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As twilight fell, Riviera’s floating showcase became a stage of elegance and fine dining.
As twilight settled over Sanctuary Cove, the marina came alive with all the elegance and spirit of Riviera. Over three sold-out evenings during the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, more than 500 Riviera owners and guests gathered for the annual gala dinner events, this year themed as Songs in the Key of Riv. Each evening was an exclusive experience with fine dining, vibrant entertainment, and that special connection when owners feel united to celebrate what it truly means to be part of the Riviera family.
Click play to enjoy the 2025 Songs in the Key of Riv highlights video.
“We really enjoy being part of the Riviera family and taking part in all the events and activities. Long may it continue.”
John Wainhouse
In just 90 minutes, Riviera’s showcase was transformed from boat show display to a floating fine-dining venue. From the moment guests stepped into the reimagined marquees, unrecognisable from their daytime form, it was clear these evenings were a luxurious and welcoming expression of the Riviera life.
The dinner show events attracted owners from around Australia and across the Tasman from New Zealand to share stories, spark new friendships, and share the joy of belonging to something exceptional. A talented trio of female vocalists, dubbed ‘The Riv-ets’, performed from the boarding platforms of some of the yachts, their harmonious energy weaving through the softly lit tables and dancing across the water, setting a tone of celebration.
Over three sold-out evenings, more than 500 Riviera owners and guests gathered for the annual gala dinner events. Each evening was an exclusive experience of fine dining, vibrant entertainment, and that special connection of being a part of the Riviera family.
(Click the arrows on the left or right of the image to view the full picture gallery)
For longtime Riviera owners John and Christina Wainhouse, the evening was a powerful reminder of the community they’ve been part of for nearly four decades. Based in Auckland, the Winehouses are proud owners of Free Life, a 64 Sports Motor Yacht, and seasoned Riviera enthusiasts. “I purchased one of the two original Rivieras to come into New Zealand around 1986,” John shared, “and have been a loyal and proud supporter ever since, having been fortunate enough to have now owned five new Rivieras – a 38 Flybridge, 46, 51, 60, and now the magnificent 64.”
They attended the Friday evening event and were struck by the atmosphere. “The most memorable part of the evening was the entertainment. It was top class,” they both agreed. But what resonated even more was the genuine connection felt throughout the evening. “These dinners are great to be able to meet new friends from the New Zealand Riviera family. We really enjoy being part of the Riviera family and taking part in all the events and activities. Long may it continue.”
The Winehouses know that the joy of Riviera ownership extends far beyond events. They’ve spent countless hours cruising New Zealand’s beautiful northeastern coastline. “Over the past three years, we’ve spent most of our time around the Hauraki Gulf – a large gulf on the northeastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island,” John explained. “One of our favourite places is Great Barrier Island (Aotea), which sits within the gulf, about 100 km northeast of Auckland. The broader coast also includes stunning regions like the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, and East Cape.”
‘The Riv-ets’ lit up the marina with song and colour, setting the tone for a memorable night and inspiring guests to join in on the singing and dancing.
“I’m really putting my foot in it here, but I have to confess, it felt right to get up and start a conga line around the tables - we were all having that much fun!”
Shanne Taylor
Guests were treated to a memorable culinary experience, featuring a delightful autumn menu paired with a selection of fine wines and a carefully curated three-course dinner.
For Paul and Leesa Crittenden, owners of Champagne Fridays, a 4800 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition based in Melbourne, the Friday night dinner was a highlight of their weekend. “The dinner was incredible and sensational fun,” Paul said. “The food? Absolutely top notch!” Since taking delivery of their Riviera in 2022, the Crittenden’s have clocked over 600 hours, mainly cruising Port Phillip Bay – “rail, hail, or shine”. Their Riviera journey has become a passion. “We were looking for a yacht with IPS specifically and just couldn’t fault Riviera. They really are the best of the best.”
From fine dining to yacht-hopping performances, the gala dinners were a grand expression of the Riviera life.
“We attended the Riviera gala dinner last year and left saying, ‘how could they ever possibly top that?’ But they did!”
Paul Crittenden, Riviera owner
After dinner, their evening continued aboard Riviera’s floating lounge moored at the rear of the showcase. “We naturally made our way to the night club after dinner. It was an incredible space, somewhere to enjoy a drink, relax, and just soak in the moment. We used that area frequently over the boat show weekend. What a great addition to the whole Riviera experience.”
Paul summed up what many owners expressed throughout the events: “The team at R Marine Jacksons do an incredible job bringing owners together through flotillas and events. Riviera really are ahead of the game in everything they do – but the Riviera family – that’s the loveliest part.”
A truly vibrant atmosphere that invited owners to relax, enjoy and be part of something special.
For Shanne and Sean Taylor, owners of the Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht GiGi based in Sydney, attending the Saturday evening gala was about more than just glamour.
“Riviera’s ability to bring their owners together the way they do is incredible. It makes me feel blessed to be part of it,” Shanne shared. “These dinner shows are hard to explain – the ideas, the stories, the people – it’s exciting and truly inspirational.”
As the night progressed, so did the energy. “We loved the vibe of the night,” she laughed. “I’m really putting my foot in it here, but I have to confess, it felt right to get up and start a conga line around the tables – we were all having that much fun!” Behind the laughter, however, was a deeper reflection. “As a woman, these nights and events create a safe space for me to build confidence from hearing other Riviera owners’ stories. Hearing about other women driving their boats and sharing their journeys is powerful.”
The Riviera spirit illuminated the boat show marina.
Her final thoughts captured the magic of the evening: “It’s not easy to get an entire dinner party up from their tables and to dance like that, but somehow, that was just the feel of the night. Everyone felt comfortable letting their hair down and wanted to keep dancing.”
And that is what Songs in the Key of Riv delivered – a harmonious celebration and connection. A reminder that owning a Riviera is so much more than the luxury motor yacht itself. It’s about sharing memorable moments, creating memories, and being part of a family where special times shared becomes a chapter in something greater.
To pre-register for the Festival of Boating 2026 at Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, please visit https://www.rivieraaustralia.com/the-riviera-festival-of-boating/
2025 Songs in the Key of Riv social gallery
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