Riva Dolceriva Review (2021 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Riva Dolceriva is a 14.63m (48ft) Italian-built open day boat, and while it does have some accommodation below, most owners use it as a fast, beautiful picnic boat for long days on the water. That open sportscruiser appeal still holds, as nothing else quite connects you to the air and sea in the same way while keeping that sense of pace and control

The aft cockpit has a sunbed across the transom and deep cushioning that just invites you to stretch out, while the detailing in the stitching and trim keeps everything feeling considered rather than showy. The woodwork runs right around the cockpit and across the deck, tying the whole space together, and it has that unmistakable Riva character that you recognise at a glance.

At the stern, the clever bit comes into play, as the entire aft section pivots out through 180 degrees, revealing steps down into the water as well as storage lockers on either side. These are sized for seabobs, paddleboards, and general water toys, so you can head out properly equipped without cluttering the deck.

Move forward and the cockpit remains open and social, with a dining table that folds out on concealed hinges so you can double its size when needed, while still keeping it neat when you do not. Overhead, the powered Bimini system runs the length of the cockpit, and as sections open and retract electrically, the whole structure disappears cleanly out of sight.

The helm is forward within the cockpit, and while it looks simple at first look, it has twin Garmin displays for navigation and engine data, engine throttles, and joystick control for close manoeuvring. The stainless switchgear adds a bit of theatre, but it also feels solid in use, and that sense of quality runs through even the smallest details.

Practical touches are there too, as non-slip sections are built into the deck alongside the gloss finish so you are not sliding about, while stereo speakers are integrated into the cockpit and stern winches sit ready for berthing. Even the seat backs carry leather straps and buckles, which feel closer to automotive detailing than typical marine fittings.

Access to the machinery space sits beneath the cockpit, and a sliding door can close off this aft section if required, while at the transom a passerelle cassette appears to be integrated for stern-to mooring.

Step below and the surprise is how usable the space feels, as the layout makes the most of the volume available while keeping the same design language seen on deck. Dark panels contrast with lighter inserts, and stitched leather surfaces bring a softer finish without overcomplicating things.

The lower saloon works as a day space between the cabins, so you have somewhere to retreat from the sun or sit comfortably in the evening, and it feels well proportioned for a boat of this type.

The galley is within easy reach and reflects the boat’s intended use, as it is set up for light preparation rather than full cooking. There is an ice maker, a good-sized fridge, and a hob and sink hidden under covers, so you can prepare lunch, keep drinks cold, and enjoy time at anchor without fuss.

Opposite, the heads compartment closes off with a proper door, and while compact, it includes a separate shower area with a rainfall shower head, which lifts it above what you might expect on a day-focused boat.

Owner's Cabin

The forward cabin sits beneath the foredeck, and as the overhead section slides open, it brings in light and gives the space a more open feel. The berth is a proper double, and there is hanging storage as well as integrated lighting, so it works as a genuine sleeping space rather than a token addition.

A hatch overhead adds ventilation and natural light, while a blind gives privacy when needed. The finishes match the rest of the boat, with dark panels and lighter detailing that keep the look consistent.

There is even a microwave placed within this cabin, which may seem unusual, but it fits the way the boat is used, as you can prepare simple food without relying entirely on the galley.

It is a comfortable space for a few nights on board, and while most owners may not use it extensively, it has the depth to support longer stays if required.

Guest Accommodation

The aft cabin sits beneath the cockpit, and while it is more compact, it offers genuine flexibility, as it can be arranged as twin berths or converted into a double with an infill.

The headroom is naturally reduced due to its position, but the space remains usable, and the finish carries through the same materials and detailing seen elsewhere on the boat.

It works well for guests or children, and while it is not the main focus of the boat, it adds a useful second sleeping area.

The engine room is accessed through a lifting section, so while compact, it provides clear access to the key systems. Power comes from twin Volvo Penta D13 engines, each producing 1,000 horsepower, and these are paired with V-drive gearboxes that send power forward before routing it back through shafts.

This gives you a conventional shaft drive setup, and by using V-drives, the engines sit further aft while still keeping the layout efficient and accessible.

Alongside the engines, there is a Seakeeper stabiliser to reduce roll at rest, as well as a generator for onboard systems, and what appears to be a water maker, which adds some independence if you plan to stay out for longer periods.

Performance is strong, with a top speed of around 40 knots and a comfortable cruising range between 30 and 35 knots, so it has the pace to match its looks.

Owning a Riva Dolceriva 14.63m (48ft) sits firmly in the premium day boat space, and that shapes everything from purchase price through to how it is used week to week. This is not a volume sportscruiser with broad practicality. It is a design-led, high-performance open boat with strong brand pull, and that carries through into ownership.

Purchase price typically sits in the upper end of the 40 to 50 foot market. New or recent examples often fall in the region of €1.5 million to €2.5 million depending on specification, build year, and options. That reflects not just the engineering but the finish, brand position, and limited production feel.

Fuel consumption is one of the main ongoing costs, and with twin Volvo Penta D13 engines at 1,000hp each, it is not subtle. At a fast cruise of around 30 knots, expect fuel burn in the region of 200 to 300 litres per hour combined, rising significantly as you push toward the 40-knot top end. Owners tend to accept this as part of the package, as the boat is built to be used at speed rather than potter along.

Annual running costs generally fall into the 8-12% of boat value range once you factor in servicing, berthing, insurance, and upkeep. On a boat at this level, that can mean a yearly spend well into six figures. Engine servicing, generator maintenance, and systems like the Seakeeper stabiliser all add to the baseline.

The Riva finish plays a big role in upkeep too. The high-gloss woodwork, stainless detailing, and upholstery all need regular care to keep the boat looking as intended. That can mean more frequent cleaning, polishing, and professional detailing than a more utilitarian sportscruiser.

Resale is one of the stronger aspects of ownership as Rivas hold their value well compared to many other production brands, and clean, well-maintained Dolcerivas with good specification remain in demand. 

The Riva Dolceriva is a 14.63m (48ft) open day boat that focuses on style, pace, and time spent outside, and while it offers proper accommodation below, that is not the main event. It is a very elegant party on the water.