AT THE HELM
The helm itself is impressive. The dash is housed in a tilt-top panel for access to all wiring. It features two Northstar 6100i GPS/sounder/radar combo units with big 12in screens. I was baffled to learn that the sounder component of both units is left unconnected and that a separate sounder, with a comparatively small screen, was added to compensate for this. The fisherman in me was crying at the missed opportunity of having sounder capabilities in the big-screen units and not utilising it. Even if you don't have that voice in your head, I still think it's a good option.
All other information of interest is visible on either of the Northstars or the two four-in-one gauges and two 5in tachometers. SmartCraft technology is also included and the entire set-up ensures the skipper is up-to-date at all times.
The 441 is fitted with Brunswick/MerCruiser's Total Command Integrated Vessel Control system, which combines the yacht's forward and reverse engine thrust, and bow and stern thrusters, which enables excellent finger-tip manoeuvrability in close quarters. It was handy for manoeuvring into the exact position I needed while photographing another test boat that day—subtle and responsive. It's so easy to use that anyone will get the hang of it and be controlling the 441 like a pro. There is a separate switch pad for independent operation of the thrusters.

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The Gold Coast Broadwater didn't offer a worthy challenge for the sea kindly combination of Meridian's new hull design and the twin 480hp V-drive Cummins diesels. The 441 was up onto the plane quick enough and reached 27 knots at 3400rpm heading into a strong wind and run-out tide. The true test for this boat would be a weekend cruise up the coast, which I'm sure it would pass with ease.

ANCHORS AWAY
Finally, once you get to your destination, anchoring is easy. Access to the bow is via gunwale walkways with grab rails either side. You'll pass two sun beds with clip-in cushions and nearby beverage holders on the forward deck, to a two-hatch set-up concealing the windlass and controls, a pop-up cleat, fender holder and two pump outlets—one for raw water and one for a freshwater wash-down. Another smart arrangement in the 441.
There are heaps of ceiling lights; the 441 must look a pretty picture anchored at night. There are also plenty of 12V and 240V (powered by a 9.5kW generator) outlets throughout the yacht.
Attention to detail is the mark of a quality boat, and the new Meridian 441 Sedan Bridge is testament to that.
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