RMK Merrill-Stevens rejuvenation approaches completion

The RMK Merrill-Stevens (RMK MS) shipyard has seen over a year of renovations, new constructions and updates, which are nearly coming to a conclusion. The grand reopening of the north and south yards is nearing and can be expected to take place before Q3, according to new information from the company.

The north yard’s transformation into Miami’s superyacht refit centre is in its final stages, which included the commissioning of the new 2,700-ton Pearlson shiplift. The lift, which first arrived in August last year, will allow the yard to service vessels up to 69 metres (225 feet), making the lift the largest of its kind in all of South Florida. The shiplift will be used to haul vessels into the yard without the use of straps, decreasing the risk of damage and making the process more efficient.

Jack Schneider, the RMK MS project manager who is overseeing the north yard modernisation project, said, “I look forward to the daily challenge of completing projects – on budget and on time.”

In addition to getting the shiplift fully operational, the north yard is also implementing new systems, including both sewage and washdown systems for yachts. In March, the north yard will provide maintenance and classification inspections for superyachts. Toward the end of 2020, the north yard will be available for major refits. The south yard is currently available for service projects.

Greg Cox, interim CEO of RMK MS, commented, “If you haven’t seen the revitalised Miami River, come down and have a look. We can offer a clean, brand new facility in Miami, Florida, close to downtown, so all captains of south of Fort Lauderdale now have a resource. From 18 feet to 225 feet now!”

The new River Landing Shops and Residencies is currently under development and located just to the north of the RMK MS, within walking distance. River Landing will bring new shopping, entertainment and lodging options to RMK MS clients.

The investment made to revive the historic RMK MS shipyard has opened a number of jobs and careers for the Miami-based organisation.

For more information, visit RMK Merrill-Stevens. Sign up to our newsletter to get the best of Yachting Pages delivered direct to your inbox every month.