Riviera launches the 545 SUV offering full-beam master suite as the centrepiece of luxury
by Riviera Australia 1 Aug 2019 16:06 PDT
1-5 August 2019
Riviera 545 SUV anchored © Riviera Studio
The new 545 SUV launched at Sydney International Boat Show from the premier builder Riviera Australia is hailed as two motor yachts in one - a single-level sports yacht entertainer with the blue water offshore cruising pedigree of a Flybridge yacht - offers a magnificent full-beam master suite among its many luxuries.
Superbly designed, appointed and finished, the apartment-style haven includes a queen-sized walk-around bed, bedside tables and drawers, L-shaped lounge to starboard, bureau and large hanging wardrobe to port, plus a generous en-suite bathroom equipped with designer fittings.
Being amidships, the master enjoys maximum stability and quietness, while a long hull window and opening port to both port and starboard afford unimpeded water views and natural light.
The 545 is a significant release as it replaces Riviera's former 525 in the ever-popular SUV collection. This is a versatile yacht that perfectly combines unique indoor/outdoor lifestyle features at a size that's just right for cruising couples and families.
"The 545 heralds a new level of luxury and refinement for a class of motor yacht that we not only introduced to the world but have constantly refined, now launching more than 120 SUV motor yachts," Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst says.
"This is a grand tourer in every sense, sharing the soft-riding and seaworthy hull, expansive open cockpit and accommodation plan of our newly launched 54 Enclosed Flybridge, along with a free-flowing, easy-living saloon that's ideal for entertaining.
"At the same time, our Volvo Penta IPS power options of twin D11-IPS800 625hp (460kW) or D11-IPS950 725hp (533kW) provide breathtaking performance, economy and ease of handling."
Welcome aboard
The 545 SUV's generous cockpit is tailored for fishing and watersports, along with outdoor entertaining.
Stepping aboard from the large swim platform through either port or starboard transom gates, it offers fixed transom seating with options for storage or live bait tank, as well as a three-seater mezzanine lounge to port. There is also an optional table for alfresco dining and twilight drinks, while a daybed conversion is also optional.
A double barbecue unit resides to starboard on the mezzanine, adjacent to the saloon entry for easy back-and-forth access to the aft-placed galley and cocktail cabinet.
U-shaped and highly functional, the galley is a gourmet chef's delight with a solid surface bench top, electric cooktop, convection microwave oven and an optional drawer dishwasher within handy reach of the stainless-steel sink.
The 545 SUV's rear bulkhead opens via an awning window comprising tinted, tempered glass framed in polished stainless steel, seamlessly linking the cockpit and saloon as one space. Sliding windows on both sides of the saloon, plus two large overhead sunroofs, ensure fresh air and natural light invigorate the living space.
There's an equally stunning view for the driver and co-pilot through the large windscreen. Riviera's designers have placed the wheel almost on the centre line for superb vision, separating the helm's twin pedestal seats to allow easy access.
Guests can also immerse themselves in the driving experience from the helm's accompanying L-shaped lounge. It has a hi-lo dining table that folds and lowers to become a coffee table, while a sumptuous three-seater lounge resides to starboard.
The latter has a removable centre seat that becomes an ottoman for additional dining seating. An additional table then lifts out from the settee and sits between the two remaining seats, forming additional dining or work space.
Forward of the three-seater settee is a 32-inch LED television and high-end sound system, secured out of the way in its own dedicated compartment to starboard. The TV rises elegantly and electrically at the touch of a button, and swings for viewing from every saloon seating position.
Down below, friends and family members are pampered with an elegantly appointed forward VIP stateroom, a starboard twin cabin with full adult-sized bunk beds and generous levels of storage, plus a day head with glass shower recess and stylish vanity. Storage abounds, and there is excellent headroom, light and ventilation throughout.
At your command
The 545 SUV features a modern helm design with room for twin 17-inch Glass Cockpit touchscreen navigation systems that integrate seamlessly with the intuitive CZone digital switching technology.
The central helm includes a sport wheel, engine controls and a joystick for slow-speed manoeuvring. A second joystick resides in the cockpit.
If its dining manners are impeccable, Rodney Longhurst says "wait until you experience the 545 SUV's driving manners!"
"The 545 SUV was designed to deliver a soft, dry and efficient ride, bolstered by the legendary structural strength that Riviera is internationally renowned for," he adds. "The hull performs wonderfully in the enclosed flybridge format, so the SUV's low centre of gravity makes it exceptionally well settled and safe in a seaway.
"The underwater hull form is perfectly matched to the twin D11 turbo diesel engines and IPS drives, with excellent fuel economy and impressively quiet operation and easy joystick docking."
The IPS 800 powerplants deliver 625hp apiece, while the 950 upgrade delivers a powerful 725hp (533kW) punch.
Engine technicians need never enter the yacht's interior as engineroom access is provided through a strut-assisted hatch just aft of the saloon door. Nor do water-toys or fishing equipment have to be stored below, as there are multiple underfloor storage options.
"Having launched over 900 pod-driven luxury motor yachts, Riviera remains at the forefront of offering impressive fuel economy, high performance, quiet operation and, of course, joystick docking and driving control," Mr Longhurst adds.
"Quite simply, the 545 SUV is designed and built to deliver the safest, most comfortable and luxurious boating experience possible, both at anchor and at sea."
Discover more at RivieraAustralia.com