Riviera Festival 2014

Riviera’s says the third annual Festival of Boating was a big success with record attendance, sold-out social events and impressive growth of over 50 per cent in registrations across its educational workshops.

However, Riviera brand and communications director Stephen Milne said it is the glowing endorsements Riviera owners which has Riviera promising to make the event even bigger and better next year.

"The Festival is not just about selling boats – the Festival is all about bringing the Riviera family together, sharing experiences and knowledge and showcasing our boats," he said. "There’s a big focus on the educational events and making our existing owners feel part of the Riviera family – we want to do all we can to help them achieve the ultimate boating experience."

That philosophy is quickly evident when speaking to those who attended the Festival this year, some for the first time.

Drew Sellick from Port Lincoln, South Australia – after ordering a new 445 SUV at the Festival – said he felt compelled to share his thoughts to a crowd of more than 400 people at the Riviera Cirquetacular gala dinner on the Saturday night.

"I haven’t even turned the key yet on the 445 and I already feel I’m part of the Riviera family," he said.

Riviera’s chairman and owner Rodney Longhurst said there were over $12 million in sales finalised during the four days of the Festival and that number is expected to rise after this week’s sea trials.

"The Riviera Festival of Boating was created for all Riviera owners and aspiring owners to come to Coomera with their children, grandchildren and friends for four days of fun and educational experiences.

"We want to help our valued owners realise their individual boating dreams and we have created a unique environment where they can meet fellow Riviera and Belize owners."

Highlights of this year’s third Riviera Festival of Boating included the world premiere of the new 515 SUV and Mr Milne reported that there were several forward orders taken for this model.

There was also an order 'off the plan' for a new 6000 Sport Yacht, which will make her world premiere at the Sydney International Boat Show from July 31 to August 4.

Riviera CEO Wes Moxey said this year’s educational program had something for every boating enthusiast, including skipper training for men, women and children, interactive displays, Riviera factory tours, offshore seamanship seminar with Bob Jones, maintenance tricks of the trade, fishing clinics, electronic navigation, sanitation system maintenance, as well as anchoring, line work and rafting.

The entertainment program included a marina cocktail party and jazz nightclub attended by 380 guests, the Riviera Cirquetacular gala dinner attended by more than 400 guests, ladies champagne luncheon and Master BBQ Chef Challenge.

"Everyone we’ve spoken with is thrilled to be part of the 2014 Festival and are all looking forward to next year," said Milne. "Lock in the date – the 2015 Riviera Festival of Boating will be held from May 21-24."