Aquariva SpecialRiva lets the legend live on

Torsten Moench

 · 26.10.2025

Powerful engines make the Riva 40 knots fast
Photo: Ferretti Group
Riva is writing a new chapter in its success story. With the Aquariva Special, the Italian luxury shipyard is presenting a comprehensively revised version of its best-selling model. The new Aquariva Special follows in the footsteps of the legendary Aquarama from the 1960s and 1970s.

With an overall length of 10.07 metres and a maximum width of 2.80 metres, the Aquariva Special retains the harmonious proportions that have made the boat so famous. The design was created by Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, the founders of Officina Italiana Design, who have been working exclusively for Riva for over 30 years. They worked closely with the Strategic Product Committee headed by Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group's design department.

One of the most important new features is the completely redesigned windscreen. It has been made wider and more ergonomic, giving the boat a more modern and streamlined silhouette. The bathing platform has also been redesigned for greater comfort when getting on and off the boat. The handrail and mooring cleat are reminiscent of the previous Aquariva Super version.

The mahogany of the hull was replaced by GRP in the hull colour chosen by the owner. The same applies to the large sunbed and the air intake grilles. At the bow, the new design of the navigation lights and their housing, which the Aquariva Special shares with the Riva Anniversario - the special edition launched in 2022 to celebrate the brand's 180th anniversary - is striking. The deck is once again completely smooth, without the traditional skylights that were reminiscent of the Aquarama, creating an even more minimalist look.

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Cockpit and interior of the new Riva

The large U-shaped sofa - upholstered in Sky fabric in the same colour as the hull - encloses the central space and creates an inviting area that can be reconfigured with a centrally positioned table. This retractable table transforms the dining area for up to eight people into an additional sheltered sunbed. Protection from the sun is provided by a bimini top, which is operated via an electro-hydraulic mechanism in the sofa backrest.


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Further forward, the driver's seat is located on the port side, with a practical cupboard to starboard containing a sink, fridge and work surface - ideal for preparing cocktails and snacks. The dashboard is available in either an analogue version or a digital version with an integrated navigation system. The boat can also be equipped with a joystick, which makes steering even easier during mooring manoeuvres.

Technical innovations

A significant innovation is the possibility of equipping the Aquariva Special with a Seakeeper NG6, which eliminates rolling and ensures absolute comfort both underway and at anchor. The installation of this advanced system is made possible by the decision to replace manual hull lamination with an infusion process, which significantly reduces the weight of the boat without compromising its structural strength. This makes it possible to install a gyroscopic stabiliser without compromising the trim or performance of the boat. To stabilise the boat while underway, the Aquariva Special is equipped with humphree interceptors instead of the trim tabs of the previous version.

In terms of performance, the Aquariva Special is equipped with two 370 hp (272 kW) YANMAR 8LV engines coupled with electronically controlled two-speed gearboxes. She reaches a top speed of 40.5 knots and a cruising speed of 36 knots.


Technical data

  • Total length: 10.07 m (33 feet)
  • Maximum width: 2.80 m (9 feet 2 inches)
  • Motorisation: 2 x YANMAR 8LV with 370 hp (272 kW) each
  • Maximum speed: 40.5 knots
  • travelling speed: 36 nodes
  • Gearbox: Electronically controlled two-speed gearboxes
  • stabilisation system: Optional Seakeeper NG6 (gyro stabiliser)
  • Trimming aids: Humphree interceptors
  • Cockpit capacity: Seating for up to 8 people

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