The Riviera 46 SMY is built on the same platform as the builder’s popular 465 SUV, which is an express cruiser model. What sets the SMY apart is its flybridge, which really opens the boat up for entertaining, with an entire extra deck. The SMY will also appeal to captains who prefer to drive from up top, either for the sightlines or for the chance to get some respite from their guests. The flybridge is accessed via a sturdy interior staircase in the aft of the salon, a grippy climb that will be safe even in a seaway. Up top the helm features twin Pompanette captain’s chairs, Volvo Penta controls, Garmin screens, and an elegant C-Zone system that does wonders to reduce dashboard clutter. A forward lounge area is perhaps the best place to be on the boat when underway and converts into a berth if needed. If someone is sleeping up top, the flybridge can be fully enclosed by Isinglass. There is also a hardtop overhead providing shade, which is supported by thick aluminum tubes crafted with expert welding. It’s details like this that show how much experience Riviera has accumulated in its workforce at its sprawling yard in Queensland, Australia. Notably, the builder fosters one of the industry’s strongest apprentice programs, helping to bring local youths up through the ranks to become expert boatbuilders, and sometimes company leaders.
