1985 Riva 28ft Aquarama Special

The Riva Aquarama Special was built from 1972 to 1996 with a total of 277 hulls produced. The Aquarama model was the most famous of Carlo Riva’s designs and has gained over the decades a legendary nautical reputation. It’s evocative name, derived in part from the widescreen Cinerama movie format popular in the early 1960s, echoed in its sweeping wrap-around windshield, conjures images from another time. All versions were powered by twin engines with a cushioned sundeck on top of the engine compartment for sunbathing. Aquarama’s feature a cuddy cabin at the bow, a convertible top which retracts behind the rear seat cockpit, a swim ladder that mounts in the stern for easy water access, and much more.

This 1985 Riva 28ft Aquarama Special is hull # 745. It was purchased new by the seller making this one owner Aquarama available for the first time. The boat was stored in Seattle before being shipped to Sierra Boat Company for an extensive restoration which was completed in the spring of 2025. The bottom was inspected and found in good condition, so a fresh coat of paint was applied. The hullsides were repaired, stained, and varnished. The original coverboards had some server cracking so they were fully replaced. The inner decks were in good condition, so they were sanded and varnished with the coverboards. All interior wood pieces were sanded and varnished, and the convertible top and upholstery were replaced with period correct new materials.

This Aquarama is powered by twin Riva Crusader 350 engines. Both original engines were rebuilt and installed in 2025 with currently less than 3.0 hours of mechanical test time on them. A set of high-altitude props are on the boat and a set of sea level props are included.

This boat comes with a 2009 On the Road triple axle trailer and is protected by an original blue Riva factory cover.

This is a unique opportunity to own a Riva Aquarama in perfect condition after just receiving an extensive restoration.

• ID: PORTO CERVO
• Year: 1985
• Builder: Riva
• Model: Aquarama
• Length: 28ft
• Engine: Twin Riva Crusader 350’s
• Trailer: 2009 On the Road triple axle trailer
• Price: $850,000.00