Riviera readies $56 million fleet for Fort Lauderdale show

Australian luxury boat builder Riviera is exporting 12 motor yachts to the United States ahead of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, which opens in Florida on October 28.

The shipment, valued by Riviera at more than $56 million, comprises 10 yachts loaded in Brisbane and a further two loaded in Sydney. The vessels are travelling around 8000 nautical miles across the Pacific on a 34-day voyage to Florida.

Six of the yachts, ranging from 43 to 58 feet, were lifted from the water and secured to specialised transport cradles before being transferred to the Port of Brisbane and loaded onto a ship.

A further four yachts, ranging from 62 to 78 feet, were lifted directly from the water and loaded into the ship’s hold, while the remaining two yachts were loaded in Sydney.

Riviera says the shipment is one of its largest export movements of the year and required two ships departing from separate Australian ports.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is one of the largest boat shows in the world, with Riviera set to display 14 yachts at the event.

Among them will be the new Riviera 6200 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition, which will make its Americas debut at the show.

The 6200 Sport Yacht is offered with a choice of three or four staterooms, including a full-beam master suite and three ensuite bathrooms. It also features an aft deck with an outdoor galley and lounge area, along with a foredeck entertaining area.

Other features include a full-height engine room and a tender garage capable of carrying a 3.6-metre tender and water-sports equipment.

Riviera says more than 2000 of its yachts are currently cruising in the Americas, with the Australian company having exported boats to the US since 1982.

The company has launched more than 6300 motor yachts worldwide, according to the manufacturer.

Riviera is based on Queensland’s Gold Coast and operates a dealership network across the United States.