T
his year was always going to
be a big one and not only as
it was the 30th anniversary
but also on the momentum
of the highly successful
2017 show. This year, the show had
no clashes and saw the return of
industry heavyweights and iconic
brand, Riviera. Although they ran their
impressive Festival Of Boating back at
their Coomera HQ, the volume of Riv
hats doing the rounds indicated a large
portion of the owners-only Festival,
made it down to the docks.
We took a good look at the new-
release 395 SUV and quizzed a few
onlookers and industry people on their
thoughts. They shared ours — it feels
bigger than the 40 feet the spec sheet
suggests. This is partly down to clever
use of space, excellent lighting from
large windows, and to its wide beam.
I expect it will be a highly successful
model and am genuinely interested
in how its sister ship, the 40 Motor
Yacht — due to be released later this
year — will go. With the addition ofthe flybridge, it will only add to the
spaciousness and appeal.
Also on debut was the 72SMY which
dominated the docks, angled to the
main walkways. The silver roofline
and sheerline looked amazing in the
bright sun. Onboard was very familiar,
as Trade-a-Boat and myself have had
the pleasure of being aboard its sister
model, the 68SMY. Like all Riv’s, it is a
classy affair and very contemporary but
has never left its driver-centric, ocean
credibility, behind.
Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst said
the Show had been very rewarding.
“The SCIBS team has been very
welcoming and very supportive. The
Riviera family too, are proud to see us
back on the water and showcasing our
latest product. The response to the 395
and the Riviera 72 Sports Motor Yacht
has been overwhelming.”MAJESTIC MARITIMO
Maritimo are a favourite of ours, they
always extend a welcoming smile and
offer time to sample what they do, butthis year we were a bit behind the game
having not been aboard either of the
two new releases: the X60 and S70. We
had, however, been on the prototypes
at the factory late last year and again
this year. The outcomes were a big step
up on what we knew then and some
great ideas were seen during their
development.
A sedan with a twist, the X60 uses the
space left available behind the centre-
mounted power units to full effect as a
rear lounge or VIP suite. Both layouts
feature a separate head and plenty of
storage but the pièce de résistance is
the upwards opening boot which lifts to
reveal the majestic views of the ocean.
With the water line well above the floor
height, it feels like you are in the ocean.
I imagine it as one of the most peaceful
places to be moored overlooking your
favourite bay.
The team saw significant success
during the shows’ four days, with a
reported total sales exceeding $37m
and more to come. Maritimo CEO
Garth Corbitt told us, “The worldCLOCKWISE FROM MAIN The trailer boat
areas were bursting at the seams in 2018;
Maritimo CEO Garth Corbitt with US
dealers celebrating success; a handy
parking spot; onlookers could get up
close; the Maritimo X60’s stern was a
popular sight.tradeboats.com.au 19