A small number of Riva Aquaramas have been produced over the years, and each one has been a true work of art. Like its land-roving brother the Ferrari, the Aquarama has always signified a certain sleek elegance. Iconic Italian actress Sophia Loren once owned one of these luxury wooden runabouts, and James Bond drove one in the 1995 film GoldenEye, which should give you some idea as to the general aura that the Aquarama exudes.
Between 1962 and 1996 there have been four variants on this classic boat: the original Aquarama, the Aquarama Lungo, the Super Aquarama, and the Aquarama Special. The Special, the final incarnation, continues to be heralded as one of the finest runabouts ever designed. It features twin V-8 engines, usually produced by Chrysler or Cadillac, and can obtain speeds up to 50 knots while still offering smooth, controlled handling. The hull is gleaming mahogany, and the cream and wood interior would be worthy of any classic car.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning one of these beautiful runabouts, you’ll be pleased to note that RM Sotheby’s will be auctioning off a 1974 Riva Aquarama Special on May 16, 2016. This is a rare opportunity, given that only 277 Specials were ever built.
