Overview

The 1981 Merritt 55 Convertible "SHOTGUN" is a classic vessel known for its performance and competitive fishing capabilities.
This boat is suitable for serious anglers seeking a blend of fishing efficiency and comfortable leisure experiences on the water.
Key features include a full mezzanine for relaxation and a newly anodized aluminum tuna tower for enhanced visibility while fishing.
The inviting interior layout accommodates up to four guests, providing a spacious and cozy environment for various activities.
Owning "SHOTGUN" means enjoying a well-crafted vessel that combines timeless design with modern upgrades for a memorable boating experience.

Highlights

SeaStar Hydraulic Steering
New Offshore Starlink (2025)
New Propspeed and Bottom Paint (2025)
Reglassed and Repainted Brow (2025)
New Anodized Aluminum Tuna Tower (2009)

Specifications

Length55'

Beam15'

Draft4'

Year1981

TypePower

HullWood

FuelDiesel

Cabins2

Sleeps4

Heads2

Cruise26 kts

Max Speed33 kts

Fuel Capacity1056 gal

Water Capacity200 gal

Description

The 1981 Merritt 55 Convertible, affectionately known as "SHOTGUN," beautifully marries classic charm with modern performance. With her sleek lines and robust build, she's ready to take you on unforgettable adventures, whether you're chasing the big ones in a tournament or just enjoying a day on the water with friends and family.

As you step aboard "SHOTGUN," you'll immediately appreciate her spacious cockpit, thoughtfully designed for both serious fishing and laid-back relaxation. The full mezzanine provides a perfect spot to kick back and enjoy the view, while the newly anodized aluminum tuna tower offers an elevated vantage point for spotting fish. This vessel has seen recent upgrades, including new Propspeed and bottom paint applied in 2025, ensuring she's not only stunning but also optimized for performance and efficiency. The helm is equipped with SeaStar hydraulic steering, giving you smooth and responsive control as you navigate the waters. The interior is equally impressive, accommodating up to four guests in comfort. It’s designed to feel inviting and cozy, making it the perfect retreat after a long day of fishing or cruising. You’ll find everything you need to relax and unwind, from the well-appointed galley to comfortable sleeping quarters. Under the hood, "SHOTGUN" is powered by twin MAN D2840 LE401 engines, each boasting an impressive 820 HP that will get you cruising at 26 knots or pushing the throttle to a max speed of 33 knots. With a fuel capacity of 1,056 gallons, she’s ready for long runs and extended adventures without worrying about refueling too soon.

Merritt's legacy of quality craftsmanship is evident throughout "SHOTGUN." From the reglassed and repainted brow to her overall durability, you can feel confident that this vessel is built to last. Whether you're an avid angler or simply someone who loves spending time on the water, "SHOTGUN" offers a unique blend of functionality, comfort, and style that you won’t want to miss out on. Ready to make your fishing dreams a reality? "SHOTGUN" is here to take you there!

Beyond Yacht Group is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Galati Yacht Sales. 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

Salon

Entering through the large centerline door, you are welcomed into a beautifully appointed salon featuring custom handcrafted teak and burl maple with a satin finish throughout. To port, a U-shaped cream leather sofa offers ample seating and concealed storage below, framed by oversized windows that fill the space with natural light. To starboard, two comfortable barrel chairs flank a custom table with built-in drawers. A flatscreen TV rises elegantly from the cabinetry with electric lift assist, completing the warm and inviting atmosphere.

Custom handcrafted Teak and Burl Satin Finished Wood
U- Shaped cream leather Sofa
(2) Occasional Barrel Chairs with new covering in 2020
32” Samsung Flatscreen TV with Electric Assist
Cannel Vision SAT HD58
Peplin Balance E20
Denon in Command Network Receiver Stereo
Apple TV
LED Lighting with Dimmer
Runners 2020

Galley

Forward of the salon is the well-appointed galley, featuring elegant stone countertops and classic teak and holly flooring. This space is equipped with custom stainless-steel refrigeration, a large-capacity ice maker, microwave, and abundant storage throughout, combining style and functionality for extended cruising.

Kitchen Aid Icemaker (2025)
Magic Chef Microwave
Custom Stainless Refrigerator and Freezer
Custom Liquor Cabinet
Stainless Steel Sink
LED lighting
Viking Oven (2020)
Induction Cooktop (2020)

Guest Stateroom

To port, the spacious guest stateroom features generously sized over/under berths, ample storage, and individual flatscreen TVs for each bunk. The layout is clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed. Adjacent to port, the guest head and shower showcase beautiful stonework, teak and holly flooring, and excellent storage throughout.

(2) TVs for each bunk
(2) Speakers with volume control
LED Lighting with Dimmer
Cruisair Air Control Pad
Guest Head
Galley Maid Flush Toilet
Kohler sink with Vanity Storage
LED lighting

Master Stateroom

The master stateroom features a full walk-around queen berth with a custom teak bed frame. Two large hanging lockers, generous drawer storage, and a built-in headboard with additional cabinetry provide ample space for extended cruising. Forward, the private master head and shower showcase elegant custom stonework, teak and holly flooring, and abundant storage throughout.