RMK Merrill-Stevens Adds Boat Hoist

Marine Travelift has recently partnered with RMK Merrill-Stevens for the delivery of a new 100 BFMII (100 metric ton lifting capacity) mobile boat hoist.

The custom 100-ton machine will be operational later this summer and will join an older 70 ton Marine Travelift on site, expanding the capacity and versatility of the Miami shipyard as part of their ongoing modernization efforts.

RMK Merrill-Stevens is a full-service yacht repair facility performing repair and refit of yachts, commercial craft and government vessels ranging from 30’ to 300’. As the oldest shipyard in the state of Florida, RMK has two yards co-located alongside the Miami River – with the south yard performing haul-outs of vessels 85’ and under and the north performing haul-outs for vessels greater than 85’.

Part of the ongoing modernization efforts includes a new state-of-the-art 2,700 gross ton ship lift in the north yard. Chief Executive Officer Aaron Leatherwood believes the new 100-ton machine will complement this lift nicely as the renovations move forward.

“The addition of the new 100 BFMII Marine Travelift will ensure that our vessels in the 70-85’ and 65-90 ton range can be best accommodated by our staff in a safe and efficient manner,” said Leatherwood.

In addition to solving their boat handling needs, Leatherwood says Marine Travelift’s reputation for reliability and established performance was the biggest factor in the decision to extend this partnership.

“Marine Travelift is a well-established American brand much like RMK Merrill-Stevens, representing a quality product that is built to last with robust local after-sales support. The Marine Travelift product has been in use here for the past 28 years, and we are proud to extend this relationship for many more years to come.”

The new 100 BFMII Marine Travelift will feature a number of innovative features and options designed to maximize operational efficiency. 2-speed hoists will provide increased lifting speeds when the machine is in high demand and in great fluctuating tides, while the wireless remote control will increase operator visibility of the boat, launching piers and surrounding area. In addition, detailed engine information, pressure displays, and load readout indicators are conveniently displayed on a 7” LCD touchscreen with optical bonding for maximum protection.

“This machine provides increased lifting capacity, improved maneuverability and enables more efficient hauling operations. It represents a significant milestone in the ongoing facility upgrades and enhances the capabilities of Miami’s finest yacht and ship repair yard,” says Leatherwood.
Miami based W.E. Johnson is the certified Marine Travelift distributor and local service provider with over 25 years of quick service and support.