Gold Coast boating reveal: big splash as Coomera leaders make announcement at Sydney show

The Gold Coast boating industry is making a big splash at the Sydney International Boat Show, with Riviera surprising with a big announcement.

THE Gold Coast boating industry is making a big splash at the Sydney International Boat Show, with Riviera announcing plans for a brand new luxury model.

Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst at the Darling Harbour event revealed the 505 SUV is due for release at the Miami Yacht Show in February 2020.

The Riviera display at the Sydney International Boat Show.

The announcement was made as the Coomera-based company hosted the world premiere of the 545 SUV and the Sydney premiere of its revered Platinum Edition Sport Yachts — 6000, 5400 and 4800 Series II.

Boat enthusiasts have commented about “the stunning display” which features nine luxury motor yachts from 39-68 feet in length.

Mr Longhurst said Riviera, as Australia’s largest luxury motor yacht builder, was proud to wave the Gold Coast and Queensland flag at an event which had attracted boat owners from across the country and overseas.

Rodney Longhurst at the Riviera display at the Sydney International Boat Show.

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“The Sydney International Boat Show will allow Riviera to showcase the skills of our 600-strong master craftsmen and women, including 74 apprentices, who build more than 100 yachts each year at Coomera,” he told the Bulletin.

“More than 50 per cent of our annual production is exported and Sydney is an important show for us as owners and prospects visit from around Australia and across the Tasman.

“Interest on the first day of the boat show has been extremely positive as boating enthusiasts are purchasing new Riviera yachts that will be delivered in 2020, the year we will celebrate our iconic company’s 40th year and the launching of almost 5600 motor yachts.

Riviera boats for the Sydney International Boat Show.

“This is a significant triumph for an Australian company.”

Riviera will host a gala event on its Sydney display on Saturday night for more than 400 Riviera owners from across Australia and New Zealand.

“Such events are always very popular as ‘The Riviera Family’ — as our owners are known the world over - love to party together,” Mr Longhurst said.