Description:
Riva V1 Aquarama Replica – 27ft
The Riva Aquarama is an icon of Italian elegance, celebrated worldwide between 1962 and 1996 for its timeless lines and exquisite craftsmanship. Our 27ft Riva V1 Replica faithfully revives this golden era of wooden boat building.
The hull is crafted from premium mahogany, layered and sealed with multiple coats of high-gloss varnish that create a mirror-like finish, both protecting the wood and enhancing its natural warmth. The deck features elegantly curved mahogany planking, separated by fine maple inlays, showcasing craftsmanship in every line.
Inside, the cockpit is upholstered with luxurious marine-grade leather, offering comfort and durability against sun and sea. The wraparound windshield, framed in stainless steel, provides both style and protection. The sunbathing platform at the stern invites relaxation, seamlessly integrated above the twin engines that deliver powerful yet smooth performance.
Every detail—from chrome fittings, hand-polished cleats, and the signature steering wheel to the carefully balanced seating arrangement—reflects Riva’s dedication to merging art with engineering. The Aquarama is not just a boat; it is a floating sculpture of elegance, designed to turn heads on every shoreline.
Even today, the Aquarama glides with unmatched charm through the canals of Venice, embodying the romance of la dolce vita. Owning this replica means inheriting that same prestige, beauty, and tradition.
A true collector’s treasure, the Riva V1 Aquarama Replica blends artistry, performance, and heritage—a masterpiece that brings history back to life on the water.
History:
Introduced in 1962, the Riva Aquarama quickly became one of the most iconic wooden speedboats ever built. Designed by Carlo Riva, it combined the sleek lines of American runabouts with unmistakable Italian elegance. Its name, inspired by the widescreen Cinerama films, reflected the boat’s signature panoramic windshield, which soon became a hallmark of the design.
Crafted from hand-selected mahogany, each Aquarama was finished with multiple coats of varnish to achieve its famous mirror-like sheen. Paired with cream leather seating, polished chrome fittings, and a spacious sunbathing platform, it offered both style and comfort. Beneath its beauty, the boat was powered by twin engines—often Chrysler or later Ferrari—capable of propelling it beyond 40 knots, delivering thrilling speed with smooth handling.
The Aquarama soon earned the nickname “the Ferrari of the boat world,” attracting celebrities, royals, and prominent figures worldwide. Owners ranged from Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren to the Shah of Iran and King Hussein of Jordan. Its presence along the French Riviera or in the canals of Venice embodied la dolce vita—a lifestyle of leisure, glamour, and sophistication.
Between 1962 and 1996, around 760 Aquaramas were produced, including the celebrated Super and Special series. Though production ended, the Aquarama remains a timeless symbol of Italian craftsmanship and luxury. Restored originals and faithful replicas continue to showcase Carlo Riva’s vision, keeping alive a legacy where speed, artistry, and elegance meet on the water