2008 - RIVIERA 56 OPEN FLYBRIDGE

The Riviera 56 Open Flybridge benefited from the innovations of its sibling, the 56 Enclosed launched two years previously. Yet she stood apart in many respects with a distinctly stronger sportfishing fit out.

Like her sibling, her hull, deck, and superstructure were fully computer designed and moulded, ensuring a millimetre-accurate fit between each component. Propeller tunnels in the hull reduced shaft angle and improved her performance while underwater engine exhausts reduced noise and fumes.

Her large cockpit offered myriad options for recreation, entertaining and fishing. She included large fish bins in the floor and hatches providing access to the lazarette. A live bait well in the transom was optional. There were two options forward – large refrigeration units or a raised mezzanine deck with an aft-facing lounge on the port side and a sink to starboard. An insulated drink box was under the saloon step. A curved transverse ladder led to the enormous flybridge.

Here was the first surprise; at first glance it appeared that there were no navigation aids, engine monitoring gauges or communications equipment. They all rose from the protection of the starboard side helm console at the press of a button via actuators. It could be lowered again when at anchor to engage with guests forward. The helm included plush Pompanette skipper and companion chairs, a step up from the flybridge floor to provide a sweeping view of the ocean ahead. The helm might have been all business, but the space forward was pure relaxation and entertaining with a large U-shaped lounge directly forward of the helm around a GRP table with drink holders. The table could be lowered, and extra cushions added to create a sunpad. Opposite was a second lounge immediately forward of the wet bar with its refrigerator and sink.

Two steps up from the cockpit, the sliding door led to the saloon space with its large and lavish L-shape lounge aft on the port side with the entertainment unit directly opposite. The gourmet U-shape galley offered the chef a solid-surface bench space, three-burner electric cooktop, two drawer fridges and a freezer, optional dishwasher and plenty of storage. The U-shape dinette was opposite.

Accommodation included three cabins and three bathrooms. The midships master stateroom included a queen walk-around bed and an oval-shaped fixed porthole. The VIP guest stateroom forward offered the option of a queen walk-around bed or V-berth. Both staterooms included en suite bathrooms with enclosed shower stalls. The third cabin on the port side amidships was equipped with a pair of bunk beds. The third bathroom included a clothes washer and dryer.

The reviewer for Marlin Magazine in the US wrote: “Boats down under need to be tough and seaworthy. That’s Riviera in spades . . . . When comparing bang for your buck between comparable sized boats, you’ll find Riviera at the top of the value category.”

Yachting stated: “she has a comfortable feel that those buyers moving up in length overall will appreciate.”

Power & MotorYacht reported on “a flying bridge that was exceptionally roomy and comfortable.”

The 56 Open Flybridge models were powered by standard twin Caterpillar C18 turbo diesel engines, with options of MTU or larger Caterpillar engines rated up to 1,575hp each.

Seven 56 Open models were produced over three years.

 

 

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Length Overall (inc. swim platform and bow sprit)

    19.30 m

    63' 4"

  • Beam (inc. gunwale)

    5.29 m

    17' 4"

  • Maximum Draft (inc. props)

    1.53 m

    5' 0"

  • Dry Weight (approx.) **

    30,000 kg

    66,139 lbs

  • Fuel Capacity ***

    5,700 L

    1506 US gal

  • Water Capacity ***

    1000 L

    264 US gal

  • Sleeping Capacity

    6 persons

  • Standard Engine Standard Engine x 2 Caterpillar C18 turbo diesel

    757 kW ea

    1015 hp ea