Not enough is said about Going Merry; The Straw Hat’s first pirate ship. Let’s change that.
Within the seafaring world of the anime and manga series One Piece, the Going Merry is not just a ship. It’s a symbol of camaraderie, adventure, and the unbreakable bonds formed by a group of pirates turned genuine friends. It’s almost insulting to ask: “What is the Going Merry?” This ship is more than just a vessel for sport. It’s a cherished member of the Straw Hat Pirates, carrying with it a rich history. Also, it holds significant place in the hearts of fans. We’ll do our best to treat this legacy with respect.
What Makes The Going Merry So Special?
The Going Merry is a traditional caravel-style ship with a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other vessels in the series. It’s characterized by its vibrant hull, green masts, and a pair of figureheads. It’s a ship that was so spectacular that the live-action One Piece on Netflix had to build it from scratch. A sheep’s head is at the bow and a lion’s head at the stern. Crafted by Kaya’s devoted servant, Merry. Going Merry’s unique design elements mirror the spirit of the Straw Hat Pirates. The boat contains that blend of determination, individuality, and a strong sense of unity. The ship’s colorful aesthetic radiates a sense of adventure. All-in-all the construction itself really sets the tone for the many journeys the crew embarks upon.
How Did The Straw Hats Get Going Merry?
The Going Merry’s story begins when the Straw Hat Pirates, led by the charismatic Monkey D. Luffy, find themselves in need of a ship after their original vessel, a small fishing boat, is destroyed. The crew’s encounter with the ship’s eccentric former owner, Kaya, leads them to inherit the ship. It’s a token of gratitude for saving her life and her village from the clutches of a sinister enemy. In essence, the ship found its way into the hands of the Straw Hat Pirates as a token of gratitude for their valiant defense of Syrup Village against the nefarious Black Cat Pirates. In a short time, it was christened the Going Merry. This is a name that encapsulates the crew’s determination to forge ahead on their grand voyage.
A Bond That Can’t Be Broken
The Going Merry quickly becomes an integral part of the Straw Hat Pirates. The ship is not merely a means of transportation but as a trusted friend and ally. As days turned into years, it transformed into more than just a vessel—it metamorphosed into a cherished abode and a trusted companion for the crew.
The bond between the crew and the ship grew so profound that it evolved into a sentient being, a bona fide member of the Straw Hat Pirates in its own right. It’s not uncommon to see Luffy talking to the ship, Chopper tending to its wounds with his medical skills, or Nami navigating with remarkable skill. Each member of the crew forms a unique bond with the ship, reflecting their individual personalities and strengths.
Pain and Loss: What Happens In The Enies Lobby Arc
Throughout their adventures, the Straw Hat Pirates encounter numerous challenges that push the Going Merry to its limits. The ship sustains damage, faces treacherous weather, and undergoes repairs, but its spirit remains unbroken. It’s a vessel with a soul, an entity that seems to respond to the crew’s emotions and determination. Despite its inanimate nature, the ship becomes an embodiment of their dreams and aspirations.
One of the most emotionally charged moments in “One Piece” involves Going Merry during the Enies Lobby Arc. Following their departure from Water 7 en route to Enies Lobby, an unexpected turn of events unfolded. The ship, against all odds, was discovered stranded on the shores of Water 7. It was remarkably okay (for the moment) despite its earlier fall. To the astonishment of Iceburg, it appeared as though the ship communicated a request for a quick restoration. The revelation of the ship’s voice left Iceburg taken aback, and though he appraised the damages as nearly insurmountable, he followed the orders to the ship’s plea.
Leveraging his vast expertise, Iceburg embarked on the daunting task of trying to patch up the Going Merry, managing to execute repairs significant enough to grant it a temporary return to the seas. The Going Merry, having endured so much, is no longer seaworthy. It’s a heartbreaking realization for both the crew and the fans who have come to love the ship.
Goodbye Going Merry
The Going Merry’s final moments are a testament to the emotional depth that One Piece evokes. The crew holds a funeral for the ship, treating it as a beloved friend that has accompanied them through thick and thin. The ship’s spirit, depicted as a glowing apparition, appears to convey its gratitude and bid a heartfelt farewell to the crew. The scene is poignant and moving, showcasing the profound impact the ship had on the characters and the audience.
New Beginnings In One Piece
While the Going Merry is irreplaceable, the Straw Hat Pirates eventually acquire a new ship called the Thousand Sunny, designed by the shipwright Franky. The Thousand Sunny embodies the crew’s growth, with advanced technology and weaponry that befits their status as prominent pirates in the New World. We’ll talk about this legendary vessel as well. However, the memory of the Going Merry lives on within the hearts of the crew, serving as a constant reminder of their journey’s origins and the bonds they’ve forged.
As we said in the beginning, the Going Merry is not just a ship within One Piece; it’s a character, a friend, and a symbol of the Straw Hat Pirates’ unbreakable bond. Its design, origins, emotional connection, and eventual farewell contribute to its status as one of the most memorable and impactful elements of the series. Through its story, the Going Merry captures the essence of One Piece: a tale of adventure, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams while facing seemingly insurmountable odds.
