The Wonder From Down Under

Australia is justly famous for a number of remarkable things, including natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, iconic structures such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, amazing wildlife from koalas to kangaroos, and impressive wines from noted producers like Yarra Yering, Penfolds, and Giaconda. In yachting circles, the land down under has also earned a global reputation for brilliant designs from builders like McConaghy, Maritimo, and perhaps most importantly, Riviera.

Founded in Sydney in 1980, Riviera, now located in Queensland, has delivered more than 6,000 luxury yachts over its 45-year history. Under the leadership of the visionary owner Rodney Longhurst since 2012, Riviera has established a global reputation for innovation, inspired designs, and exceptional build quality. Its latest creation, the 4300 Sports Express, is set to make its world debut in Australia at the upcoming Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show from May 22 to 25, then prepare for its North American premiere at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show from October 29 to November 2. The new yacht has already generated considerable interest throughout the global yacht community, so perhaps we should have a closer look and see what all the fuss is about.

Stretching a generous 13.8 metres in overall length and riding on a roomy 4.45-metre beam, the 4300 Sports Express is built on a performance-oriented hull form that draws just 1.2 metres, enabling the yacht to easily access those smaller and more private anchorages and ports of call while still delivering blistering performance on the open water. With its twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 engines churning out 440 horsepower apiece, we’re talking top speeds in excess of 30 knots in a yacht with all the luxuries of home. Now that’s an eye-opener.

What’s more, the 4300 Sports Express allows its owners to enjoy the water in every possible way with the yacht’s innovative sea deck. The boarding platform provides comfortable and unrestricted access when the tender is secured, with a fully hydraulic swim platform that makes it easy to launch or retrieve watercraft. The brilliant articulating design can then further transform the boarding platform into a private sea deck, complete with a swim step that doubles as a seat when the platform is partly submerged. It’s great for the kids, for water sports, or as an inviting space to plunk down with a drink on a hot summer’s day. Extra-large storage compartments either side of the stern provide convenient storage for large bulky items like Ski Bobs or paddleboards.

The sea deck also houses a well-executed outdoor kitchen in the transom, complete with a sink and faucet, a beautiful countertop and a barbecue grill. To starboard, two wide steps lead forward into the cockpit where facing L-shaped settees share a pedestal-mounted table for dining alfresco or simply enjoying conversations with wraparound views. Overhead, the protection of a hard top provides relief from the midday sun, while a power awning extends farther aft if desired.

To really soak up the sun—and the views—in comfort, head for the sun deck in the bow, where a glorious triple-wide sunbed awaits. Thoughtful additions like drink holders, a table that folds out from under the forward-facing bow lounge, a cool box for drinks, stereo speakers, multiple USB charge points, and a Euro-style awning that stows easily when it’s time to weigh anchor make the bow perhaps the best spot of all for enjoying the day.

When it’s time to head below for the night, 4300 Sports Express owners will find a comfortable lower deck salon that opens on either end to the sleeping accommodations: an opulent owner’s suite in the bow and a guest suite aft. The salon itself offers a well-appointed main galley, a sumptuous L-shaped lounge with matching ottoman, wall-mounted LED Smart TV, and a handcrafted drinks cabinet for winding down at the end of an exciting day. Opposite, a spacious head features a contemporary, elegant design with a separate full sized-shower and premium porcelain basin. Like the rest of the yacht, it too is fully climate controlled.

Being a Riviera, the 4300 Sports Express comes equipped with all the latest smart technology. That includes premium lithium-iron phosphate batteries with a built-in battery management system, and advanced CZone digital switching that permits remote operation of various onboard components through a smartphone app. For example, it makes it possible for owners to turn on the refrigerators and air-conditioning system before they even leave the house, so that by the time they arrive at the marina, the yacht is already cool, and the refrigerator icy cold.

Of course, we’ll have to wait for the Sanctuary Cove show to finally see the 4300 Sports Express up close and say g’day in person. But if the interest this yacht has already stirred is anything to go by, Riviera will soon become very, very busy trying to meet demand for what promises to be among its most exciting yachts yet.

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