Brisbane shipbuilder sets sail for US with multimillion-dollar fleet
A Queensland boat builder will export a fleet of luxury motor yachts to the United States this week.
Twelve luxury yachts built by Queensland boat builder Riviera are bound for the world’s largest in-water boat show, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, opening on October 28 in Florida.
The $56 million fleet is so substantial it required two vessels departing from separate Australian ports to make its 34-day, 8000 nautical mile voyage across the Pacific Ocean.
Ten Riviera yachts were loaded aboard at the Port of Brisbane, with the other two carefully placed onto a second ship in Sydney.
Six of the smaller yachts in the Brisbane fleet, ranging from 43 to 58 feet long, were lifted from the water and secured to specialised transport cradles, hoisted onto the loading dock and craned aboard the awaiting vessel.
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The four larger yachts, ranging from 62 to 72 feet in length, were lifted directly from the water into the ship’s hold.
Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst said this shipment represents one of the company’s most significant exports of the year.
“The logistics and planning involved in a shipment of this scale is considerable as shipping schedules are highly structured and our team must ensure every yacht is meticulously prepared and delivered within strict loading windows,” Longhurst said.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show generates more than $1.1 billion in annual sales and features more than 1,300 boats across a 36-hectare exhibition spanning multiple waterfront locations.
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The event attracts more than 100,000 boating enthusiasts and industry professionals every year, with Riviera exporting its boats to the show since 1982.
“The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is our largest international showcase and one of the most important events on the global boating calendar for Riviera, our dedicated team in Florida and on the Gold Coast and our dealership network throughout the United States,” Longhurst says.
He added that Riviera boats are appreciated for their blue water capability, advanced engineering, refined luxury and enduring quality.
“Today, more than 2,000 Riviera motor yachts cruise waterways across the Americas, reflecting our strong heritage and trusted reputation among boating enthusiasts,” Longhurst said.
Riviera’s new 6200 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition will make its premiere at Fort Lauderdale, showcasing a new generation hull design that delivers volume, performance and versatility.
The 6200 features an expansive alfresco deck, fully equipped outdoor galley, spacious foredeck, open-plan saloon, multiple entertaining zones and premium handcrafted finishes throughout.
“Riviera yachts are often described as the boater’s boat because every motor yacht we create is designed and built for serious cruising, enduring quality and exceptional owner enjoyment,” Longhurst says.
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