K238 - Riva V1 Aquarama Replica - 27ft

Riva V1 Aquarama Replica – 27ft

The Riva Aquarama stands as a timeless emblem of Italian elegance—celebrated from 1962 to 1996 for its graceful lines, exquisite craftsmanship, and unmistakable allure. Our 27ft Riva V1 Replica faithfully captures the spirit of this golden age of wooden boat building.

The hull is masterfully constructed from premium mahogany, layered and sealed with multiple coats of high-gloss varnish to achieve a flawless mirror finish that both protects and enhances the wood’s natural warmth. The deck showcases curved mahogany planks divided by delicate maple inlays, revealing meticulous artistry in every detail.

Inside, the cockpit is upholstered in luxurious marine-grade leather, designed for both comfort and endurance against the elements. The stainless-steel framed windshield offers clarity and style, while the rear sunbathing platform invites leisure, seamlessly integrated above the twin engines that deliver powerful yet smooth performance.

Every detail—chrome fittings, hand-polished cleats, the signature Riva steering wheel, and the carefully balanced seating layout—embodies the harmony between engineering precision and artistic design. The Aquarama is not just a boat; it is a floating sculpture of beauty and motion, created to turn heads on every shore.

Even today, this legendary vessel glides gracefully through the canals of Venice, reflecting the enduring romance of la dolce vita. Owning this replica means inheriting the same prestige, craftsmanship, and timeless sophistication.

History

Introduced in 1962, the Riva Aquarama swiftly became one of the most iconic wooden speedboats ever built. Designed by Carlo Riva, it blended the sleek performance of American runabouts with the refinement of Italian design. Its name—derived from the widescreen Cinerama films of the era—reflected its distinctive wraparound windshield, which offered a cinematic view of the sea ahead.

Each Aquarama was handcrafted from select mahogany, finished with multiple layers of varnish to achieve its legendary, mirror-like shine. Paired with cream leather upholstery, polished chrome fittings, and an expansive sunbathing deck, it represented the pinnacle of nautical luxury. Beneath its elegant exterior, twin engines—often Chrysler and later Ferrari—powered the boat beyond 40 knots, combining thrilling speed with unmatched smoothness.

Dubbed the “Ferrari of the boat world,” the Aquarama attracted celebrities, royals, and visionaries from across the globe. Its prestigious owners included Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, the Shah of Iran, and King Hussein of Jordan. Seen along the French Riviera or gliding through Venetian waters, it became the symbol of la dolce vita—a lifestyle of elegance, freedom, and glamour.

Between 1962 and 1996, approximately 760 Aquaramas were produced, including the celebrated Super and Special series. Though production has long ceased, the Aquarama remains a living legend—a tribute to Carlo Riva’s genius and Italy’s enduring legacy of craftsmanship and style. Restored originals and faithful replicas continue to capture hearts, embodying a legacy where speed, artistry, and elegance converge on the open water

A true collector’s masterpiece, the Riva V1 Aquarama Replica unites artistry, performance, and heritage—reviving one of the most admired chapters in boating history