Triple Volvo Penta IPS drives on Riviera 51 Flybridge

Both 51 Open and Enclosed Flybridge models will continue to be offered with shaft drive.

With more than 150 of these three cabin cruisers already on the water, the Volvo Penta IPS option offers an additional space amidships. Standard layout is an area for storage, stowing diving and fishing gear. An option offers crew's quarters including bunk and a fully-equipped bathroom. Access to the space is via a door from the cockpit. There is also an option to provide a second access via a hatch in the saloon.

Riviera said the space includes the boat's genset, air conditioning units and battery banks, offering very easy servicing. It is also used to access the front of the three Volvo Penta IPS engines. Main access to the engines is via the hinged cockpit floor that lifts on an electric actuator. The fuel tank is forward, immediately behind the accommodation bulkhead, offering low noise in the accommodation area.

The IPS propelled option features an entirely new hull, developed by Riviera's design team in consultation with Volvo Penta senior designers. Deadrise at the transom is 15 degrees.

Riviera said the IPS system features drive units through the bottom of the hull, each with two forward-facing, counter-rotating propellers. The entire drive unit turns to steer the boat and all units can act independently, providing finger-tip control in slow-speed manoeuvres through a joystick mounted at the helm. The system also offers impressive acceleration and performance. According to Volvo Penta, the efficiency of the new system also delivers fuel economy and low noise levels.

"During the development work and the continuous tests that we perform, the system has exceeded our expectations time and time again," said Volvo Penta President Göran Gummeson. "Boat performance is boosted to a new level."

The new propulsion option builds on the features of the Riviera 51 Flybridge Series II model launched at the 2008 Sydney International Boat Show, said Riviera.

Spacious queen double beds feature in both the midships master and forward guest staterooms while cedar timber lining offers freshness to all the cabin lockers. The bathrooms have the warmth of Amtico timber veneer flooring, solid surface benchtops with porcelain basins and satin chrome shower poles.

Riviera said all the joinery in the saloon has a fresh look and there is even a gloss timber surround to the recessed grabrail in the headliner. Speakers for the Bose entertainment system are recessed in stylish pelmets on either side of the saloon. The lounge has a double bed hidden away underneath that deploys with electric controls.

But perhaps the most striking feature of the saloon of the 51 Enclosed Flybridge is the awning window and stainless steel door aft leading to the cockpit, said Riviera. The awning window opens up to connect the saloon with the cockpit.

The Open model retains the sliding bulkhead window and a ladder from cockpit to flybridge.