Yachts for sale / Meridian 490 Pilothouse

2008 Meridian 490 Pilothouse

Southport, NC, US 54 ft · 15.08 ft' beam
Asking
$380,000
Our Thoughts

The 2008 Meridian 490 Pilothouse is one of the most accomplished long-range cruising platforms ever built in this size class, and Dancyn exemplifies why this model remains highly sought after by serious offshore boaters and Great Loop cruisers. At 54 feet with a 15-foot beam and shallow 3.33-foot draft, the 490 Pilothouse combines genuine ocean-going capability with the interior volume and comfort necessary for extended liveaboard passages—a balance many production yachts struggle to achieve.

Power & Propulsion

Twin Cummins QSB 5.9 common-rail diesel engines rated at 380 horsepower each (a meaningful upgrade from the 330 hp standard configuration) drive Dancyn with proven efficiency and reliability. Port and starboard engines show 2,170 and 2,172 hours respectively, indicating moderate use and careful operation. Direct inboard drive with stainless shafts and Nibral propellers (reconditioned and balanced in April 2026) provides the redundancy and fuel economy that define responsible cruising in this class. A Cummins/Onan 13.5 kW diesel genset with approximately 1,435 hours supports full-hotel loads at anchor, while digital electronic throttle and shift controls at both pilothouse and flybridge helms offer precision maneuvering. The electric SidePower-type bow thruster with dedicated batteries and charger, combined with hydraulic steering and Bennett electro-hydraulic trim tabs, makes single-handed operation practical in confined waters. Fuel capacity of 444 gallons in twin tanks and fresh water capacity of 200 gallons support the extended cruising endurance this platform was designed for.

Electrical Systems & Power Management

Dancyn's electrical infrastructure has undergone comprehensive modernization through 2026, reflecting the owner's commitment to reliable, self-sufficient cruising. The house bank comprises four new L16 batteries (April 2026) supported by a 3,000-watt inverter/charger system capable of running air conditioning, the icemaker, and full galley loads while at anchor. Four new 12-volt Group 31 starting batteries (April 2026) ensure robust engine and generator starts. Dedicated battery banks with individual chargers and DC-DC converters support the Muir 12-volt electric windlass (200 feet of all-chain rode) and bow thruster independently, eliminating load conflicts during critical maneuvering. A 400-watt Bouge RV solar array with dedicated charge controller, installed in 2026, provides passive charging during daylight hours. Victron battery monitoring and charging integration offers real-time system status throughout the yacht. A 50-amp shore power inlet with Glendinning Cablemaster and wireless remote simplifies marina connections.

Navigation & Electronics

A comprehensive Garmin navigation suite installed during a major 2021–2022 refit establishes Dancyn as thoroughly modern in electronics. Three Garmin GPSMAP 8612 12-inch multifunction displays—two at the pilothouse helm and one at the flybridge—provide redundant chart plotting and system integration. Garmin autopilot with GHC 20 control heads at both helms ensures precision course keeping on long passages. Garmin GMI 20 multifunction instrument displays deliver real-time wind, speed, and depth data at both helms. Integrated Garmin radar, AIS transceiver with transmit and receive capability, and Garmin

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

PRICE REDUCED! Dancyn is a rare late-production 2008 Meridian 490 Pilothouse Motoryacht, one of the most sought‑after pilothouse cruisers thanks to her generous interior volume, efficient Cummins QSB 5.9 common‑rail diesels, and true long‑range cruising layout. She has been heavily upgraded with 380 hp electronic engines, a 3000 W inverter, modern Garmin navigation suite, Starlink Mini, expanded battery bank, solar, and a powerful connectivity and entertainment package for serious cruising or liveaboard use. Meticulously maintained and continuously improved with recent mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic upgrades through 2026, Dancyn is turnkey and ready for extended coastal passages or the Great Loop. Dimensions & capacities LOA: 54 ft 0 in (with pulpit) Beam: 15 ft 1 in Draft: 3 ft 4 in (approx.) Displacement: approx. 30,000 lb (light ship) Fuel: 444 gallons in twin tanks Fresh water: 200 gallons Holding tank: 48 gallonsMechanical & propulsion Engines: Twin Cummins QSB 5.9 common‑rail diesel engines, upgraded 380 hp each (330 hp standard on this model) Hours: Port 2170, Starboard 2172 Drive: Inboard direct drive with stainless shafts and Nibral props, props reconditioned and balanced April 2026 Generator: Cummins/Onan 13.5 kW diesel genset, 120/240 V AC, approx. 1435 hours Engine controls: Digital electronic throttle/shift at pilothouse and flybridge helms Bow thruster: Electric SidePower‑type bow thruster with two dedicated batteries and dedicated charger Steering: Hydraulic steering with Bennett electro‑hydraulic trim tabs Fuel filtration: Racor fuel filters for mains and generator Oil change: Reverso oil change system plumbed to both mains, transmissions, and generator Climate control: Upgraded three‑zone reverse‑cycle air conditioning, approx. 44,000 BTU total (2 × 16,000 BTU, 1 × 12,000 BTU) Heads: Vacu‑Flush heads throughout; all heads have separate showers, master with tub/shower Macerator: Jabsco macerator pump new March 2026 Windlass: Muir 12 V electric windlass with dedicated battery and DC‑DC charger; 200 ft all‑chain rodeElectrical system House bank: Four L16 house batteries in storage box, new April 2026 Engine/generator start: Four 12 V Group 31 starting batteries, new April 2026 Bow thruster & windlass: Dedicated batteries for thruster and windlass, each with dedicated charger and DC‑DC charging for windlass Inverter/charger: 3000 W inverter/charger system capable of running icemaker and all outlets, and supporting AC loads at anchor (including master stateroom AC plus lights/TV/galley appliances per prior configuration) Shore power: 50 A shore power inlet with Glendinning Cablemaster and wireless remote Solar: Bouge RV 400 W solar array with solar charge controller Battery monitoring: Victron battery charger / status meter (no separate amp‑usage gauge) Distribution: 110 V AC / 12 V DC panel with magnetic breakers, volt/amp meters, and engine hour meters Lighting: 12 V interior and exterior lighting, navigation lights, courtesy lights in cockpit and flybridgeAccommodations & interior Layout: 2‑stateroom, 2‑head pilothouse motoryacht with full‑beam salon, raised pilothouse, large flybridge, and cockpit. Master stateroom: Forward master with island berth, twin hanging lockers, drawer storage, settee/dressing area that converts to upper/lower berths, and ensuite head with Vacu‑Flush toilet and tub/shower. Guest stateroom: Mid‑ship double berth stateroom to port with hanging locker and drawers. Heads: Two Vacu‑Flush heads, each with separate shower stall; master includes bathtub/shower, both with vanities, storage, and mirrored medicine cabinets. Companionway: Built‑in washer/dryer combination unit under companionway, convenient for extended cruising. Salon: Open, full‑beam salon with large windows, two lounge chairs to port, starboard sofa with hi‑lo dining/cocktail table, flat‑screen TV, and rich cherry interior joinery (no barrel chair). Flooring: Carpeted salon with teak/holly galley sole. Storage: Extensive custom shelving added in various cabinets, including behind the salon TV and throughout the galley for improved provisioning capacity. Galley & domestic systems Configuration: U‑shaped galley up, open to salon with large countertops and abundant storage. Range/oven: Electric 3‑burner stove with oven (Princess‑type) plus convection microwave upgrade. Refrigeration: Stand‑up Norcold 7.0 cu ft refrigerator/freezer. Other appliances: Trash compactor, icemaker, stainless double sink with faucet. Countertops: Solid‑surface Karadon countertops. Washer/dryer: Combination unit in companionway, as above. Hot water: 20‑gallon 120 V water heater. Electronics & navigation(“All Garmin navigation” with major refit 2021–2022, plus ongoing updates.) Primary chartplotters: Two Garmin GPSMAP 8612 12" multifunction displays at pilothouse helm. One Garmin GPSMAP 8612 12" display at flybridge helm. Autopilot: Garmin autopilot with GHC 20 control heads at both helms. Instrumentation: Garmin GMI 20 multifunction instrument displays at both helms (wind/speed/depth etc.). Radar: Garmin radar integrated with the MFDs (model per Garmin refit). Engine data: Digital SmartCraft engine monitors and alarm system, including dual SmartCraft instrumentation. VHF: Garmin 315 VHF with GHS 11 wired handset and remote station. AIS: AIS transceiver with transmit and receive, integrated with the Garmin chartplotters. Compass: Rule 4.5" compasses at both helms. Communications & connectivity Satellite internet: Starlink Mini (new December 2025; subscription required) providing high‑speed connectivity for streaming and remote work. Private Wi‑Fi hotspot: Calyx onboard private Wi‑Fi hotspot with an affordable annual subscription (approx. 500 USD/year, with an estimated 200 USD tax‑deductible), offering robust connectivity at marinas and at anchor. Onboard monitoring: System capable of remote monitoring of security cameras and temperature sensors throughout the yacht via internet connection (subscriptions required). Entertainment: Fusion Apollo marine entertainment system with Bluetooth, AM/FM, SiriusXM and dual‑station control. New 2025 Samsung flatscreen Smart TV with soundbar and DVD player; TV is mounted on locking hinges to reveal custom storage behind. Electrical & entertainment (interior) Salon: Flatscreen Smart TV with soundbar, hi‑lo table, two lounge chairs and sofa seating, integrated Fusion audio, 110 V GFCI outlets (no barrel chair). Pilothouse: 12 V stereo with speakers in pilothouse and salon. Master & guest cabins: Reading lights, 110 V GFCI outlets, hanging lockers, drawers, and opening ports with screens. Deck, cockpit & flybridge Hull/deck construction: Hand‑laid fiberglass with vinylester skin coat, cored construction, and glassed‑in structural bulkheads. Foredeck: Integrated bow pulpit with anchor roller and Muir 12 V windlass. Foredeck bench seat with removable cushions. Anchor locker with 200 ft all‑chain rode. Rails & hardware: Stainless bow rails thru‑bolted to deck, cleats, hawse pipes, and swim platform with folding swim ladder and handrail. Cockpit: Molded steps to side decks; ladder to flybridge currently blocked due to larger dinghy on swim platform. Custom fold‑up cockpit dining table with four teak folding chairs. Storage lockers port and starboard. Shore water connection. Transom door to swim platform. Magma propane BBQ grill. Flybridge: Large flybridge with helm chair, L‑shaped lounge to port, bench seat to starboard, storage under all seating. Large flybridge storage box. Rear‑view camera for improved visibility while docking. Venturi windscreen, radar arch with lighting, cupholders, and polycarbonate door access to pilothouse. Pilothouse: Centerline helm with deluxe helm chair. L‑shaped settee with table plus jump seat, sliding side doors to both side decks, and internal stairs to flybridge. Tender & davit 2019 12 ft Highfield RIB 15 hp outboard engine Well‑maintained electric davit for ease of launchSafety & security Bilge pumps: Six Rule electric bilge pumps throughout the vessel. EPIRB: New EPIRB purchased 2024. Navigation lights: 12 V navigation and anchor lights per COLREGS. Monitoring: Remote camera and temperature monitoring via onboard connectivity, as noted above (subscriptions required). Additional equipment: Life jackets, throwable devices, and other safety gear per current inventory (to be detailed by seller/broker). Maintenance & recent upgrades Electronics refit: Approx. 2021–2022 full Garmin navigation suite including three 12" MFDs, autopilot, instrumentation, VHF, AIS, and Fusion audio. Bottom & running gear: Bottom paint renewed November 2022. Propellers reconditioned and balanced April 2026. Engines: Full aftercooler service in 2023. Engines described as carefully maintained with continuous service; QSB 5.9 380 hp configuration noted for excellent fuel economy (3–4 nmpg at trawler speeds with 18‑knot+ cruise capability). Electrical & batteries (major 2025–2026 cycle): 3000 W inverter/charger install/upgrade. Four L16 house batteries with storage box – new April 2026. Four 12 V Group 31 engine/generator start batteries – new April 2026. Dedicated bow thruster and windlass batteries with chargers and DC‑DC windlass charger – new/updated April 2026. Bouge RV 400 W solar array with controller – installed 2026. Victron charging/monitoring – installed/updated 2026. Plumbing: Jabsco macerator pump new March 2026. Connectivity: Starlink Mini hardware installed December 2025. General: Gelcoat, interior woodwork, soft goods, and canvas reported in excellent condition, reflecting high‑standard care. Broker's remarksDancyn represents a highly‑optioned, late‑model Meridian 490 Pilothouse with the preferred 380 hp Cummins QSB power, comprehensive Garmin electronics, robust inverter/solar/battery system, and modern connectivity for serious cruising. The proven two‑stateroom, two‑head layout with full‑beam salon and raised pilothouse has earned this model a reputation as one of the best liveaboard and Great Loop platforms in her class, and Dancyn's extensive 2023–2026 upgrades set her apart from typical sisterships on the market. She is clean, dialed‑in, and ready for inspection.

2008 Meridian 490 Pilothouse Motoryacht – Dancyn: A Premium Long-Range Cruiser with Modern Systems
Overview
Dancyn is a 2008 Meridian 490 Pilothouse, a 54-foot displacement cruising motoryacht built on a proven platform recognized for its generous interior volume, efficient propulsion, and authentic long-range cruising capability. Positioned at the upper end of the pilothouse category, the 490 combines a full-beam salon, raised helm station, and expansive flybridge with a two-stateroom, two-head interior layout designed for extended offshore passages, Great Loop cruising, and liveaboard operation. This particular vessel has been substantially upgraded through 2026 with twin 380-horsepower Cummins QSB 5.9 common-rail diesel engines, a comprehensive Garmin navigation and electronics suite, modern battery and inverter systems, solar power, Starlink satellite internet, and numerous mechanical and cosmetic refinements that distinguish her from standard sisterships in the market. The 490 Pilothouse category—true displacement cruisers with pilothouse helms, generous accommodations, and fuel-efficient diesel power—remains one of the most sought-after segments among serious cruisers and liveaboards. Dancyn's combination of proven hull design, upgraded propulsion, modern electronics, and continuous mechanical investment reflects the mindset of an owner committed to reliability, comfort, and extended-range capability rather than speed or flashy appointments.
Dimensions, Displacement, and Seaworthiness
Dancyn measures 54 feet overall length with a 15-foot-1-inch beam and draws approximately 3 feet 4 inches, dimensions that balance interior volume with reasonable draft for coastal and inland waterway exploration. The vessel's displacement is approximately 30,000 pounds light ship, a substantial weight that contributes to hull stability, sea-kindly motion, and the structural integrity required for extended blue-water cruising. This beam-to-length ratio and displacement envelope support the pilothouse design philosophy: a full-width interior with adequate freeboard and sheer for comfort in a seaway, paired with a relatively shallow draft suitable for Great Loop navigation and coastal cruising in variable conditions. Fuel capacity of 444 gallons in twin tanks and fresh water capacity of 200 gallons support multi-week cruising legs at economical trawler speeds, while the 48-gallon holding tank and equipped heads allow for extended time away from shoreside facilities. The vessel's hand-laid fiberglass hull with vinylester skin coat and cored construction, combined with glassed-in structural bulkheads, provides durability and insulation typical of quality pilothouse cruisers designed for long-term ocean and coastal service.
Power and Propulsion
Dancyn is powered by twin Cummins QSB 5.9 common-rail diesel engines, each upgraded to 380 horsepower—a 50-horsepower increase over the standard 330-horsepower baseline for this model year. The QSB 5.9 is a proven mid-range marine diesel known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and adequate reserve power for cruising speeds in the 12- to 18-knot range. At trawler speeds (typically 8–10 knots), these engines deliver an estimated 3 to 4 nautical miles per gallon, making them well-suited for owners prioritizing range and economy over speed. Current engine hours are approximately 2,170 on the port engine and 2,172 on the starboard engine—relatively modest for a 2008 vessel, suggesting either measured use, recent engine service, or a combination of both. Both engines feature digital SmartCraft monitoring and alarm systems at the pilothouse and flybridge helms, providing real-time engine data, temperature monitoring, and diagnostic alerts critical for long-range cruising confidence. The propulsion system includes inboard direct-drive configuration with stainless steel shafts and Nibral propellers, which were reconditioned and balanced in April 2026. Steering is hydraulic with Bennett electro-hydraulic trim tabs for improved handling and fuel efficiency at various speeds. An electric SidePower-type bow thruster with dedicated batteries and charger enhances docking and tight-quarters maneuverability—a practical feature for solo or shorthanded cruising. The Cummins/Onan 13.5-kilowatt diesel genset (approximately 1,435 hours) provides 120/240-volt AC power, supporting air conditioning, galley appliances, water heating, and entertainment systems while at anchor or in port. The genset is integrated into the engine room's fuel filtration system, with Racor fuel filters for both main engines and generator, and a Reverso oil change system plumbed to both mains, transmissions, and the genset—a convenience feature that reduces maintenance complexity during extended cruising.
Helm, Electronics, and Navigation Systems
Dancyn's helm and navigation systems represent a major 2021–2022 refit and ongoing 2025–2026 upgrades, establishing her as a modern-equipped vessel despite her 2008 build year. The pilothouse helm features a centerline helm chair with a deluxe configuration, flanked by an L-shaped settee, table, and jump seat. The flybridge helm includes similar comfort and control layout. Both helms are equipped with three Garmin GPSMAP 8612 12-inch multifunction displays (two at pilothouse, one at flybridge), providing integrated chartplotting, sonar, radar overlay, and system monitoring on large, high-resolution screens. Autopilot functionality is managed by a Garmin autopilot system with GHC 20 control heads at both helms, allowing precise course tracking and waypoint navigation across long passages. Garmin GMI 20 multifunction instrument displays at both stations provide wind speed, water speed, depth, and other navigational data in an integrated display architecture. Radar integration with the multifunction displays enables real-time weather observation and collision avoidance, critical for offshore and night cruising. The VHF radio is a Garmin 315 with a GHS 11 wired handset and remote station capability, supporting both primary communication and emergency operations. An integrated AIS transceiver with transmit and receive functionality displays other vessel traffic directly on the chartplotters, enhancing situational awareness in congested waters. Rule 4.5-inch compasses are mounted at both helms as primary magnetic backup, meeting navigation redundancy standards for serious cruisers. This Garmin ecosystem—built around a modern chartplotter core with integrated autopilot, radar, VHF, AIS, and instrumentation—represents the industry standard for pilothouse cruisers and provides the level of system integration and redundancy expected by owners planning extended passages or liveaboard operation.
Electrical Systems, Power Management, and Connectivity
Dancyn's electrical infrastructure has undergone substantial 2025–2026 upgrades, reflecting a commitment to modern power management and extended-range self-sufficiency. The house bank comprises four L16 batteries installed in April 2026, providing substantial reserve capacity for extended anchor-out operation. Separate engine and generator start batteries (four 12-volt Group 31 units, also new April 2026) ensure reliable engine starts independent of house bank status. Dedicated batteries for the bow thruster and electric windlass, each with individual chargers and DC-DC charging systems, isolate critical systems from house bank fluctuations. A 3,000-watt inverter/charger system manages AC loads at anchor, including the master stateroom air conditioning, galley appliances, lighting, and television operation. The system supports simultaneous charging and AC load management when connected to shore power or genset, a feature that enables comfortable liveaboard operation without continuous genset runtime. Shore power connection is managed by a 50-amp inlet with Glendinning Cablemaster and wireless remote, allowing remote connection/disconnection and protection against accidental polarity reversal. A Bouge RV 400-watt solar array with solar charge controller, installed in 2026, supplements genset and shore power charging during daylight hours, reducing fuel consumption and noise during extended anchorages. Victron battery charger and status monitoring provide real-time house bank voltage and charge state visibility, though the system does not include a separate amp-usage gauge. DC and AC distribution is managed through a 110-volt AC / 12-volt DC panel with magnetic breakers, volt/amp meters, and engine hour meters, providing comprehensive electrical system visibility. Interior and exterior lighting throughout the vessel operates on 12-volt DC, with navigation lights, courtesy lights in the cockpit and flybridge, and cabin reading lights integrated into the distribution system. Connectivity for extended cruising has been substantially enhanced with Starlink Mini
Length
54 ft
Beam
15.08 ft'
Year
2008
Builder
Meridian
Model
490 Pilothouse
What makes the 2008 Meridian 490 Pilothouse a popular choice for Great Loop cruising?
The Meridian 490 Pilothouse is purpose-built for extended inland and coastal cruising with a raised pilothouse helm that provides excellent visibility for navigating locks and narrow waterways. The two-stateroom, two-head layout with full-beam salon offers comfortable accommodations for liveaboard use, while the efficient twin Cummins QSB 5.9 diesel engines deliver 3–4 nautical miles per gallon at trawler speeds, making long-distance cruising economical. The 444-gallon fuel capacity and 200-gallon fresh water tank support extended passages without frequent refueling or provisioning stops. The raised pilothouse design also provides a commanding view of the water and surrounding landscape, which many cruisers value for safety and navigation confidence on the Great Loop.
What are the engine specifications and performance capabilities of this Meridian 490?
This vessel is powered by twin Cummins QSB 5.9 common-rail diesel engines, each upgraded to 380 horsepower (compared to the 330 hp standard configuration). The engines feature digital electronic throttle and shift controls at both the pilothouse and flybridge helms, allowing precise maneuvering from either station. With port engine hours at 2,170 and starboard at 2,172, the engines have been carefully maintained and recently serviced, including a full aftercooler service in 2023. The QSB 5.9 configuration is known for excellent fuel efficiency and the ability to cruise comfortably at 18+ knots while maintaining economical fuel consumption. The inboard direct-drive propulsion uses stainless steel shafts and Nibral props, which were reconditioned and balanced in April 2026.
What navigation and electronics systems are installed on this boat?
The vessel features a comprehensive Garmin navigation suite installed during a major 2021–2022 refit. The pilothouse helm has two Garmin GPSMAP 8612 12-inch multifunction displays, while the flybridge helm has one GPSMAP 8612 display, providing redundancy and visibility from both control stations. All three displays are integrated with Garmin autopilot (GHC 20 control heads at both helms), Garmin radar, Garmin GMI 20 instrument displays showing wind, speed, and depth data, and a Garmin 315 VHF radio with remote station capability. AIS transceiver with transmit and receive is integrated throughout the system. Engine data is monitored via digital SmartCraft instrumentation at both helms, and Rule 4.5-inch compasses are mounted at both stations. This integrated Garmin ecosystem provides modern, reliable navigation and situational awareness for both coastal and inland cruising.
What connectivity and internet options are available aboard?
The vessel is equipped with Starlink Mini satellite internet (installed December 2025), providing high-speed connectivity for streaming, remote work, and weather routing anywhere on the water. Additionally, a Calyx onboard private Wi-Fi hotspot offers robust connectivity at marinas and at anchor with an affordable annual subscription (approximately $500 per year). The boat also has remote monitoring capability for onboard security cameras and temperature sensors via internet connection. These systems enable modern cruisers to stay connected for work, entertainment, and vessel management while underway or at anchor, which is increasingly important for extended cruising and liveaboard lifestyles.
How is the interior layout configured for liveaboard and long-range cruising?
The Meridian 490 features a two-stateroom, two-head layout specifically designed for comfort during extended cruising and liveaboard use. The forward master stateroom has an island berth with twin hanging lockers and drawer storage, plus a settee/dressing area that converts to upper and lower berths for flexibility. The ensuite head includes a Vacu-Flush toilet and a full tub/shower combination. The mid-ship guest stateroom to port has a double berth, hanging locker, and drawers. The full-beam salon is open and bright with large windows, two lounge chairs to port, a starboard sofa, and a hi-lo dining/cocktail table. A washer/dryer combination unit is built into the companionway, which is essential for extended cruising. The U-shaped galley is open to the salon with abundant countertop space and extensive custom shelving added throughout for provisioning storage. This layout prioritizes livability and comfort over other considerations, making it ideal for owners planning extended passages or full-time cruising.
What electrical and power systems support extended cruising without shore power?
The vessel has a robust electrical system designed for extended anchor-out cruising. The house bank consists of four L16 batteries (new April 2026) housed in a dedicated storage box. Four additional 12V Group 31 starting batteries (new April 2026) power the engines and generator. A 3000W inverter/charger system (installed 2025–2026) can run the icemaker and all 110V outlets, and is capable of supporting AC loads at anchor including the master stateroom air conditioning, lights, TV, and galley appliances. A 400W Bouge RV solar array with solar charge controller (installed 2026) provides supplemental charging while anchored. The bow thruster and windlass each have dedicated batteries with dedicated chargers and a DC-to-DC charging system for the windlass. A Victron battery charger and status meter provide real-time monitoring of the electrical system. Shore power is available via a 50A inlet with Glendinning Cablemaster and wireless remote. This multi-layered electrical architecture supports comfortable living aboard without requiring a generator to run continuously.
What climate control and comfort systems are available?
The vessel is equipped with an upgraded three-zone reverse-cycle air conditioning system with approximately 44,000 BTU total capacity (two 16,000 BTU zones and one 12,000 BTU zone), allowing independent temperature control in the master stateroom, guest stateroom, and salon/pilothouse areas. This is essential for comfortable liveaboard use in warm climates and during summer cruising. Both heads include separate shower stalls, and the master head features a full bathtub/shower combination with vanity, storage, and mirrored medicine cabinet. Hot water is supplied by a 20-gallon 120V water heater. The galley includes a Princess-type electric three-burner stove with oven and a convection microwave upgrade. Refrigeration is provided by a stand-up Norcold 7.0 cubic-foot refrigerator/freezer, and an icemaker is installed. These systems ensure that extended cruising can be done with the comfort and conveniences expected in a modern home.
What is the condition and maintenance history of the mechanical and structural systems?
The vessel has been meticulously maintained with significant upgrades completed through 2026. The engines underwent a full aftercooler service in 2023 and are described as carefully maintained with continuous professional service. Propellers were reconditioned and balanced in April 2026. The bottom was repainted in November 2022. All four house batteries and four starting batteries were replaced in April 2026, and the 3000W inverter/charger system was installed or upgraded during 2025–2026. The Jabsco macerator pump was replaced in March 2026. A 400W solar array with charge controller was installed in 2026, and Victron charging and monitoring systems were installed or updated in 2026. The Starlink Mini satellite internet system was installed in December 2025. Gelcoat, interior woodwork, soft goods, and canvas are reported in excellent condition. The hull is hand-laid fiberglass with vinylester skin coat and cored construction with glassed-in structural bulkheads, which is a proven construction method for durability. This maintenance record demonstrates continuous investment in the vessel's systems and long-term seaworthiness.
What deck, cockpit, and outdoor features does the vessel offer?
The vessel has a well-equipped foredeck with an integrated bow pulpit, anchor roller, and Muir 12V electric windlass capable of handling 200 feet of all-chain rode stored in a dedicated anchor locker. Stainless steel bow rails are through-bolted to the deck, and a swim platform with folding swim ladder and handrail is at the transom. The cockpit features molded steps to side decks, custom fold-up dining table with four teak folding chairs, storage lockers to port and starboard, a shore water connection, a transom door to the swim platform, and a Magma propane BBQ grill. The large flybridge includes a helm chair, L-shaped lounge to port, bench seat to starboard with storage underneath, a large storage box, a rear-view camera for docking visibility, a Venturi windscreen, radar arch with lighting, cupholders, and polycarbonate door access to the pilothouse. The pilothouse helm features a centerline deluxe helm chair, L-shaped settee with table, jump seat, and sliding side doors to both side decks. These outdoor and helm spaces provide comfortable entertaining, dining, and observation areas while underway or at anchor.
What tender and safety equipment are included with the vessel?
The vessel comes with a 2019 12-foot Highfield RIB tender with a 15 hp outboard engine, which is well-maintained and launched via an electric davit for ease and safety. Safety equipment includes six Rule electric bilge pumps distributed throughout the vessel for redundant water management, a new EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) purchased in 2024 for offshore emergency communication, and 12V navigation and anchor lights per COLREGS standards. The vessel is equipped with remote camera and temperature monitoring via onboard connectivity for security and system oversight. Life jackets, throwable devices, and other safety gear are included per current inventory. The combination of the electric davit, well-maintained tender, multiple bilge pumps, modern EPIRB, and comprehensive safety gear reflects a well-equipped vessel suitable for coastal and offshore cruising.
What type of buyer or cruising style is this Meridian 490 best suited for?
The Meridian 490 Pilothouse is ideally suited for experienced cruisers planning extended coastal passages, Great Loop cruising, or full-time liveaboard use. The raised pilothouse design, efficient diesel engines, comprehensive modern electronics, and two-stateroom layout make it well-suited for couples or small families who want to cruise for weeks or months at a time with comfort and self-sufficiency. The recent upgrades to electrical systems, solar power, satellite internet, and battery capacity make it particularly attractive to remote workers or digital nomads who need reliable connectivity while cruising. The proven reputation of the 490 model for liveaboard comfort and the extensive 2023–2026 mechanical and electrical improvements suggest this vessel appeals to buyers who prioritize reliability, efficiency, and the ability to operate independently from shore infrastructure. Buyers who value redundant systems, modern navigation technology, and a well-maintained platform for serious cruising will find this vessel well-suited to their needs.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Sunshine Cruising Yachts. 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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