By: Scott Way
One of the world's most luxurious yacht companies has upped the ante once again. Riva has unveiled a new flagship - the 68' Diable- and it is, quite simply, masterful.
Considering Riva's history dates back to 1842, the Italian boatbuilder has had ample time to fine-tune their design process, and the 68' Diable is the embodiment of their continued pursuit for excellence. In a thoughtful nod to their roots, the Diable was unveiled on Lake Iseo, the same lake in Lombardy, Italy where the company was founded 179 years prior.
The 'Class A' Diable will carry an LOA of 67'10" (20.67 m) with a full beam of 17'4" (5.29 m). The yacht is based on the popular Riva Superamerica model and sets a new standard for open yachts under 70'. Design elements come from Mauro Micheli, founder of Officina Italiana Design with Sergio Beretta, in partnership with the Product Design Committee of the Ferretti Group Engineering Department spearheaded by Piero Ferrari, the son of luxury carmaker Enzo Ferrari and part owner of the Ferretti Group.
The 68' Diable puts a prime focus on livability with a host of features centred around overnighting and passenger comfort. A new hard top offers clean design that disguises technological equipment from sight so passengers have a sheltered area over the center of the yacht that's matched with a sleek dining area and helm station on the main deck. A two-way operating sunroof offers more options for those on the main deck
The cockpit includes a large sunpad and a large chaise-lounge at the water's edge. An automatic powered bimini built into the hard top allows each area to be shaded as desired.
The lower deck can host up to 6 guests across 3 cabins, all of which are arranged around a central open space that includes a full galley and dinette. The master cabin sits at midships, with a twin cabin to port and a VIP cabin forward. Each cabin contains its own complete bathroom.
Power comes from dual V12 MAN diesels pushing 1550 horsepower with an optional 1650 horsepower upgrade. Top speed comes in at a robust 40 knots (46 mph) in the 1650 hp configuration with a cruising speed of 33 or 34 knots (38 or 39 mph) depending on the power choice.
