Riva 76' Perseo Review (2019 Edition)

The 76 Perseo is a stunning yacht to look at. Initially launched in 2015, its evolution into the Perseo Super has enhanced its interior versatility without compromising its iconic sleek exterior design.

Strolling along the stunning decks of the Perseo, one is struck by a sense of robustness rarely found in other sports yachts. Its metallic finish lends an air of solidity, as if the vessel were hewn from some natural rock-like material. While the Perseo incorporates lightweight carbon fiber in its construction, its substantial 60-tons displacement sets it apart, boasting 5-10 tons more than its competitors. This speaks volumes about its exceptional build quality and detailed fit-out.

Style & Substance

The Perseo's ultra-modern style is sure to capture attention, particularly its refreshingly bold approach to sportsbridge design. Rather than overexerting itself, the Perseo relies on impeccable construction to support a confident, performance-oriented yacht design. Every surface is flawlessly executed, resulting in a sleek, streamlined profile reminiscent of a dart. Its raked bows and tinted-glass superstructure seamlessly blend together, with the sports bridge almost appearing invisible from a distance.

With its deep Vee hull design and standard twin 1,550hp MAN diesels, the Perseo can reach speeds of 32 knots. Opting for the uprated 1,800hp MAN engines can push it to 37 knots. Regardless, both variants offer exceptionally smooth cruising between 25-30 knots.

At 76ft, the Perseo is technically crew-operated, but it doesn't feel that way. Perhaps it's due to its cohesive design, making navigation seem effortless. Or maybe it's because owning and piloting this vessel is an experience you won't want to miss. While it may not appear as the largest 22m yacht, the Perseo surprises with its ample interior space, ensuring comfort and luxury for all onboard.

Rivas of today blend contemporary design with a nod to their rich heritage. Inside the Perseo, solid stainless steel and wood accents complement a modern aesthetic featuring clean lines, glass elements, and subtle lighting. With a semi-custom approach, Riva provides a wide selection of finishes, including different cabinetry, marbles, laminates, and linings, empowering owners to tailor the interior to their unique style preferences.

A 22m sports yacht isn't typically sought for its interior spaciousness, but the 76 Perseo challenges conventions with its three exceptional cabins. The expansive full-beam owner's stateroom impresses with a lavish ensuite and dressing area extending forward to port, utilizing the space traditionally designated for a fourth cabin. Even without the white marble bathroom, the owner's cabin distinguishes itself with architectural hull windows, accompanied by a study and lounge area, establishing a new benchmark in its category.

The interior layout features a lower galley, a common feature in sports yachts, but notably lacks a lower lounge on the Perseo. However, the Perseo Super addressed this by integrating a lounge or fourth cabin to port, albeit at the expense of the expansive ensuite in the owner's cabin.

The galley-down design allows the deck salon of the Perseo to remain uncluttered, creating a pure social space. With the dining area positioned forward and the lounge opening onto the aft deck, the layout fosters an open and inviting atmosphere. Notably, the Perseo's salon design foregoes a sunroof. Instead, massive convex glass sections (further discussed in the helm section) elevate over the helm station, with elongated glass panels extending to each side.

The inner helm serves as the command center during extended voyages. Positioned before triple multi-function displays (MFDs) and massive convex windscreens, twin bolster seats offer optimal comfort for the skipper and co-pilot. The design of these windscreens is crucial, as their convex shape effectively reduces glare and reflects UV light, ensuring excellent visibility and a cooler interior environment.

Moreover, the sheer size of the glass sections makes them a prominent feature of the salon, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Despite the added cost — approximately five times more than flat sections — this investment underscores Riva's commitment to quality and innovation.

Now You See It...

The helm on the sports bridge follows Riva's minimalist approach to design, often appearing as a simple console or sometimes even nonexistent. In this unique setup, the upper helm features a narrow console housing a single multi-function display (MFD), throttle, and thruster controls. When not in use, it conveniently folds away, integrating into the deck layout.

Traditionalists may notice the absence of a steering wheel, a notable departure from conventional yacht design. However, in fair weather conditions — the primary setting for this raised deck — throttles and autopilot suffice for navigation. When docking, skilled captains rely on throttles and thrusters for precise maneuvering. Despite these practical considerations, some owners may long for the tactile experience of steering the yacht through a sweeping turn.

Without a traditional helm, the sports bridge transforms into a spacious sun deck area, offering wraparound seating at the front and a sunpad at the rear. Stainless steel and carbon fiber coamings and rails encircle the deck, adding to its sleek aesthetic.

Descending a narrow stairwell, the aft cockpit maintains the open and inviting atmosphere found on deck. Two distinct seating areas provide versatile options for lounging or dining, with one section partially sheltered by the overhang of the sportsbridge.

Craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident at every turn. The aft table rests on cleverly engineered struts, converting into a sunpad when desired. At the forward L-shaped bench, a massive stainless steel-framed window opens up, connecting the deck to the salon when the cockpit doors are opened.

Walking along the deep and secure side decks, you'll find a forward lounge area that embodies the distinctive Riva style. Nestled within the coachroof, this seating area offers both safety and breathtaking views, leading to a simple sunpad area. Beyond the aesthetics, practicality reigns supreme, with ample storage lockers scattered across the decks, a convenient wet bar in the cockpit, and discreet tender storage tucked away in the stern.