MERRITT 88

A unique skybridge design from a world-famous boatbuilder

- CAPT. KARL ANDERSON

The first of the new 88-footers was a classic open bridge with a full tower for a multiple Merritt boat owner. The second 88-footer is also built for a multi-Merritt owner and features a towering skybridge set atop an enclosed bridge, a first for the storied builder. Other builders have proved the benefits of the skybridge, and it was only a matter of time before the concept was "Merrittized." Along with her experienced and knowledgeable owner, Roy Merritt and his team pushed ahead to develop a skybridge that would fit the style and look of the boat, as well as have maximum functionality for fishing.

HELM AND SKYBRIDGE

With the massive size and volume of the 88, the sky bridge is a great platform for comfort, fishing and safety, alleviating the need to climb a tower with such a high elevation. The enclosed bridge with its helm seating, lounge and other amenities offers total comfort for long-haul travel. I'm a tower lover, but this enclosed bridge/sky bridge combination on the 88 makes all the sense in the world for a serious travel operation. It offers the ultimate in comfort while still having the tower height elevation and giving you a full console with all the pertinent gear comparable to any open-bridge design.

The sky bridge features excellent 360-degree visibility and a full complement of vessel controls, as well as a Furuno Omni sonar controller, three Seatronx 19-inch displays, two helm chairs, a bench seat forward of the console, a molded hardtop with Hooker Electric teaser reels, and a wedge aft with two Garmin 12-inch screens and a 12-inch Furuno screen for viewing while looking aft and keeping an eye on the spread. There are two Bluewater Chairs helm chairs at the console and a bench seat forward of the console. The deck and lounge seats are covered in GatorStep, a flooring and decking material that alleviates having a full set of cushions to blow around. Nice touch.