On the occasion of the “Riva Days – Marco Polo, ASI NAUTIC SHOW – Concorso d’Eleganza Frederique Constant”, the iconic Riva motorboats will make a grand return to Venice from 28 June to 3 July 2024. Nearly 50 wooden motorboats, crafted by the Riva shipyard between 1958 and 1996, will be showcased at Marina Santelena, near the Giardini of the Biennale. These boats, arriving from 12 countries including Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and the USA, will captivate onlookers with their timeless elegance.
The event, organized by the Riva Historical Society, celebrates the rich legacy of Riva motorboats. Founded in 1998 and led by Milanese architect Piero Maria Gibellini, the society boasts around 700 members from over 30 countries. The event is generously sponsored by Bavaria Assicurazioni and ASI, with the latter awarding the prestigious ASI Cup. Technical sponsors include Vitale Barberis Canonico, Yacht Club Venezia (YCV), and Marina Santelena.
Daily excursions will take the fleet through Venice’s northern lagoon and its enchanting islands such as Burano, Murano, and Torcello. Participants will enjoy cultural visits and stops at various scenic locations.
Under the visionary leadership of Carlo Riva, who passed away in 2017, 4,098 boats were launched, establishing Riva as a symbol of Italian excellence. Riva’s most iconic models, including the Aquarama, Tritone, and Ariston, will be on display. Notably, 12 Aquaramas will grace the waters of Venice, alongside 15 Tritone and Ariston models, among others.
The highlight of the event will be on Sunday, 30 June 2024, when the Riva fleet parades in the San Marco Basin at 11 am, alongside vintage sailing boats competing in the “Principato di Monaco Trophy in Venice – Le Vele d’Epoca in Laguna”. This spectacle promises to be a visual feast for anyone strolling along the banks, celebrating the timeless beauty and engineering marvels of Riva motorboats.
Website: www.rivahistorical.org
Location: Marina Santelena, Venice
Schedule: June 28 – July 3, 2024