Meridian Yachts status

Meridian Yachts was discontinued by Brunswick Corporation. Production ended in late 2008 following a sharp contraction in the US recreational boat market; limited Florida output continued into the early 2010s without new model development. Brunswick formally announced the discontinuation in 2016, with a further 2018 announcement confirming the end of the Sea Ray yacht programme.

Meridian Yachts history

Meridian was launched in 2002 as a direct successor to Bayliner's motor yacht programme. The Arlington plant — which had built Bayliner motoryachts including the Pilothouse series — was retooled under the new name, with the initial lineup carrying over Bayliner motor yacht models in modified form. Brunswick's aim was to reposition the larger vessels upmarket toward Sea Ray. By the mid-2000s Meridian had established a distinct identity in the US flybridge market. The 2008 financial crisis ended the brand's development: Brunswick announced the Arlington closure in October 2008, laying off approximately 830 employees.

Production and facilities

Meridian Yachts built all vessels at the Arlington, Washington plant from 2002 to 2008. All hulls were fiberglass. After 2008, limited production continued at Brunswick's Florida facility at substantially reduced volume before ceasing entirely.

Meridian Yachts model range

Meridian produced fiberglass motor yachts in three body styles — sedan bridge (flybridge), motoryacht (aft cabin), and pilothouse — from 34 to 58 feet. Sedan models ran from the 341 to the 441; the pilothouse line culminated in the 490 and 580 Pilothouse. Build years span 2003 to approximately 2012.

Design and features

All Meridian models were fitted with Brunswick's Docking on Command system — integrated bow and stern thruster control under a single joystick. The system was standard across the range, not a premium option, and remains the most practically relevant feature for used-market buyers manoeuvring in tight marina conditions. Interiors were specified above the concurrent Bayliner standard, with galley-up layouts on sedan models and full-beam master cabins on the larger pilothouse vessels.