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After 10 lean years, super yachts cruise up the sales charts

There was a time, let's call it pre-GFC, when buying a luxury super yacht was all the rage.

It would be premature to say those golden times are back (unless you're a Sydney real estate agent), but in the rarefied world of super yachts the seas are certainly looking smoother.

AFR. Perspective. The new 56-foot open model Riva 56 features an extended ensuite Master cabin. To be used as both a day cruiser and a yacht, the Riva 56 had a lavish global party launch in Riva's hometown of Sarnico, Italy on Saturday June 10 with press trials taking place over the past week (SUBS: June 13-15, 2017). . Photo: supplied

The latest launch by the 175 year old shipyard Riva in Sarnico, northern Italy, could help kick things along.

Last week it used a lavish party to unveil the 56-foot open top Riva 56, featuring an extended ensuite Master cabin, which is designed to be used as both a day cruiser and a yacht.

The new 56-foot open model Riva 56 features an extended ensuite Master cabin and is designed to be used as both a day cruiser and a yacht. It was launched at a lavish party in Riva's hometown of Sarnico, Italy on Saturday June 10.  Photo: ANDREA ALDROVANDI

If you need to ask the price (it starts from about €2 million plus extras), you probably can't afford it. On the upside, Ray White Marine – Riva's dealer in Australia – reports record sales for super yachts on the domestic market.

"Since last financial year, Ray White Marine has had a record-breaking year with $60 million plus in sales (new and used boats)," says their Sydney based dealer Brock Rodwell.

"New super yachts are nearly non-existent in Australia, but we've secured several orders for the upcoming 2017-18 summer season. The first to arrive will be a brand new Ferretti 850 (circa $8 million), bought by a Sydney based developer."