Riva was founded back in 1842 on Lake Iseo, in Sarnico-Italy following a sudden storm. Local fishermen were shocked when they saw the damage caused to their fleet and banded together to convince a young shipbuilder to repair their vessels. The craftsman Pietro Riva won the trust and respect of the locals and he fixed their boats.

The first boats made by Riva were launched in the region on the lake and the shipyard rapidly established a reputation thanks to its stylish and high-quality boats.

Five years later in 1969, Riva started its fibreglass production. Riva introduced two models built in composite material, the day cruiser Bahia Mar 20’ and the cabin cruiser Sport Fisherman 25’.