Riva 52classic Italian sport yacht charter in Mallorca

Riva began as a boatyard at Sarnico, on the shore of Lake Iseo in northern Italy, and is today a brand of the Ferretti Group. The yard still varnishes its woodwork by hand, and the name carries a very particular Italian poise. The 52 wears the Rivale name on her topsides, part of a family of classic Riva designs that also includes the Aquariva and the Rivarama. Beneath the polish is a deep-V hull that suits her lively, sporty character: she settles into a 22 knot cruise and has 35 knots in hand when the sea allows.

Life on board happens in the open air. Aft, a large leather sun pad rises on hydraulics to reveal a garage in the stern, so the deck itself stays clear for lounging. Ahead of it, a teak-floored cockpit gathers grey seating around a wooden table, a wood-trimmed unit runs along one side, and the helm sits behind a wraparound windscreen. A bimini on a stainless frame gives shade when the sun is high, and the stainless mast above the cockpit completes a profile that reads as Riva from any angle.

Below deck there are two cabins and two heads: a double and a cabin with two single berths, both in light, soft finishes. They are places to change and rest out of the sun; on a yacht this well made for daylight hours, the day itself is lived on deck. With 11 guests and a skipper she works best as a day boat or a sunset outing: a swim and lunch at anchor in the Bay of Palma, an afternoon along the coast towards Port d'Andratx, then an easy run home in the evening light. For the coves she carries a paddle board and snorkelling gear. Charters are arranged from Mallorca, the team confirms the berth for your dates, and longer charters can be discussed.