Introduction

The Riviera 50 Sports Motor Yacht (SMY) is more than just another entry into the luxury yacht market—it represents Riviera’s mission to deliver a vessel that offers performance, livability, and versatility in one sleek package. Designed for owners who enjoy both offshore adventure and extended stays on the water, this 50-foot motor yacht strikes a careful balance between robust engineering and luxury detailing.

Built in Australia, the Riviera 50 SMY carries the shipyard’s reputation for seaworthy hulls and practical layouts that don’t compromise comfort. It’s equally at home carving through open seas as it is docked for a weekend getaway with family and friends. In this review, we’ll explore the yacht’s specifications, performance, features, and ownership considerations to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.

Intended Use and Purpose

The Riviera 50 SMY is designed to be a true dual-purpose yacht. On one hand, it’s built to handle offshore passages with confidence thanks to its robust construction and efficient hull design. On the other, it provides a comfortable and stylish onboard experience that rivals many larger yachts. This makes it suitable for those who want to enjoy extended cruising while still having the agility to explore a variety of destinations.

Think of it as the yacht that does not force you to choose between practicality and indulgence. Whether you’re spending a few hours fishing offshore, entertaining guests at anchor, or cruising across islands for a multi-day adventure, the 50 SMY adapts seamlessly. Riviera has clearly targeted buyers who expect their yacht to do it all—without feeling like a compromise.

Who Is It For?

This yacht caters to owners who value flexibility, space, and quality craftsmanship. It’s a model that attracts a diverse audience, from seasoned yacht owners looking to downsize to a manageable but luxurious vessel, to new owners making their first move into the motor yacht category.

Families will appreciate the spacious layout with multiple cabins and large entertaining zones, while couples will love the ability to cruise comfortably without needing a large crew. For adventurous owners, the extended range and robust hull make it suitable for long passages, while still retaining the dockside elegance expected in this class.

How Does the Riviera 50 SMY Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

In the world of 50-foot motor yachts, competition is fierce. Brands like Princess, Sunseeker, and Azimut all have contenders in this category, but Riviera sets itself apart with a focus on durability and bluewater capability. While European rivals often emphasize sleek styling and luxury interiors, Riviera leans into practicality without losing its sense of refinement.

Compared to a Princess F50 or Azimut 50 Fly, the Riviera 50 SMY tends to offer more robust construction and slightly more conservative lines, appealing to buyers who prioritize seakeeping ability over sheer glamour. However, that’s not to say it lacks style—the interior finish rivals its European peers, while the cockpit and flybridge layouts are thoughtfully designed for both entertaining and functionality.

Design and Specifications

The Riviera 50 SMY boasts dimensions and design elements that place it squarely in the sweet spot for owner-operated motor yachts.

• Type: Sports Motor Yacht
• Length Overall (LOA): 50 feet 9 inches
• Beam: 16 feet 7 inches
• Draft: 4 feet 7 inches (approx.)
• Fuel Capacity: 925 gallons
• Engines: Twin Volvo Penta IPS950 or similar, around 725 HP each
• Top Speed: Approximately 30–34 knots
• Cruise Speed: 22–26 knots
• Hull Design: Resin-infused hull with efficient planing design
• Layout: Three cabins (including full-beam master), two heads, aft galley, saloon, flybridge helm with lounge seating, and expansive cockpit

The design cleverly maximizes every inch of its length and beam. A full-beam master suite ensures luxury accommodations, while the saloon and galley are configured with an open-plan layout that encourages socializing. Up top, the flybridge offers a commanding helm position and guest seating, creating another versatile space for cruising or relaxing.

Performance and Handling

With twin Volvo Penta IPS drives, the Riviera 50 SMY is engineered for smooth handling and fuel efficiency. IPS pod systems offer joystick control, making docking surprisingly simple even for less experienced captains. This makes the yacht more approachable for owner-operators who may not want a full crew.

At speed, the yacht feels solid and predictable. With a top end in the mid-30-knot range, it’s fast enough to cover distance quickly, yet efficient enough to enjoy longer voyages without constantly watching the fuel gauge. Compared to some performance-focused European rivals, the Riviera emphasizes comfort over pure speed, and that will appeal to those who value reliability and ride comfort in variable conditions.

Safety and Practicality

Riviera yachts are built in Australia, a country where boating often means dealing with offshore conditions. That heritage is evident in the 50 SMY. High bulwarks, sturdy handrails, and wide side decks enhance passenger security, while non-slip surfaces provide confidence underfoot. The yacht’s robust hull is built to handle bluewater passages, giving peace of mind to those who want to push beyond coastal cruising.

On the practical side, Riviera has built in smart storage solutions, intuitive systems access for maintenance, and reliable onboard systems. The safety-first philosophy extends into redundancy options for critical systems and high-quality components chosen for their longevity.

Potential Downsides

While the Riviera 50 SMY is a well-rounded yacht, it’s worth noting some possible drawbacks. First, it doesn’t have the same flashy design language as some Italian brands, which may deter buyers seeking dramatic styling. Second, while it’s well-equipped, customization options can feel more limited compared to semi-custom builders like Horizon or Outer Reef.

Lastly, as with any twin-engine yacht in this size class, ownership costs are not small—maintenance, dockage, and fuel are in line with other 50-foot yachts. For some buyers, stepping into this category requires not just the purchase price but a readiness for higher annual expenses.

Features and Benefits

The Riviera 50 SMY is loaded with features that make onboard life both enjoyable and convenient. The aft galley with a sliding glass door connects directly to the cockpit, creating an indoor-outdoor living space perfect for entertaining. The flybridge is more than just a helm—it’s an additional social hub, complete with lounge seating and panoramic views.

Below deck, the three-cabin layout makes the yacht ideal for families or guests, with a luxurious master cabin that rivals larger yachts. Modern finishes, premium upholstery, and smart lighting enhance the sense of comfort. Add in a tender garage, ample storage, and well-thought-out engineering, and the 50 SMY proves itself as more than just stylish—it’s practical for extended cruising too.

Owner Impressions and Reviews

Owners often highlight the Riviera 50 SMY’s ease of operation thanks to joystick control and reliable IPS propulsion. Many appreciate the yacht’s ability to cover ground quickly while still feeling safe and stable offshore. Testimonials often point out that the yacht “feels bigger than 50 feet” thanks to its smart use of space.

Reviewers also note that the build quality reflects Riviera’s reputation for durability. While some yachts in this class lean heavily into luxury styling, the Riviera stands out for being both luxurious and rugged—a combination that resonates strongly with long-term owners.

Storage and Ownership Costs

A yacht of this size and caliber comes with associated ownership expenses. Marina slips for a 50-foot yacht typically range between $12,000 and $20,000 annually depending on location. Fuel consumption at cruise is moderate for its class, but long voyages will still rack up significant fuel costs. Maintenance schedules for the IPS drives are straightforward but require consistent attention.

Insurance premiums also fall in the expected range for a yacht of this size, though Riviera’s reputation for reliability and resale value often works in favor of the owner. For many, the balance of operating costs versus the capability and comfort of the yacht makes ownership a worthwhile investment.

Final Verdict

The Riviera 50 Sports Motor Yacht is a versatile and well-engineered vessel that delivers confidence offshore and comfort at anchor. It may not be the flashiest yacht in its class, but it is one of the most capable, especially for those who prioritize safety, seakeeping, and practicality without giving up luxury.

For owners looking for a yacht that can easily transition between extended cruising, entertaining, and manageable operation, the Riviera 50 SMY should be high on the shortlist. It’s a yacht built for real-world adventures as much as it is for elegant evenings onboard.

FAQ

Does the Riviera 50 SMY require a crew?
No, the yacht is designed to be owner-operated, with joystick controls and manageable systems that simplify handling.

How many people can it sleep comfortably?
The yacht has a three-cabin layout and comfortably sleeps six, with additional space in the saloon if needed.

What kind of cruising range can I expect?
With 925 gallons of fuel and efficient IPS drives, the 50 SMY offers a solid cruising range for coastal and offshore trips, depending on speed and conditions.

Is the Riviera 50 SMY suitable for long voyages?
Yes, it’s built with bluewater capability in mind and includes robust systems and storage to support extended cruising.

What are the customization options available?
While Riviera offers a range of interior finishes and layouts, it’s not as customizable as semi-custom builders. However, the factory options are thoughtfully designed to meet most needs.

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