The Riviera 38 Open is a 42-foot convertible sportfishing yacht with an open flybridge that was produced by the award-winning Australian yacht-building firm Riviera between the years of 2008 and 2014. Built for high-speed offshore hunts and boasting a slightly flared bow and sensuous curves with an aerodynamic appeal, this fishing boat also doubles as a luxury family cruiser with elegant living spaces.
Attach a soaring tuna tower to this model to turn it into the ultimate tournament fisher, or head up to the flybridge to experience 360 degrees elevated views. The main helm is located to the aft of the bridge and boasts a pair of leather-lined adjustable helm seats with flip-up bolsters and armrests facing a dash with Teleflex hydraulic steering, QL Interceptor trim-tab switches, Cummins or Volvo engine feedback, optional Side Power bow thruster controls, hand-held VHF, a mounted compass and an extensive Raymarine electronics package. Ahead of the helm is a smart and compact upper lounge with a forward sofa, sitting underneath an optional hard-top for shelter from the bright sun and occasional showers.
Down on the main deck there is enough space out front for a picnic, or you can use this extensive foredeck to cast a line and enjoy an old-school fishing experience. For a more up-to-date fishing challenge head into the teak-lined, self-draining aft-cockpit, where fishing goodies include a transom lift-gate, a 34-gallon livewell, in-sole storage, a vast fish-box, a tackle locker, a bait-prep center with an ice-chipper, Reelax rod-holders, optional outriggers and rocket launchers, a washdown hose and even room for an outdoor grill. This space is large enough to host a table and set of chairs for outdoor meals, though most will head indoors to encounter an L-shaped sofa surrounding a high-gloss timber dining table. Another L-shaped sofa in New Zealand leather sits to port, while a striped teak-sole is joined by plush carpeting, hand-crafted cabinets in cherrywood and generous side glazing. Ahead of the salon and located on a mezzanine level there is a walk-in galley with Corian work surfaces, a Vitrifrigo fridge, a Sharp combination oven, a two-zone Fisher & Paykel hob and extensive storage. Unlike many sportfishers in this class the 38 Open benefits from forward-glazing for fully panoramic views while comfortably ensconced in the salon.
Head down to the lower-deck to discover sleeping quarters for up to four overnight guests across a pair of plush cabins. A bunk berth to starboard includes a timber-lined locker, while the owner’s stateroom sits towards the bow and benefits from a skylight, a large full-height closet, hidden storage and a queen-sized island bed. A main-head on this level features a flush toilet, a ceramic sink and a dedicated shower stall.
Take your pick from a range of powerful engine choices including twin 370HP Volvo Penta D6 diesel inboards that come as standard or a pair of 440HP Cummins Mercruiser QSB5.9 motors that are available as optional upgrades. Top speeds with the standard engines will easily hit 30 knots while a smooth cruising speed clocks in at around 22 knots translating to a range of approximately 300 nautical miles.