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Shipyard Stories: Riva CEO Alberto Galassi on Writing the Next 180 Years of Boating History

Written By: Rachel Ingram

The name Riva is synonymous with a certain level of timeless style and quality that often only the Italians seem able to achieve. As the illustrious Italian shipyard celebrates its 180th anniversary, we discover what continues to make the brand so iconic.

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The name Riva is synonymous with a certain level of timeless style and quality that often only the Italians seem able to achieve. It stands among greats such as Versace, Gucci and Ferrari as one of the country’s most celebrated brands, beloved for its beautifully crafted wooden boats which have graced waterways and television screens across the globe.

The shipyard’s yachts may not be the largest in the world, but they are arguably some of the most discernible. Even people unfamiliar with yachting will recognise the classic Aquarama boats from their association with Venice, or from watching James Bond movies – the iconic vessel starred alongside Pierce Brosnan in 1995 hit GoldenEye . It was therefore fitting that the shipyard celebrated its 180th anniversary in Venice with a star-studded crowd including David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino and Charles Leclerc.

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“I feel a big burden on my shoulders, to be honest with you,” Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, told us during the celebrations in June. “It’s a huge responsibility – 180 years of Riva and 60 years of Aquarama in the same year.”

Riva has come a long way since its humble beginnings. The shipyard was founded in 1843 in the town of Sarnica by Pietro Riva, who was asked to rebuild a fleet of fishing boats that were destroyed in a storm. News of his quality craftsmanship quickly spread throughout Italy and commissions started rolling in for new vessels. Riva reached its heyday in the 50s and 60s when Pietro’s descendant Carlo Riva took to the helm of the brand and designed models like the famous wooden Aquarama, which became an instant status symbol. Clients at the time included Prince Rainier of Monaco, Sean Connery, Brigitte Bardot and Elizabeth Taylor.

In 2000, Riva was acquired by Ferretti Group and the business continues to grow in both a business sense and a physical sense. Riva now has three shipyards – in Sarnico, La Spezia and Ancona – and, in 2014, it launched a successful superyacht division which has gone onto build a number of groundbreaking vessels including 49m flagships Fifty and Race.

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To commemorate its 180th anniversary, the shipyard launched a limited edition dayboat tender designed in the brand’s retro-style. Only 18 hulls of the ‘Riva Anniversario’ will be produced and will be available only to a select few owners. It is a “masterpiece of outstanding elegance,” Galassi says. The brand also drew on its silver screen credentials to create a short film, Riva the Persuaders! , starring Pierfrancesco Favino and David Beckham.

In addition, in a huge step towards the shipyard’s sustainability ambitions, Galassi revealed that the team is working on the first electric Riva, the prototype of which should be unveiled this summer. Details are few and far between, but he reveals that the model will build on the hybrid Riva patrol vessel which Riva created for the Italian carabinieri (military police) in Venice. 

As for when it’ll hit the market, Galassi says: “We’ll see what the outcome is and then we'll tell you because we expect a huge boom but with Riva, it’s nice to wait. Scarcity is beautiful.”

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The electric Riva brings the brand in line with Ferretti Group’s commitment to creating a more eco-efficient yachting industry. “We believe in sustainability,” Galassi says. “We were the first company in the industry to release a sustainability report in 2019. We were the first to receive the MTU power system hybrid propulsion system for Custom Line – it's an exclusive agreement we had with them in the beginning. Soon we will be developing a fuel cell together with a Canadian company that belongs to our shareholder."

Developments such as this are prime examples of Galassi’s forward-thinking ethic. “We’re looking ahead because if you look only into the past, you're lost,” he says. “Many people ask me, ‘why don't you make a new Aquarama? Why don’t you rebuild the Aquarama?’ The last Aquarama is in a museum – that's it. We can be influenced by the Aquarama but we can't do it again. It would be a sin to think that we can do better than what they did in the 60s and in the 70s.”

“The difficult job is to talk to the new generation and be appealing to the new generation while keeping the same heritage, the same tradition and the same iconic products and brand,” he adds.

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A big part of Galassi’s job is ensuring that the modern-day Riva respects the history and heritage of the brand while driving innovation. He explains that however the brand progresses, it’s pivotal that every model maintains the “look” and “feel” of Riva. “A Riva has to be seen from far away – and has to be different compared to any other boat,” he says. “It has to be immediately recognisable as a Riva – and they have to age well. That's very difficult.”

Achieving this comes down to style, design and materials – think varnished wood, quality leather and shiny steel – and it is perhaps best exemplified in the superyacht division’s new flagship, the Riva 50 Metri. This ground-breaking superyacht “turns Carlo Riva’s dream into reality”. Drawing on the steel Caravelle and Atlantic motoryachts from the 60s and 70s, the 50 Metri blends functionality and aesthetics beautifully to create a truly liveable and comfortable space that enhances the band’s hallmark style.

Looking forward, Galassi’s plan is to “write boating history for the next 180 years.” The chapter has already begun, with two new launches for 2022 – the Riva 102 Corsaro Super, the successor of the popular 100 Corsaro model; and the Riva 130 Bellissima, the biggest Riva fiberglass yacht to date – plus more news coming at September’s Monaco Yacht Show.

Image credits: LaPress, supplied.

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20 de outubro de 2006

Ferruccio Rossi appointed new Riva Ceo

Forlì, October 2006 – The Ferretti Group, world leader in the construction of luxury motor-yachts, announces the recent appointment of Ferruccio Rossi as Riva CEO. Having joined Riva in 2005 as General Manager, in his new role Ferruccio Rossi will be in charge of coordinating the widening of the product range, the geographical development of the sales network and of consolidating the exclusive position of Riva brand, one of the historical trademarks in the world nautical market. Moreover, Ferruccio Rossi will be working in close contact with Ferretti’s Corporate in implementing the strategies and the synergies of the Group. Graduate in Business Economics at the Università Commerciale Luigi Bocconi, Ferruccio Rossi joined Riva in 2005 as General Manager, after gaining around 4 years’ experience in the private equity sector, in the field of transport, distribution and luxury goods. Previously he worked in some important international banking houses.

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Viva Riva: Celebrating 180 years in style

  • September 23, 2022

As Riva honours its 180th birthday in a year marking multiple anniversaries for the shipyard, Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi talks about his special attachment to the brand, its yachts and Carlo Riva himself, as well as David Beckham’s involvement in the celebrations. Words: John Higginson Photos: Ferretti Group

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Pierfrancesco Favino, Alberto Galassi and David Beckham at Riva’s 180th anniversary gala in Venice

When David Beckham attended Riva’s 180th anniversary gala in Venice, he wasn’t only there to add stardust and glamour to the black-tie event. Certainly, the England football icon – who literally wore a black tie – does attract publicity as one of the world’s most recognisable sporting figures.

While partly due to his looks and media savvy, Beckham’s global appeal is also due to a long and successful playing career, winning 115 caps for his country – over half as captain – and starring for iconic clubs in England (Manchester United), Spain (Real Madrid), USA (LA Galaxy), Italy (AC Milan) and France (Paris Saint-Germain).

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Gran Teatro La Fenice hosted Riva’s spectacular gala evening

However, the 47-year-old was also invited to Riva’s glamorous gala at Gran Teatro La Fenice because he’s a Riva owner and because he starred with Italian actor Pierfrancesco Favino and Ferrari F1 driver Charles Leclerc in Riva The Persuaders! , the short film that debuted that evening.

Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group and a long-time Riva owner, was a loyal viewer of The Persuaders! action-comedy TV series of the early 1970s starring Roger Moore and Tony Curtis.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Poster for Riva The Persuaders!

Even though he’s a Board Member at Manchester United’s rivals Manchester City, Galassi was delighted Beckham agreed to star in a film that features high-speed action in Ferrari and Maserati cars then Riva yachts against the backdrop of Monaco and the Côte d’Azur.

“I feel very lucky to have David Beckham as a friend and as the star of a Riva production. David is not only a British style icon and one of the world’s most admired celebrities but also a passionate Riva owner,” Galassi says.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Beckham and Favino during filming

“When we invited him to take part in Riva The Persuaders! he immediately jumped on board with great enthusiasm. This enthusiasm shines through in the short film and I believe is one of the reasons for the great response and millions of views it’s receiving on social media.”

BRAND BEYOND BOATING

In fact, 2022 marks several anniversaries for Riva, including 200 years since the birth of founder Pietro Riva and 100 years since the birth of Carlo Riva, his great grandson, who passed away in 2017. It’s also 60 years since the launch of the iconic Aquarama, which sold a staggering 765 units from 1962 to 1996, and was honoured at the gala evening on Venice’s Grand Canal.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The new limited-edition Anniversario and an Aquarama in Venice

In front of the Riva Lounge at the Gritti Palace, an Aquarama was showcased on a floating platform beside the new Anniversario, an 18-boat, limited-edition series honouring the 18 decades Riva has been afloat.

The boat has been further honoured in Riva Aquarama , a new book of photographs published by Assouline to celebrate ‘the 60 th anniversary of the launch of the most beautiful boat of all time’.

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The Riva Lounge at Porto Cervo marks the Aquarama’s 60 th anniversary

The brand’s visibility in wider culture was documented two years ago in the Riva In The Movie short film starring Favino and a 300-page book paying tribute to the 69 films Riva yachts had appeared in.

Riva’s appeal beyond boating – much like Beckham’s beyond football – is also reflected in the growing series of Riva Lounge and Riva Privée ‘destinations’ offering cocktails and branded products in hotels, restaurants and clubs in the likes of Venice, Monte Carlo, Formentera, Mykonos and Palm Beach.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The Porto Cervo lounge honours Riva’s 180th anniversary

Each is decorated in classic 1950s Dolce Vita style and features hallmark details found on Riva yachts as well as the brand’s aquamarine and mahogany colours, with the latest Riva Lounge based in Porto Cervo over the summer.

And if you need to see a slice of the brand’s history, there’s a 3,200sqft permanent Riva exhibition at the Lake Como International Museum of Vintage Boats, where the seven historic boats include the vintage HaLu from the 1930s, two Series R models, a rare racer fitted with Guzzi engines and a Florida with special Scottish Madras upholstery.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The Riva display at the Lake Como International Museum of Vintage Boats

“Riva is really something else,” Galassi says. “It’s the only nautical brand everyone knows, even if they’re not interested in boats.”

THE LEGEND, THE ART

Galassi became CEO of Ferretti Group in 2014 but his connection to Riva spans almost five decades and he understands as well as anyone what makes the brand so special. He owns a Rudy and an Aquarama, and was close friends with Carlo Riva, but his attachment to the brand began back in 1974, when he was 10 years old.

That’s when Galassi’s father and his friend bought a Riva Rudy, a model launched in 1972 and later owned by the likes of actor Sean Connery and Jackie Stewart, the three-time F1 world champion.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Sean Connery owned a Riva Rudy, as did Galassi’s father

“My first connection to the Riva myth is linked to childhood, with the enchantment and amazement typical of that phase of life. I’ll always carry in my heart the magical moment when this marvellous motorboat was delivered to the dock of our family home on the Adriatic coast,” he recalls.

“As a child, I was used to spending time on the beach, so I remember the sense of freedom I felt the first time we left the shore behind us and ventured out into the open sea. That indescribable feeling is the same one I still have today, no matter which yacht I’m on. And the Riva Rudy is still ours – I could never part with it.”

Childhood memories aside, Galassi believes Riva is the yachting brand that comes closest to true art on the water, possessing DNA that puts qualities like elegance and style above trends and fashions.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Aquariva (33ft), Rivarama (44ft) and the Rivale (52ft) all sold in triple figures

The models’ clean lines, luxurious styling and detailed craftsmanship are renowned, drawing eyes wherever Rivas appear across the world. And the timeless appeal of Rivas means loyalty to the brand is often lifelong, as though each owner is buying more than a yacht.

“I’m a great lover of art, from which I constantly draw inspiration. One of my favourite artists is Lucio Fontana, a man of such genius that he managed to make his art appear simple at first glance, while containing a very rich, almost inexhaustible universe of meanings,” says Galassi, an experienced art collector.

“Riva is art. Each new model is a masterpiece, a unique work of art that enchants with its design, its beauty, the novelty of the solutions on board. Riva is also a way of life, a way of experiencing the sea, a badge of elegance you wear as an owner.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

An Aquarama at Riva’s 180th anniversary gala dinner

“When I look at my Aquarama, I see a true work of art, the result of the genius of Carlo Riva and the all-Italian ability to model masterpieces. I see tradition, innovation and performance, all amalgamated by a timeless beauty I know will never tire me or any other owner.

“And behind all this is a history in which quality has always been an obsession, as proven by the 22 coats of varnish that the craftsmen of Sarnico apply before a boat is ready.”

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Sergio Beretta and Mauro Micheli of Officina Italiana Design

Art is also the driving force behind Mauro Micheli, who has designed all of Riva’s yachts for almost three decades since co-founding Officina Italiana Design in 1994. He attended an art-focused high school in Bergamo and then the Accademia di Brera in Milan, only learning yacht design after joining Riva in 1984.

“I never imagined I’d stay with the same brand for almost 40 years. In fact, I didn’t even think I would be a yacht designer – I studied art,” Micheli smiles. “But for me, a boat like the Aquariva is like a sculpture.”

MAHOGANY LADIES

Part of Ferretti Group since 2000, Riva currently produces models across four ranges: Open (27-88ft), Sportfly (66-88ft), Flybridge (90-130ft) and Superyachts upwards of 50m (164ft).

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Mauro Micheli designed the Aquariva to succeed the Aquarama

The yachts are built across three shipyards including the seven-hectare La Spezia facility, home since 2004 to all 76-130ft models including the new 102’ Corsaro Super and 130’ Bellissima, a world premiere at this year’s Monaco Yacht Show.

On Italy’s east coast, the eight-hectare Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona is where Riva’s steel models have been built – including multiple units of the 50Metri – since 2014.

However, the most iconic Riva facility is the four-hectare facility in Sarnico on Lake Iseo in the inland province of Bergamo, northeast of Milan, and where all smaller models from the Iseo (27ft) to the 68’ Diable are produced.

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Cantieri Riva in Sarnico on Lake Iseo was founded by Pietro Riva

It’s where Carlo Riva transformed the brand after the Second World War, but Sarnico is also where the business started in 1842 when his great-grandfather Pietro was commissioned to repair fishing boats devastated by a storm, later establishing a shipyard with his son Ernesto.

At the start of the 20th century, the business continued under the leadership of Serafino, Ernesto’s third-born son. In the 1920s, following the First World War, the shipyard started to focus on racing boats, with highlights including a Riva AZ 3 winning the 431km Pavia-Venice race in 1930.

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Carlo Riva transformed the brand in the 1950s and 1960s

Carlo Riva joined the family business from a young age and took the lead following the Second World War, launching its first production boat, the Corsaro, in 1946, followed by the Ariston and twin-engine Tritone in 1950 then the Sebino and Florida two years later.

Gino Gervasoni, husband of Carlo Riva’s sister, joined the management team in 1950, while designer and naval architect Giorgio Barilani was another key addition in 1956. Yet the company’s real stars were the ‘mahogany ladies’, as Carlo Riva liked to call his beautifully varnished range of models.

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Prince Rainier of Monaco on his Riva Tritone

Riva embodied La Dolce Vita on the water in the 1950s and ’60s as it became the boating brand of choice for royalty and celebrities, its appeal only heightened by the 1962 launch of the Aquarama, whose early owners included Sophia Loren.

Anita Ekberg had a Tritone, as did Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco. Peter Sellers and Britt Ekland owned an Ariston. Brigitte Bardot had a Junior, while Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton used one as a tender for their 46m Kalizma .

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Anita Ekberg also had a Riva Tritone

“Carlo Riva boats will always and forever be the most beautiful and desirable in the world,” Galassi says.

However, by the late 1960s, Carlo Riva started to ease out of the business. In 1969, he sold the company to American firm Whittaker while remaining as Chairman and General Manager. Composite production started with the Bahia Mar 20 and Sport Fisherman 25 in 1970, but he resigned the following year, handing over the reins to Gervasoni, his brother-in-law.

“I had the good fortune to know Carlo well and I’ll always be grateful for sharing part of my journey with him. For me he was a mentor, an inspiration and an example of dedication and ingenuity,” Galassi says.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Brigitte Bardot had a Riva Junior

“He was obsessed with excellence and very strict with himself before he was with others, a quality that took his boats to the top of the world. He was not only a brilliant boat builder and a master of style but also a revolutionary industrialist and a pioneering entrepreneur to whom our country owes much. Riva is part of the heritage not only of the boating industry but of Italy.”

DESIGN & LEADERSHIP

Riva highlights from the 1970s included the Superamerica flybridge model, which launched in 1973 and had a 20-year production run in sizes from 42-50ft. In the 1980s, launches included the Corsaro 60 in 1982, while newcomers included a junior hire who would develop into Riva’s key designer for the following decades.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The Riva shipyard in Sarnico, where the brand builds its 27-68ft yachts

Micheli was in his mid-20s and had little interest in boats or design when he won a competition in 1984 to become an assistant designer in Riva’s technical office, with the art student going on to work alongside the esteemed Barilani and interior designer Mauro Pagani for many years.

Even Gervasoni was impressed by Micheli’s ability to draw freehand, although the-then CEO eventually left the yard in 1989, so ending the Riva family’s 147-year involvement in the company a year after it was bought by British group Vickers, which included Rolls- Royce.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Under Ferretti Group, Riva’s facilities expanded to La Spezia, where 76-130ft models are built

The 58’ Bahamas, presented in 1991, was the first yacht Micheli worked on. Three years later, he teamed up with Sergio Beretta, a multi-lingual businessman, to form Officina Italiana Design, which has since designed all Riva yachts.

“It’s natural,” says Micheli, when asked about the responsibility of designing for such an iconic brand. “It comes from my own instinct.”

Riva moved into its second golden era after returning to Italian ownership in 2000 when Ferretti Group bought the shipyard from Stellican, a London-based private equity firm. Early Riva models under the Ferretti Group included the Rivarama, a 44ft one-cabin cruiser that launched in 2002 and sold 140 units.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

Riva’s 50m-plus steel superyachts are built at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona

However, when asked for his three favourite designs for Riva, Micheli first names an earlier model, the Aquariva, the retro 33-footer that has sold 260 units when combined with the Aquariva Super, which is among Riva’s current Open models.

“Aquariva is like a car design,” he says. “I’m proud because it has been produced for over 20 years with hardly any changes to the original design.”

His other two favourites are the Rivamare – the 39-footer that launched in 2016 and sits above the Aquariva in the Open range – and the then-flagship 110’ Dolcevita, which debuted at the Monaco Grand Prix in 2018 before turning heads at that year’s Cannes Yachting Festival.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The 110’ Dolcevita is among Mauro Micheli’s favourite designs

“I love the Rivamare and also the 110’ Dolcevita, which is totally different, a big boat yet has also had great success in the market.”

Beretta, Micheli’s business partner, says Riva’s unique heritage is ingrained in the design studio, but that the brand and its boats keep evolving, reflected in the move into larger sizes, new technologies and design changes.

Last year, hard tops even began appearing on Open models, firstly as an option on the Dolceriva (48ft) and 56’ Rivale, then as standard on the new 68’ Diable.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

A hard top was added to the Dolceriva last year

“Every year, new elements become part of the new Rivas,” Beretta says. “With each model, we try to include a contemporary touch, and this becomes part of the brand. Riva is still classic, but it’s a dynamic brand that’s always evolving, not stuck in the past.”

Beretta pinpoints the flagship 50Metri as an example of Riva’s timeless style, saying it doesn’t have the attention-grabbing features of many similar-sized superyachts but will stand the test of time.

“Riva boats don’t go out of fashion. For example, I think the 50Metri gets more appreciation the more time passes. It was designed with that intention, not to be flashy but long lasting in its appeal.”

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The lavish private premiere for the first Riva 50Metri in Venice in 2019

Although the scale of the 50Metri distances it from Riva’s classic mahogany runabouts from its first golden era, the brand’s first steel megayacht provides a continuation of Carlo Riva’s vision and ambitions.

In the 1960s, his designs included the Caravelle (74ft) and Atlantic (88ft) series built in the Netherlands, while other designs included the 100ft Vespucci built by CRN in 1978. However, he passed away two years before first 50Metri was unveiled in 2019.

“One of my greatest satisfactions in work coincides with an equally great sorrow, because unfortunately Carlo was never able to see the Riva 50Metri, the crowning achievement of his dream of the steel and aluminium superyacht,” Galassi says.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The 102’ Corsaro Super was among Riva’s debuts at the 2022 Cannes Yacht Festival

“When I talked to him about it, he told me, ‘Make her beautiful and make her different, so you recognise she is a Riva’. I think he’d be extremely proud of this unique work of naval art.”

Carlo Riva gave the brand an unrivalled legacy in yachting. And with the company now well into its third decade under Ferretti Group, the signs are strong that Riva is in good hands as it navigates its way towards its 200th anniversary.

Riva, 180, 180th, anniversary, David Beckham, Pierfrancesco Favino, Venice, Alberto Galassi, Ferretti Group, Carlo Riva, Gran Teatro La Fenice, Charles Leclerc, The Persuaders, Roger Moore, Tony Curtis, Aquarama, Aquariva, Tritone, Brigitte Bardot, Anita Ekberg, Prince Rainier, Peter Sellers, Britt Ekland, Ariston, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Sophia Loren, Sarnico, Lake Iseo, La Spezia Ancona, 50Metri, Corsaro, Dolcevita

The Riva lounge at the Sarnico shipyard, still the brand’s beating heart

“Without a doubt, Riva will maintain its global appeal in the coming decades. Riva is a timeless icon of beauty, which has passed through various eras, gaining more and more fans and acclaim,” Galassi says. “‘I’ve got a Riva’, ‘I’ve seen a Riva’. These are words that will always make the heart beat faster.”

www.riva-yacht.com

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  4. Riva CEO Alberto Galassi on the next 180 years

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COMMENTS

  1. Shipyard Stories: Riva CEO Alberto Galassi on Writing the ...

    “I feel a big burden on my shoulders, to be honest with you,” Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, told us during the celebrations in June. “It’s a huge responsibility – 180 years of Riva and 60 years of Aquarama in the same year.” Riva has come a long way since its humble beginnings.

  2. Ferretti Group officially opens the completely 2024 - Riva Yacht

    La Spezia, May 17, 2024 – This morning, Friday May 17, Ferretti Group officially opened its Riva shipyard in La Spezia in a ceremony attended by Chairman Tan Xuguang and CEO Alberto Galassi, as well as by local authorities and a delegation from Weichai, the Group’s longstanding shareholder.

  3. Ferruccio Rossi appointed new Riva Ceo 2006 - Riva - Riva Yacht

    Forlì, October 2006 – The Ferretti Group, world leader in the construction of luxury motor-yachts, announces the recent appointment of Ferruccio Rossi as Riva CEO. Having joined Riva in 2005 as General Manager, in his new role Ferruccio Rossi will be in charge of coordinating the widening of the product range, the geographical development of ...

  4. Ferretti Group - Wikipedia

    In September 2013, the new Ferretti brand structure was presented, consisting of three product lines: Ferretti Yachts, Ferretti Custom Line and Ferretti Navetta. [32] At this stage, the Group owns the Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN and Custom Line brands.

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    Riva 50 Meters is the brand's first superyacht made from steel. The official launch at Arsenale of Venice, Italy. As CEO of the Ferretti Group, Galassi is behind eight brands, which are like children to him. Galassi reveals he is inspired by the “genius and dedication” of Carlo Riva.

  6. Superyacht Influencer Interview: Ferretti Group CEO Alberto ...

    Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi onboard a new Rivs superyacht in Monaco. Ferretti Group. AG: Si. We’ve already opened up new places such as on Nammos Beach in Mykonos, as well as others in...

  7. Ferruccio Rossi appointed new Riva Ceo - Riva Yacht

    Forlì, October 2006 – The Ferretti Group, world leader in the construction of luxury motor-yachts, announces the recent appointment of Ferruccio Rossi as Riva CEO.

  8. Viva Riva: Celebrating 180 years in style - Yacht Style

    As Riva honours its 180th birthday in a year marking multiple anniversaries for the shipyard, Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi talks about his special attachment to the brand, its yachts and Carlo Riva himself, as well as David Beckham’s involvement in the celebrations.

  9. Riva: the legend of contemporary yachting - Ferretti Group

    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. Visit the website.

  10. Riva 50m: the steel dream taking shape - Ferretti Group

    The dream of Riva super yachts in steel and aluminium is taking a step closer to becoming a reality. Carlo Riva already had it in his mind in the ‘70s, and this spectacular design is the best birthday present that Ferretti Group could give him.