New Riviera 545 SUV is a revelation

Riviera will premiere four world-class models at the 2019 Sydney International Boat Show [1-5 August] as part of an exceptional nine-boat display that heralds a new level of refinement for Australia’s premium luxury motor yacht builder. In the spotlight will be the new Riviera 545 SUV, boasting a full-beam master suite that offers unparalleled space and comfort. A grand tourer in every shimmering sense, this yacht shares the brilliant bluewater hull, expansive open cockpit and accommodation plan of Riviera’s newly launched 54 Enclosed Flybridge in concert with a free-flowing, easy-living saloon that’s tailor-made for entertaining. The WSB team get the chance to take a closer look at this new revelation from Riviera.

The iconic ‘Platinum’ badge is now the symbol of distinction for three of Riviera’s most stylish models – the 6000, 5400 and 4800 Series II Sport Yachts. Platinum accents, fashionable interior updates and premium state-of-the-art features have captivated boating enthusiasts since their May premiere.

The deluxe hue is synonymous with luxury as it melds stylishly with the gleaming white gelcoat externally, along with the gloss walnut cabinetry and lighter countertops and headliner internally, creating classic and timeless appeal. The refinements even extend to the addition of new Recaro sports helm seats with diamond-quilted Alcantara inserts, akin to the world’s finest automobiles.

Joining these four premiere models at SIBS will be the remarkable 68 Sports Motor Yacht, 445 SUV, 43 Open Flybridge and 395 SUV and 39 Sports Motor Yacht. Representing the pinnacle of motor yachts manufactured in this country, all have commanded worldwide attention.

“Boating enthusiasts come from all over Australia, and many parts of the world, to witness our Sydney International Boat Show display and I believe they will be more impressed than ever this year,” Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst says. “The display will comprehensively showcase the constant optimisation of our model development, while also revealing our latest thinking and style. “I would say the current range of yachts is the most refined that Riviera has ever created. Our 600-strong team strives every day to ensure that Riviera yachts are built as exceptionally as they look.”

The 545 SUV replaces Riviera’s 525 SUV as a versatile yacht combining indoor/outdoor lifestyle features at a size that’s just right for cruising couples and young families, with Volvo Penta IPS 800 (625hp) and 950 (725hp) power options providing class-leading performance and ease of handling.

Pride of place goes to the full-beam master suite boasting an exceptional amount of space and storage, king-sized walk-around bed, L-shaped lounge to starboard, bureau and large hanging wardrobe to port, plus a generous en-suite bathroom equipped with designer fittings. Being amidships, the suite enjoys optimum stability and quietness, while topside windows to both port and starboard afford unimpeded water views.

Guests or family members are pampered with an elegantly appointed forward VIP stateroom, a starboard twin cabin, plus a day head with glass shower recess and stylish vanity. Storage abounds, and there is excellent headroom, light and ventilation throughout.

The cockpit is well configured for fishing and watersports, along with outdoor entertaining. It offers fixed transom seating as well as a three-seater mezzanine lounge to port. A double barbecue unit resides to starboard on the mezzanine, adjacent to the saloon entry for easy access back-and-forth to the aft-placed galley and cocktail cabinet.

U-shaped and highly functional, the aft galley is a gourmet chef’s delight with a solid surface benchtop, electric cooktop, convection microwave oven and an optional drawer dishwasher within handy reach of the stainless-steel sink.

The 545 SUV’s rear bulkhead opens to the cockpit via an awning window comprising tinted, tempered glass-framed in polished stainless steel. Sliding windows on both sides of the saloon and two large overhead sunroofs ensure fresh air and natural light invigorate the space.

There’s an equally stunning view for the driver and passenger through the large windscreen. Riviera’s designers have placed the wheel almost on the centreline for superb vision, separating the helm’s twin pedestal seats to allow easy access.

Guests can also immerse themselves in the driving experience from the L-shaped lounge to port, just aft of the helm. It has a hi-lo dining table, while a three-seater lounge resides to starboard. The latter has a removable centre seat that becomes an ottoman for additional dining seating. A fold-out table then extends the dinner party if needed.

If its dining manners are impeccable, Rodney Longhurst says “wait until you experience the 545 SUV’s driving manners!” “The 545 SUV was designed to deliver a soft, dry and efficient ride, bolstered by the legendary structural strength that Riviera is renowned for,” he adds. “The hull performs wonderfully in the enclosed flybridge format, so the SUV’s low centre of gravity makes it exceptionally well settled and safe in a seaway. “The underwater hull form is perfectly matched to the twin D11 turbo diesel engines and IPS drives, with excellent fuel economy and impressively quiet operation, not to mention easy joystick docking.”

Engine technicians need never enter the yacht’s interior as engine room access is provided through a strut-assisted hatch just aft of the saloon door. Nor do water-toys have to be stored below, as there are multiple underfloor storage options. In conclusion, the 545 SUV is a well-placed addition to the SUV range, with Hardtops, Targa arches and wet-bars presented in Riviera Platinum, and a host of quality materials throughout, give the 545 SUV a touch of class and its intent in making a statement for the Sport Yacht Platinum Edition.

Riviera Yachts