Riva 68' Diable Review (2023 Edition) by Aquaholic

Exterior

Nick showcases the Riva 68' Diable with great enthusiasm, emphasizing its stunning Italian design. The yacht features elegant wooden strakes and stainless steel sections, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The metallic silver color adds a touch of sophistication. One of the most striking elements is a custom Williams Sport Jet 345 tender, painted to match the yacht, highlighting the seamless design cohesion.

The stern includes a retractable passerelle for stern-to-berthing, sunbathing spaces, and capstans for easy maneuvering. The stainless steel switchgear is meticulously detailed, and a retractable sunshade offers added comfort. The advanced navigation and communication equipment on the hardtop further enhance the yacht's functionality.

The hardtop features an enclosure that can be air-conditioned, providing versatility in different weather conditions. The sundeck offers ample sunbathing spaces both at the stern and on the bow. The bow area includes a high-low adjustable table that can be converted into a sunbathing area using an infill cushion. 

Descending into the luxurious interior, Nick highlights the high-end finishes and amenities. The yacht features a seating area with a top-notch hi-fi system and a sliding door for privacy. The galley is well-equipped with electric cooking facilities, a refrigerator, freezer, and ample storage. The interior exudes Italian luxury with high-gloss finishes and meticulous attention to detail. The overall quality and solidity of the fixtures are impressive, reflecting the yacht's high standard.

The helm station is designed for both functionality and comfort. It features drop bolster seats, allowing for both standing and sitting positions. The engine and thruster controls are ergonomically placed, and the Eventix joystick offers effortless maneuvering. Additionally, the remote yacht controller allows for operation from anywhere on the boat, adding a layer of convenience. The stainless steel work and embossed switches at the helm further highlight the yacht's meticulous attention to detail.

Owner's Cabin

The owner's cabin is a luxurious retreat with high-gloss finishes and a massive TV. It includes an en-suite bathroom with a shower, providing a private and comfortable space for the owner. The cabin features ample storage, including hanging lockers and additional storage along the walls. The overall design is very Italian, emphasizing luxury and comfort.

Guest Accommodation

The VIP guest cabin offers a comfortable retreat with an en-suite bathroom and a decent shower. The saloon area is cozy, perfect for relaxation or entertainment, and features custom storage for crockery, glassware, and bottles. The third cabin also features ample storage and a swing-out TV for convenience. Despite being used mostly as a day boat, the Riva 68' Diable offers ample amenities for extended stays, ensuring comfort for all guests.

Crew Accommodation

The yacht includes a small crew cabin, primarily used for storage rather than accommodation. While it features a bed and a loo, it is filled with canopies and other items, making it more suitable for storage. The crew cabin includes air conditioning, providing a comfortable space for brief stays or deliveries, but it is not intended for full-time crew accommodation.

The Riva 68' Diable is powered by twin MAN V12 engines, each delivering 1,650 horsepower. This setup enables a top speed of 40 knots and a cruising speed of 33 knots. Nick estimates a range of about 350 nautical miles at 30 knots.

The yacht also features a reverse osmosis desalinator and a Seakeeper stabilizer, ensuring smooth and comfortable sailing. The engine room is impressively spacious, allowing for easy access and maintenance.

In summary, Nick is highly impressed with the Riva 68' Diable, describing it as a masterpiece of Italian design and engineering. The yacht's stunning aesthetics, high-end features, and powerful performance make it a luxurious and functional vessel. While primarily used as a day boat, it is fully equipped for longer stays, providing a perfect escape on the water. Nick's enthusiasm and detailed tour highlight the yacht's exceptional quality and appeal.