RIVA CENTO - THE OPEN YACHT FOR COLLECTORS

The Riva Cento has emerged as an exclusive limited edition that both honours and revitalises the illustrious legacy of the Sarnico-based boat builder, all while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. With only twelve units crafted, this stunning open yacht is a true collector's item, enhancing the brand’s timeless elegance with innovative stylistic and functional elements. In true Riva fashion, the Cento's striking design is the collaborative work of Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, the visionaries behind Officina Italiana Design. This prestigious studio is responsible for the design of all Riva vessels, a partnership enriched by the insights of the Strategic Product Committee, led by Piero Ferrari, alongside the engineering prowess of the Ferretti Group.

Measuring 11.88 meters (39 feet) in overall length and boasting a maximum beam of 3.50 meters (11 feet 6 inches), the Riva Cento captures a sporty essence with its sleek, harmonious lines. The carefully selected colour palette for the twelve hulls includes ‘fireworks black,’ a sophisticated metallic tone that accentuates the boat’s contours, alongside a refined light grey aluminium finish. Completing the refined aesthetic, the leather cushions feature a ribbed design inspired by classic automotive style from the 1950s and ‘60s, offered in either a biscuit colour or a chic aquamarine and white combination—echoing the palette of the highly acclaimed Riva Anniversario. Among its standout features, the stern area of the yacht is particularly noteworthy. An electro-hydraulic system elegantly opens the stern door, revealing built-in mahogany steps and two chaises longues with detachable cushions, transforming this area into a delightful beach space with inviting sunbeds. With the stern door open, Riva Cento further showcases two dedicated storage compartments, one for fenders on the port side and another for a Seabob on the starboard. Additionally, the retractable gangway, seamlessly integrated into the transom, can be effortlessly opened, enhancing both boarding and disembarking experiences. To elevate the on-board atmosphere, the Riva Cento is equipped with underwater lights, ensuring safe and stylish navigation and mooring in low-light conditions.

The journey ahead presents an inviting large sunpad, complete with integrated cup holders, positioned in the midship area of the boat. This is harmoniously complemented by a spacious cockpit, elegantly adorned with a C-shaped sofa that gracefully envelops a stainless steel table. The table features a sleek lacquered mahogany surface and a clever up-down mechanism, allowing it to be lowered flush with the cushions, effortlessly converting this space into an additional sunpad.

When the sun's rays become too intense, the cockpit can be shielded by a retractable bimini top, skilfully operated by an electro-hydraulic mechanism nestled within the sofa's backrest. The design of this space on board has been meticulously crafted, prioritizing both functionality and storage solutions. The stern area boasts compartments for life jackets and a convenient shoe drawer. Additionally, the two units that delineate the cockpit from the helm station not only support the pilot and co-pilot seats but also feature an area on the port side, dedicated to cocktail preparation. This cleverly includes a drawer refrigerator and, behind a hatch at the rear of the chair, a sink along with a workspace. On the starboard side, an insulated cooler ensures that drinks are served at the ideal temperature.

In the helm station, two pilot chairs grace the port side while a single co-pilot chair dominates the starboard. These seats face a pair of Boening displays—measuring 15 and 24 inches—that reveal all critical data concerning the engines, navigation, cartography, the Seakeeper system, and the sound setup. Steady manoeuvrability is provided by a steering system controlled via a Volvo Penta joystick, complemented by an electric bow thruster for optimal handling. Notably, the port side of the windscreen showcases the iconic searchlight, a timeless feature inherited from the celebrated Riva Cento, reminiscent of the legendary Aquarama and Aquariva models.

On the hull side, the previous decorative grille covering the air intake has been elegantly replaced with a contemporary steel profile that incorporates a polished mahogany insert. This striking element is embellished with the name “Riva” and a series of small stars, evoking the charm of vintage models and reinforcing the deep connection between the shipyard's illustrious past and its promising future.

At the bow of the Riva Cento, a striking central windscreen stands proudly, designed to enhance the influx of natural light into the vessel's interior. Complementing this is a sleek new stainless steel casing that elegantly houses the marine horn, a distinctive feature of this limited edition creation.

Descending to the lower deck, one discovers a spacious and airy environment that epitomizes comfort, perfect for both leisurely cruises and restful nights at anchor. The thoughtfully designed galley, fully appointed to meet culinary needs, is conveniently located near the entrance on the starboard side. Opposite, to port, lies a well-equipped bathroom featuring a separate shower cubicle, maximizing privacy and convenience. A plush, curvilinear sofa in the bow seamlessly mirrors the hull's shape, transforming effortlessly into a double bed with the addition of a panel from the central storage compartment. The newly designed forward skylight and strategically placed side windows allow for an abundance of natural light, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere for overnight stays.

Powering the Riva Cento are two robust Volvo Penta D6 440 Aquamatic Duoprop DPI engines, propelling the vessel to an impressive top speed of 40 knots and a cruising speed of 31 knots (preliminary data). Enhanced cruising stability is guaranteed by cutting-edge Volvo Penta software, which dynamically adjusts the sterndrive to optimize trim, thereby reducing fuel consumption while ensuring rapid acceleration, higher top speeds, and an overall elevated level of comfort. Furthermore, the standard-installed Seakeeper NG6 gyroscopic stabilizer delivers enduring stability at anchor, enhancing the cruising experience.

The Riva Cento proudly made its official debut at the illustrious Cannes Yachting Festival 2025, marking a significant milestone in the world of luxury boating.