STEP ABOARD

Don’t take our word for it, here is what other people say…..

She’s also a vessel that excels in space. Virtually the entire hull cavity is usable, cabin space. The clever designers have put this to good use, fitting three private cabins, an enclosed saloon and a spacious sun lounge into the 3.37m beam. There’s also a recessed walk-around side-deck running both sides of the cabin, leading to the front sundeck, and a sliding side door means the skipper can get to the bow area quickly if necessary.

That saloon and helm area is luxuriously-appointed, with numerous innovations that maximise the use of space. For example, the passenger seat has a hinged backrest that allows forward-facing seating for two occupants when underway. But it can be swapped 180 degrees to serve as a bench seat to the saloon table. The saloon table has a hinged section that swings out of the way when not needed but locks in place when the full table size is required. The pedestal also lowers and, with an extra squab, forms the additional double berth.
Heading forward and down a few steps into the cabin area I was again struck by the amount of space. The owner’s cabin forward features a rather unusual, circular queen-sized bed which is surprisingly practical. Large side windows provide plenty of light during the day, and discreet integrated lights in the ceiling do the business at night.

The main cabin has its own door to the shower and toilet, while the passageway has further doors to the two guest cabins as well as further access to the amenities. Each of these cabins is spacious and well-appointed, although with more conventional double berth layouts. The cabins also have side windows offering good views.

Back in the saloon, the starboard galley area is all hidden under a flush, stone-finish countertop. Lifting out the inserts reveals a two-burner gas hob and a deep stainless sink, while a fridge nestles under the counter. Storage space is plentiful in numerous lockers below and overhead. The 1095 Jeanneau is a worthy flagship for its Merry Fisher powerboat range.

As you don’t get that clatter of a diesel inboard under the wheelhouse floor, as with traditional boats like this running a shaft-drive, this is a nice boat in which to spend time cruising. The engines are on the transom and, being modern four-strokes, they purr in an innocuous way.

Families will feel safe aboard thanks to the high-sided, high-volume hull with plenty of freeboard. The offset or asymmetrical cabin creates a wide helm-side walk around deck for easy access to the foredeck. Meanwhile, deep glazing around the wheelhouse and lack of mullions create 360-degree views. The bow thruster will also play a big part in helping with the twin outboard-engine docking.

It’s a step out a trailerboat into the realms of more capable outboard cruisers.