2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish

The 2017 Merritt Boat Works 72 Sportfish, named NEVER SAY NEVER, is a high-performance offshore sportfisherman built for owners who expect speed, efficiency, and exceptional craftsmanship. Measuring approximately 72'3" with a 19'6" beam, she offers the size and stability needed for serious bluewater fishing while retaining the responsive performance associated with Merritt's custom-built sportfish yachts.
 

One of the most notable upgrades is the Wake Adaptive rudder system installed in 2023. Combined with twin Caterpillar C32A diesel engines producing 1,930 HP each, the yacht reportedly cruises around 30 knots and reaches approximately 36 knots. With four cabins, updated systems, and a strong Florida maintenance history, NEVER SAY NEVER provides an attractive alternative to waiting years for a new custom sportfish build.
 

Is the 2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish for Sale?

Yes, the 2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish is offered for sale and is presented as a turnkey offshore fishing yacht. NEVER SAY NEVER is aimed at experienced owners who want a proven Merritt hull with substantial upgrades already completed, rather than taking on the lengthy construction process associated with a new custom sportfisherman.
 

The yacht is particularly well suited to tournament fishing along the U.S. East Coast and in the Bahamas. At the same time, the four-cabin layout provides enough space for family members, guests, and crew during longer trips. The combination of serious cockpit capability, high cruising speed, and comfortable accommodation gives this Merritt useful versatility beyond tournament competition.
 

2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish Price

The current asking price should be confirmed with the listing broker, as pricing and availability can change. When evaluating a 72-foot Merritt, buyers should look beyond the headline figure and consider the yacht's engine hours, maintenance history, recent upgrades, electronics, stabilization equipment, and overall condition.
 

The 2023 Wake Adaptive rudder installation is particularly relevant when assessing value because it is intended to improve propulsion efficiency and performance. Merritt's reputation for custom craftsmanship and strong resale demand can also support long-term value, especially when the yacht has been professionally maintained and complete service documentation is available.
 

Performance and Propulsion

The 2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish is powered by twin Caterpillar C32A diesel engines, each producing approximately 1,930 HP. With nearly 3,900 HP combined, this propulsion package provides the power necessary to move a large offshore sportfisherman at impressive speeds while maintaining the acceleration needed for tournament situations.
 

The yacht reportedly cruises at approximately 30 knots and can reach around 36 knots at top speed. The 2023 Wake Adaptive rudders are a major performance feature, helping optimize water flow behind the propellers and potentially improving both speed and fuel efficiency. At a reported cruise fuel burn of roughly 200 gallons per hour, operating costs remain significant, so buyers should request verified fuel-consumption data from the vessel's records or sea trial.
 

Exterior Design and Construction

The Merritt 72's exterior reflects the traditional custom sportfish philosophy, combining a long, performance-oriented hull with a generous cockpit designed around serious offshore angling. The 19'6" beam provides substantial stability and working space, giving anglers room to move while fighting large fish and allowing crew to operate efficiently around the cockpit.
 

Merritt Boat Works is known for custom construction, attention to detail, and offshore-focused design. The yacht's exterior systems, deck hardware, tower, running gear, hull surfaces, and cockpit equipment should all be inspected carefully. Particular attention should be given to areas exposed to heavy fishing use, including the transom, fighting equipment, livewell systems, fish boxes, and deck hardware.
 

Interior and Accommodation

Inside, the 2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish provides a four-cabin configuration suitable for extended fishing trips and comfortable cruising. The layout allows the owner to bring family, guests, or crew without giving up the privacy required for longer offshore voyages.
 

The interior is also an important part of the yacht's versatility. After a full day of tournament fishing, guests have dedicated spaces to relax and rest while the crew handles preparations for the next run. For buyers who want a sportfisherman capable of supporting several-day Bahamas trips rather than simply short fishing outings, the four-cabin arrangement is a valuable feature.
 

What to Check Before Buying a 2017 Merritt Works 72 Sportfish

Before making an offer, arrange a comprehensive marine survey and sea trial with a surveyor experienced in large custom sportfish yachts. The twin Caterpillar C32A engines should be inspected for operating hours, maintenance history, oil analysis, cooling systems, turbochargers, transmissions, and electronic diagnostics. Buyers should also verify the 2023 Wake Adaptive rudder installation, including installation records and any documented performance or efficiency improvements.
 

The hull, running gear, shafts, propellers, rudders, through-hulls, generators, electrical systems, fuel tanks, navigation electronics, air conditioning, and fishing equipment should also be inspected.

Review previous haul-out reports and service invoices to identify recurring issues or major repairs. A detailed survey will help confirm whether NEVER SAY NEVER's condition and recent upgrades justify the investment and provide confidence before taking on a high-performance 72-foot Merritt.