with an L-shaped settee to port and behind the helm for guests or crew. A folding wood table provides dining or chart-work surface. The helm chair includes a custom tool chest underneath for storage. Port and starboard pilothouse doors provide easy access to the side decks, while large windows with UV-protective tint offer excellent visibility in all directions. The flybridge repeats the captain's chair and L-shaped settee arrangement, allowing operation from either station. This dual-helm configuration is ideal for extended cruising, as it provides flexibility and allows the operator to choose the most comfortable or practical control position based on weather and sea state.
What accommodation spaces are available for guests, and how many people can the boat sleep?
The boat offers multiple sleeping areas beyond the enlarged master stateroom. The VIP stateroom to port features a queen-size berth, hanging locker, reading lights, drawer storage, and a flatscreen TV. The modified bunk room behind the master (now with custom mirror doors) retains sleeping bunks for additional guests or can serve as storage. The salon includes an L-shaped settee and twin recliners that can accommodate additional sleeping arrangements. The pilothouse has an L-shaped settee as well. With the master king bed, VIP queen, bunk room bunks, and multiple settees, the boat can comfortably sleep six to eight people depending on configuration—well-suited for family cruising or entertaining guests.
What is the bow thruster system, and how does it improve boat handling?
The boat is equipped with a bow thruster that was rebuilt in 2022, providing independent lateral thrust at the bow for precise maneuvering in tight spaces. Bow thruster controls are located at both the pilothouse helm station and the flybridge helm station, allowing the operator to use the thruster from either location. This feature is particularly valuable for docking in challenging conditions, navigating narrow channels, or positioning the boat without relying solely on propeller and rudder. The dual-station control setup means you can operate the thruster from whichever helm position you're using, adding significant practical convenience for single-handed operation or when maneuvering in confined waters.
What recent upgrades and maintenance have been performed on this vessel?
The current owners have completed substantial upgrades over the past couple of years, including new batteries, a new Vitrifrigo refrigerator, new microwave, new ice maker, replaced black waste lines and toilets, new Garmin electronics suite, new flatscreen TV in the salon, added Starlink satellite internet, added a Fusion stereo system, and installed an engine oil change system. The bow thruster was rebuilt in 2022. The vessel has been stored on the hard when not in use, which helps preserve the hull and systems. These upgrades reflect a commitment to maintaining and modernizing the boat's systems, comfort, and connectivity—important considerations for extended cruising.
What is the generator and power system capacity?
The boat features an upgraded 13.5 kW Onan diesel generator with 1,134 hours of operation, providing substantial electrical power for extended cruising without relying on shore power. An Outback 2500W inverter supports AC loads when the generator is off or when running on battery power. The electrical system includes dedicated start batteries, dedicated inverter/house batteries, a 50-amp shorepower hookup with cord, and an AC distribution panel in the pilothouse cabinet. A Link 20 battery monitor in the salon provides real-time visibility into power consumption and battery status. This robust power system supports all onboard systems—including the electric heat, refrigeration, microwave, and entertainment electronics—during extended cruising or anchoring.
What deck and water-sports equipment does the boat include?
The boat is equipped with a 12-foot Novurania hard-bottom inflatable tender with console and 25HP Yamaha engine, allowing independent exploration and water access. A davit crane on the bridge simplifies tender deployment and retrieval. Additional deck features include a swim platform with transom door, cockpit bolsters, a custom cockpit transom storage box, bow seating with cushions, a windlass with foot switches for anchor handling, trim tabs for ride control, and starboard and port pilothouse doors for easy deck access. Canvas covers protect the flybridge helm chair and cushions. A bimini top provides shade on the flybridge. These features support both cruising comfort and practical water-sports and anchoring capability.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Irwin Yacht Sales - Seattle. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel.

Similar yachts

More Meridian yachts

See all Meridian listings →

Watch this boat

Not ready to talk yet? Leave your number — we'll personally alert you the moment the price moves or her status changes.

$239,900 Request a call
¿Habla español? (traducción automática)

Hablamos español

Déjenos su número y un broker de Fly Yachts le llamará — en español.