From Lake Macquarie to the Reef: Life Aboard Iris

When Ken and Linda traded their much-loved Riviera 5800 Sport Yacht for a new Riviera 6000 Sport Yacht just over a year ago, they already had a destination in mind. Almost from the day they ordered Iris, they were planning a run up the coast to the Whitsundays, and fitted her out with that trip in mind.

After eight months of cruising closer to home on Lake Macquarie, Pittwater and Newcastle, they left Marmong Point and spent three months of winter on the water. The trip brought three weeks of grandkids and family on board, peaceful days around Butterfly Bay and Nara Inlet, a whale who brought her calf right up to the boat, and a couple of passages rough enough to send green water over the bow.

We caught up with Ken to hear more about their journey and life aboard Iris.

What initially attracted you to the Riviera 6000 Sport Yacht?

We had previously owned and loved our 5800 Marbella – the 6000 was the same boat with updated engines, electronics and stability for the long haul up the coast.

How long had you owned the boat before setting off, and was a trip to the Whitsundays always part of the plan?

We owned Iris for 8 months, enjoying trips to Pittwater, around the lake and Newcastle. We started planning the trip north in Iris almost immediately after ordering her. Looking forward to building a boat with accessories with the trip in mind and a different experience in our new boat.

Where did you depart from, and how long were you away?

Departing from Marmong Point on Lake Macquarie, we were away 3 months, clocking 250 hrs in 8 months, so we pick her up from Riviera Aftermarket and annual servicing this weekend – total time Iris has been away is nearly 6 months.

What were some of your favourite stops along the way?

Weather on the way up was not the best for stopping, so our stops this trip were for fuel at Coffs, Southport and Mackay. Our favourite and most peaceful anchorage was overnight at Whitecliffs through the Great Sandy Straits and passing the infamous Sheridan Flats.

Was it just the two of you, or did family and friends join you for parts of the journey?

We had 3 weeks of family visits during the period – Iris accommodated us all with no problems. All the marine systems and refrigeration etc. get extra time with up to 4 little kids and just as many adults on board – she is such a great family boat and one of the main reasons we bought her.

Did you discover a favourite anchorage or destination in the Whitsundays?

We love spending time cruising the islands, the outer reef, Butterfly Bay, Nara Inlet.

What was the highlight of the trip for you and Linda?

Having the kids fly up and join us – whales coming up to the boat, one brought her calf – witnessed delightfully by the grandkids.

Did you encounter any challenges along the way, particularly with weather or passage planning?

I do check and recheck as a habit weather apps and the BOM and talk to everyone – especially the Volunteer Marine Rescue guys and gals, they are a lovely and helpful group of special people. However, and with this preparation, the weather turned unexpectedly rough and I witnessed twice a wall of green water over the nose and down through the gunwales – I now know what she is capable of – I love the 6000, never once did Linda and I feel unsafe (for want of a better phrase).

How did the Riviera 6000 perform over the longer passages? Were there any features you particularly appreciated?

We appreciated having the Seakeeper on board keeping her stable – Iris is a wonderful, safe and roomy boat – we love her dearly.

Any memorable meals, restaurants or experiences along the way?

Most of our meals etc. whilst dining out at Airlie are all good due to the competition, I guess – however our favourite is Latitudes at Coffs Harbour – hard to beat their awesome steaks.

What advice would you give other Riviera owners considering a similar adventure?

Plan and recheck the plan, most boaties will offer advice and assistance. Call the VMR, their words are trusted – know your boat and the crew’s capabilities.

I guess I am lucky to have Linda with me, she is a wonderful partner.

And finally, where to next?

We pick up Iris from Coomera this weekend, so that is the immediate trip. We are coming down to join the wonderful staff at R Marine Sydney’s Christmas show, and hopefully a couple of trips tagging along with them, meet some other Riv owners and initial planning of our next trip north in 18 months.

Make This Summer Your Own

Ken and Linda’s journey is a wonderful example of the freedom and experiences that come with owning a Riviera 6000 Sport Yacht.

If their story has inspired you to plan your own adventures, R Marine Sydney currently has two exceptional Riviera 6000 Sport Yachts available for immediate delivery.

With summer approaching, now is the perfect opportunity to enjoy more time on the water with family and friends.

Discover both vessels below.