Riviera M400 Sports Cruiser Review

Exploring the Riviera M360 and M400 Motor Yachts: A New Era of Luxury Sports Cruisers

As a sleek craft glided past on the Broadwater, I couldn’t help but recognize its familiar shape. It resembled Riviera’s M400 Sports Cruiser, but was slightly smaller and lacked the hardtop. Intrigued, I made a quick call to Randall Jones at Riviera Sports in Coomera to unravel the mystery. Turns out, the boat was a brand-new M360. Though it’s already in the water, it’s still undergoing Riviera’s extensive R&D program before its public debut at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show in May. The M360 will make its official appearance there, sporting a hardtop and additional refinements.

The sight of the M360 on the water also reminded me of how the M400 has become a staple in Riviera’s impressive line-up of motor yachts, even though it’s almost 12 months old and 16 have already been sold. It was the perfect moment to test the M400 and explore how these new-generation Riviera motor yachts are shaping the future of sports cruisers.

Riviera M400: A New Standard in Luxury Sports Cruisers

The Riviera M400 Sports Cruiser is the first model in the range to sport an entirely new design, offering a fresh look that combines modern aesthetics with exceptional functionality. Unlike previous models, this boat was crafted from scratch, incorporating only the sturdy windscreen found on all Riviera boats. The result is a large-volume craft with a bold, robust profile and a sleek, contemporary feel, particularly below deck.

Randall Jones emphasizes that the M400 was never built with cost-cutting in mind. Instead, it was designed to a high standard, with meticulous attention to detail. To everyone’s surprise, it entered the market for under half a million dollars—a testament to Riviera’s commitment to providing exceptional value without compromising on quality.

The M400’s 13’7″ (4.13m) beam is stretched forward, utilizing every available space to maximize onboard functionality. The cockpit and helm station offer a single-level layout with a generous lounge area. A fold-out dining table occupies the aft section of the cockpit, complemented by stainless steel grate inserts and built-in holders for bottles and glasses. The aft lounge comfortably seats about five people, while the galley area includes a large sink, a bench top, and standard fridge and icemaker. A thoughtful feature under the helm seat provides additional storage for an icebox, keeping the cockpit tidy and organized.

The view from the helm is remarkable, offering excellent visibility even while seated. The large dash features a two-tiered console with space to store personal items like phones or wallets, adding both practicality and style to this luxury sports cruiser.

Power and Performance: The Riviera M400

The M400 is powered by twin 8.1-liter, 375hp MerCruiser engines with Bravo III drives, though owners can opt for Volvo Penta D6 diesels, which add approximately $60,000 to the base price. The MerCruisers come equipped with Mercury’s innovative SmartCraft engine monitoring system and electronic controls, which provide real-time performance data and an intuitive driving experience.

On the water, the M400 proves to be a versatile performer, capable of leisurely cruising or delivering bursts of speed when desired. During testing, the boat reached a top speed of 33.6 knots at 4600 rpm, with the potential to hit 36 knots with slight adjustments. However, at these speeds, fuel consumption increases significantly, which is worth considering for long-distance cruising.

For most owners, cruising comfortably at 20 knots (3300 rpm) is the sweet spot. With a dry weight of 7,900 kg, the M400 requires a firm touch on the throttle to get underway, but once it’s up to speed, it cruises effortlessly, offering a smooth and stable ride.

Interior Design: Unmatched Luxury Below Deck

Riviera has truly excelled in the design of the M400’s interior, showcasing a fresh and unique styling that sets it apart from other boats in its class. The forward cabin features sliding doors with opaque glass inserts, allowing for privacy while maintaining an open, airy feel. The galley boasts a granite-look bench top, and the innovative use of space in the design of drawers and cupboards adds to the boat’s overall functionality.

The cabin’s wood finishes, made from semi-gloss beechwood, create a light and modern atmosphere, while Amtico synthetic wood-look flooring offers durability and easy maintenance. The bathroom is another standout feature, with a spacious shower and a curved screen that moves with you as you step in.

The M400 also includes a second cabin under the cockpit, which offers both a single berth fore and aft and a double berth across the beam, as well as standing room at the entrance and a lined hanging locker—perfect for guests or family members.

The Riviera M360: A Smaller Yet Powerful Alternative

For those looking for a more compact version of the Riviera sports cruiser experience, the M360 is an excellent option. Priced around $350,000, the M360 offers many of the same design principles and performance features as the M400, with a few adjustments for a smaller and more accessible package. Like its larger sibling, the M360 will include thoughtful refinements, including a hardtop and spacious cockpit design, making it a worthy contender for anyone considering Riviera boats for sale.

Performance Specifications
Length Overall (LOA): 12.30m
Length Waterline (LWL): 12.17m
Beam: 4.13m
Max Draft: 1.08m
Fuel Capacity: 1100L
Freshwater Capacity: 500L
Dry Weight: 7,900kg
Price: From $350,000
Performance at Sea

Cruising Speed: 19.7 knots @ 3300 rpm
Top Speed: 33.6 knots @ 4600 rpm
About Riviera: A Legacy of Excellence in Luxury Motor Yachts
Founded in 1980, Riviera has earned a reputation for building some of the finest motor yachts in the world. Starting in Terry Hills, Sydney, with a small team and a single boat model, the company quickly expanded to Queensland, where it now operates the largest luxury boat-building complex in the Southern Hemisphere. Today, Riviera employs over 1,200 people and produces more than 450 boats each year, exporting to 30 countries worldwide.

Whether you’re looking for a Riviera motor yacht, Riviera boats for sale, or exploring the latest in sports cruiser design, the M360 and M400 are outstanding examples of what makes Riviera a leader in luxury boating.

Words by Kevan Wolfe

Riviera Australia