Carlo Riva died in Sarnico on 10 April 2017, aged 95. This tribute, originally published in 2017, looks back at the Italian motorboat designer’s legacy.

The legacy of the Riva name

The family’s boatbuilding tradition reaches back to Pietro Riva and 1842 on Lake Iseo. Carlo Riva’s name later became associated with Italian design and elegant motorboats.

Mahogany hulls, carefully shaped seating and bright metal details define the classic Riva look. The boats’ lines remain recognisable on the water, in photographs and in scale models.

Aquarama and classic lines

Aquarama is one of the marque’s best-known names. According to the manufacturer’s history, the last wooden Aquarama Special was built in 1996. Its history should not be confused with a claim that this classic wooden model has returned to present-day series production.

Later Riva boats also represent different materials and scales. The original article’s purchase prices have been removed because they are not current offers.

Maritime design in a scale model

A finished motorboat model lets you appreciate the details up close. The Super Riva Lamborghini painted model was listed in stock when this article was edited; check its product page for current availability. Explore the wider motorboat model selection too.

The original model video

The video included with the original article shows an RC model. It does not demonstrate the operation of the finished display model linked above.

For display inspiration, browse our nautical home decor ideas.

Források / Sources / Quellen: Riva: History; Ferretti Group: Carlo Riva, 2017.