The second Riviera flagship, 78 Motor Yacht, will be making its journey to Phuket, Thailand and is expected to reach its owners by mid-2022. The Australian builder’s long-time dealer, Lee Marine revealed that the bespoke yacht will have an enclosed flybridge and is powered by upgraded MAN 1800hp engines.
The 78 was first presented to Lee Marine back in 2019. The couple that bought the flagship boat, was looking for a new yacht to replace the 68 Sports Motor Yacht they purchased in 2016. They were given a guided tour of the full-size mock-up that was later built via a Zoom call and the couple was immediately attracted to the yacht.
Jacky, the proud owner of the incoming 78 says: “The opportunity to personalise the interior of the 78 Motor Yacht was particularly attractive. It allows us to make it very much our own yacht.”
Rudi, Jacky’s partner adds: “I love the impression of a single long window sweeping forward from amidships.” Apart from the windows, she also loved that the aft deck sheltered to the stern similar to a superyacht.
The 78 is Riviera’s largest model yet, overtaking the 72 Sports Motor Yacht. The new model allows more opportunities for personalisation and the builder is working with Luca Vallebona on the interiors. With all hands on deck, the team is working closely with the couple to fulfil their requirements of making the 80ft 8in yacht into a luxurious abode on the sea.
“Riviera really wanted to step up their game on the 78 Motor Yacht, which is over and above anything they’ve done before. The interiors are clean and stylish, and already show a new and fresh direction for Riviera,” says Martin Holmes, General Manager of Lee Marine, who has been with the company since 1997.
“As with all new Riviera models, owner and dealer feedback was closely listened to and it was fascinating to see the design evolve,” Holmes says. “The 78 Motor Yacht takes Riviera’s proven, trusted characteristics of a great hull, offshore capability and superb build quality, but now focuses more on becoming a ‘yacht’ where the spaces are more generous and sumptuous.”
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