Northcoast 125: Special Spec Yacht

Northcoast Yachts is much like other shipyards in the Pacific Northwest, in the sense that its projects start and launch with little to no marketing fanfare. Not that there isn’t pride; publicity just takes a backseat to everything else. So it’s no surprise that its new 125-footer quietly hit the water on Monday.

What is surprising, however, is just how different this megayacht is from other spec yachts.

Take a close look at the profile photo, and you’ll note more flair to the overall design, from naval architect Paul Frederickson. From the rake of the mast to the curves in the superstructure and the flare of the bow, there are some nice angles, more than other yachts intended for mass appeal. Take an even closer look at the superstructure around amidships. See how part of it seems to come out over the main-deck windows and side deck? It does. That will offer good protection to crew if it’s raining or simply keep the teak decking a bit cooler underfoot on a bright sunny day.

The interior design has several surprises, too. The rendering here of the master stateroom shows how it’s two levels, with the sleeping area on the main deck and the dressing area and bath down, beyond the hip-height acrylic wall forward toward the foot of the bed. What it can’t show, though, is how the tub in the his-and-her bath, behind the onyx panels forward (which look backlit), is sunken, beneath a skylight. That trick, plus the two-level layout, make it feel as if it’s aboard a much larger megayacht.

Other surprises include abundant use of rosewood, with ebony inlays, and leather. Leather even covers the galley sole – treated with epoxy to resist scuffs and scratches, yet remaining soft underfoot.

When I visited the yard in late January, Stephen Yadvish, Northcoast’s owner, said a group of brokers were being invited out in early April to see the 125. He firmly believed the different approach to design, combined with the $22.22-million asking price, would attract some good attention.

I'll have a full Megayacht News Onboard report once she's complete.

Written by: Diane Byrne

Diane M. Byrne is the founder and editor of the daily updated website Megayacht News. A longtime yachting writer, she also contributes to Yachts International, Boat Exclusive, and other magazines. She is additionally a member of the International Superyacht Society Board of Directors and Vice Chair of the U.S. Superyacht Association.