Review: NorthStar 105' Tri-Deck

NorthStar 105' Tri-Deck Motoryacht​

by Capt. Chuck Gnaegy​

Jack Sarin has pursued a stellar career as a naval architect, designing hulls that flow with excitement, even at rest. Northstar’s Tri-Deck 105 is a prime example of his artistry and one company's commitment to excellence.​

It's no surprise the silhouetting profile of the 105' gives the impression of a much larger yacht.... this baby's got one more deck than most! NorthStar's tri-deck arrangement covers the entire scope of a yacht owners needs. Up top, an "eye in the sky" flybridge, coupled with an enclosed skylounge (with wing stations) AND sufficient deck space to go on an expedition. As if this won't triple your pleasure, she's loaded to hilt in luxury. Gracious accomodations range from a large living area with a formal dining room, to a country kitchen with all the comforts of home. But wait... there's more.

Being on a boat for any length of time means needing to move about and find your own space. And space is what we've got here... from the aft cockpit for finding fish, to the aft deck for finding peace, to the flybridge deck for floating toys, to a swim platform for going off the deep end. All wrapped up in one of the slickest boats afloat.

Jerry Clark founded NorthStar in 1998 – as a third generation boat builder who began in production and worked his way into management – to utilize the skilled workers he had known for years. With company president Kieth Huzyak and marketing director Mel Wolf, the yard is headquartered on the Columbia River in Kalama, Washington, with its east coast sales office – Generation Marine – in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

NorthStar Yachts operates its 60,000 sq.ft. state-of-the-art facility with 125 skilled craftsmen. These star performers, many of whom average 15-30 years experience, are steeped in the pride of accomplishment for which NorthStar has become known. The company’s products begin with consultation by the top names in marine architecture. They expand from that point, encompassing the latest technological movements plus tried and true formulas, top-grade materials, and effective sound conditioning. This formula inevitably classes NorthStar Yachts among the finest of America’s fiberglass motoryachts and sportfishing vessels. Each model is tank tested to assure top level performance and the proof is in the numbers... powered by twin CAT 3412E 1,400 hp diesels, she boasts a top speed of 23 knots, and at cruising speeds, a range of 2,500 miles.

The 105, designed by Naval Architect Jack Sarin, is an outstanding member of a model series produced from adjustable molds. That includes five different hulls varying from 92 to 115 ft., with beams 22 to 24 ft. Utilizing multi-faceted molds allows NorthStar a vast scope in production latitude, without requiring new molds for each customized model. The buyer, of course, also benefits greatly from this cost-conscious management. Built of hand laminated fiberglass, vacuum bagged, 1-1/2” Core-Cell, with sides 1” Core-Cell above waterline, it is laminated with Vinylester resin and finished with extra-strength gelcoat. Foam formed stringers are laminated, and 2” thick bulkheads bonded to the hull for structural strength.

At this elevation, the flybridge can be called a crow's nest. But unlike a tuna tower, the owners can take comfort knowing they sit upon a superstructure that is cored for additional stiffness. The flybridge on this boat is one of the most commanding views afloat, with no limitations of the horizon, or perimeter line of sight. The swept back, multi-tiered radar arch forms its foundation to the sides of the flybridge brow, leaving an unencumbered space to move about. A closer look at the skylounge deck reveals the wing stations that are cleanly integrated into the profile. When it comes to maneuvering perspectives, it simply doesn't get any better than this.

Aft on the bridge, the boat deck holds a 15’ Nuvorania RIB with a Yamaha 90hp engine. Launching is via a power-rotating Jackson 2,000-lb. hydraulic boat davit. To feed the partiers up front – al fresco – there’s also a handy, built-in Jennaire BBQ electric grill. Shuffling down to the cockpit... there is a utility room aft, plus additional crew quarters; offering a head/shower, washer/dryer, upright freezer, and work bench as well as tools. Entering through the water tight aft access door, twin Cat's greet you – with other engine options available. Once inside, Delta engine room ventilators with demisters keep the hot room... cooled down. Submerged are bronze Nibral 5-bladed propellers; 4” Aquamet propeller shafts and 3" stainless rudder shafts. In addition, stabilizers and a bow thruster are standard equipment.

Forgive the fuzzy-foto, but it's clear the 105' NorthStar is a sharp boat. The aft deck, lined in teak, gives rise to four stainless pillars topped by two tables with a sheen as deep as the water's around. To maximize space, extensive seating wraps the aft perimeter of the deck and starboard set of steps transition you to the cockpit and swim platform.

In keeping with the clean look typical of NorthStar's yachts, circular steps spring from a central support column and are chased by a free standing stainless rail to conect the upper and lower decks. The clean look is attractive, but also purposeful, as Northstar keeps an eye on weight... and gains an edge on performance.

As mentioned, the 105 features integrated wing stations, port and starboard, just outside the skylounge access doors. Inside, the digital helm features the usual suspects, all on display before a set of tinted, slanted windows encased in handsome teak trim. The low profile console is viewed from fully adjustable Captain and Mate seats done in fashionable leather on stainless steel pedestals, with a teak destroyer-style wheel. All engine controls and alarms are standard, along with a 5” Ritchie compass. Just aft of the helm resides an elevated settee and further aft is the skylounge area.

Backing up the helm area, the Skylounge offers two sofas in designer fabrics plus an occasional chair, and a desk large enough for a computer. A cocktail bar’s U-line refrigerator /icemaker, plus a sink, provide for libations. The entertainment center features a pop-up plasma 30” TV, AM/FM tuner, CD/DVD player.

A day head is provided in the skylounge, complete with a salad-bowl sink.

The skylounge wetbar & desk station are perfectly placed before sizeable windows, to ponder the next e-mail or gaze into the distance while mixing a drink.

A curving staircase with an artistic wrought iron inset leads down from the skylounge to the main deck. Located immediately to starboard of the staircase is a hanging locker for foul weather gear. Looking aft and situated under the staircase is the main deck day-head. A door is provided in this hallway to partition the salon and dining area from the galley as well. This picture truly portrays the artistry to be found with the craftsmen from America's northwest... and specifically NorthStar. From the pillars, to the banisters and every piece of wood in between.

NorthStar’s lovely salon, decorated by Sylvia Bolton Design, features an eclectic arrangement of warm cherrywood and light toned fabrics with black and olive accents. Flooring and countertops make use of tropical brown granite, while a specially designed leather accent wall winds sinuously to the staircase and the lower deck. Carpeting patterns follow and enhance the color combinations chosen. And finally, the entertainment center boasts a 42” flat screen TV, stereo system with AM/FM tuner, CD/DVD player and surround-sound with five speakers.

Dining is located just forward of the salon. Matte finished cherrywood sweeps in curves through the dining area, combining cabinetry as well as its circular table and six Danish modern chairs. Window valances and treatments present Hunter Douglas privacy window shades.

Granite countertops and Amtico flooring characterize the large, well-equipped galley, carrying out the curved décor plan, with cherrywood wall coverings. The food prep basis is a four-burner cook-top and combination microwave-convection oven. There is a GE refrigerator and freezer, as well as a dishwasher and garbage compactor. All cabinets use roller guide drawers and sea-lock hardware. Located to starboard; adjacent to the main deck entrance door is an elevated settee for informal dining with a view. Forward of the galley and down access stairs is the Captain's quarters with a double lower berth, nightstand and TV / entertainment center.

Master stateroom highlights also embrace the fine décor by Sylvia Boulton Design; finished in light beige, wall coverings with textured surfaces, adding to an upscale sophistication. Dramatic effects are obtained with the architecturally precise use of cherrywood in cabinetry and cedar-lined hanging lockers. A king-size berth sports a custom innerspring mattress and custom designed headboard with a fascinating photo of cruising off St. Maartin in the Caribbean. A curving valance sweeps across the ceiling, with tiny starlights providing night time illumination. There is a custom-built settee, plus a vanity with cabinets and drawers. Entertainment is assured by the 30” flat screen TV, with surround-sound stereo and combination DVD/CD player.

The His/Hers master head continues the splendid use of granite countertops and cherrywood cabinetry and doors, aided and abetted by designer towel bars, soap dishes and paper holders. The Jacuzzi shower/tub with Grohe Relaxe shower system and special temperature regulator adds to the luxury.

Practically a mirror of the Master stateroom in adornment, the VIP sports a queen-size island berth, with a 20” TV screen and entertainment center. There is also a cedar-lined hanging locker, and a screened, stainless steel opening port. The VIP head features an Avonite countertop with an under-mounted porcelain sink, as well as a custom molded fiberglass shower, and Amtico flooring.

Two additional guest staterooms add to the amenities; one with a queen-size berth and nightstands, plus a TV / entertainment center, and private guest head. The other offers twin berths, individual reading lamps, a 17” TV / center, and a cedar hanging locker. The private head has a pedestal sink and custom molded shower, plus a screened opening port.

NorthStar's 105' is built with extreme care, to deliver the cruising adventures of a lifetime. Packaged cruise-ready, a turn-key commodity, the company nevertheless encourages owners to personalize the outfitting of their yacht. But, as sales rep Bob Crow says, “All you really need to bring aboard is your toothbrush.”

The Northstar 105' is not only multi-level, but it's multi-functional. It handsomely blends superb good looks with utilitarian appeal. The enclosed pilothouse beckons big blue water; the extended cockpit is a formidable foe against fish and the extended upper/lower aft decks are just plain perfect for partying.

"Northstar" is more than a bright light to guide you... it is a star to shoot for. <end>

Story by Capt. Chuck Gnaegy and Carl Camper.

SPECIFICATIONS:

LOA: 105’
Beam: 24’
Draft: 5’5”
Fuel: 5,300 gals.
Water: 800 gals.
Displacement: 290,000 lbs.
Power: 2x CAT 3412E 1,400 hp diesel
(Optional: 2x CAT C32, 1,650 hp)
(Optional: 2x MTU 12V 2000)
Top Speed: 23 knots
Cruise Speed: 14 knots
Range: 1,180 nm @ 1800 rpm
Range: 2,500 nm @ 1400 rpm

For more information, contact:

North Star Yachts
2525 Marina Bay Dr. West
Suite 203
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312
(954) 321-1457
http://www.northstaryachts.com

Front Page Picture...

Original rendering and deck-plans...