Expert opinions on 61 Enclosed Flybridge

Peter Scott from Go Boating magazine in Australia had this to say about Riviera’s 61 Enclosed Flybridge in the January 2010 issue.  Below are exerts from the boat test.

“While Riviera’s internal build quality had always been impressive, the last pieces of the jigsaw seemed to have dropped into place.  They were now building impressive flat running, planning hull cruisers equal to the best in the world.

“The new models of 2009 were sleek, well built and economical to run.  Riviera’s latest creation, the bold and impressive Singapore bound 61 Enclosed Flybridge was perhaps the epitome of Riviera’s boat building prowess.  The big convertible has an impressive sheerline and a bold, if not statuesque stance.  Her stunning black hull with white topsides set this latest Riviera apart as a marque of distinction.

“The Riviera 61 Enclosed is a superb example of Riviera’s manufacturing prowess.  It is a beautifully appointed luxury long distance cruiser with an impressive sea going capability.  

“Perhaps the 61 Enclosed is a fine example of why the ‘I love Riv’ campaign was so successful and has touched Australia’s passionate boating community.  For a company in Receivership, to be able to build such a world-class cruiser speaks volumes and augers well for the company’s future.  This is a world-class Australian built cruiser and there could be no better ambassador of the Riviera marque than this stylish, luxury convertible.

“This boat has every conceivable feature for extended cruising, fishing or just relaxing aboard.

Performance:

“Powered by twin 1015hp turbo diesels and carrying 6500 litres of diesel, the 61 Enclosed delivers on both economy and range.

“In cruising mode at 10 knots, fuel burn was an acceptable 53 litres per engine per hour.  She will cruise effortlessly at 23 knots using a touch under 300 litres per hour and if required, has an impressive top speed of 27.5 knots.

“When accelerating, the big cruiser is quickly onto the plane.  She trims beautifully and cuts a fine line when planning.  Handling too, from the impressive enclosed flybridge, is effortless.  The dash is totally space age with all electronic controls and monitoring systems including cameras to the engine room, saloon and cockpit.

“For ease of manoeuvring, the 61 is fitted with SidePower bow and stern thrusters and a remote helm is located on the aft verandah, starboard side.  This station is particularly useful for docking and fishing – the 61 is also equipped with game poles and a 10 station rocket launcher off the aft verandah.

Flybridge:

“The flybridge is an impressive area designed not only as the command centre but also as an alternative entertainment lounge with an imposing portside leather lounge complete with arm rests and a folding table while seating for the skipper and mate are Pompanette arm chairs.

Cockpit

“The 61 is one of the most liveable cruisers yet built by Riviera.  The feature packed model includes such options as a teak, hydraulically operated submersible swim platform and a live bait tank, located in the transom and complete with a viewing window.

“The expansive self draining cockpit features full teak decking, massive lazarette, rod storage in the side coamings and an elevated leather lounge forward of the signature Riviera alfresco window.  There is also a deck wash, massive storage below a teak bench and a sink located near the saloon entry.

Engineering:

“The 61 passes all engineering and structural tests with flying colours.  The hull is constructed of hand-laid moulded fiberglass with independent compartments throughout the hull.  The vessel has a solid, reinforced GRP keel and a watertight collision bulkhead forward.

Interior design:

“Internally, Riviera’s designers and master craftsmen have again excelled.  The open plan saloon is a culmination of design excellence and practicality.  The single level saloon features a large L-shaped lounge with fee standing coffee table, an expansive cocktail cabinet with two drawer refrigeration cabinets and ice maker, showcase windows and soft downlighting.

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