I once had a crew member accuse me of “overdoing it.” This person, who is no longer employed, needed to understand what makes Riviera the must-do activity when visiting San Diego. After all, anyone can offer a “boat ride” in San Diego Bay. Anyone could hand a guest a bag of Cheetos, toss them a can of White Claw, and call it good, but that’s not hospitality, and it’s not the “Riviera way.”
I suppose I have my parents to thank for drilling into my head that anything worth doing is worth doing well.
For me and my crew, the phrase “It’s good enough” is never said. Our sole purpose on Riviera is to exceed your expectations and exceed them by a mile! So far, after three years, we’ve managed to do just that every time we leave the dock.
It’s not rocket science. We pay strict attention to detail. Everything from dietary restrictions and allergies to wind speed and air temperatures are factored in when planning your sailing experience. All the small things, when brought together, add up to a luxurious day on the water.
Our charcuterie boards are magnificent. Beautifully arranged with the finest ingredients. Imported cheeses and meats curated by Venissimo, San Diego’s best cheese shop. Fresh fruits and vegetables from Specialty Produce, San Diego’s first choice for restaurants seeking locally sourced produce.
Artisan, hand-made baguettes, scones, and biscottis from Bread & Cie. If our guests request seafood, our first choice is Catalina Offshore San Diego’s premium fish market for fresh, sustainable seafood.
When our guests ask for something sweet, we provide cookies and treats from Crumbl. Their Milk Chocolate Chip Cookies, or the Snickerdoodle, are always a hit.
But it’s not just your palette we’re trying to delight. It’s everything. We look after all your senses. The playlist, does it fit the guest’s generation? The towels, are they fresh? The cigar humidor, is it filled and ready?
The seating is well thought out, and, of course, the bathrooms are spotless.
Then, of course, there’s the sail plan. Do you want to go fast and feel the excitement of a close-reach sail trim? Or is a mellow downwind cruise more to your liking?
Sometimes, after all the careful planning and attention to detail, the guest just wants to be left alone. With no music, no conversation, only the sound of our hull as Riviera cuts through the Pacific.
So, for now, you’ll have to deal with Captain Paul “overdoing things.” I’d love to hear about your over-the-top travel experiences, and maybe I’ll add it to Riviera’s repertoire. So please, message me and tell me about your travels.
Fair Winds and Following Seas,
Paul & Victoria