Yachts for sale / Meridian 381 Sedan

2004 Meridian 381 Sedan

Stillwater, MN, US 38 ft · 13.58 ft' beam 2 cabins
Asking
$149,800
Our Thoughts

This 2004 Meridian 381 Sedan represents a well-maintained example of the brand's proven sedan cruiser design, offering comfortable coastal and inland waterway cruising with a thoughtful cabin layout and strong mechanical foundation. The vessel has been operated exclusively in fresh water, a significant advantage for long-term hull and systems integrity, and features twin Mercruiser 8.1-liter 370 HP direct-drive inboard engines with only 835 hours of service time—a relatively modest run for a boat of this age and class.

The 381 Sedan's 38-foot length and 13.58-foot beam create a stable platform with a 3.33-foot draft suitable for both open-water cruising and shallower inland environments. Fuel capacity of 300 gallons and 125-gallon water tanks support extended cruising independence, while the Kohler 350-hour generator provides onboard electrical power for air conditioning, appliances, and comfort systems when anchored or dockside.

The custom hardtop and opening salon windows enhance the upper-deck experience and natural ventilation, while the integrated Docking on Command (D.O.C.) system—paired with bow and stern thrusters—simplifies close-quarters maneuvering in tight slips or challenging conditions. This Meridian-exclusive automation reduces the physical demand of docking and positioning, a practical asset for owners seeking easier boat handling.

Below, the cabin reflects Meridian's traditional sedan philosophy: a full galley with Karadon countertops, dedicated dinette with teak and holly flooring, two staterooms, and a head with stall shower. The master stateroom features an island berth, while twin Flexsteel reclining seats in the salon provide seating flexibility. Two-zone air conditioning and heating allow independent climate control between cabin zones.

Electronics include a Raymarine C120 radar and chart plotter, Raymarine depth finder, and Raymarine VHF radio—a coherent suite of navigation and communication tools that support confident cruising. The 42-inch flat-screen television and cherry wood interior trim reflect thoughtful cabin updates, while custom davits accommodate a small RIB tender for dinghy deployment and retrieval.

Additional practical features include fender racks for organized dock fender storage and a beaching ladder for shallow-water exploration or emergency egress. The combination of fresh-water operation, modest engine hours, Kohler generator service history, and equipped galley systems positions this 381 as a turnkey platform for Midwest river and Great Lakes cruising, or as a capable foundation for owners seeking to establish longer-term coastal patterns with a proven, mid-sized sedan cruiser.

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

100% Fresh Water 381 with Custom HARDTOP. 835 hours on EnginesVery good condition. Bow and stern thrustersUpgraded TV in SalonKohler Generator 350 hoursCustom Davits for small RIB TenderRaymarine C120 Radar/chart plotterRaymarine Depth FinderRaymarine VHFFender RacksBeaching ladderUpgraded flat Screen TV in Salon 42"Cherry wood interior2 stateroomsOpening salon windowsKaradon Counter topsTeak and holly flooring in galley DinetteTwin Flexsteel incliners in SalonDocking on Command (Bow and Stern Thruster)2 Zone AC/heat

2004 Meridian 381 Sedan Yacht for Sale in Stillwater, Minnesota
Overview
The 2004 Meridian 381 Sedan represents a mature, well-equipped motor yacht designed for coastal cruising and extended family boating. At 38 feet in length with a 13.58-foot beam, this sedan-style cruiser balances spacious interior accommodations with a proven hull design that has earned respect among Great Lakes and coastal boaters. The vessel is powered by twin Mercruiser 8.1-liter 370-horsepower direct-drive inboard engines with only 835 hours of documented run time, indicating moderate use over its operational history. Operated exclusively in fresh water, this Meridian has been maintained in very good condition and offers a complete package of navigation electronics, climate control, and comfort-focused interior design.
Helm and Navigation
Command of the Meridian 381 is centered on the raised pilothouse, accessible via a molded staircase that leads to the flybridge helm station. The vessel is equipped with a Raymarine C120 integrated radar and chart plotter, providing modern navigation capability for open water and coastal piloting. Supporting electronics include a Raymarine depth finder and Raymarine VHF radio, creating a cohesive navigation suite. The defining feature of the helm station is the Meridian D.O.C. (Docking on Command) system—an integrated bow and stern thruster control that simplifies single-operator maneuvering in tight spaces. Rather than juggling separate thruster controls, the D.O.C. system allows intuitive forward, aft, and lateral movement, making docking and close-quarters handling substantially easier for skippers of all experience levels. This level of integrated helm control elevates the practical usability of the vessel in marina environments and confined waterways.
Cabin Layout and Interior Design
Below deck, the Meridian 381 provides two full staterooms and a dedicated head with shower, creating genuine sleeping quarters for multiple couples or a family. The master stateroom features an island berth arrangement, while the guest stateroom offers additional sleeping accommodation. The salon serves as the social hub, featuring opening windows that provide natural ventilation and connection to the surrounding water. Two twin Flexsteel reclining chairs in the salon maximize comfort during extended cruising or entertaining at anchor. A 42-inch flat-screen television has been upgraded in the salon, providing entertainment during extended stays or poor-weather days. The galley is fully equipped and positioned to support meal preparation while cruising. Karadon countertops provide durable, easy-to-maintain work surfaces, while teak and holly flooring in the galley and dinette area add traditional yacht aesthetic and durability. A dedicated dinette expands dining and entertaining options beyond the main salon, allowing flexible use of interior space.
Comfort and Climate Control
A two-zone air conditioning and heating system allows independent temperature management in different areas of the vessel, critical for comfort during extended cruising in varying climates. The stall shower in the head provides freshwater bathing capability, supported by a 125-gallon freshwater capacity—substantial enough for extended cruising without frequent replenishment. Interior finishes throughout the cabin feature cherry wood, reinforcing the traditional cruising yacht aesthetic and creating a warm, inviting environment.
Power and Fuel Capacity
The twin Mercruiser 8.1-liter inboard engines, each producing 370 horsepower, provide the power necessary for this 38-foot sedan to reach cruising speeds suitable for coastal and Great Lakes operation. With only 835 hours recorded on the engines, they remain well within normal service intervals and represent a substantial capital asset. The 300-gallon fuel capacity supports extended cruising range, allowing multi-day passages without frequent fuel stops. The direct-drive configuration of these inboards is characteristic of Meridian's engineering approach, delivering reliable, straightforward propulsion without the complexity of jet drives or pod systems.
Generator and Onboard Power
A Kohler 350-watt generator with only 350 hours of operation provides independent electrical power generation, essential for extended anchoring or cruising away from shore power. The generator supports air conditioning, heating, galley appliances, and other 120-volt systems, allowing full-time liveaboard capability or extended cruising without reliance on external power sources.
Docking and Tender Management
The vessel is equipped with both bow and stern thrusters integrated into the D.O.C. system, providing precise lateral and directional control during maneuvering. A custom davit system has been installed for launching and retrieving a small RIB tender, expanding cruising range and providing independent access to anchorages and shallow-water exploration. Fender racks and a beaching ladder complete the practical docking and anchoring infrastructure.
Exterior Features
A custom hardtop provides weather protection and shade over the flybridge helm station, extending the usable season and improving comfort during extended cruising in variable weather. The hardtop represents a significant upgrade that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Why This Meridian 381 Sedan Deserves Consideration
The 2004 Meridian 381 Sedan combines proven sedan-style cruising design with a comprehensive suite of modern electronics and comfort amenities. The exclusive D.O.C. docking system sets this model apart from conventional twin-thruster setups, offering genuine operational advantages for single-operator docking and maneuvering. The fresh-water-only operational history, moderate engine hours, and well-documented equipment upgrades—including the custom hardtop, Raymarine electronics package, and Kohler generator—position this yacht as a turnkey cruiser ready for immediate use. The two-stateroom layout with dedicated dinette and full galley supports extended family cruising or entertaining, while the two-zone climate control ensures comfort across seasons. Cherry wood interiors, teak and holly flooring, and Flexsteel recliners reflect a commitment to traditional yacht comfort and aesthetics. The 38-foot length and sedan configuration offer a balance between spacious interior accommodations and manageable single-operator handling, particularly with the D.O.C. system and integrated thrusters. For buyers seeking a proven Great Lakes and coastal cruiser with solid power, reliable electronics, and comfortable accommodations, the 2004 Meridian 381 Sedan represents a mature platform with demonstrated value and practical usability. The combination of fresh-water operation, moderate engine hours, comprehensive electronics, and recent upgrades creates a compelling package for discerning boaters ready to cruise.
Length
38 ft
Beam
13.58 ft'
Year
2004
Builder
Meridian
Model
381 Sedan
Cabins
2
What type of boat is a Meridian 381 Sedan, and what is it designed for?
The Meridian 381 Sedan is a 38-foot cruising motor yacht built for comfortable extended boating and entertaining. The sedan cabin design—featuring an enclosed salon, galley, dinette, and two staterooms—makes it well-suited for families or couples who want to spend multiple days or weeks aboard in protected waters and coastal cruising. The flybridge provides an elevated helm station for commanding views during transit, while the full interior accommodations prioritize livability over fishing or performance, distinguishing it from center console or sportfish designs. This class of boat balances cruising capability with the comfort features of a floating home.
What engines power the 2004 Meridian 381, and how do they perform?
The 381 is powered by twin Mercruiser 8.1-liter direct-drive inboard engines, each producing 370 horsepower, for a combined 740 HP. With only 835 hours on the engines, they are well-maintained and have substantial remaining service life. Twin inboards in this configuration provide balanced thrust, fuel efficiency relative to their power, and the reliability associated with direct-drive systems. The engines support comfortable cruising speeds typical of displacement-hull yachts in this size range, making them suitable for multi-day passages where fuel economy and dependability matter more than maximum speed.
What is the Docking on Command system, and how does it work?
Docking on Command (D.O.C.) is a Meridian exclusive feature that integrates bow and stern thrusters into a single, intuitive control system. Rather than operating thrusters independently, D.O.C. allows the helmsman to command the boat forward, aft, and side-to-side using a single joystick or control interface. This dramatically simplifies maneuvering in tight spaces, at the dock, or in challenging wind and current conditions—particularly valuable for a 38-foot yacht where precision handling reduces stress and risk. The system makes single-handed docking and anchoring far more manageable, even for less experienced operators.
What electronics and navigation systems are included on this 381?
The yacht is equipped with Raymarine C120 Radar and chart plotter as the primary navigation suite, complemented by a Raymarine depth finder and VHF radio. The C120 is a capable, proven system that integrates radar overlay with electronic charting, providing excellent situational awareness in all weather and visibility conditions. This electronics package supports confident coastal and offshore cruising, allowing the operator to navigate safely, monitor water depth, and maintain communication. The systems are integrated and user-friendly, making them suitable for both experienced mariners and those new to larger yacht operation.
What are the cabin accommodations and sleeping arrangements?
The 381 features two staterooms and a full head with stall shower, providing comfortable sleeping and hygiene facilities for extended cruising. The master stateroom includes an island berth—a center-mounted bed offering access from both sides and maximizing comfort during overnight passages. The second stateroom accommodates additional guests or crew. The cherry wood interior and teak and holly flooring in the galley and dinette create a warm, finished aesthetic that feels like home. These accommodations make the boat suitable for couples planning extended cruises or families and friends sharing extended boating vacations.
What is included in the galley and dining area?
The 381 features a full galley with Karadon countertops and teak and holly flooring, designed to support meal preparation during extended cruising. A dedicated dinette provides comfortable seating for dining and socializing. The galley layout allows the cook to prepare meals while remaining part of the social environment—important for cruising yachts where entertaining and daily living revolve around shared spaces. The quality countertop material and finished flooring indicate attention to durability and aesthetics, supporting both practical cooking and the overall comfort level of the interior.
What climate control and comfort features does the 381 offer?
The yacht includes a two-zone air conditioning and heating system, allowing independent temperature control in different areas of the boat—critical for comfort during hot summers or cold seasons. A Kohler 350-hour generator (with only 350 hours of use) powers the air conditioning, water heating, and other systems when the main engines are off, enabling comfortable anchoring or marina stays without running the engines. Twin Flexsteel recliners in the salon provide ergonomic seating for relaxation and entertainment. The combination of climate control, generator capacity, and quality seating creates a yacht that feels genuinely comfortable for extended time aboard.
What entertainment and upgrade features are included in the salon?
The salon features a 42-inch flat-screen upgraded TV, providing entertainment options while anchored or during downtime. Opening salon windows allow natural ventilation and light, reducing the feeling of confinement and improving air circulation. The cherry wood interior and quality furnishings create an upscale environment suitable for entertaining guests or enjoying quiet time aboard. These features reflect thoughtful upgrades beyond the original specification, indicating an owner who valued comfort and modern conveniences during cruising.
What is the fuel and water capacity, and what does it support?
The 381 carries 300 gallons of fuel and 125 gallons of fresh water. The fuel capacity supports extended cruising range, allowing multi-day passages without refueling, while the 125-gallon water tank provides adequate fresh water for showers, cooking, and daily use for a crew of four to six people for several days between refills. These capacities are typical for a 38-foot cruising yacht and reflect the boat's design for comfortable, self-sufficient operation away from marinas and shore facilities. Combined with the generator and full galley, the boat supports genuine cruising independence.
What are the deck features and tender handling capabilities?
The yacht includes custom davits for launching and retrieving a small RIB tender, allowing exploration of shallow areas, fishing spots, or remote anchorages without taking the main yacht into restricted waters. Fender racks keep docking and anchoring gear organized and accessible. A beaching ladder facilitates water access for swimming or tender boarding. These features support the practical, active cruising lifestyle—allowing the boat to serve as a base for exploration while providing the comfort and safety of a full-size yacht. The custom davit installation indicates thoughtful planning for tender operations.
What size and draft does the 381 have, and what waters can it access?
At 38 feet in length and 13.58 feet in beam, with a draft of 3.33 feet, the Meridian 381 is a mid-size cruising yacht that balances interior volume with reasonable draft for coastal and inland waterway cruising. The 3.33-foot draft allows access to many protected bays, rivers, and anchorages where larger yachts cannot venture, while the overall size provides substantial cabin space and seaworthiness for open-water cruising. This combination makes the 381 suitable for exploring both coastal regions and inland systems—from the Great Lakes to the Intracoastal Waterway—without the limitations of larger, deeper-draft vessels.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Midwest Yacht Sales. 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.

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