Some builders tend to keep low profiles. Such is the case with Newcastle Shipyards, based in Florida. The 11-year-old yard made a splash with its 137-foot expedition yacht True North about three years ago and has been quietly pursuing other projects since that time. Among them is the Newcastle 5500, anticipated to hit the water this month.
Measuring 180 feet (about 55 meters) and displacing a whopping 910 gross tons, the Newcastle 5500 represents the builder’s largest megayacht to date. When completed, she’ll also be among the top 10 largest built on U.S. soil over the past 50 years. Styling and naval architecture are by Murray & Associates, while interior design is by Claudette Bonville Associates.
Key features include three king-size staterooms, two of which are each considered master suites. One of the masters is forward on the main deck, while the other is forward one level up. The third king stateroom serves as the VIP, located below decks along with three other guest staterooms. Other highlights: an infinity pool on the sundeck (itself arranged as a split level); a stern toy garage; and a raised portion of the aft deck, to serve as a terrace on the sea.
Final fit-out of the ABS- and MCA-compliant Newcastle 5500 will occur at Rybovich Superyacht Marina. The yacht is also available for charter and sale, with the central listing for both held by International Yacht Collection.
In the meantime, Newcastle is focusing on the completion of a 129-foot expedition yacht with an ice-strengthened hull, plus two other expedition yachts: 149- and 174-footers.
Robert Hunt III
I like this yacht i hope to own one some day.