RMK Merrill-Stevens Builds on Tradition to Innovate
For captains planning their yacht’s next yard period, RMK Merrill-Stevens (RMK MS) offers an unbeatable combination of top-tier services and a prime Miami location.
As Florida’s first shipyard, RMK MS has deep roots in South Florida. Established in 1885, its rich 139-year history has made it a premier yacht refit, repair, and maintenance facility for vessels ranging from 30 to 240 feet. It serves a varied clientele of yacht owners, captains, and crew and, over the years, has developed into one of the region’s most diverse, skilled, and modern shipyards, where yachting excellence is preserved and perfected.
The full-service shipyard spans two locations along opposite sides of the Miami River: the North Yard, also known as the SuperYacht Center, and the South Yard. RMK MS draws on a deep pool of experienced, expert staff, technicians, and subcontractors, including marine engineers and naval architects, to manage every aspect of build, refit, and maintenance.
The team employs cutting-edge technology and techniques, with yard capabilities including welding and fabrication, fiberglass and composite repairs, air conditioning and refrigeration services, mechanical and driveline repairs, marine painting and refinishing, electrical and electronic systems, marine stabilizers and hydraulics, carpentry and joinery, as well as driveline and anti-fouling paint applications.
The facilities include the shipyard’s latest investment: a 2,700-ton Pearlson Shiplift in the North Yard, currently the largest in South Florida. Its 200-foot by 60-foot platform provides a total work area of 95,000 square meters. The North Yard also offers 420 linear feet of seawall dockage with a range of power options, water and fire connections, plus an onsite Sani-sailor sewage pump at each pedestal. The facility is certified by both Lloyd’s Register and the United States Coast Guard.
The South Yard can accommodate vessels up to 80 feet and offers two covered slips with 52-foot air drafts for in-water maintenance and painting. The East Slip is 234 feet long and 36 feet wide, with a nine-foot draft at low tide, while the West Slip is 280 feet long and 46 feet wide, with a seven-foot draft at low tide. In 2019, the South Yard installed a 100-ton Travelift, and offers a haul-out slip that accommodates vessels up to 100 feet LOA.
The captains and crew are essential to refit success, and no effort has been spared to enhance their yard experience. RMK MS recently unveiled a brand-new Captain’s Lounge area on site, providing a cool, comfortable space where crewmembers can relax, take a break from work, or enjoy meals off the boat in comfort. The lounge, kitchen, and dining areas offer plenty of room for the crew to gather and unwind during their downtime.
Location is everything, and the shipyard is in the heart of Miami, just minutes from downtown. It’s close to crew services and provisioning, and it offers easy access when it’s time to escape the workday. Captains and crew have plenty of area entertainment options, from Miami’s hottest attractions and decadent dining to its lively arts scene and nightlife, from dance clubs to the theater. South Beach and Miami Beach are also close for those looking to relax on the area’s best beaches and soak up the Florida sunshine. The location also offers quick access to the broader South Florida area and beyond with convenient proximity to both Brightline and Tri-Rail trains and the major hub of Miami International Airport.
Whether the yacht requires emergency repairs or a full refit, the shipyard’s range of services ensures expert care for all requirements. RMK MS stands out as a premier destination “where good yacht happens.”
The yard invites you to visit, grab a coffee with staff, and experience their unparalleled expertise and customer service in person to learn more about what RMK MS offers for your next refit period. You can also browse through their brand-new website and reach out for the latest yard information and updates.
rmkmerrill-stevens.com
+1 305.324.5211