The latest SUV to join the Riviera family is advancing quickly, ahead of her world premiere at the Riviera Festival of Boating in May.

This striking new model has now entered the next and most exciting build phase where the design really starts to come together as all the bespoke joinery begins to be fitted by skilled craftsmen and a brand new boat is then born.

The new 515 SUV is being crafted with Riviera’s rich-heritage in mind to create a vessel like no other.  It is the third model in the popular new SUV Collection, designed to combine the features of the Sport Yacht and Flybridge to create a unique new cross-over model series, which is both a blue-water performer, long range cruiser and a single-level entertaining vessel with large cockpit all in one.

Long before construction began, Riviera’s world-class engineers and designers undertook an extensive concept design process using the Unigraphics CAD system.  This state-of-the-art software has enabled designers to map out the location and routes of all the plumbing, electrical and hardware components and analyse the structure for the desired strength characteristics.

Once the design direction, styling features, interior layout, specifications and engineering components were finalised; the 515 SUV was then designed in 3D, including the interior spaces, access points, plumbing and the location of all components.  Performance predictions, such as speed, fuel rate and range were also calculated based on predetermined targets.

A full interior mock up was then created to fine tune the ergonomics inside the boat and to garner feedback from prospective owners.  Then and only then was the interior design process finalised.  In parallel, the manufacture of the tooling process began.  The plug was created using Computer Numerical Control (CNC), a process that is accurate to within 1mm over a 10 metre square area ensuring a highly accurate execution of the new design.  Once the plug work was complete, Riviera’s master craftsmen then created moulds ready for construction of the first hull and deck. 

The hull is hand laid and features core in the deck and cabin sides and hard top to reduce excess weight.  Independent compartments throughout the hull are created and the watertight collision bulkhead forward is installed to aid buoyancy.  Isophthalic gelcoat is used on the exterior.  This surface finish is a hard coating offering flexibility and impact resistance.  It is highly resistant to cracking and provides excellent water and weather protection to the hull.  Solid GRP keel, chines and pod leg penetration areas provide a strong laminate to the hull bottom, adding great strength to the structure of the 515 SUV.  Vinylester resin is used in the first outer layer of hull because of its ability to withstand water absorption.

Following on from lamination; the engines, generator, plumbing, electrical and hardware systems and components are fitted in the first stage of production prior to joining the hull and deck.  During this stage the new 515 SUV deck undergoes intensive detailing and quality control prior to being joined to the hull

The joining process involves gluing and bolting the hull and deck together and then fibreglassing the join internally to create one very strong vessel.  This time proven process has been around since Riviera’s inception 34 years ago and is one of the reasons why Riviera boats are renowned for their integral structural qualities and offshore performance. 

Once Stage One is complete and before the boat moves into Stage Two fitout, Riviera’s designers, engineers and master craftsmen undertake a series of pre-delivery inspections (PDI), which tests all the powered and non-powered systems including the bilge pumps, battery charges, fuel systems, electric pumps and sanitation systems.  Fuel is added and pressure tested, the water tanks are filled and tested, and all plumbing and connections are checked.  Riviera undertakes extensive testing of all components at each stage of production to ensure quality standards are met and rectify any issues prior to the next stage of construction.

The 515 features impressive engineering and is powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS 800 (625hp).  Acoustic and thermal insulation linings are installed into the engine room and machinery spaces have been installed.  Emergency fuel shut-off valves are installed and can be accessed from outside the engine room for added safety.  Special engine mounts are installed to reduce vibration and provide a smooth, quiet ride.  Riviera is very particular about the quality and installation of hose clamps and fittings to all hull skin and fittings.  These are all double hose clamped to provide added safety.  Four automatic and manual bilge pumps are located at various points in the hull of the boat for added peace of mind.

Now, the 515 SUV has moved into Stage Two where the cabinetry that has been meticulously constructed and varnished to a very high standard begins the installation process and the interior begins to take shape.  Other items installed during this stage include the flooring, upholstery, electrical components such as lighting, kitchen appliances and white goods, as well as electronics and navigation equipment.

Riviera’s master craftsmen are now installing the joinery items, such as headliners, bulkheads, window pelmets, hanging lockers, and bed bases.  The ensuite and day head are almost complete with cabinetry, showers and hand basins installed and the crew is beginning to fit the headliner panels in the aft master stateroom and forward stateroom.

 The new 515 SUV is bristling with innovative design and technological advancements, including the new Webasto sunroofs and elevated helm station.

The 515 SUV’s hardtop features two impressive Webasto sunroofs above the saloon area that open electrically with the push of a button.  The incorporation of this new sunroof design marks another exciting development in the 515 SUV’s DNA.

The elevated helm area is a further new development, which provides excellent visibility for the skipper and dash space for two 16-inch screens, as well as a steering wheel positioned just off the boat’s centre line.  The helm features two Navigator low-back helm chairs.

Digital C-Zone switching is another feature that allows all onboard electrical equipment to be operated at the push of a button from a digital DC circuit control, which can operate and control timer circuits, light dimming, LCD displays and touchscreens.

At the time of publication, the new 515 SUV was advancing into the final stages of construction before her first sea trial, which is expected to take place mid-April where all systems will be operated and checked with full data collection on performance and fuel rates.  Both Riviera’s engineers and independent engine companies collect data and document the results from the sea trial and the boat requires both parties to sign off on the installation and overall performance.  From this intensive sea trial process, minor enhancements and adjustments will be made to perfect the 515.