M/V Ugly Duck began construction as a typical dinner/excursion vessel for Maritime Equipment Co., of Haddam, Conn. While the hull erection was in progress, Premier Yachts, Inc. of Chicago purchased the contract from Maritime Equipment and began converting the vessel's plans into a more upscale and unique arrangement.
The vessel features a full galley, plus bar and wait station on the main deck forward, allowing maximum deck space aft for two curved buffet tables, DJ booth and dance floor. Having the galley forward also allows large tinted insulated glass windows across the stern of the vessel and along both sides. Special vibration and sound dampening methods are utilized to almost eliminate engine and propeller noise in the dining area.
The second deck features another bar and wait station, plus a buffet table, DJ booth and dance floor. An open deck aft doubles as a boarding station and covered observation deck. The third deck has a private party dining room with its own full bar and wait station, plus a 270 degree panoramic view out the double-glazed tinted windows and direct access out onto the exterior deck.
The fourth deck is a wide-open observation area, providing passengers a viewing platform some 35 ft. above the water line.
Other features include two storerooms below the main deck with walk-in reefer and freezer, and a closed-circuit TV system, so passengers can observe the dance floor from anywhere on the boat.