Newport Shipyard has reported that they have bought a new 500 Ton Marine Travelift. Expected to become the largest Travelift operating in New England, this state-of-the-art lift will complement the 100 MT lift presently being in use at the yard and will replace the 300 MT lift, which has worked on most of the large yachts since its purchase 12 years ago.

Newport Shipyard - Photo by Billy Black

“This is a very exciting time not only for Newport Shipyard but also the Marine Industry in Rhode Island,” said Eli Dana, dockmaster of Newport Shipyard. “We see a growing demand by super yachts wanting to visit our area but without the capacity to be hauled for repair work they go elsewhere. Until now, we were able to haul yachts up to 150 feet but as sailing and motor yachts continue to grow in size, the need for a larger hoist became necessary,” Dana said.

The new 500T lift, which will be fully operational in June of 2013, will be able to handle yachts ranging from 50 foot catamarans to 200 foot superyachts. Additional features include night time work lights for emergency haul outs and a sound suppression package to reduce engine noise. “It is a big investment for us but we are confident it will attract larger yachts to New England and will be a win-win for everyone,” Dana said.

Newport Shipyard, Newport‘s only and oldest working boatyard, is located in the heart of downtown Newport and provides dockage for boats ranging in size from 20 to 350 feet. Dubbed ‘New England’s Yachting Hub,’ Newport Shipyard is the host of many world class yachting events.