One year after unveiling its ambitious vision to the international yachting community, Dubai-based shipyard Romeo Marine is gearing up to debut its inaugural superyacht, the 54.4-metre Romeo 55.
The model marks a significant milestone for the Middle East's only custom superyacht builder specialising in steel and aluminium construction, translating two decades of expertise in yacht fit-out, refit and rebuild into its first ground-up new-build project.
Romeo Marine's journey to this moment draws on nearly two decades of complex superyacht projects across the Gulf Region. Founded in 2008, the shipyard is backed by more than 40 years of experience from its sister company, Romeo Interiors, in high-end interiors and fit-out work.
“The Romeo 55 is not just an exquisite yacht designed for discerning international owners, but also a statement of Romeo Marine's capabilities as a new-build shipyard,” says Nader Nashed, CEO of Romeo Marine Dubai. “The breadth of experience of our extensive team, from regional artisans to our international team of engineers, project managers and designers, has been forged across two decades of complex superyacht fit-out, refit and rebuild projects. The Romeo 55 represents the sum of all that knowledge - a yacht of exceptional guest spaces, sophisticated interior design and rock-solid naval architecture and engineering, born in Dubai but bound for the ocean.”
Built in a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, the Romeo 55 is powered by twin MTU engines that propel her to a maximum speed of 15 knots. In comparison, a cruising speed of 10 knots provides a 5,200-nautical-mile range, opening up extended ocean passages and remote cruising destinations.
The outdoor areas serve varied functions, from private owners' balconies to al fresco dining and lounge areas on the main and upper decks. The sundeck offers an aft spa pool with sunpads, a dedicated fitness area, a bar and an inside-outside panoramic skylounge with a large opening skylight.
"The outdoor spaces were conceived as an integral extension of the yacht's architecture rather than as separate decks," explains Pulina. "Each area was designed to offer a distinct experience while maintaining a seamless relationship with the interiors and the surrounding seascape."
The interior design, created by Pulina Exclusive Interiors, takes its cues from Mediterranean coastal landscapes rather than traditional yacht design references.
"The inspiration behind the Romeo 55 emerged from a reflection on nature's quiet ability to shape both landscape and emotions," explains Alessandro Pulina, founder of Pulina Exclusive Interiors. "We were fascinated by the traces left by water, wind and time upon the shoreline. These natural gestures became the foundation of the design language, and we sought to create an environment that feels as though it has been gently shaped by nature itself."
This philosophy manifests throughout the yacht's 780GT internal volume, where sculptural ceiling details inspired by water movement draw the eye toward floor-to-ceiling windows and the seascape beyond. A light, contemporary palette emphasises connection with the sea, sky and coastlines, while organic curves and flowing forms create what Pulina describes as "a sanctuary at sea”.
The main and upper saloons feature flexible furniture arrangements that transition easily between convivial social living and formal entertaining. The main deck offers interior dining forward in the saloon, connected to a circular aft deck seating area by a low, curvaceous sideboard.
The upper saloon serves as the yacht's primary social hub, designed for entertaining with a dedicated bar, games table, concealed television and curated wine display. Seamless connection to the upper aft deck and panoramic glazing ensure guests remain connected to their surroundings throughout the day and evening. Meanwhile, a central guest staircase that snakes around a glass lift is a signature architectural feature, creating a sculptural welcome statement for arriving guests. Additionally, custom dayheads throughout showcase bespoke stone detailing - Patagonia Green with champagne brass accents on the main deck and a crystal basin with a nature-inspired mosaic wall on the upper deck.
The owner's suite stretches the yacht’s full 10-metre beam on the main deck forward, featuring a double-height ceiling with a skylight, a contemporary study and drop-down balconies on either side. White Wood marble and Élitis luxury wallcoverings adorn the suite, complemented by high-gloss mahogany furniture details. The en suite bathroom combines white wood marble with black and white Onyx to create a spa-like atmosphere centred around a freestanding bathtub. Five additional VIP and guest suites occupy the lower deck.
The material palette emphasises natural elements: wood veneers, stone, leather and metallic details work together to reinforce the yacht's residential character. Mahogany veneer plays a particularly important role, bringing depth and warmth throughout, while bespoke parquet flooring and Tai Ping carpets enhance the sense of a private home at sea. Many furniture pieces were custom-designed by Pulina Exclusive Interiors and brought to life through close collaboration with Romeo Marine's in-house team.
"At the heart of the project lies the philosophy of Dolce Vita - not as a lifestyle of excess, but as an invitation to slow down, reconnect with beauty and experience luxury through emotion, serenity and meaningful moments," says Pulina. "The Romeo 55 was conceived as a sanctuary at sea - a place where architecture, craftsmanship and nature coexist in perfect harmony, allowing guests to feel simultaneously protected, inspired and connected to the world around them."
To find out more information about the Romeo 55, please contact Romeo Marine directly.
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