Riviera will proudly premiere the 5600 Sport Yacht and 43 Sports Express at Palm Beach as part of an exceptional on-water Riviera showcase.
Gliding out from the Gold Coast’s Sovereign Islands under bluebird skies, a fleet of 14 Riviera luxury motor yachts, led by the expert team at R Marine Crawley, carved a smooth path through the sparkling waters of Moreton Bay for a mid-winter sojourn. With stunning anchorages, curated coastal stops and Riviera’s trademark camaraderie, the Baybound Weekend Escape delivered a memorable trip of luxury and connection.
Skipping a stop at Peel Island, the fleet cruised straight to Bribie Island, in the northern reaches of Moreton Bay, to seek shelter from the brisk westerly breeze. That afternoon everyone gathered at Sandstone Point for oysters by a communal fire pit at the Oyster Shack, followed by dinner on the hill at Sandstone Point Hotel.
Enjoy the video highlights of this trip as Riviera owners enjoy the social escape, blending scenic cruising, relaxed island stops and great friendships on the water.
It was John and Rhonda Monteleone’s first significant trip aboard their gleaming new Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht, ‘Monte’, having recently upgraded from their Riviera 4600 Sport Yacht.
“It was an excellent trip for us and all the Crawley trips are excellent in general, especially when you’re new at boating. With them, you’ve got no worries or apprehension. You feel totally comfortable and have peace of mind because the guys have always got your back,” says John.
“They really have everything down pat, are well organised and well-planned. We know we can’t always stick to set plans due to the weather, and the Crawley team always have contingency plans in place; this weekend was a good example. They’re so well drilled and are just great people.”
From tight passages to open-water crossings, R Marine Crawley makes every navigational challenge feel effortless.
“It’s really enjoyable to get together with other Riviera owners and share our love of boating, and the comforts we love on our Rivieras.”
John Monteleone
The following morning the fleet departed Sandstone Point and cruised south through the bay, stopping at Peel Island for a refreshing dip in pristine conditions, before continuing on to Canaipa Point, on the north east tip of Russell Island. “This trip was set apart by all the different activities. We had a morning cruise to Canaipa and dropped anchor there. That was really fantastic. Just the way it was all organised, the ambience in the group; it was very relaxed and everyone was made to feel so welcome. It’s really enjoyable to get together with other Riviera owners and share our love of boating, and the comforts we love on our Rivieras – that really stands out. We have all the home mod cons on board wherever we cruise,” says John.
The afternoon unfolded with onshore games and casual drinks, as people spread out across the open space to soak in the surroundings. As dusk settled, the group gathered around the fire pit for a laid-back, bring-your-own barbecue.
Whether seeking adventure or quiet relaxation, the itinerary suited every mood and pace.
“We’ve made some really good friends on these trips, and from those friendships we do our own independent trips up and down the coast.”
Dave Holmquist–Pollock
Moreton Bay’s breathtaking natural beauty was perfect for connecting with nature.
The afternoon at RQYS Canaipa Point was a highlight for Dave and Carina Holmquist-Pollock on their 52 Flybridge, ‘Blue Magic’.
“Canaipa has seen a real transformation thanks to the addition of a large longhouse and upgraded facilities. There are multiple barbecue areas, pull-down blinds for comfort, and the trees have been trimmed around the pool so that’s helping keep the area and the water warm! The overall upkeep of the grounds is pristine,” says Dave.
“I also really loved returning to Sandstone Point, as I hadn’t been there for years.” This is the beauty of the R Marine-organised trips: they offer Riviera owners a safe and secure way to explore new areas or return to old favourites.
There’s nothing quite like connecting with like-minded Riviera owners and forming friendships that last a lifetime.
“It’s like the Riviera crew, they’re always proactive and innovative, and they listen to their clients.”
Dave Holmquist-Pollock
“We’ve made some really good friends on these trips, and from those friendships we do our own independent trips up and down the coast. My only complaint about the weekend was that it was too short!” he laughs. “I’d have loved another day, but that’s the same for most trips.
“R Marine Crawley are so adaptable and cater to the strengths of the group and the weather, there’s never a bad trip. They’re just easy, accommodating people with no pretence. It’s like the Riviera crew, they’re always proactive and innovative, and they listen to their clients.”
With just the right balance of planning and support from the R Marine Crawley crew, owners were free to unwind, explore and enjoy the bay together in true Riviera style.
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