Best of Riva

5Riva Scoiattolo (1950)

Chapitre I Naissance du style The Birth of the Style Au début des années 1950, Carlo Riva engage une transformation décisive du chantier de Sarnico. Il modernise les ateliers, introduit des méthodes de production plus rigoureuses et standardise les gabarits de coupe, permettant une fabrication plus précise des coques en acajou. Cette période voit l’apparition des premiers modèles qui définissent le style Riva. Le Scoiattolo ouvre la voie, suivi la même année par l’Ariston et le Tritone, deux runabouts qui fixent les principes de construction : lignes tendues, pont latté, vernis multicouches et assemblages contrôlés.

En 1952, le Florida propose une version plus accessible, adaptée à un usage familial.

Le Sebino et le , lancés en 1953, élargissent encore la gamme avec des dimensions et des motorisations variées. Le Super Florida, en 1955, consolide cette évolution en intégrant des améliorations de structure et de finition. L’ensemble de ces modèles établit les bases d’un style identifiable, fondé sur la qualité du bois, la précision des gestes et une recherche constante de fiabilité. C’est dans cette combinaison de technique maîtrisée et de production rationalisée que naît véritablement l’esthétique Riva.

In the early 1950s, Carlo Riva embarked on a decisive transformation of the Sarnico shipyard. He modernised the workshops, introduced more rigorous production methods and standardised the cutting templates, enabling more precise construction of the mahogany hulls. This period saw the emergence of the first models that defined the Riva style. The Scoiattolo led the way, followed in the same year by the Ariston and the Tritone, two runabouts that established the principles of construction: clean lines, a planked deck, multi-layered varnish and precision-controlled assembly.

In 1952, the Florida offered a more affordable version, suited to family use.

The Sebino and the , launched in 1953, further expanded the range with a variety of sizes and engine options. The Super Florida, in 1955, consolidated this evolution by incorporating improvements to the structure and finish. Together, these models laid the foundations for a distinctive style, based on the quality of the wood, precision craftsmanship and a constant pursuit of reliability. It was through this combination of masterful craftsmanship and streamlined production that the Riva aesthetic truly came into being.

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9Riva Tritone

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15 Riva Tritone Cadillac

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47 Riva Aquamara

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105 Riva Diable 50

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119 Riva 32 Ferrari Special

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159 Riva Rivale

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RIVA 63 VIRTUS LA LIGNE ÉTENDUE Le 63 Virtus s’impose par une ligne continue, tendue, qui file de l’étrave au tableau arrière sans rupture. Un open sculpté pour la vitesse, où chaque surface semble étirée pour capter la lumière et souligner la puissance. Le Virtus incarne une lecture sportive du design Riva, assumée, architecturale, parfaitement proportionnée.

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The 63 Virtus stands out for its continuous, taut line that runs seamlessly from the bow to the transom. An open-deck boat sculpted for speed, where every surface seems stretched to capture the light and emphasise its power. The Virtus embodies a sporty interpretation of Riva’s design: confident, architectural and perfectly proportioned.

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235 Riva 50 Metri

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RIVA 82 DIVA Le Diva introduit une nouvelle manière d’habiter un Riva : volumes élargis, circulation périphérique et zones modulables qui transforment le pont en véritable plateforme de vie.

Cette architecture privilégie la stabilité, la fluidité des mouvements et une utilisation plus polyvalente, sans renoncer à la précision des lignes qui caractérise le chantier.

The Diva introduces a new way of experiencing life on a Riva: more spacious interiors, a perimeter layout and flexible areas that transform the deck into a true living space. This design prioritises stability, fluid movement and greater versatility, without compromising on the precision of the lines that characterise the shipyard.

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Riva Lamborghini

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Acknowledgements This book would never have seen the light of day without the support of all those who, in one way or another, have shared their passion for the world of Riva.

My sincerest thanks go first and foremost to Jean-François Florentin, for his continued trust, his enthusiasm and his ever-bold editorial vision.

A big thank you also goes to Ylan Hilaire, whose talent and sensitivity have brought out the very best in the photographs and texts in this book.

I would also like to extend my warmest thanks to all the friends and enthusiasts who have supported me throughout this adventure. I hope they recognise themselves here and know just how invaluable their support, advice and encouragement have been.

Finally, my deepest gratitude goes to the Riva shipyards, as well as their representatives, dealers and partners in France and across the Atlantic, for their warm welcome, their willingness to help and their commitment to keeping the legacy of this exceptional brand alive.

To you all, thank you.

Photo credits Author’s archives • Riva Historical Society • Riva Archives • Private collections • Collectors and enthusiasts • Period documents.

The author and the publisher have taken all reasonable steps to identify the authors and rights holders of the reproduced material. Should any omission or error be found despite these efforts, they would be grateful if the persons concerned would contact the publisher so that it may be rectified in a future edition.

ISBN 978-2-487-507-289 EAN 9782487507289 Dépôt légal : Novembre 2026 Achevé d’imprimer en décembre 2026 en Chine par © Edition FLORENTIN 2026 22 rue de la Prévoyance 94300 Vincennes France 296