Matching a deep vee Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge Shaft Drive 2012 against a modified vee Riviera Yachts 47 Enclosed Flybridge SII 2008 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge Shaft Drive 2012 at 51,3 ft versus Riviera Yachts 47 Enclosed Flybridge SII 2008 at 49,0 ft. At 394 lbs and 432 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 1 650 hp, the Riviera Yachts 47 Enclosed Flybridge SII 2008 has a 980-hp advantage over the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge Shaft Drive 2012's 670-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Riviera Yachts 47 Enclosed Flybridge SII 2008 carries 713 gallons versus 608 gallons in the Riviera Yachts 45 Open Flybridge Shaft Drive 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 14 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.