Third Custom Mussel Ridge Vessel Under Construction at Newport Yacht Builders
Scheduled for April 2026 launch in Newport, the 46-foot Downeast-style sportfishing yacht will be equipped for family cruising as well as catching giant bluefin tuna
The latest Mussel Ridge 46 by Newport Yacht Builders features an expanded pilothouse.
Newport Yacht Builders is proud to announce construction of a fully customized Mussel Ridge 46 designed for high-performance sportfishing and comfortable family cruising. Slated for completion at its Newport production facility in April 2026, this new boat is the company’s third utilizing a Mussel Ridge hull and adds to its growing reputation as a premier finisher of custom Downeast-style yachts. As with the previous boats, the Mussel Ridge hull and deck of this 46-footer were molded at Hutchinson Composites in Cushing, Maine, and are now in Newport for installation of all structural components, systems, fit and finish.
“Our new Mussel Ridge 46 will carry forward the proven fishing capabilities of our previous build, Disruptor, while incorporating additional comfort features,” said Ezra Smith, chief designer and partner at Newport Yacht Builders. “This boat is designed to excel at offshore sportfishing, but it will also be a family-friendly cruiser, making it truly versatile.”
Completed in 2023, the Mussel Ridge 46 Disruptor.
Cutting-Edge Fishing Technology & Performance Enhancements
Designed for serious offshore anglers, the Mussel Ridge 46 will be equipped with a bandit reel, green stick, and an onboard icemaker. In addition, she will be equipped with an omni sonar, the latest innovation in sportfishing technology. The 360-degree retractable sonar allows captains to locate and size up fish over a mile away, offering a competitive advantage for targeting giant bluefin tuna.
For power, a 1150-horsepower Scania diesel engine was selected. A 20 kW generator will provide AC Electric Power and charging. Mastervolt Lithium batteries were chosen for the house bank, reducing weight by approximately 450 pounds.
Luxury Meets Functionality
While maintaining a serious fishing pedigree, the new Mussel Ridge 46 is being built with an elevated level of yacht-quality craftsmanship.
“The owner plans to use the boat for both serious offshore fishing and family cruising,” said Jim Thompson, production chief and partner at Newport Yacht Builders. “This means more emphasis on premium interior finishes and amenities that provide a more comfortable, home-like experience.”
Key interior features include:
* Expanded pilothouse – Extended by three feet and raised by six inches compared to the company’s previous Mussel Ridge 46, creating a spacious, open feel.
* Yacht-style cabinetry – Lightweight composite panels married to the highest-quality veneers and solid woods.
* Full galley – Outfitted with top-of-the-line Miele appliances.
* Master cabin – A larger master cabin with his-and-her hanging lockers and a full-width berth provides increased comfort for extended stays.
* Private bunkroom – A fore-and-aft bulkhead will provide guests or children with privacy, a departure from the open-plan layout of the previous MR46.
* Cruising essentials – A washer/dryer, watermaker, and icemaker will support long-range trips to destinations in New England, Florida, and the islands.
The Mussel Ridge 53 Pretti Rose, launched in 2021. Billy Black photo
A Growing Legacy in Custom Downeast Sportfishing Yachts
The new Mussel Ridge 46 follows in the wake of Pretti Rose and Disruptor, two previous Newport Yacht Builders projects that set a high standard in the custom Downeast market. With this third custom build, the company is establishing itself as a premier finisher of high-end, fully customized Downeast sportfishing yachts.
“Owners looking for the refinement of a luxury yacht and the capabilities of an offshore battlewagon know that we deliver exactly that,” said Thompson. “With an 18-month build time, we offer a fully customized alternative to larger production boats that require longer waits and less flexibility in design.”
Contact Newport Yacht Builders for more information.