To fully appreciate these floating works of art one must understand the history of the Riva brand, the craftsmanship and the attention to detail that went into these hand built boats.

Rivas history dates back to 1842 when Pietro Riva began building boats at Sarnico, a small Northern Italian town on the shores of Lake Iseo.

By the 1930’s, by which time the business was managed by Pietro’s grandson Serafino, the Company was a leading manufacturer of small racing boats.  In the 1950’s Serafino’s son Carlo transformed the business.  Carlo created wooden boats of such exceptional style and elegance that they surpassed anything his competitors produced.

The Riva brand became a worldwide legend courted by screen stars, royalty and business moguls alike – famous owners included Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, Peter Sellers, Prince Rainier of Monaco & Grace Kelly and many more. Today a classic Riva is not only an object of desire, but a unique slice of nautical heritage, encapsulating the style, wealth and extravagance of the 50’s and 60’s jet set.

A classic Riva boat is a design icon, a moving sculpture in wood, chrome and glass which commands attention wherever it goes.  Add to this the long list of famous owners, and an association with exotic locations such as Monaco and St Tropez, and it is no wonder the Riva name, over time, has become a legend.