59 Mercurius 2005 for Sale – 18.60m Sports Cruiser in Grimaud, France

This 2005 59 Mercurius is now offered for sale in Grimaud, France, and represents a highly attractive opportunity to acquire an iconic Italian sports cruiser with substantial refit investment, strong mechanical specification, and enduring design appeal. Built by Riva Yachts and known as “Emily,” this yacht combines unmistakable styling with serious cruising capability and a long history of careful ownership. Benefitting from extensive upgrade and maintenance work since 2016, she offers a particularly compelling package for buyers seeking a refined Mediterranean cruiser that blends elegance, performance, and improved modern functionality.

Built in hand-laid GRP with isophthalic gelcoat and reinforced laminate construction, the yacht measures approximately 18.60 metres in length with a beam of 4.72 metres. The hull is a modified deep-V design with spray rails, supporting strong offshore behavior and comfortable passage-making. Her structure, finish quality, and design language are consistent with Riva’s longstanding reputation for combining craftsmanship and glamour with engineering credibility.

Refit History & Visual Presentation
This yacht has benefitted from substantial refit activity from 2016 onward. Key works include new 12mm teak decks, an exterior repaint in Navy Blue Awlgrip, replacement of interior soft furnishings, and multiple systems upgrades. In 2020, all antifouling was removed, gel shield was applied, and fresh primer and paint were added. These improvements materially enhance both presentation and long-term structural protection. The result is a yacht that presents far more strongly than a standard 2005 example and reflects a serious ownership commitment.

Performance & Engineering
The yacht is powered by twin MAN D2842 LE404 12-cylinder diesel engines rated at approximately 1,300 horsepower each, delivering a combined output of around 2,600 HP. Engine hours are approximately 2,000. Both engines received new turbochargers in 2024, and cooling systems including gearboxes were professionally cleaned in the same year, representing meaningful recent mechanical investment.

Fuel capacity is approximately 3,500 litres, supporting a cruising range in the region of 300 nautical miles. Cruising speed is typically between 25 and 30 knots, with top speed up to around 38 knots depending on conditions. Propulsion is through ZF gearboxes with shaft-driven V-drive configuration and four-bladed propellers, offering reliable power transfer and strong offshore cruising capability. A Kohler 13kVA generator, new in 2021, provides dependable auxiliary power. A Seakeeper 9 zero-speed stabilizer is also fitted, significantly increasing comfort both underway and at anchor.

Accommodation & Interior Layout
The yacht offers three guest cabins accommodating up to six guests, together with two bathrooms. The midships owner’s cabin is a standout feature, providing a spacious double berth and en-suite shower room. Forward, the VIP cabin also benefits from private en-suite facilities, while a twin bunk cabin to starboard provides further guest accommodation. A separate captain’s cabin is accessed from the cockpit, allowing operational support while preserving guest privacy inside.

Internally, the saloon is finished with cream leather upholstery, natural satin oak joinery, and signature blue-and-white lacquer detailing. The dining table seating six reinforces the yacht’s hospitality appeal and classic Riva identity. The galley integrates effectively into the saloon, with white lacquer cabinetry, Corian worktops, and premium appliances supporting real cruising comfort rather than merely occasional onboard use.

Exterior Spaces & Mediterranean Lifestyle Appeal
Outside, the yacht offers generous cockpit seating, foredeck sun pads, hydraulic passerelle, and an integrated bimini arrangement, making her especially well suited to Côte d’Azur use. A tender garage provides practical storage for toys and auxiliary craft while preserving the clean exterior profile. Teak decking and beautifully maintained exterior woodwork reinforce the yacht’s premium visual impact. This is very much a yacht designed for stylish Mediterranean ownership, whether used for family cruising, day hosting, or extended coastal travel.

Navigation, Electronics & Operational Systems
The yacht is fitted with modern Simrad navigation systems including NSS EVO2 chart plotter displays, broadband 4G radar scanner, AP70 autopilot, HS90 VHF with DSC, Class B AIS, GPS, compass, and multifunction displays for speed, depth, wind, and positional data. A Furuno multifunction display is installed in the captain’s cabin. Hydraulic steering, trim tabs with indicators, and bow thruster controls all contribute to effective handling and safer operation in both passage-making and marina environments.

Comfort, Climate & Entertainment
Full air conditioning and reverse-cycle heating are provided through Condaria/Dometic systems with new engine-room coolers installed in 2021, ensuring year-round usability. Dimmable ambient lighting throughout the cockpit, radar arch, and steps creates a sophisticated evening atmosphere. Entertainment systems include a Bose Lifestyle surround amplifier, TCL flat-screen TV, and independent cabin sound systems. Interior finishes such as limed oak flooring, marble bathroom tops, mirrored detailing, and stainless trims further enhance the luxury impression.

Maintenance & Technical Care
This yacht’s maintenance history is a major selling point. Since 2016 she has been wintered out of the water in covered storage, an important factor in preserving cosmetic and structural condition. Major upgrades include Seakeeper 9 stabilizer installation, generator replacement in 2021, engine turbo replacement in 2024, full cooling-system servicing in 2024, gel shield and antifouling renewal in 2020, and battery replacements between 2021 and 2023. Exterior upholstery has been renewed and updated multiple times, while the Besenzoni hydraulic passerelle was serviced in 2024.

These investments substantially reduce the likelihood of near-term major expenditure and make the yacht especially appealing to serious buyers who understand the value of documented care and ongoing professional attention.

Machinery, Propulsion & Technical Systems
The twin MAN engines are maintained by a MAN specialist and supported by water-lubricated stern glands, Racor fuel filtration, hydraulic steering, and engine-room fire suppression. The Kohler generator has around 1,000 hours since installation in 2021. Shaft-driven V-drive propulsion with ZF gearboxes and four-bladed propellers provides smooth, reliable power delivery. A Side-Power SP95 bow thruster improves close-quarters maneuvering, while hydraulic trim tabs optimize running attitude and efficiency.

Electrical, Plumbing & Domestic Systems
Electrical arrangements include dedicated 24V heavy-duty battery banks for engine and domestic use, renewed between 2022 and 2023, plus a separate 12V battery for the generator from 2021. Shore power connectivity includes polarity protection and breaker management. A Mastervolt 24/4000 inverter supports 220V domestic power, backed by engine alternators and Dolphin battery chargers.

The freshwater system includes twin pressurized pumps supplying hot and cold water, with approximate tankage of 700 litres. An Idromar water maker producing around 150 litres per hour adds significant autonomy for extended cruising. Holding tanks support sea and deck pump-out capability, while automatic and manual bilge pump systems reinforce safety and reliability.

Safety, Structure & Condition
The yacht is equipped with Seafire FM200 engine-room fire suppression, handheld extinguishers, bilge alarms with audible warnings, IMCO navigation lights, and a serviced liferaft. The Hull Identification Number is documented and visible. The modified deep-V hull remains structurally sound, and the gel shield and renewed antifouling treatment from 2020 provide additional protection. Teak decks, varnish, and exterior finishes are maintained to a very high standard, reflecting careful ownership and dry winter storage.

Usage Potential
This 59 Mercurius is ideally suited to luxury Mediterranean cruising, stylish family holidays, and high-end leisure ownership. She also carries meaningful charter appeal thanks to her recognizable pedigree, elegant presentation, and strong guest accommodation for her class. The combination of performance, stabilization, refit history, and iconic Riva styling makes her a particularly desirable option for buyers who want beauty backed by substance.

Location & Purchase Opportunity
Currently lying in Grimaud, Var, France, this yacht is available for inspection by appointment. Registration and VAT details can be provided to serious buyers, and survey and sea trial may be arranged as part of the purchase process. For buyers seeking a refined, upgraded, and highly characterful Italian sports cruiser with serious cruising ability and standout presentation, this 59 Mercurius deserves close attention. Enquire now to arrange a private viewing and secure a beautifully maintained Riva-built yacht for the Mediterranean season.