March 4, 2025

RMC Hawkesbury Experience 2025: A Riviera Boating Adventure to Remember

From February 6th to February 21st, 2025, a fleet of seven Riviera vessels embarked on an extraordinary voyage from the Gold Coast Seaway to the breathtaking Hawkesbury River. Along the way, four additional Riviera yachts joined at the final destination, enriching the experience with camaraderie and shared passion. Carefully orchestrated by R Marine Crawley, this journey was designed for Riviera owners to explore pristine waterways, forge lasting friendships, and fully immerse themselves in the luxury boating lifestyle—without the rush. – Scroll to the bottom for all the images

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A Leisurely Passage South

Taking full advantage of the journey south, the fleet embraced a relaxed and scenic voyage. The first stop was Iluka, where guests either met for the first time or rekindled old friendships. After refueling, the group gathered for sunset drinks at Sunset and Wine, a picturesque spot perfect for unwinding and savoring the golden hues of the evening.

From Iluka, the Riviera convoy continued to Port Macquarie’s d’Albora Marina, where their arrival created a striking spectacle along the waterfront. The warm hospitality of the marina set the tone for the evening, culminating in a group dinner at The Boathouse—a delightful opportunity for owners to connect over fine cuisine. The following morning, some guests sought out charming local breakfast cafés, while others embraced an active start by participating in the community-driven ParkRun, a national 5km running event.

With favorable weather and calm seas as their companions, the fleet pressed on to Nelson Bay Marina, another outstanding d’Albora location renowned for its modern facilities and welcoming atmosphere. Following a seamless refueling process, the group indulged in a sumptuous Italian dinner at Sirena Seaside, where exquisite food and impeccable service made for another unforgettable evening.

Reaching the Hawkesbury River

An early departure set the stage for the final leg of the journey to the Hawkesbury River. As the fleet made its entry into this iconic waterway, towering cliffs and dramatic landscapes framed the passage, offering a breathtaking first impression. For some Riviera owners, this was a long-awaited introduction to a new cruising paradise, while for others, it was a return to cherished and familiar waters.

The fleet cruised toward Refuge Bay, where a classic Riviera raft-up took place—a signature event of unity and camaraderie among Riviera owners. The sight of the vessels lined up against the stunning backdrop of the Hawkesbury reinforced the shared passion that defines these experiences.

Immersing in the Hawkesbury Lifestyle

Over the next several days, guests balanced relaxation and adventure, fully embracing the Hawkesbury lifestyle. The days unfolded with a variety of activities:

  • Beach gatherings and sunset drinks aboard the Riviera vessels
  • Swimming, watersports, and paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters
  • Fliteboarding, which quickly became a group favorite, with many members mastering the skill effortlessly
  • Tender explorations and scenic breakfasts at the charming Cottage Point Kiosk

A change of scenery led the group to Pittwater, Sydney, where they anchored for a night at Towlers Bay. Here, they were greeted by another four Riviera vessels that had ventured ahead, culminating in a memorable sundowners gathering on the beach—a true celebration of connection and the boating lifestyle.

Exclusive Dining Experiences

The journey was further elevated by two standout dining experiences, each offering a unique take on waterfront luxury:

Peats Bite Restaurant

A family-operated gem since the early 1980s, Peats Bite provided an unforgettable long lunch experience, showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Riviera fleet, now eleven vessels strong, made a slow and scenic cruise from America Bay to Peats Bite, where pre-arranged berthing allowed for a seamless and elegant arrival. As the group savored each dish, the stunning waterfront setting and impeccable service made for an extraordinary afternoon. R Marine Crawley extends its heartfelt gratitude to Peats Bite and its team for their outstanding hospitality.

Cottage Point Inn & Restaurant

Nestled in the serene Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Cottage Point Inn offered an exquisite 8-course tasting menu, delivering a culinary experience as refined as the journey itself. The logistics were seamlessly managed, with guests ferried from Refuge Bay via ‘Boatman’ (a Riviera 5400 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition) and ‘Crusher’ (a Riviera 545 SUV). Each stop along the way added to the excitement before arriving at this renowned waterside restaurant, where a meticulously crafted menu showcased the best of modern Australian cuisine.

The Final Stretch

As the experience drew to a close, some vessels ventured into Sydney’s famed anchorages, exploring Sugarloaf Bay and Bantry Bay. Others continued their exploration of the Hawkesbury, gathering at ‘The Anchor’ in Spencer for a final feast of locally sourced prawns, oysters, and fresh seafood—a fitting culinary farewell to a spectacular journey.

With the adventure winding down, some Riviera owners chose to extend their stay, savoring additional time cruising the Hawkesbury and Sydney waters. Meanwhile, the remainder of the fleet embarked on the return journey back to the Gold Coast Seaway, arriving home safely.

Throughout the journey, the dedicated WhatsApp group buzzed with heartfelt messages of gratitude, camaraderie, and reflections on another incredible RMC experience.

Another successful RMC voyage, another chapter of unforgettable memories. The RMC Hawkesbury Experience once again proved that these journeys are not just about destinations—but about the shared passion, friendships, and moments that make owning a Riviera truly special.

 

 

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