I did not have the opportunity to see the Alder II (a previous boat) and the Merva side-by-side. So I put two similar photos together.
I knew about Merva for many years before buying the Alder II. My plan was to do some upgrades to Alder II to make it like the Merva. In other words take an old work boat and make it more like an old yacht. I had done most of the work on the inside and I was preparing for the work on the outside when I decided to sell the Alder II. About a year later the Merva came up for sale and the ‘problem’ was solved. The main things I miss from the Alder II;
- more head room and more elbow room (except for the washroom)
- much more storage
- original engine (and working well)
- the wood stove
- commercial grade build
But I am happy to have much of the work/expense done with the Merva. The Merva has;
- large washroom
- a dedicated kitchen space
- bow with berth
- nicer lines (raised deck)
- new engine (its 3rd engine)