Riva Yachts For Sale

Thinking about buying a Riva yacht? Whether you’re stepping into yacht ownership for the first time or upgrading to your next model, our guide takes you through everything you should know before making a decision.

This guide outlines how each Riva range compares, what drives market value, and which specifications make the biggest difference when buying. Built from verified listings and real market data, it’s your shortcut to comparing new and pre-owned Rivas accurately.

Riva yachts blend Italian design with broad global demand. This guide explains how the ranges differ, which models fit specific cruising styles, and what to check when buying new or pre-owned.

The Riva Yachts heritage and history traces back to 1842 in Sarnico, Italy, when Carlo Riva began building wooden runabouts that soon became status symbols across the Mediterranean. Today, the brand still builds in Italy under the Ferretti Group, with modern facilities in Sarnico and La Spezia producing everything from fast open dayboats to 50m (164ft) superyachts.

Across every decade, Riva has balanced classic design with new materials and technology – mahogany to GRP, carburettors to surface drives – while keeping the same clean lines and sense of proportion that made the original Aquarama a legend.

Key Milestones in Riva Yachts History

• 1842: Carlo Riva establishes his first boatbuilding workshop in Sarnico, Italy.
• 1950s: Riva's mahogany runabouts become icons of post-war Italian design and craftsmanship.
• 1962: The launch of the Aquarama defines the Riva legend worldwide.
• 1970s-1990s: The yard expands into larger GRP yachts, moving beyond wood construction while keeping the same design DNA.
• 2000: Riva joins the Ferretti Group, gaining access to advanced composite technology and global service support.
• Today: Production continues in Sarnico and La Spezia, building Riva models from 10m (33ft) to over 50m (164ft).

Today’s Riva Yachts fleet spans everything from 33-foot sport cruisers to 115-foot superyachts. Each model combines Riva’s signature Italian craftsmanship with modern performance, offering timeless style, luxurious interiors, and cutting-edge technology for discerning yacht owners worldwide.

Riva appeals to a discerning clientele who value timeless Italian design, craftsmanship, and performance. Many buyers are established yacht owners upgrading from smaller runabouts or cruisers, choosing models like the Aquariva, Rivarama, or Dolcevita for elegance, comfort, and performance on longer trips.

Experienced boaters often select larger flybridge or superyacht models for extended cruising, entertaining, or charter potential, appreciating Riva’s attention to detail and innovative layouts. High-net-worth individuals and lifestyle-focused owners are drawn to Riva for its prestige, heritage, and iconic styling, often seeing the yacht as both a personal statement and an investment.

First-time luxury yacht buyers, professionals, and entrepreneurs also value Riva’s reputation, global service network, and the confidence that comes from owning a vessel with over 175 years of Italian heritage. Across the board, Riva owners share a passion for craftsmanship, design, and the enduring allure of a classic yet modern yacht.

Riva owners value more than just a yacht—they value a combination of design, performance, and heritage that makes every journey exceptional. From sleek runabouts to luxurious flybridge models, Riva delivers unmatched attention to detail, craftsmanship, and the timeless elegance of Italian design.

• Timeless Italian design: Hand-finished interiors and elegant exteriors that are instantly recognizable.
• Performance and handling: Sporty, responsive hulls engineered for both comfort and speed.
• Prestige and heritage: Over 175 years of craftsmanship, offering global recognition and pride of ownership.
• Luxurious interiors: Open, light-filled layouts with high-quality materials and modern amenities.
• Strong resale value: A Riva’s iconic status helps maintain desirability and investment value.

But How Much Do Riva Yachts Cost?

New Riva models range from under $550,000 for smaller runabouts like the Rivarama or Aquariva, to over $16–22 million for a fully-specced Riva Superyacht or larger flybridge model. Prices vary depending on size, customization, and onboard features, with pre-owned Rivas offering a more accessible entry point into the brand.

Do Riva Yachts Hold Their Value Over Time?

Yes. Riva yachts are widely recognized for maintaining strong resale value compared with many other builders, and the brand’s numerous awards and accolades reinforce this reputation. YachtBuyer’s MarketWatch and industry reports consistently highlight Riva as a brand with high demand in the pre-owned market.

There are a few reasons why:

• Iconic design and heritage: Timeless Italian styling and over 175 years of craftsmanship make Rivas highly sought after.
• Limited production and exclusivity: Smaller annual production ensures scarcity, which supports resale value.
• Durability and build quality: High-quality materials, precise engineering, and meticulous finishes mean Rivas stay in excellent condition over time.

Riva builds several distinct series, each designed for a different style of ownership and cruising. From 33-foot runabouts for day trips and watersports to 115-foot flybridge and superyachts for long-range luxury cruising, the ranges give buyers a clear choice depending on how they plan to enjoy their yacht.

Riva Open (17m - 26m)

The Riva Open range showcases sporty, elegant yachts that combine sleek Italian design with high performance on the water. These yachts are perfect for owners who want both speed and comfort, with open layouts that maximize outdoor living and socializing. The Open series emphasizes light, airy interiors, sophisticated materials, and responsive handling, making them ideal for short cruises, day trips, and entertaining guests.

• Best for: Buyers seeking stylish, fast, and versatile yachts for entertaining and coastal cruising.
• Price range: From approximately $4 million for the smallest models (~17m) to $10–12 million for the largest (26m).

With Riva yachts for sale in more than 40 countries, the brand has established itself as a truly global luxury yacht manufacturer, supported by an extensive network of authorized dealers, service centers, and showrooms worldwide. This global presence makes it easier for owners to access expert maintenance and support wherever they cruise, helping Riva models maintain their exceptional value on the resale market.

Supporting Value Through Global Presence

Riva's extensive dealer and service network directly contributes to strong resale values. Buyers worldwide have confidence that expert technicians familiar with the brand's specific construction methods and materials are accessible, whether for routine maintenance or specialized repairs. This infrastructure, combined with Riva's legendary build quality and timeless design, ensures that these yachts remain highly sought-after on the pre-owned market, often commanding premium prices compared to competitors.

• The Mediterranean remains Riva's most popular region, accounting for a significant portion of global sales. Italy naturally leads as the home market, where the brand's heritage runs deepest. The Adriatic coast, Italian Riviera, and Sardinia's Costa Smeralda are particularly dense with Riva ownership. France and Monaco follow closely, with the French Riviera's prestigious ports from Saint-Tropez to Antibes serving as showcases for the latest models.

  Greece, Spain, and Croatia have also emerged as strong markets, with Riva's blend of classic design and modern performance appealing to owners navigating these historic waters.

• The United States has become one of Riva's most important markets outside Europe. Florida dominates, with Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Palm Beach representing key hubs for sales and service. The Caribbean connection through South Florida has extended Riva's reach throughout the Bahamas and beyond.

  California's coastline, particularly from San Diego to Newport Beach, has developed a loyal Riva following, while the Great Lakes region has embraced the brand's smaller models for freshwater cruising.

• The Middle East has seen remarkable growth in Riva ownership over the past decade. The United Arab Emirates, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, represents a crucial market where the brand's emphasis on customization and craftsmanship resonates with discerning buyers. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain have also developed strong Riva communities, supported by dedicated service infrastructure.
• While still developing compared to traditional markets, Asia-Pacific shows promising growth for Riva. Hong Kong and Singapore serve as regional hubs, with authorized dealers providing sales and maintenance support. Thailand, particularly Phuket, has seen increased Riva presence, while Australia's Gold Coast and Sydney harbor growing numbers of these Italian yachts.

Riva yachts are sold worldwide, but not every yacht is built to the same regional standard. If you’re browsing Riva yachts for sale—especially one located overseas—it’s important to understand how European and U.S. specifications differ, and what that means for daily use and long-term ownership.

European-spec Rivas are typically wired for 220V/50Hz electrical systems, while U.S.-spec yachts run on 110V/60Hz. This affects everything from galley appliances to shore power compatibility. Air conditioning is another key distinction: systems fitted for the Mediterranean may not handle the heat and humidity of Florida or the Caribbean, so U.S. models are often delivered with higher-capacity units as standard.

Compliance standards also vary. European Rivas carry CE certification, while U.S. yachts are built to Coast Guard and ABYC requirements. The U.S. does not automatically accept CE-compliant yachts, while most other markets do. Navigation electronics may also differ, with systems tailored to local waters and regulations. These differences aren’t deal-breakers, but they are important when importing or relocating a yacht, and conversion costs can add up quickly.

The simplest way to navigate these differences is with the right advice. A broker experienced in cross-border Riva sales can flag potential upgrades early—from voltage converters and air-con retrofits to safety equipment changes—so you know exactly what’s required before you commit.

The decision to buy a new or pre-owned Riva yacht influences how quickly you can set sail, the level of customization available in your design, and how seamless your first seasons of ownership are likely to be.

New Riva Yachts for Sale

A new Riva yacht is all about certainty and control. You benefit from the shipyard’s factory warranty (with options to extend), and any early issues are handled by authorized Riva technicians using genuine parts. Equally compelling is the design freedom: you can select layouts, materials, and equipment so your yacht reflects your personal style and cruising plans from day one.

Timing is the key consideration—securing a build slot requires planning, while Riva dealer stock can get you afloat immediately with a factory-fresh yacht, though with fewer customization options than a fully tailored order.

Build Slot vs Dealer Stock

When buying a new Riva yacht, you can either secure a build slot or select a dealer stock model. A build slot gives you full design freedom, allowing you to choose layouts, materials, and equipment, but delivery typically takes 6–18 months depending on the model range. A stock yacht, by contrast, is already built and ready to go, often specified by the local dealer with popular layouts and upgrades tailored to the region.

Stock Rivas carry the same factory warranty and handover support as a custom order, and you can inspect the exact boat before committing. Dealers are often motivated to sell stock quickly, which can mean attractive pricing or additional retrofit options. The trade-off is less freedom to specify details, though many owners find the high-spec finishes and immediate availability well worth it.

For buyers who want a brand-new Riva, including a new Riva tender boat, without the wait, stock yachts offer the fastest route onto the water—combining full warranty coverage with the convenience of stepping aboard a yacht that’s already equipped and ready for cruising.

New vs Used Riva at a Glance

Best Age to Buy Used

Depreciation on a Riva yacht is sharpest in the first 3–5 years. By the time a Riva is 5–10 years old, the curve has usually flattened, making this the sweet spot for value. At that age, yachts still feature modern styling and systems, and many come with full service records or transferable warranties. Older Rivas can still be excellent purchases, but condition, refit history, and maintenance become far more important in evaluating the overall deal.

Deciding whether to operate a Riva yacht yourself or with crew is an important step in the buying process. Rivas under 18m (60ft) are often designed for owner-operation, with intuitive helms, thrusters, and ergonomics that make them manageable for couples or small families. Even at this size, it can be smart to spec a crew cabin if available. If not used by crew, the space can double as a lazarette for gear and stores, though for resale value, some buyers consider a dedicated crew cabin a highly desirable feature.

On larger Riva yachts above 21m (70ft), most owners will employ a full-time crew to manage complex systems, daily maintenance, and guest services. This choice directly affects running costs, as crew salaries, insurance, and provisioning add significantly to annual expenses. Even on smaller yachts, some insurers may require minimum crew or proof of owner qualifications and logged sea hours. Once you exceed 24m (80ft), most flag states and insurers mandate a licensed captain, regardless of your experience.

Thinking ahead about how you plan to use your Riva—whether for family trips, longer passages, or charter—will help you strike the right balance between owner-operated freedom and the convenience of a fully crewed yacht.

Charter is often seen as a way to offset running costs, but it only makes sense with the right kind of Riva yacht. Smaller models, such as the Rivarama or Aquariva, are primarily designed for private use and rarely have the volume, layout, or compliance needed for commercial charter.

Larger yachts in the Flybridge or Superyacht ranges are more likely to deliver what charter clients expect: multiple ensuite guest cabins, dedicated crew quarters with separate access, and lifestyle features like beach clubs, expansive flybridges, and water toys.

These yachts must also meet commercial codes such as MCA LY3, which cover safety systems, fire protection, and stability standards. Retrofitting a private yacht to reach this level can be costly. If charter income is part of your plan, it’s usually smarter to choose a Riva yacht already built to commercial specification. This simplifies compliance and can also strengthen resale value, as a built-to-code yacht appeals to both private owners and charter-focused buyers.

No other platform combines verified listings with an independent library of detailed Riva reviews and walkthroughs. Before you ever call a broker, you can step through the boat with us - in-depth videos and written reports that show layouts and realities exactly as they are.

Every Riva yacht for sale on YachtBuyer is verified against live broker feeds, so you only see genuine, current opportunities. Behind that search is YachtBuyer MarketWatch, our price intelligence tool that tracks more than a decade of Riva  resale data on yachts above 78ft, and YachtBuyer’s BrokerFinder, which connects you with a buying broker who represents your interests, not the seller’s.

Together, YachtBuyer Reviews, MarketWatch, and BrokerFinder give you a clear, confident path. You’ll know the price history, you’ll know the options, and you’ll have YachtBuyer on your side when buying a Riva.