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6 The most classic Riva launches of all time
The roots of classic Riva yachts go right back to 1842, when a young Pietro Riva began repairing and building yachts on Lake Iseo in northern Italy. But it was his great-grandson, the legendary Carlo Riva , who had the vision to create a range of wooden-hulled speedboats that were to become the epitome of the jet-set era of the 1950s and 1960s.
Carlo Riva was inspired by the products of the American yacht builder Chris-Craft, for which he was an agent, and he used Chris-Craft and Chrysler engines in his classic Riva yachts. We trace the history of the most popular classic Rivas, and round up a few of the most memorable Rivas of all time…
The first twin-engine classic range Riva yacht was the Tritone, in build from 1950-1966. While 221 of the standard Tritone version were delivered, far fewer of the far more desired Super Tritone came into being, with only 21 hitting the water. At nearly eight metres LOA, the Super Tritone was a long, powerful version of Riva’s Tritone, its biggest thus far. The Super Tritone is valued at €200,000-€300,000.
Tritone Special
Riva owners may commonly have been rich and famous, but it was rare to get special treatment; however, Carlo Riva broke his rule in the case of the Como industrialist, champion sailor and Riva patron, Achille Roncoroni. In 1960, Roncoroni persuaded the company to build him a one-off version of the Tritone Special model classic Riva yacht. He wanted the best, fastest and largest Riva ever. What he got was an 8.3 metre wood-clad wonder powered by two high-performance, marinised Cadillac Eldorado V8 engines, each producing 325hp to push the boat to a stunning 60mph. The unique interior had red, white and blue front seats that could be laid flat to let occupants sunbathe away from prying eyes. The dashboard featured sparkling, chrome bezel instruments befitting the Cadillac-powered Special.
Roncoroni used the boat, Ribot III , mostly on Como, and kept her until 1970 before selling her on to the second owner who has owned this classic Riva ever since. And, true to his word, Carlo Riva ensured Ribot III remained a one-off, even turning down a request for a similar craft from King Hussein of Jordan.
The original Riva Aquarama line was delivered from 1962 to 1972. This included first classic Riva Aquarama yacht, of which 288 were sold, and the Super Aquarama, with 203 splashing. The Aquarama Special then emerged, running from 1972 to 1996 with 278 boats built.
The most expensive classic Riva ever built was probably an Aquarama, which crossed the block at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee, Florida, back in 2011, for an impressive $975,000. Bidders from around the world competed to own the boat, which was considered extra special, because it was the last of the original, wooden-hulled Rivas to be sold to the public. Hull No 774 was completed in 1996 and delivered new to the founding family of the giant Sony Corporation on 23 December 1998.
Surely the ultimate Christmas present, it was one of six “End of the Era” commemorative editions produced. Its owners, however, clocked up fewer than 20 hours aboard her in 12 years, with their most ambitious voyage being a return trip across Lake Garda for lunch.
The Riva Junior was the late 1960s replacement for the basic Riva Florida. At 5.6 metres, the classic Riva yacht model Junior found fame as the choice of the celebrity set such as Brigitte Bardot and Peter Sellers. The Riva Junior is valued at €30,000-€40,000.
Despite the move into fibreglass — and now superyacht-size yachts even — Riva’s current owner, the Ferretti Group, is still passionate about preserving the essence of classic Riva yachts in its new runabouts. In 2001, a year after Ferretti Group purchased Riva, the Aquariva was launched. This 11-metre yacht was specifically designed as a successor to the inimitable Aquarama. Though built in GRP, her sweet exterior lines and wood detail harken back to the days of a bygone era when the first classic Rivas plied the waters.
Launched in June 2016, the Rivamare is the newest addition to the Riva collection. Despite her effortlessly classic styling, the 11.88 metre Rivamare is packed with modern technology, such as underwater lighting, air conditioning, an electro-hydraulic bimini shade and a Seakeeper NG5 stabiliser.
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Riva's Early Years - More Than 170 Years of HistoryJul 15, 2021 RIVA'S EARLY YEARSMore than 170 years ago, the Riva family of woodworking craftsmen began building what are now iconic, classically designed boats. The legacy continues today as the line has grown from elegant wooden vessels to a diverse line of luxury fiberglass pleasure boats and yachts. The Riva Yachts history began in 1842 when Pietro Riva, a 20-year-old carpenter, left Sarnico, Italy to repair boats at Lake Iseo. His exceptional woodworking skills on a severely damaged boat led to additional work in the region to repair and build new boats . As he completed orders for fishing and row boats, his business and his family grew. He and his wife, Lucrezia Taroni, had five children: Angelo, Francesco, Ernesto, Erminia and Luigi. The middle child, Ernesto, grew up to learn his father’s trade and join him as a skilled carpenter. With great foresight, Ernesto believed that future boaters would want bigger boats equipped with engines. To meet that vision, he developed and manufactured larger vessels, and as his hunch proved correct, he built his first motorboat. Success for the father and son’s expanding business soon necessitated they build a new boatyard. Expansion continued as Ernesto built his own boat, named Sarnico in honor of the family heritage and began the first motorized tourist boat trips on Lake Iseo. The future of the family business was again secured when Ernesto Riva married Carolina Malighetti and the couple had six children: Francesco, Angelo, Serafino, Mauro, Anna, and Pierina. Middle son Serafino took over the business when Ernesto Riva died in a shipyard accident during a large boat launch in 1907. With a new member of the Riva family at the helm, the company focus again veered - this time from transportation to recreational boats as the availability of small inboard and outboard engines increased. RACING WITH RIVA - LEISURE AND SPEED RAMP UP IN THE 1920sWhen the nautical industry saw a sales boom, Serafino Riva capitalized on public interest by building racing motorboats. Serafino raced his Rivas, and early in the fairly new sport, he exceeded 24 km/h in an outboard speedboat in the Spring of 1912. Riva racing boats continued to be top competitors throughout the 1920s and prominent exposure during events helped to expand the leisure-craft market worldwide. The family line was destined to continue, at least by marriage, when Serafino married Irma Bocchi and had three children: Carlo, Dafne (who married Gino Gervason who eventually joins Riva), and Marilena. RACING IN THE 1930s AND 40s WITH RIVAThe Riva name continued to capture headlines during the 1920s and 30s. Prominent in the media were famous friends and competitors, Serafino Riva and Giuseppe Guerini. Each raced in Riva boats with the same outboard engines. Riva boats continued to be popular in the racing sport until political events leading up to World War II caused racing to be suspended in Italy. During the war, production slowed but never ceased at the Riva facility. Many famous racers competed in Rivas including:
SIGN UP FOR EMAIL UPDATESRiva Yachts: how one Italian family created a nautical legendBy paula reynolds | May 2, 2021 Sophia Loren had one. So did Anita Eckberg and Sean Connery…as did violet-eyed Liz. Brigitte Bardot’s had zebra print seats, and even George Bush was often spotted in his, breaking waves in the Hamptons. They’ve always been the nautical epitome of cool — and we’re not talking about the owners, but of the craft… the 100% Italian built Riva yacht . Sleek, sexy, oh-so Italian…these streamlined vessels are known throughout the nautical world for their extraordinary quality, unforgettable design, and well…for having a suave factor that would be off the charts if suave charts existed. Even if you’re not familiar with the name, Riva yachts might hold a spot in your subconscious. Just for a second, visualize a bevy of the rich and famous motor-boating across an Italian lake, Prosecco in hand, or maybe a pulse pounding James Bond clip, our hero soaring over breaking waves as he escapes the ire of his latest nemesis. Odds are your imagination included a Riva built boat. The Riva name is synonymous with luxury and glamour in the boat world, a brand that defies being classified as “just” a watercraft. It might even be more of a zeitgeist of ideology, of concept, of beauty, a melding of style and function that make Riva one of the most desirable yacht names around. It’s a remarkable story of serendipity and talent that led to the birth of Riva boats. While Carlo Riva (1922-2017) is considered the father of classic contemporary Riva watercraft, had it not been for a run of bad weather on the banks of Lake Iseo in 1842, Sophia would’ve had to settle for a much less classy ride over her Italian lakes. Heavy rains pummeled the small lakeside town of Sarnico , forcing the River Oglio from its banks. As flooding torrents scoured the village, they carried with them the small fleet of fishing vessels, tumbled about like children’s toys. The humble boats experienced severe damage; immediate help was needed and found through the expertise of a young boatwright by the name of Pietro Riva . Newly arrived from Laglio, Riva quickly set to work repairing and refitting the vessels with skill and quality. His craftsmanship earned the village’s admiration and trust, and eventually Riva opened his own shipyard on the Sarnico shoreline. Pietro’s early production featured quality battel da pesca (fishing boats) and canotto da passeggio (pleasure craft) to suit the needs of the locals, but as his young family grew, so did his vision for his small company. Pietro’s mastery of boatbuilding was the beginning of a legendary line of shipwrights. His son Ernesto introduced power combustion engines, a forward-thinking step that brought the latest mechanical innovations to the business. His insight introduced not only speedier transportation of goods over the lakes, but the launch of nautical tourism, as well. Ernesto’s own motorboat prototype was a success…and a lot of fun; why not offer tourists the chance to experience the wind, waves, and sights that he was enjoying? Riva’s visionary heritage continued when Ernesto’s son Serafino took the helm, bringing a major shift to the boatyard. It was after World War I and Italy was ready for distraction. Capitalizing on this, Serafino built and promoted high speed pleasure boats. Equipped for speed and agility, Riva power boats became the hot rod of the Italian lakes. Serafino’s designs quickly set the standard for the popular sport of speedboat racing in the 1920s and 1930s. Riva’s successful incorporation of efficient design and high-powered engines earned fame through multiple wins and titles in Italy and around the world. “I want to build boats my own way I told my father…I started production in 1950 with six months of testing…It was the happiest day of my life.” ~ Carlo Riva It wasn’t until Carlo Riva , son of Serafino, took the helm of Riva, however, that the seismic shift in production — and notoriety — began. With the skill, training, DNA, and drive of the Riva dynasty under his skin, Carlo revolutionized Riva design. After some serious head-butting with his father Serafino — who saw no need to change the line’s traditional success — Carlo succeeded in forging ahead with his vision for a sleek, immaculately built boat featuring flawless functionality and glamorous visual appeal: the nautical version of Italian flair and desirability. A new manufacturing facility was constructed in 1954 on the shores of Lake Iseo fusing state-of-the art innovation with Riva’s famed tradition for minute attention to detail and quality. Carlo’s vision set into motion Riva’s golden age of luxury watercraft; Riva yachts quickly became the coveted status symbol for those with an eye for ultimate fashion and function. The breakthrough, however, that imbedded the iconic Riva style in modern awareness came about in 1962 with the launch of the Acquarama. Using the design protocol of his highly popular Tritone , Carlo reimagined the boat to feature roomier passenger space, a sun deck that seemed to beg for bathing beauties, and other innovations that set precedents in the boating world. His signature feature of turquoise blue upholstery with a matching wheel was the cherry on top. Named #1 of the Top 100 Best Boats Ever by “Motorboat & Yachting Magazine” and “Most beautiful boat in the World” by the International Press, this “Ferrari of the boat world” still quickens the pulse in many whenever she shows up in movies or commercials — or lakeside if you’re lucky enough to witness one slicing through the blue. Carlo sold his company to an American firm in 1969 yet remained active for several more years. A succession of non-Italian owners finally came full circle in 2000 when the Italian Ferretti Group purchased Riva Yachts. Active in production today, Carlo’s imprint remains strong within the company, evident through the breath-taking style, consummate quality, and suave elegance permeating every Riva boat from cruiser to mega-yacht. Riva Yachts, a name synonymous with Italian flair and elegance, remains one of the most coveted brands today. Even if owning one is out of reach, it’s possible to get up close and personal with a visit to the Riva Yacht factory in Sarnico. Standing next to Ernesto’s first motorboat, or perhaps feeling your pulse quicken as you admire the Aquarama #784, the last classic model off the production line in 1996, can quicken the pulse of any fan of the beauty of Italian design and innovation. Carlo’s spirit is alive and well on the shores of his beloved Sarnico. “… Designed with love, pure and strong like a pedigree horse. Unforgettable!” ~ Carlo Riva Sophia Loren ne aveva uno. Anche Anita Eckberg e Sean Connery… come anche Liz dagli occhi viola. Quello di Brigitte Bardot aveva sedili zebrati, e persino George Bush è stato spesso visto a bordo del suo, mentre navigava negli Hamptons. Sono sempre stati l’epitome nautica del cool – e non stiamo parlando dei proprietari, ma dell’imbarcazione… lo yacht Riva costruito al 100% in Italia. Eleganti, sexy, così italiani… queste imbarcazioni aerodinamiche sono conosciute in tutto il mondo nautico per la loro straordinaria qualità, il design indimenticabile, e beh… per avere un fattore di soavità che sarebbe fuori dalle classifiche se esistessero classifiche di soavità. Anche se il nome non vi è familiare, gli yacht Riva potrebbero avere un posto nel vostro subconscio. Solo per un secondo, visualizzate un gruppo di ricchi e famosi che navigano a motore su un lago italiano, Prosecco alla mano, o magari un filmato di James Bond, con il nostro eroe che si libra sulle onde che si infrangono mentre sfugge all’ira della sua ultima nemesi. È probabile che la vostra immaginazione includa una barca costruita da Riva. Il nome Riva è sinonimo di lusso e glamour nel mondo delle barche, un marchio che sfida la classificazione di “semplice” imbarcazione. Potrebbe anche essere più dello spirito del tempo, dell’ideologia, del concetto, della bellezza, una fusione di stile e funzione che rendono Riva uno dei nomi più desiderabili di yacht. È una straordinaria storia di serendipità e talento quella che ha portato alla nascita delle barche Riva. Mentre Carlo Riva (1922-2017) è considerato il padre dei classici motoscafi Riva contemporanei, se non fosse stato per un periodo di maltempo sulle rive del lago d’Iseo nel 1842, Sophia avrebbe dovuto accontentarsi di un giro molto meno elegante sui laghi italiani. Forti piogge colpirono la piccola città lacustre di Sarnico, facendo uscire dalle sponde il fiume Oglio. Mentre i torrenti inondavano il villaggio, portarono con sé la piccola flotta di pescherecci, trascinati come giocattoli per bambini. Le umili barche subirono gravi danni; fu necessario un aiuto immediato, che fu trovato grazie alla competenza di un giovane maestro d’ascia di nome Pietro Riva. Appena arrivato da Laglio, Riva si mise subito al lavoro per riparare e sistemare le barche con abilità e qualità. La sua abilità artigianale guadagnò l’ammirazione e la fiducia del villaggio, e alla fine Riva aprì il suo cantiere navale sulla costa di Sarnico. La produzione iniziale di Pietro comprendeva battelli da pesca e canotti da passeggio di qualità per soddisfare le esigenze della gente del posto, ma quando la sua giovane famiglia crebbe, crebbe anche la visione della sua piccola azienda. La maestria di Pietro nella costruzione di barche fu l’inizio di una linea leggendaria di maestri d’ascia. Suo figlio Ernesto introdusse i motori a combustione, un passo lungimirante che portò le ultime innovazioni meccaniche al business. La sua intuizione introdusse non solo un trasporto più veloce delle merci sui laghi, ma anche il lancio del turismo nautico. Il prototipo di motoscafo di Ernesto fu un successo… e molto divertente: perché non offrire ai turisti la possibilità di sperimentare il vento, le onde e i panorami di cui lui godeva? L’eredità visionaria di Riva continuò quando il figlio di Ernesto, Serafino, prese il timone, portando un grande cambiamento nel cantiere. Era il primo dopoguerra e l’Italia era pronta a distrarsi. Capitalizzando questo cambiamento, Serafino costruì e promosse barche da diporto ad alta velocità. Equipaggiate per la velocità e l’agilità, le barche a motore Riva divennero l’hot rod dei laghi italiani. I progetti di Serafino stabilirono rapidamente lo standard per il popolare sport delle gare di motoscafi negli anni ’20 e ’30. La riuscita incorporazione da parte di Riva di un design efficiente e di motori ad alta potenza si guadagnò la fama attraverso molteplici vittorie e titoli in Italia e nel mondo. “Voglio costruire barche a modo mio, dissi a mio padre… Ho iniziato la produzione nel 1950 con sei mesi di prove… È stato il giorno più felice della mia vita”. ~ Carlo Riva Fu solo quando Carlo Riva, figlio di Serafino, prese il timone della Riva, però, che iniziò la svolta decisiva nella produzione – e nella notorietà. Con l’abilità, la formazione, il DNA e la grinta della dinastia Riva nella pelle, Carlo rivoluzionò il design Riva. Dopo qualche scontro con il padre Serafino – che non vedeva la necessità di cambiare il tradizionale successo della linea – Carlo riuscì a portare avanti la sua visione di una barca elegante, costruita in modo impeccabile e con un appeal visivo glamour: la versione nautica del fascino italiano e della desiderabilità. Nel 1954 fu costruito un nuovo stabilimento di produzione sulle rive del lago d’Iseo, fondendo l’innovazione allo stato dell’arte con la famosa tradizione Riva di attenzione al dettaglio e alla qualità. La visione di Carlo mise in moto l’età dell’oro delle imbarcazioni di lusso Riva; gli yacht Riva divennero rapidamente l’ambito status symbol per coloro che erano attenti alla moda e alla funzionalità. La svolta, tuttavia, che incastrò l’iconico stile Riva nella consapevolezza moderna avvenne nel 1962 con il lancio dell’Acquarama. Usando il protocollo di design del suo popolarissimo Tritone, Carlo reimmaginò la barca con uno spazio più ampio per i passeggeri, un ponte sole che sembrava implorare bellezze da bagno, e altre innovazioni che stabilirono dei precedenti nel mondo della nautica. La sua firma, tappezzeria blu turchese con una ruota abbinata, fu la ciliegina sulla torta. Nominata n. 1 fra le 100 migliori barche di sempre dalla rivista “Motorboat & Yachting Magazine” e “la più bella barca del mondo” dalla stampa internazionale, questa “Ferrari del mondo delle barche” fa ancora battere forte il cuore a molti ogni volta che appare nei film o nelle pubblicità – o in riva al lago se si è abbastanza fortunati da vederne una che sfreccia nel blu. Carlo vendette la sua compagnia a un’azienda americana nel 1969, ma rimase attivo ancora per diversi anni. Una successione di proprietari non italiani ha finalmente chiuso il cerchio nel 2000, quando il Gruppo Ferretti, italiano, ha acquistato Riva Yachts. Attivo oggi nella produzione, l’impronta di Carlo rimane forte all’interno dell’azienda, evidente attraverso lo stile mozzafiato, la qualità tradizionale e la soave eleganza che permea ogni barca Riva, dal cruiser al mega-yacht. Riva Yachts, sinonimo di fascino ed eleganza italiana, rimane uno dei marchi più ambiti oggi. Anche se possederne uno non è alla portata di tutti, è possibile avvicinarsi a questo marchio con una visita alla fabbrica Riva Yachts di Sarnico. Stare accanto al primo motoscafo di Ernesto, o magari sentire le pulsazioni accelerare mentre si ammira l’Aquarama #784, l’ultimo modello classico uscito dalla linea di produzione nel 1996, può emozionare qualsiasi fan della bellezza del design e dell’innovazione italiana. Lo spirito di Carlo è vivo e vegeto sulle rive della sua amata Sarnico. “…Progettata con amore, pura e forte come un cavallo di razza. Indimenticabile!” ~ Carlo Riva 26 issues of L’Italo Americano digital edition Support L’Italo AmericanoIf you’re able to, please support L’Italo Americano today from as little as $1. Weekly NewsletterRiva Yachts’ HistoryRiva Yachts’ history dates back to 1842, when young craftsman Pietro Riva arrived on the shores of Lake d’Iseo to repair fishing boats damaged in a storm. Commissions to build boats quickly followed, and the Italian boatbuilding dynasty that would become Riva Yachts was established. From that tiny shipyard in the town of Sarnico, Italy, Riva Yachts has risen to international prominence as a builder of stylish, elegant vessels that feature state-of-the-art design and advanced performance capabilities. Over the years, Riva Yachts’ exclusive customer list has included kings, sultans, emperors, entrepreneurs, and celebrities from around the world. Riva currently flourishes as part of the Ferretti Group’s portfolio of prestigious luxury motor yachts builders, specializing in open and flybridge motor yachts ranging from a 27-ft. runabout to a luxurious 122-ft. megayacht. Ernesto Riva succeeded his father Pietro, moving the shipyard forward by introducing internal combustion engines on Riva boats. Ernesto’s son Serafino switched the company to building speedboats for the newly popular sport of motorboat racing. Serafino Riva built Riva boats’ reputation as outstanding racing boats by piloting Riva boats to success in many of the top motorboat races of the nineteen twenties and thirties. Riva boats’ reign as the most famous mahogany runabouts in the world was well-established by the mid-thirties, before the looming Second World War stopped Italian motorboat racing and slowed production of Riva’s elegant racers. Serafino Riva’s son Carlos took over the yard in 1949, transforming the family firm into a renowned builder of exceptional luxury motor yachts. He worked tirelessly to turn the company into the beloved nautical icon it is today, becoming the unquestioned chief architect of Riva Yacht’s success by serving as chief designer, engineer, salesman, and other company roles as needed. Carlos’ uncompromising commitment to quality infused the firm as he built the Riva brand into the yacht of choice for the elite of the world, including royalty, business executives, and screen stars. Over 170 years have passed since a simple carpenter named Riva began building boats in a tiny wooden hut on the shores of Lake d’Iseo. In that time Riva Yachts has become the celebrated iconic brand of the Ferretti Group, shining as an enduring symbol of excellence that represents the best traditions of yachting. Discover the thrill of owning the unmatchable quality of a Riva Yacht. Atlantic Yacht & Ship has several Riva Yachts from which to choose, including Ego, a 68’ preowned Riva Yacht for sale. This 2008 beauty is in excellent condition, with only 600 hours on her MANs 1550Hp motors. Featuring 3 staterooms and the classic Riva Cream Hull, this preowned Riva yacht is loaded with accessories and extras including underwater lights. An Avon 320 Tender Hydrojet is included in the sale, at the asking price of 1 650 000 € EUR. For more information, call Mark Meyer at 305-677-9137 or email him at [email protected] . Feed your need for speed with Dana, a 68’ Riva Ego Super for sale. Launched in 2012, this vessel cuts through the waves at 35 knots, topping out at 39 knots. With a sexy profile that turns heads everywhere she goes, Dana offers all the comforts of home in her luxurious 3-stateroom layout. Bring all offers for this 2012 68’ Riva Yacht priced to sell with an asking price of 2 000 000 € EUR. Contact Joe Marino at 954-328-2059 or email him at [email protected] for more information. If you are looking at yachts for sale , or thinking about selling your yacht , it is always wise to have an experienced broker representing your interests throughout the deal. Contact Atlantic Yacht & Ship at 954.921.1500 or click here . Categories for this Article
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Riva: the Origins of the LegendIn 1842, pietro riva founded what was to become a remarkable dynasty of expert craftsmen and designers, pioneers and giants in the history of yachting.. By Museimpresa 1939, left to right, drivers Carmagnani, Guerini, Sestini and Dupuy with Serafino and Carlo Riva. G.S.C. Riva - Riva boatyard ramps at the Sebino Gran Prix. (1951/1951) Museimpresa Riva and the origins of the racers legendRacing boats played an important role in Riva’s evolution. As it does today, racing offered a way to experiment with materials and technologies that would then be adapted and used successfully on recreational boats. G. S. C. Riva - Serafino Riva and Luigi Calvi on the AZ (Riva hull) (1932/1932) Museimpresa Charting the course to racing boats It was from his father that Serafino inherited his passion for boats and engines. He was fascinated by speed on the water and became so involved in the first outboard racing competitions that he entered them as both builder and driver. G.S.C. Riva - Carlo Pagliano, in a Riva hull with a Johnson engine (1938/1938) Museimpresa From victory to victory In the 1920s the Riva Boatyard stopped producing large vessels and focused exclusively on racing boats. Serafino quickly became the benchmark for all the top powerboat racers of the period, building customised boats for them with extraordinary commitment and attention to detail. Series-produced boats G.S.C. Riva - The Tritone’s innovative sun pad on the engine compartment cover Museimpresa The era of Carlo Riva: a legend is born (1950 – 1970) In 1950, control of the Riva Boatyard was officially transferred to Carlo, Serafino's son, who understood the needs of the time and turned Riva into a synonym for elegance, status and perfection. G.S.C. Riva - The Tritone on the water Museimpresa Tritone, 1950Powerful, safe and fast, but also large in size and spacious, Tritone could be used to go on short cruises in complete safety. 8.02 metres in length and 2.62 in the beam, it could accommodate up to 10 passengers in the cockpit and two below deck in the cabin. G.S.C. Riva - Aerial photo of an Ariston on the water Museimpresa Ariston, 1950 Created for more demanding customers, this boat reprised the Corsaro formula but on a larger scale, with a length of 6.52 metres and two rows of seats in the cockpit accommodating six passengers. The lines are essential, measured and without any exaggerated flourishes. G.S.C. Riva - The Ariston on the water Museimpresa The 220 hp engine drives the boat to a top speed of about 70 km/h. In 1968, the Super version was presented, featuring a general upgrade, particularly in terms of its engine and therefore its speed: 80 km/h. "È la più bella di tutte" - Carlo Riva G.S.C. Riva - Aquarama Super (Galà) #425 in navigation by Photographer Alberto Cocchi Museimpresa Aquarama, 1962 1962 saw the birth of the Aquarama, which was often compared to a Rolls Royce or Ferrari because of its appeal and elegance. Over the years, the model was upgraded on several occasions. G.S.C. Riva - Aquarama Super (Etna) #208 in navigation by Photographer Anthony Holder Museimpresa The first was 8.02 metres in length and fitted with two Chris Craft 8V engines rated 185 hp each, while the subsequent versions were all 8.25 metres in length and equipped with two Riva 8V engines rated 220 hp each. G.S.C. Riva - Side detail of the Aquarama Super by Photographer Max Sarotto Museimpresa Aquarama Super Aquarama Super’s performance moved up to the superlative category, with a top speed of almost 90 km/h. G.S.C. Riva - Aquarama on the water by Photographer Oliver Pilcher Museimpresa Aquarama: a legend for over 60 yearsStill today, in films, commercials and social media, when the aim is to communicate an idea of navigation that fully expresses the style and glamour of “Made in Italy”, the boat portrayed is the Aquarama. To learn more about the theme discover: (rivaboutique.it) Riva Anniversario. A timeless story. Riva Yacht The fiberglass era and the evolution of the construction site (1970 – 1999)G.S.C. Riva - Rudy, one of Riva’s first fibreglass models by Photographer Federico Patellani Museimpresa Carlo Riva was an innovator not only in design and style, but also in materials and technologies. From one of his many trips to America, he brought back his discovery of composite materials, whose potential he was the first to see. G.S.C. Riva - Advertising Riva (1973/1973) Museimpresa Agile, responsive and very fast, this inboard immediately showed its unmistakable Riva class, despite its modest dimensions. It was the first fibreglass boat that Riva built entirely to its own design, and in Italy. G.S.C. Riva - Superamerica 45, moored at the Sarnico boatyard Museimpresa Superamerica, 1973 The Superamerica was the forerunner of all Riva cabin cruisers over 40 feet and continued the Yard’s experimentation with composite materials. Architect Giorgio Barilani collaborated on this project, which proved to be innovative in terms of both its performance and layout. G.S.C. Riva - Interiors of the Superamerica 45 (1977/1977) Museimpresa Carlo Pagani, who had studied under the celebrated Gio Ponti, was involved in designing the refined elegance of the interiors. G.S.C. Riva - Riva 32 Ferrari cruising at speed Museimpresa Riva 32 Ferrari, 1990 Designed for people who love to ride the waves at high speed, the Riva 32 Ferrari had an innovative design ahead of its time, incorporating the technology and engineering excellence of both Riva and Ferrari. G.S.C. Riva - Riva 32 Ferrari before the air expedition Museimpresa The most important innovation in this model was the use of digital design: the Riva 32 Ferrari was in fact the first boat to be built at the Sarnico yard using 3D modelling software (provided by Ferrari Engineering). Keep dreaming "Riva in the Movie is dedicated to those who believe in the magical power of the imagination and human talent" Alberto Galassi. Libro "RIVA IN THE MOVIE" Artwork Discovering MuseimpresaMuseimpresa, the olivetti typewriters, benetton archive, discover the history of villa foscarini rossi, poltrona frau museum, poli grappa museum, 1963-2023: 60 years of peroni nastro azzurro, gias experience, museo fratelli cozzi: a road to travel together, marazzato: historic vehicles as an engine of culture. A History of Riva Yachts: “Designed to be Timeless”Riva’s Genesis: A Legacy BeginsIn the realm of timeless elegance, luxury and sophistication, fewer brands are more emblematic than Riva . Established in 1842 in the quaint town of Sarnico on Lake Iseo, Italy, a young, skilled carpenter named Pietro Riva embarked on a venture that would forever transform the world of luxury boating. Craftsmanship and Carlo Riva’s Visionary LeadershipPietro’s work rapidly garnered a reputation for both its quality and exceptional craftsmanship. His designs were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Cementing the Riva family’s name as leading experts in exquisite boat building by the early 20th century. Pietro’s Grandson, Carlo Riva, born in 1922, emerged as a visionary leader who elevated the company to a symbol of luxury and elegance. Aquarama: The Ferrari of BoatsThe Riva Aquarama series became the company’s first legendary boat line during the 1950s and 1960s. Renowned as the “Ferrari of the Boat World,” this series included three main types: the Lungo, the Super, and the Special. Produced from 1962 to 1996, these mahogany speedboats were sleek, powerful, and rapidly became the preferred choice of Hollywood stars, royalty, and business magnates. The Aquarama also attained cultural icon status, featured in numerous Hollywood films and commercials, including “James Bond: GoldenEye” and “Ocean’s Eleven.” Innovation and ExpansionIn the ensuing years, Riva not only preserved its commitment to quality and heritage but also embraced innovation. The company expanded its range to include fiberglass models, which gained popularity due to their durability and modern aesthetics. This strategic expansion ensured that Riva Yachts continued to appeal to a broader audience without sacrificing luxury. Joining the Ferretti GroupIn the year 2000, Riva became part of the Ferretti Group. This strategic move enabled the brand to leverage advanced technologies and international resources. Today, Riva boasts a prestigious collection of specialized open and flybridge motor yachts, ranging from the 27-foot Iseo Riva runabout to larger, more luxurious models. Riva Yachts: The Stars’ FavoriteIn addition to its association with luxury, Riva has a prominent place in popular culture, having been featured in films such as “James Bond” and “Men in Black.” Numerous celebrities and cultural icons including Elizabeth Taylor, Charlize Theron, George Clooney, and Justin Timberlake have been photographed aboard Riva yachts. Notably, George Clooney purchased the same vintage mahogany Riva that appeared in “Ocean’s 11” and subsequently celebrated his wedding on it. Riva’s Timeless EleganceToday, Riva retains its status as a symbol of timeless elegance and luxury, continuing to innovate while honoring its rich heritage. Each yacht is a masterpiece that exemplifies the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship. With its iconic blend of tradition, quality, and prestige, Riva Yachts is set to sail into the future with distinction. Discover the exclusive selection of Riva Yachts on Starship Yachts and explore the timeless elegance that has defined luxury yachting for over a century. If you’re seeking pre-owned Riva yachts, explore our brokerage service. For available yachts, browse through our yacht stock . Contact us now to discover your ideal yacht.
Nothing elseRiva is the oldest and most iconic shipyard in the world, incredibly well known for its tradition and innovation: the brand has also played a starring role in the film industry for over 60 years, often stealing the show from international actors and actresses. Today an emblem of modern, sophisticated elegance expressed in the skilful combination of cutting-edge design with high-quality materials. The world’s most famous shipyard, the legend of contemporary yachting and the recognised icon of fine Italian yachting artistry: the Riva story is all about the unique, inimitable savoir-faire, making history since 1842.
Select your region Select your language Ferretti S.p.A.Tax code and VAT no. 04485970968 Registered Office Via Irma Bandiera, 62 – 47841 Cattolica (RN) Italy REA no. RN 296608 - Companies Register no. 04485970968 Share capital € 338.482.654,00 fully paid-up PEC: [email protected] Cookies on our site For more information Cookie CenterThis website uses technical cookies, which are necessary for you to browse it and which help us to provide the service. With your consent, we use profiling cookies to offer you an increasingly agreeable browsing experience, to facilitate interaction with our social-media features, and to enable you to receive marketing messages tailored to your browsing habits and interests. To accept all profiling cookies, click ACCEPT ; to decline, click REFUSE . For more information about the cookies we use, please see our Cookie Policy. always active How Riva Became The Ultimate Italian Luxury Yacht BrandThese beautiful boats have been favored by everyone from Sophia Loren to George Clooney.
Riva has always been at the top of the Richter Scale of cool. The wooden Italian speedboats ooze glamour and sophistication, especially when they were so famously owned and graced by the likes of Brigitte Bardot, Alain Delon, Sophia Loren, and power duo Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor–the mid-century equivalent of Jay-Z and Beyoncé. Even today, the myth of Riva isn’t just era defining, it’s place defining. To illustrate this, is it possible to picture St. Tropez without sun worshipers celebrating on a Riva boat, or can Lake Como be complete without George Clooney plying its waters in a Riva, evoking a modern day Carey Grant? Beyond the irresistible jet-set imagery of the Riviera of the 1950s and ‘60s, Riva boats still command smiles and drools today with their contemporary models. And that’s the brilliance of Carlo Riva. Carlo was the great-grandson of Pietro Riva who, 177 years ago, founded the namesake company on Lake Iseo in northern Italy. Similar to its larger and more famous brothers Lake Como and Lake Garda, the tip of Lake Iseo sits at the foot of the Alps and is surrounded on both sides by screensaver-worthy countryside, villages and vineyards. It’s a place that begs James Bond to chase villains or seduce women on something as appropriate as a shiny mahogany speedboat. Here in the town of Sarnico, Carlo followed in the footsteps of his father who, after having apprenticed under the original paterfamilias, slowly transitioned Riva from a maker of transportation and passenger craft to pleasure and power craft. When it was his turn to take the helm, however, Carlo broke with tradition and transformed the small family business of made-to-order powerboats into a global industrialized powerhouse. He did this by looking to the American company Chris-Craft, emulating its processes, but also taking it a step further. At the time, Chris-Craft was the Cadillac of runabouts – they defined a product and a style. They were handsome, powerful, reliable, and attainable by the burgeoning upper middle class. If Chris-Craft was to Cadillac, it seemed, then Riva would be to Ferrari. https://www.instagram.com/p/B2pGXmkl2mx Carlo was very perceptive to the growing demands of a post-war Europe flush with prosperity, and excelled at capturing the collective zeitgeist. He knew there was a market for his vision and so with the boldness of a Caesar, he took a massive risk and built a new ultramodern (not to mention incredibly cool) boatyard on the lake shore – a working monument that still serves as the company’s headquarters today. Although Carlo implemented a modern assembly-line approach to Riva boatbuilding – a process that changed the fortunes and the future of the company, he never sacrificed the family’s legendary attention to detail (such as aligning every screwhead horizontally, for example). Even more significant, Carlo became a leader in marine design and application, making his boats not just practical and beautiful but also innovative. This melding of state-of-the-art methods with old-world craftsmanship, combined with Carlo’s innate mastery of image building, propelled Riva to almost immediate international prestige. As the Italians do so well, Carlo was able to imbue his brand with an intangible essence that evoked all that was desirable. A Riva wasn’t just a luxury boat, it was a lifestyle statement that represented the epitome of la dolce vita. To own a Riva was to live the good life. https://www.instagram.com/p/B2R07RlFidv In keeping with Carlo’s vision, Riva continues to embrace the latest in modern technology when it comes to building its boats today, with a model line that has grown to include personal speedboats as well as seaworthy yachts. Just as important, Riva also maintains its fastidious attention to detail and infuses each craft with a uniquely Italian spirit. The signature visual features of a Riva boat and, by extension, the Riva brand are the strips of polished mahogany covering the bow and stern (still finished with 22 hand-applied coats of special glossy sealant) and the famous Riva turquoise blue upholstery. The mahogany details are still present in modern Rivas, although most now sport other upholstery colors than turquoise. Nevertheless, this proprietary shade of seafoam blue is as intertwined with the brand as rosso corsa is with Ferrari. To visit the boatyard in Sarnico is a pilgrimage in the motoring world, especially for those obsessed with this iconic brand – like me. Treating my special invitation like a golden ticket, I arrived at this hallowed space floating on a cloud. Even more fortunate, it was a Sunday morning when the facility was closed and I was getting a personal tour from the company’s resident historian. https://www.instagram.com/p/B2PFQUegFbd “Here is the first Aquarama,” he says, pointing to the most legendary of all Riva models. “This is Serafino Riva’s (Carlo’s dad) first racing boat, that’s the Aquariva by Marc Newson, and this is the boat done in collaboration with Ferrari.” As I’m led from room to room, the weight of history only increases and so does my appreciation. “This is where the carpenters carve the mahogany panels, this is where fiberglass components are made, over here in this engine bay are boats nearing completion…” But the holy of holies was the personal office of Carlo Riva. Designed by him to resemble the bridge of a ship, the spacious room occupies the uppermost floor of the building and is accessed by spiral stairs of gleaming mahogany. Jutting out above the water, the room is lined with massive windows overlooking the lake – where Carlo could personally see every new boat leaving the factory – and the floor is made of heavily worn, polished wood rescued from an antique ship, complete with rust marks left by the old iron nails. There’s an ancient ship’s wheel and a large brass engine telegraph (the instrument that has a lever pointing to “full, half, slow,” etc.). Not surprisingly, fabric pillows in the famous Riva blue color line a sofa, stacks of Riva books line the shelves, and the maestro’s long, wide desk sits in the corner surveying the room. This handsome command post is supposedly just as he left it. And what’s impressive is that it casually effuses that intangible Riva style – retrospective but modern, high-design but warm, masculine but elegant, thematic but not kitsch. In a word, it’s perfectly balanced – like some form of Italian feng shui. My private tour inevitably ended but my interest was only heightened. What’s that I hear? I’m welcome to return anytime to have a further look behind the scenes, and an Aquariva had been scheduled to take me an hour up the lake to lunch? The rain that had been falling outside was starting to let up. As I left Sarnico I could’ve sworn that as I looked back I saw a rainbow in the sky and it fell on the Riva boatworks. For more, follow Jared Zaugg on Instagram . 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The story of classic Riva yachts go right back to 1842 , when a young Pietro Riva began repairing and building yachts on Lake Iseo in northern Italy. But it was his great-grandson, the legendary Carlo Riva , who had the vision to create a range of wooden-hulled speedboats that were to become the epitome of the jet-set era of the 1950s and 1960s.Carlo Riva was inspired by the products of the American yacht builder Chris-Craft, for which he was an agent, and he used Chris-Craft and Chrysler engines in his classic Riva yachts. We trace the history of the most popular classic Rivas, and round up a few of the most memorable Rivas of all time… This sporty Riva classic yacht was equally well suited for a day of sunbathing or watersports. Featuring a large, sunken sun deck and often seen towing water-skiers, this sporty Riva classic yacht was equally well suited for a day of sunbathing or watersports. The Riva Florida is propelled by a single engine and ranged from 5.59 metres to 6.27 metres in her Super Florida size. Though she was built in Italy, like her brethren, her sun-loving demeanour earned her the moniker of the US “Sunshine State” and was named after Florida as at the time it was the place most closely linked with the sport of waterskiing. In her time in build, 426 Florida Rivas were delivered, including 711 of the bigger and more powerful Super Florida models. Only one left from 40 boats Corsaro (1946-55): Only one yacht is thought to survive from the 40-strong pack of the first range of classic Riva yachts. The two-seater Corsaro Riva series was designed by Carlo Riva, based on the AR Sport motor boat. Production started on 1950, and the series ranged in length from 4.8 to 5.65 metres LOA and she was fitted with various engines. Perhaps the best-known by sight classic Riva yacht. Certainly one of the most popular, is the Ariston, which was built for nearly 25 years. The single-engine Ariston measures 6.7 meters and features a distinctive rounded stern and wooden sax board. There were 823 Riva Ariston yachts built and another 189 Super Aristons delivered. The first twin-engine classic Riva yacht The first twin-engine classic range Riva yacht was the Tritone, in build from 1950-1966. While 221 of the standard Tritone version were delivered, far fewer of the far more desired Super Tritone came into being, with only 21 hitting the water. At nearly eight metres LOA, the Super Tritone was a long, powerful version of Riva’s Tritone, its biggest thus far. The Super Tritone is valued at €200,000-€300,000.
The rarest Riva speedboat Riva owners may commonly have been rich and famous, but it was rare to get special treatment; however, Carlo Riva broke his rule in the case of the Como industrialist, champion sailor and Riva patron, Achille Roncoroni. In 1960, Roncoroni persuaded the company to build him a one-off version of the Tritone Special model classic Riva yacht. He wanted the best, fastest and largest Riva ever. What he got was an 8.3 metre wood-clad wonder powered by two high-performance, marinised Cadillac Eldorado V8 engines, each producing 325hp to push the boat to a stunning 60mph. The unique interior had red, white and blue front seats that could be laid flat to let occupants sunbathe away from prying eyes. The dashboard featured sparkling, chrome bezel instruments befitting the Cadillac-powered Special. Roncoroni used the boat, Ribot III , mostly on Como, and kept her until 1970 before selling her on to the second owner who has owned this classic Riva ever since. And, true to his word, Carlo Riva ensured Ribot III remained a one-off, even turning down a request for a similar craft from King Hussein of Jordan. The most expensive classic Riva yacht The original Riva Aquarama line was delivered from 1962 to 1972. This included first classic Riva Aquarama yacht, of which 288 were sold, and the Super Aquarama, with 203 splashing. The Aquarama Special then emerged, running from 1972 to 1996 with 278 boats built. The most expensive classic Riva ever built was probably an Aquarama, which crossed the block at Mecum Auctions in Kissimmee, Florida, back in 2011, for an impressive $975,000. Bidders from around the world competed to own the boat, which was considered extra special, because it was the last of the original, wooden-hulled Rivas to be sold to the public. Hull No 774 was completed in 1996 and delivered new to the founding family of the giant Sony Corporation on 23 December 1998. Surely the ultimate Christmas present, it was one of six “End of the Era” commemorative editions produced. Its owners, however, clocked up fewer than 20 hours aboard her in 12 years, with their most ambitious voyage being a return trip across Lake Garda for lunch. The celebrity’s choice of Riva The Riva Junior was the late 1960s replacement for the basic Riva Florida. At 5.6 metres, the classic Riva yacht model Junior found fame as the choice of the celebrity set such as Brigitte Bardot and Peter Sellers. The Riva Junior is valued at €30,000-€40,000. The modern classic Riva speedboat Despite the move into fibreglass — and now superyacht-size yachts even — Riva’s current owner, the Ferretti Group, is still passionate about preserving the essence of classic Riva yachts in its new runabouts. In 2001, a year after Ferretti Group purchased Riva, the Aquariva was launched. This 11-metre yacht was specifically designed as a successor to the inimitable Aquarama. Though built in GRP, her sweet exterior lines and wood detail harken back to the days of a bygone era when the first classic Rivas plied the waters. The newest Riva speedboat Launched in June 2016, the Rivamare is the newest addition to the Riva collection. Despite her effortlessly classic styling, the 11.88 meter Rivamare is packed with modern technology, such as underwater lighting, air conditioning, an electro-hydraulic bimini shade and a Seakeeper NG5 stabilizer.
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July 15 2024 "RIVA PER SEMPRE. A history of achievements and innovation”: on air from July 16 on Sky Arte.Sarnico, July 15, 2024 – 1842 saw the birth of the boatyard that soon became a legend, establishing itself as an emblem of yachting and a symbol of elegance and innovation. Over 180 years of tradition, style and cutting-edge expertise masterfully told in “RIVA PER SEMPRE . A history of achievements and innovation” , a documentary written and directed by Francesca Molteni and Antonio Vettese and produced by Yacht Design, Boat Show Television and Muse Factory of Projects. The documentary premiered in Milan will be aired in prime time on Sky Art, on Tuesday July 16 at 9.15pm, and streamed on the NOW platform. “RIVA PER SEMPRE” looks back over the highlights in the exciting history of Riva , the boatyard founded in 1842 on Lake Iseo by shipwright Pietro Riva and now an international icon of yachting and a symbol of Made in Italy excellence. The documentary explores the evolution of Riva, from the first fishing boats to the racing powerboats of the 1920s and ‘30s , and from the age of Italy’s la dolce vita to the industrial development promoted by Carlo Riva. It spans the period from the iconic Aquarama to the launch of the first Aquariva in the noughties and the return to superyachts with the Riva Superyachts Division, culminating in the brand’s grand 180th anniversary celebrations in 2022 and more recently the dual listing on the Hong Kong and Milan stock exchanges. “ When passion takes shape it becomes a Riva: style, innovation and beauty,” said Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi . “Great stories are an experience handed down from generation to generation, and this extraordinary documentary tells us in moving words and images how to conquer the world with the power of a dream.” The documentary set in the Sarnico and La Spezia shipyards, the Superyachts Division in Ancona, The Gritti Palace in Venice and the Riva Private Deck in Lezzeno on Lake Como is a celebration of Made in Italy excellence, of Carlo Riva’s grand entrepreneurial vision, and of all the people who have contributed to the brand’s prestige . With the help of archive footage and more recent images, Riva’s over 180 years of history are told in the words of Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi and Piero Ferrari, Ferrari Vice Chair and head of the Ferretti Group Strategic Product Committee. Period footage of Carlo Riva and stories told by artist Mimmo Paladino, actor Pierfrancesco Favino and designers Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta of Officina Italiana Design are interwoven with interviews with the production managers of the La Spezia and Sarnico shipyards , and analysis by Elena Dellapiana , lecturer at Politecnico di Torino, and journalist Antonio Vettese.
Ferretti S.p.A.Tax code and VAT no. 04485970968 Registered Office Via Irma Bandiera, 62 – 47841 Cattolica (RN) Italy REA no. RN 296608 - Companies Register no. 04485970968 Share capital € 338.482.654,00 fully paid-up PEC: [email protected] Cookies on our site For more information Cookie CenterThis website uses technical cookies, which are necessary for you to browse it and which help us to provide the service. With your consent, we use profiling cookies to offer you an increasingly agreeable browsing experience, to facilitate interaction with our social-media features, and to enable you to receive marketing messages tailored to your browsing habits and interests. To accept all profiling cookies, click ACCEPT ; to decline, click REFUSE . For more information about the cookies we use, please see our Cookie Policy. always active Yachting Pleasure INTERNATIONAL
RIVA HISTORY AND INNOVATION The new full-electric Riva El-Iseo powerboat and scale models of legendary wooden Rivas featured at this Italian event dedicated to the Prancing HorseRIVA HISTORY AND INNOVATION AT THE CAVALLINO CLASSIC MODENA When talk turns to glorious heritages, style and beauty, Riva’s name is always heard. So it was only natural for the brand to be a partner at the exclusive Cavallino Classic Modena, the prestigious international Concours d’Elegance reserved for Ferrari road and racing models from all periods, held in Modena from May 17 to 19. Now in its fourth edition, the Cavallino Classic Modena is an Italian expression of the famous Palm Beach Cavallino Classic Concours d’Elegance, which this year featured a magnificent Riva Anniversario. The Cavallino Classic Modena was held, as tradition requires, in Modena in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari, the man who gave the world the Legend of the Reds and the Prancing Horse. The event is dedicated to that brilliant businessman and his magnificent cars, in fact, and was held in the evocative setting of Casa Maria Luigia, the mansion created by chef Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore. Riva rose to the occasion by bringing to Modena the new Riva El-Iseo , its first full-electric powerboat, which it displayed in the centre of the pond in the park at Casa Maria Luigia, and also scale models of legendary Riva boats.Equally admired was the Riva prize of honour: the winner of the category “Best of show gran turismo – Finest GT Ferrari Modena 2024” in this Concours d’Elegance was presented with the iconic helm of the Aquarama . The award ceremony took place on Saturday evening during a gala dinner at Massimo Bottura’s Osteria Francescana after the splendid cavalcade of the competition’s 25 cars through the centre of Modena. More StoriesRIVA PER SEMPREA RIVA-STYLE SUMMER IN ANDALUSIAThe evolution of a legendRiva and the origins of the racers legend: from large boats to racers, the era of serafino riva (1900 - 1940) Racing boats played an important role in Riva's evolution. As it does today, racing offered a way to experiment with materials and technologies that would then be adapted and used successfully on recreational boats. But Riva's adventure in racing is above all a fantastic collection of victories. Serafino Riva finishes first overall at the third Pavia-Venezia, with an average speed of 51.660 km/h. In second place, his friend Giuseppe Guerini. CHARTING THE COURSE TO RACING BOATS In the early twentieth century, powerboats built up an elite following of increasingly active and passionate enthusiasts. It was from his father that Serafino inherited his passion for boats and engines. He was fascinated by speed on the water and became so involved in the first outboard racing competitions that he entered them as both builder and driver. Dino Sestini (second from right) with his Riva-Soriano at the family factory in Bergamo, 1946. As a result, in the 1920s the Riva Boatyard stopped producing large vessels and focused exclusively on racing boats. Serafino quickly became the benchmark for all the top powerboat racers of the period, building customised boats for them with extraordinary commitment and attention to detail. It wasn't long before he began working with Ole Evinrude, the creator of small, light, low-cost outboard engines, to build his first racing boat, which he himself drove to victory in numerous races. He put together a team of drivers, among them Giudo Paglia, Carillo Pesenti and Giuseppe Guerino. Guerino made a key contribution to the success of the nascent Riva brand with his experience as a race driver, mechanic and test driver. Bianca Casalini in "Rondine Bianca VIII", her husband Carlo's class X-1000 Riva-Soriano, 1935. Serafino Riva and Luigi Calvi, in an AZ (Riva hull, Elto 1000 cc engine), win their second victory in the Outboard category at the "Raid Pavia-Venezia", 1932. Tremezzo (Lake Como): Giuseppe Guerini and "Brun Ella" (Elto 500 cc), in which he was to win the third "Coppa Belgir", 1931. The cover of Moto Nautica, June 1931: Serafino Riva and Giuseppe Guerini win the "Raid Pavia Venezia" for the first time, setting a new record in the Outboard category with an average speed of 51.660 km/h. FROM VICTORY TO VICTORY The 1930s began with an amazing win in what was seen as the most interesting and difficult race in the world: Pavia to Venice, a distance of 431 km on the treacherous River Po. This success consolidated the boatyard's reputation and Serafino continued to diversify and perfect the production process. Working with designer Gerolamo Caviglia, between 1934 and 1938 he built six single-seater hulls featuring a redan*. The first of these, "Sans Atout", was for Augusto Valtolina, who broke the world racer speed record in it in August 1934, reaching 107.685 km/h. Five months later, in January 1935, the same boat, rechristened 'Giovinezza' and sold on to Ferdinando Venturi, broke the same record with a speed of 109.725 km/h. The second racer, 'Ronzino', was built for Count Metello Rossi di Montelera and scored a hat trick of victories: first in the 'Coppa del Presidente' in Gardone (1935), second in the 'Concorso Internazionale' in Venice (1935) and another first in the 'Riunione Internazionale' in Campione d'Italia (1936). The 'Ronzino' is the only surviving Racer built by Serafino. Valtolina's "Sans Atout" was bought by Ferdinando Venturi, who renamed it "Giovinezza" and beat the world record with a speed of 109.725 km/h. In 1935, with the same boat and same engine upgraded to 1,800 cc, Venturi set a new record in the 3,000 cc racer class: 116.804 km/h. The end of the 1930s brought Cantiere F.lli Riva an uninterrupted series of victories, records and titles, with Riva boats placing first past the post in all outboard classes, from 250 cc to 1,000 cc. The star European drivers in the Outboard Racing category (X-1000 class) were brothers Augusto and Renzo Romani, who raced with a remarkable five Riva powerboats. From the 1930s to the '50s, they racked up a total of 104 victories and 40 top three placings, winning six European and eleven Italian Championships, and setting two world records. Other key figures in the racing world at that time were Gino Alquati, Giuseppe Guerini, Carlo Pagliano, Paolo Mora, Emilio Osculati and the intrepid Irma Lucchini. Without of course forgetting Ferdinando Venturi and Vittorio Roncoroni. The advent of the 1940s brought the curtain down on the glory, success and enthusiasm of racing, overshadowed by the tragedy of war. Venice, 1935: Conte Metello Rossi di Montelera finishes second in the Concorso Internazionale Motonautico in "Ronzino", a Riva racer with a 1,500 cc BPM G.S. 120 engine (with compressor). Augusto Shapira at Gardone Riviera in "Antares", an 800 kg class racer with a Ford V8-3200 engine. Designed by Carlo Riva, it was the Yard's first "three-point" type racer. The photo shows the first forward cockpit version, 1950. At the Idroscalo di Milano, Ernesto Carmagnani's "Azeta" made an excellent debut by winning the 1,500 cc racer class event and also the Ward Trophy in Campione d'Italia, 1936. Adolfo Ricci's "Eja III", a Riva-BPM 1500 with compressor, in Paris, 1935. Idroscalo di Milano: Vittorio Roncoroni in "Maia III", the Riva racer (1,800 cc BPM engine with compressor) in which he broke the world long-distance record in the 3,000 cc racer class with a speed of 96.439 km/h. Splendid close-up of Carlo Pagliano in a Johnson-powered Riva, winner in the A-250 class at the second Giornata Motonautica Padana, 1938. Ferretti S.p.A.Tax code and VAT no. 04485970968 Registered Office Via Irma Bandiera, 62 – 47841 Cattolica (RN) Italy REA no. RN 296608 - Companies Register no. 04485970968 Share capital € 338.482.654,00 fully paid-up PEC: [email protected] |
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Join the myth - Riva Yacht. A contemporary legend. The Riva story is all about the unique, inimitable savoir-faire that is the secret of its winning beauty and style today and has always been from the very beginning. It was 1842, and on Lake Iseo, a sudden storm had devastated the fishing fleet. Yet a young shipwright was working wonders ...
Learn about the history and features of the most iconic wooden-hulled speedboats from Riva, the Italian yacht builder. From Tritone to Rivamare, discover the models that defined the jet-set era and beyond.
The Riva Yachts history began in 1842 when Pietro Riva, a 20-year-old carpenter, left Sarnico, Italy to repair boats at Lake Iseo. His exceptional woodworking skills on a severely damaged boat led to additional work in the region to repair and build new boats. Riva's Sarnico Shipyard, 1842. As he completed orders for fishing and row boats, his ...
Learn how Riva yachts, built in Italy since 1842, became the epitome of nautical elegance and glamour. Discover the history, design, and innovation of the Riva dynasty and its iconic boats.
Riva Yachts' history dates back to 1842, when young craftsman Pietro Riva arrived on the shores of Lake d'Iseo to repair fishing boats damaged in a storm. Commissions to build boats quickly followed, and the Italian boatbuilding dynasty that would become Riva Yachts was established. From that tiny shipyard in the town of Sarnico, Italy ...
Learn about the life and achievements of Carlo Riva, the creator of the world's most beautiful boats and a master of style and elegance. Discover how he launched Italian design on the world stage and made Riva a legend and a brand.
Riva: the Origins of the Legend. In 1842, Pietro Riva founded what was to become a remarkable dynasty of expert craftsmen and designers, pioneers and giants in the history of yachting. By Museimpresa. 1939, left to right, drivers Carmagnani, Guerini, Sestini and Dupuy with Serafino and Carlo Riva. G.S.C. Riva - Riva boatyard ramps at the Sebino ...
Riva's Genesis: A Legacy Begins In the realm of timeless elegance, luxury and sophistication, fewer brands are more emblematic than Riva. Established in 1842 in the quaint town of Sarnico on Lake Iseo, Italy, a young, skilled carpenter named Pietro Riva embarked on a venture that would forever transform the world of luxury boating. Craftsmanship […]
Lia Riva shares her memories and insights on the 180-year history of Riva, the iconic Italian shipyard of wooden boats. She talks about her father Carlo, the innovations, the customers and the first electric Riva model El-Iseo.
Riva is the oldest and most iconic shipyard in the world, with a history of tradition and innovation since 1842. Discover the Riva yachts, the emblem of modern, sophisticated elegance and fine Italian yachting artistry.
The first Riva-branded boat was built in 1969 and the 1970s began with the launch of fibreglass production across the entire range, in collaboration with the American yard Bertram, which had been using the material extensively for years and with excellent results. The first two Riva models in composite material were the Bahia Mar 20 day cruiser ...
Learn how Pietro Riva started the Riva dynasty in 1842, and how his son Serafino transformed it into a pioneer of motorboats and racing boats. Discover the milestones and achievements of the Riva story, from Lake Iseo to the world stage.
Riva is a famous brand of wooden speedboats that have been owned by celebrities and associated with glamour and sophistication. Learn how Riva became the ultimate Italian luxury yacht brand, from ...
Learn how Riva, one of the most famous yachting brands in the world, started from a small shipyard on Lake Iseo in 1842 and became a symbol of Italian style and craftsmanship. Discover the milestones, models and innovations that shaped Riva's legacy and its current fleet of superyachts.
Fleet Updates A closer look at the history of Riva. Written by Vivian Hendriksz. Wed, 08 Aug 2018 | 09:00
Riva Yacht offers a range of yachts from 8 to 90 metres in length, with open, sportfly and flybridge styles. Discover the history, destinations, events and news of this iconic brand of performance, safety and style.
Riva Aquarama is a luxury wooden runabout built by Italian yachtbuilder Riva from 1962 to 1996. It has a mahogany hull, a wrap-around windshield, a convertible roof, and a swim ladder, and is considered the Ferrari of the boat world.
Learn about the history of Riva, the Italian yacht builder that created the iconic wooden-hulled speedboats of the jet-set era. Discover the most classic Riva launches of all time, from Florida to Aquarama, and their features, values and celebrities.
From its origins on Lake Como with Pietro Riva, to the era of the 'Bella Vita' and industrial development, through to the present day, in a fascinating journey through history and images of moments that have made history. ... 1842 - 1930s. Origins. HISTORY. 1930s - '40s. The age of racing. HISTORY. 1950s - '60s. Series-produced boats ...
A history of achievements and innovation": on air from July 16 on Sky Arte. Sarnico, July 15, 2024 - 1842 saw the birth of the boatyard that soon became a legend, establishing itself as an emblem of yachting and a symbol of elegance and innovation. Over 180 years of tradition, style and cutting-edge expertise masterfully told in "RIVA PER ...
Explore the range of Riva yachts, from 8 to 54 meters, with photos, videos and documents. Learn about the history and legacy of the Italian brand that produces minimalist, open, sportfly and superyachts.
Riva rose to the occasion by bringing to Modena the new Riva El-Iseo, its first full-electric powerboat, which it displayed in the centre of the pond in the park at Casa Maria Luigia, and also scale models of legendary Riva boats. RIVA HISTORY AND INNOVATION. Equally admired was the Riva prize of honour: the winner of the category "Best of ...
Learn how Riva became a legend in powerboat racing from the 1930s to the 1950s, with Serafino Riva as the visionary builder and driver. Discover the achievements, records and stories of the Riva racers and their drivers, from Sans Atout to Ronzino.