Historic 139-Year Superyacht Shipyard – $23M Renovation – North & South Yards
RMK Merrill-Stevens is Miami’s legendary historic superyacht shipyard and marina, operating continuously since 1885 (139 years), with deep roots in American maritime heritage and superyacht craftsmanship. Originally founded in Jacksonville, Florida by James Eugene Merrill and incorporated in 1885, the company established its Miami operations in 1923 (acquiring the Pilkington Boatyard) and relocated entirely to Miami in 1953. Now featuring North Yard and South Yard operations straddling the Miami River with full-service docking and hauling for vessels 30 to 240 feet, professional refit and repair services, wood and composite specialists, recent $23 million comprehensive renovation, and unmatched expertise in superyacht restoration, modification, and maintenance. Owned by Turkish industrialist Rahmi M. Koç since December 2013 acquisition, this iconic facility combines historic tradition with modern infrastructure, offering discerning superyacht owners and captains access to Florida’s first and oldest continuously operating shipyard.
Marina Overview & Location
- Address: Miami River (North & South Yards), Miami, FL
- Location: Miami River, downtown Miami, straddling both banks
- Phone: +1 305.324.5211
- Website: www.rmkmerrill-stevens.com
- Founded: 1885 Jacksonville (incorporated); 1923 Miami operations began; 1953 full relocation to Miami
- Ownership: Rahmi M. Koç (Turkish industrialist, acquired December 2013)
- Type: Historic full-service superyacht shipyard + marina
- Configuration: North Yard and South Yard operations on opposite banks of Miami River
- Vessel Range: 30-240 feet (9-73 meters)
- Designation: Florida’s first shipyard and oldest continuously operating company
RMK Merrill-Stevens Miami Shipyard – Miami River
RMK Merrill-Stevens occupies prestigious Miami River waterfront, the heart of Miami’s marine industry heritage, with dual-yard operations providing comprehensive superyacht services.
Table of Contents
Historic Legacy
139 Years of Maritime Excellence (1885-2025)
Company History Timeline
1850s-1885: Foundation Era
- 1850s: Jacob Brock established blacksmith shop in Jacksonville, FL (shipyard origins)
- 1877: After Brock’s death, Alonzo (Arthur) Stevens acquired the business
- 1885: James Eugene Merrill and Alexander Merrill joined Stevens to form Merrill-Stevens Engineering Company (incorporated)
- 1887: Formal incorporation as Merrill-Stevens Engineering Co.
- 1890: Shipbuilding began in earnest
Early 20th Century
- 1901: Great Jacksonville Fire destroyed Merrill-Stevens wharf; quickly rebuilt
- 1904: Reorganized as Merrill-Stevens Co. to raise funds for floating dock “Roosevelt”
- 1906: Business name changed to Merrill-Stevens Company
- WWI Era: Renamed Merrill-Stevens Shipbuilding Corporation; built small freighters (composite then steel) for Emergency Fleet Corporation at separate Jacksonville South Side facility (80 acres, 10 buildings, opened May 17, 1918)
Miami Expansion & Growth
- 1923: Acquired Pilkington Boatyard on north bank of Miami River during real estate boom
- 1926: Great Hurricane devastated Florida plant; company persevered
- 1929-1933: Great Depression reduced staff from 150 to 15 employees
- 1933: Miami River dredging completed, allowing larger vessels; business recovered
- WWII: Both Jacksonville and Miami yards operated as repair facilities; participated in St Johns River Shipbuilding Company management (built 82 Liberty ships, 12 T-1 tankers)
- 1953: Leased Jacksonville yard to Rawls Brothers Contractors; relocated entirely to Miami
Modern Era
- Late 20th Century: Established as premier superyacht refit and repair facility
- December 2013: Turkish industrialist Rahmi M. Koç acquired Miami shipyard; renamed “RMK Merrill-Stevens”
- 2013-Present: Over $23 million investment in complete renovation of North and South Yards
- Present: Florida’s oldest continuously operating company, serving vessels 30-240 feet
Legacy Significance
RMK Merrill-Stevens represents American maritime craftsmanship at its finest, with nearly 140 years of shipbuilding and yacht service expertise. As Florida’s first shipyard, it has been integral to American maritime history from the Spanish-American War (1898), through both World Wars, to today’s superyacht industry. The company’s continuous operation since 1885 makes it one of the longest-operating maritime businesses in the United States.
$23 Million Comprehensive Renovation
Modern Infrastructure, Historic Tradition
Renovation Scope (2013-Present)
Following Rahmi M. Koç’s acquisition, RMK Merrill-Stevens invested over $23 million into complete renovation of both North and South Yard facilities to restore the company to its former glory and make Miami once again a great destination for yachts and superyachts worldwide.
Infrastructure Improvements:
- Complete facility upgrade and infrastructure modernization
- Dock renovation and professional rebuilding
- Equipment upgrade with modern tools and technology
- Safety systems meeting contemporary standards
- Environmental systems ensuring modern compliance
- Office modernization for professional operations
- Worker facilities with improved accommodations
Modern Features After Renovation
- State-of-the-art infrastructure with latest technology
- Professional-grade equipment and modern tools
- Expanded capacity with more slip space and work areas
- Environmental compliance and green operations
- Industry-leading safety standards
- Professional operations with modern management systems
Result
A fully modernized facility that honors 139 years of maritime tradition while providing contemporary superyacht services with cutting-edge capabilities. Each yard now provides comprehensive refit services, maintenance, and repair to vessels up to 230-240 feet.
North Yard & South Yard Operations
Dual-Facility Professional Shipyard
RMK Merrill-Stevens operates two yards straddling the Miami River, known as the North Yard and South Yard, providing comprehensive capabilities across both facilities.
North Yard
- Primary working shipyard and main operations center
- Dry-dock capability with professional hauling services
- Covered work areas for weather-protected projects
- Machine shop for metal fabrication and repair
- Wood shop for specialty carpentry and teak work
- Professional crew of experienced technicians
South Yard
- Secondary operations providing expanded capacity
- Additional moorage space for multiple projects
- Specialty work areas for custom projects
- Support services and logistics assistance
- Strategic expansion capability for overflow work
Combined Capability
- Multiple projects simultaneously across dual operations
- Specialized work areas with different capabilities at each yard
- Professional coordination ensuring seamless integration
- Comprehensive services from basic maintenance to complete refit
- Vessels 30-240 feet accommodated
Full-Service Superyacht Operations
Complete Refit & Repair Services
Structural Work
- Hull repair – Fiberglass, composite, and steel work
- Damage restoration – Professional collision and accident assessment
- Osmotic blister treatment – Hull preservation and gelcoat barrier
- Structural modifications – Custom owner-requested changes
- Custom additions – One-of-a-kind fabrications per specifications
- Deck work – Teak and composite deck specialists
- Paint and coatings – Professional application systems
Engine & Mechanical
- Engine repair – All makes and models serviced
- Engine overhaul – Complete rebuilds to factory specifications
- Transmission service – Professional diagnosis and expertise
- Fuel system work – Testing, cleaning, and component replacement
- Hydraulic systems – Comprehensive service and troubleshooting
- Mechanical upgrades – Modern system improvements
Specialty Services
- Wood restoration – Teak and specialty hardwoods (historic expertise)
- Composite work – Modern carbon fiber and advanced materials
- Rigging service – Standing and running rigging for sail systems
- Interior refinishing – Cosmetic restoration and upgrades
- Custom fabrication – One-of-a-kind pieces and fittings
- Professional painting – Spray booths and coating specialists
Marine Systems
- Electrical systems – Complete rewiring and modernization projects
- HVAC systems – Climate control installation and repair
- Water systems – Fresh water and saltwater plumbing
- Plumbing – Professional installation and troubleshooting
- Sanitation systems – Waste treatment and holding tanks
- Safety systems – Fire suppression, monitoring, and modern standards
Professional Team Expertise
Industry-Leading Craftsmanship
Experienced Professionals
- Master craftsmen – Decades of experience in yacht trades
- Specialized technicians – Certified professionals across all disciplines
- Naval architects – Design expertise and engineering support
- Project managers – Coordinated execution of complex refits
- Custom fabricators – Specialty builders for unique components
- Restoration specialists – Historic preservation and classic yacht expertise
Why This Matters
With 139 years of maritime tradition, RMK Merrill-Stevens has assembled a team of superyacht specialists who understand the unique requirements of luxury vessel ownership and maintenance. The shipyard’s reputation attracts the industry’s finest craftsmen, ensuring every project receives expert attention.
Strategic Miami River Location
Heart of Maritime Industry
Water Access
- Miami River – Direct waterfront on both north and south banks
- Intracoastal Waterway – Connected access to regional cruising
- Biscayne Bay – 10 minutes downstream to open bay
- Port of Miami – Adjacent maritime infrastructure and commercial port
- Atlantic Ocean – 20 minutes to open water via Government Cut
- Protected waters – Safe year-round navigation
Land Access & Surroundings
- Downtown Miami – Central location in maritime district
- I-95 access – Quick highway connection north and south
- Miami International Airport (MIA) – 15 minutes west
- Port of Miami – Adjacent cruise terminal and shipping facilities
- Business district – Professional environment and services
- Hotels and dining – Downtown Miami amenities within minutes
Industry Recognition
Reputation & Awards
Industry Standing
- Superyacht industry recognition – Featured in leading publications
- International reputation – Global presence serving worldwide clientele
- Elite superyacht clients – Trusted by discerning owners and captains
- Historic significance – American maritime heritage landmark
- 139-year continuous operation – Unmatched legacy of excellence
- Professional credibility – Long-term relationships with yacht designers, naval architects, and builders
Find Professional Yacht Services
RMK Merrill-Stevens Professional Network
YachtService.VIP connects you with professionals at RMK Merrill-Stevens and throughout Miami’s shipyard operations.
Services Coordination
- Major refit projects – Complete yacht overhaul and modernization
- Structural repair – Hull, deck, and framework specialists
- Engine specialists – All systems from outboards to large diesels
- Custom modifications – Owner specifications and unique requests
- Restoration work – Historic yacht preservation and classic vessel expertise
- Interior refinishing – Cosmetic updates and luxury upgrades
- Project management – Coordinated execution of complex multi-phase work
- Professional contracting – Certified specialists across all marine trades
Marina Features & Specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| History | Founded 1885 Jacksonville; Miami operations 1923; Full relocation 1953; 139 years continuous operation |
| Ownership | Rahmi M. Koç (Turkish industrialist, acquired December 2013) |
| Configuration | North Yard and South Yard straddling Miami River |
| Renovation | $23+ million comprehensive upgrade (2013-present) |
| Vessel Range | 30-240 feet (9-73 meters) |
| Services | Complete refit, repair, maintenance; Structural, mechanical, electrical, cosmetic work |
| Specialties | Wood restoration, composite work, custom fabrication, historic preservation |
| Facilities | Dry-dock capability, covered work areas, machine shop, wood shop, paint booths |
| Team | Master craftsmen, specialized technicians, naval architects, project managers |
| Location | Miami River, downtown Miami; 15 min to MIA Airport; 10 min to Biscayne Bay |
| Designation | Florida’s first shipyard; Oldest continuously operating company in Florida |
| Industry Standing | International reputation, elite superyacht clientele, featured in publications |
Why Choose RMK Merrill-Stevens?
139-Year Legend in Superyacht Excellence
- 139-Year Legacy: Since 1885, Florida’s first and oldest continuously operating shipyard
- $23 Million Renovation: Modern infrastructure honoring historic maritime tradition
- North & South Yards: Dual operations capability with comprehensive facilities
- 30-240 Foot Vessels: Full superyacht range from mid-size to megayachts
- Full-Service Shipyard: Complete refit capability across all systems and trades
- Expert Craftsmen: Master restoration specialists with decades of experience
- Historic Significance: American maritime heritage landmark with WWI/WWII history
- Rahmi M. Koç Ownership: Professional management with commitment to excellence
- Miami River Location: Strategic maritime center with protected deep-water access
- International Reputation: Superyacht industry recognition and elite global clientele
- Wood & Composite Expertise: Specialists in traditional and modern materials
Weather & Boating Conditions
- Year-Round Operations: Excellent South Florida climate 12 months
- Water Temperature: 72-86°F
- Air Temperature: 68-90°F
- Best Months: November – April (peak season, drier weather)
- Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30 (protected Miami River location)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has this shipyard been operating?
Since 1885 – 139 years of continuous maritime tradition, making it Florida’s first and oldest continuously operating shipyard.
What size vessels do you service?
30 to 240 feet (9-73 meters), with special expertise in superyachts 80-180 feet.
Do you handle major refits?
Yes, complete refit capability including structural, mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic work with professional project management.
What makes RMK Merrill-Stevens unique?
139-year heritage, $23 million renovation, dual-yard operations, master craftsmen, and Florida’s oldest maritime company distinction.
Who owns the shipyard now?
Turkish industrialist Rahmi M. Koç acquired the Miami shipyard in December 2013, investing heavily in modernization while preserving tradition.
Do you specialize in wood and classic yachts?
Yes, with roots dating to the 1850s, RMK Merrill-Stevens has deep expertise in wood restoration, teak work, and historic yacht preservation alongside modern composite capabilities.
How can I schedule a project?
Contact RMK Merrill-Stevens directly through their website for project consultation and yard availability.
Contact Information
RMK Merrill-Stevens Miami Shipyard
Miami River (North & South Yards)
Miami, FL
Website: www.rmkmerrill-stevens.com
Ownership: Rahmi M. Koç (since December 2013)
Type: Full-service superyacht shipyard + marina
History: Founded 1885 Jacksonville; Miami 1923-present (139 years)
Emergency: 911 or Coast Guard Channel 16
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RMK Merrill-Stevens – 139 Years of American Superyacht Excellence Since 1885
