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Riva Aquariva Special, an Italian classic returns with a contemporary spirit

Timeless design, twin Yanmar engines and enhanced comfort define the new 10.07-metre Riva Aquariva Special

The Riva Aquariva Special updates an Italian icon with modern technology, refined spaces and a top speed of 40.5 knots

Some boats are remembered for their size, while others make their mark through speed. A select few become genuine symbols, recognisable before their name can even be read on the hull. The Riva Aquariva Special belongs to this rare group, updating one of Italy’s most distinctive motorboats while preserving its unmistakable elegance.

Measuring 10.07 metres in length, this refined open yacht retains the harmonious proportions of the Aquariva while introducing a series of carefully considered improvements. The result is not a radical departure, but a measured evolution designed to make the boat more contemporary, comfortable and intuitive to enjoy.

A Special name reserved for Riva icons

The Special designation has a unique significance within Riva’s history. Before the Aquariva, only the legendary Aquarama had received this title, giving the new model a particularly important place in the shipyard’s range.

The choice reflects the success of the Aquariva, which has remained in production for more than two decades, with over 300 units built. During that time, it has become a modern expression of the Aquarama legacy, translating the atmosphere of the classic Riva runabout into a yacht created for a new generation of owners.

A cleaner and more contemporary silhouette

The familiar profile remains beautifully balanced, although a closer look reveals a number of subtle changes. The windscreen has been completely redesigned to create a more aerodynamic appearance, while the bow features new navigation lights and streamlined housings.

The deck has also become smoother and more visually restrained. Removing the traditional skylights creates an uninterrupted surface, complemented by polished details and carefully finished materials that remain unmistakably Riva.

The design was developed by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, founders of Officina Italiana Design, the studio responsible for the exclusive design of every Riva yacht for more than 30 years. The project was completed in collaboration with Ferretti Group’s Product Strategy Committee and Engineering Department.

A cockpit designed as a lounge on the water

The social heart of the Aquariva Special is its generous U-shaped sofa, which wraps around the central area of the cockpit. The layout can accommodate up to eight guests and adapt to different moments throughout the day.

A central table, also available with an adjustable up-and-down mechanism, creates an inviting setting for lunch or drinks. When lowered, it helps transform the seating area into an additional and more private sunbathing space.

Protection from the sun is provided by a canopy concealed inside the backrest. This allows the cockpit to remain open and visually uncluttered when the cover is not required.

To starboard, a practical service cabinet contains a sink, refrigerator and worktop for preparing snacks and drinks. At the stern, the redesigned bathing platform is wider and more ergonomic, making access to the sea and boarding from the water easier.

A helm combining tradition and digital technology

The driving position retains the refined atmosphere associated with a classic Riva, while offering owners a choice between analogue instruments and a fully digital configuration.

The dashboard can be equipped with up to two Boening displays and an integrated navigation system. An optional joystick also makes close-quarter manoeuvring more intuitive, particularly when entering a marina or approaching a crowded quay.

Rather than allowing technology to dominate the environment, the systems have been integrated discreetly. The helm remains elegant and uncluttered, while providing the information and assistance expected from a contemporary motor yacht.

Greater comfort both underway and at anchor

One of the most significant innovations is the option to install a Seakeeper NG6 gyroscopic stabiliser, designed to reduce rolling both while cruising and when the boat is stationary.

Its installation has been made possible by adopting infusion lamination for the hull construction. The new process significantly reduces weight while maintaining structural rigidity, allowing the stabiliser to be fitted without compromising the boat’s balance or performance.

Humphree interceptors replace the conventional trim tabs used on the previous version. By adjusting the yacht’s running attitude, they contribute to a more stable and efficient cruising experience at different speeds.

Twin Yanmar engines deliver over 40 knots

Behind the polished surfaces and elegant proportions, the Aquariva Special retains a distinctly energetic personality. Power comes from two 370 hp Yanmar 8LV engines paired with electronically controlled two-speed gearboxes.

Riva declares a top speed of 40.5 knots and a cruising speed of 36 knots. With a 480-litre fuel capacity, the yacht offers a stated cruising range of approximately 155 nautical miles.

These figures make it suitable for fast coastal passages, day trips between Mediterranean destinations or use as a sophisticated tender for a larger yacht. It is a boat designed not only to be admired alongside the quay, but also to provide an engaging experience behind the wheel.

An open yacht created for eight guests

With a maximum beam of 2.80 metres and a draft of 0.96 metres, the Aquariva Special offers carefully organised spaces while retaining the agility expected from a yacht of this size.

Up to eight people can be welcomed on board, while a cabin below deck expands the range of possible uses during longer days on the water. Storage, service areas and seating have been integrated without interrupting the clean lines of the boat.

Every element supports a relaxed way of cruising, combining practical solutions with carefully selected materials and the attention to detail for which Riva is known.

Italian heritage without looking backwards

The Aquariva Special does not attempt to reproduce the past. Instead, it uses Riva’s heritage as the foundation for a contemporary interpretation of nautical elegance, based on balanced proportions, discreet technology and inviting social spaces.

Unveiled at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival in the brand’s distinctive Petrol Blue finish, the model preserves the presence of a classic runabout while introducing features that make a tangible difference to comfort and handling.

In a market where innovation is often expressed through increasingly complex forms, the Aquariva Special follows a quieter direction. It shows that an icon can continue to evolve without losing the natural simplicity that made it recognisable in the first place.

Main technical specifications

Length overall, 10.07 metres
Maximum beam, 2.80 metres
Draft, 0.96 metres
Unladen displacement, 5,200 kg
Fully laden displacement, 6,700 kg
Fuel capacity, 480 litres
Water capacity, 130 litres
Maximum number of guests, 8
Engines, 2 Yanmar 8LV units producing 370 hp each
Maximum speed, 40.5 knots
Cruising speed, 36 knots
Declared range at cruising speed, 155 nautical miles

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Riva Yacht

26 July 2026
© MED Yachting Editorial Team
Riva Aquariva Special, an Italian classic returns with a contemporary spirit
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The information in this article has been sourced from and adapted from official sources and/or press releases, in accordance with our editorial code of ethics.