Meridian Yachts 580 Pilothouse

Flagship of the Meridian fleet when she was introduced in 2003, the 580 Pilothouse was among the most affordable yachts this size on the market. Actually, the 580 wasn’t really a new model for Meridian—she was called the Bayliner 5788 Command Bridge during the late 1990s and became the Meridian 580 in 2003 when Bayliner went out of the big-boat business and Meridian Yachts was formed. The 580’s styling is more graceful than the original Bayliner 5788 and her three-stateroom, two-head interior is updated in both decor and salon configuration. Like most pilothouse yachts, the galley and dinette are positioned forward in the salon. Visibility from the raised pilothouse is excellent, and there are two full heads on the lower level along with a full-beam master stateroom and VIP double. A washer/dryer is located at the bottom of the companionway steps leading to the staterooms. The interior is finished with varnished teak or cherry joinery, faux-granite counters and earth-tone fabrics. There are two pedestal seats at the upper helm station. An L-shaped lounge is to port and a wet bar is opposite. Wide side decks make getting around easy. Cummins 715hp diesels cruise at 22–24 knots (high 20s top).