Merry Fisher 695 - Working through the options list..

[wipe_out]

So I am working through the options list for a new MF 695 and thought I would get some input on some of the options from the forum..

Firstly engine size..
There are options from a 115hp to a 175hp.. Typically I always think it's best to just go with the biggest engine and never have to worry about not having enough power, the logic being you can always use less than you have but never more than you have.. The step from the 150hp to the 175hp is about £1900.. Is the 175 over the top for this boat and should I put the £1900 somewhere else?

Next is the windlass..
I have never had one on a boat but I like the idea of one.. Are they worth having or is it just another thing to maintain? Are the small ones, like would be fitted here, reliable?

Finally..
What is an "Anti theft hook (bow mounted security eye)"?? It has it on the list but I have no idea what it is..

At this stage we are wanting just about everything on the list except the blue hull "Legend" upgrade, the cockpit bimini and sides and the forward sun pad.. Everything else has a mark next to it..

 

[julians]

Can't help on most of your questions ,but in my opinion the windlass is essential. I have a lewmar on my boat and it's been trouble/maintenance free for 8 years.

 

[rwoofer]

I would have thought the 150hp would be fine. I have the 645 with a 115 and would like a bit more power. I can't imagine it is the kind of boat that you would always want to be blasting around at 30 knots plus, so the 175 seems wasted. Personally I wouldn't have a windlass on a boat so small, but obviously others disagree.

 

[colingr]

Cockpit bimini would be a tick for me as would the windlass. No idea about the security hook. Wife would want the sunpad but a towel would do.

I also agree that 150 would be ample. Spend the extra on bimini and sides.

 

[Aardee]

I'd assume the Anti Theft Hook is a very solidly mounted loop on the bow allowing you to chain the boat to a pontoon...I'm struggling to think what else it could be

 

[LadyJ]

Here are my thoughts. I recently purchased a 755 so fairly much been through what you're going through.
1. Bow Thruster, top of my list. The enclosed wheel house is great but in a windy marina it acts like a sail!
2. I went 175 but was out on 150s and all good. Neighbours in the marina have the 645 with 115hp and happy as can be. My gut is better too much as too little.....
3. Fridge/freezer def is handy both for picnic foods plus milk etc but also ice lollies for the kids!
4. Windlass, this was on then off my list really down to cost! I've anchored plenty with out and it's fine but see the advantages. Can't speak for the actual one that would be fitted but all I can add is, I carry a heavier anchor than the windlass for our size of boat would allow and it gives me comfort when on the hook, perhaps just justifying not buying it to myself!

I also got spring/mid cleats fitted and have been invaluable.
Curtains and sun roof in the 'premier pack' essential imo and the u shaped seating has been very useful albeit I go from being myself, to myself and wife to having 8 on board so seating then becomes crucial.

Enjoy.

 

[wipe_out]

Here are my thoughts. I recently purchased a 755 so fairly much been through what you're going through.
1. Bow Thruster, top of my list. The enclosed wheel house is great but in a windy marina it acts like a sail!
2. I went 175 but was out on 150s and all good. Neighbours in the marina have the 645 with 115hp and happy as can be. My gut is better too much as too little.....
3. Fridge/freezer def is handy both for picnic foods plus milk etc but also ice lollies for the kids!
4. Windlass, this was on then off my list really down to cost! I've anchored plenty with out and it's fine but see the advantages. Can't speak for the actual one that would be fitted but all I can add is, I carry a heavier anchor than the windlass for our size of boat would allow and it gives me comfort when on the hook, perhaps just justifying not buying it to myself!

I also got spring/mid cleats fitted and have been invaluable.
Curtains and sun roof in the 'premier pack' essential imo and the u shaped seating has been very useful albeit I go from being myself, to myself and wife to having 8 on board so seating then becomes crucial.

Enjoy.

LadyJ, it sounds like your thoughts on things are exactly the same as mine really.. Think I will see if the dealer can do any better on the deal with all the options I want.. Maybe he is felling good and gives me a little off..