- Technology and Innovation
Twin 2,000-HP MTUs and a Redesigned Beach Club: Unpacking the New Riva Build
Evolving the Flybridge Profile
Riva has launched the first 28.8-metre superyacht from its new 96′ Argo Super flybridge series. The vessel entered the water at the brand’s dedicated La Spezia facility, which handles projects between 21 and 40 metres. Operating as a direct evolution of the 90′ Argo series, the new build introduces layout modifications to elevate the quality of life on board and is scheduled to make its official market debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September following initial sea trials.
Collaborative Italian Architecture
The external contours of the hull pair contemporary, clean lines with a combination of aluminium and black detailing. Maintaining a 30-year design tradition, the vessel was developed through a collaboration between Officina Italiana Design, the Strategic Product Committee, and the Ferretti Engineering Department. The resulting architecture utilizes a broad 6.5-metre beam to drastically improve the indoor-outdoor connection across the main living zones.
Rethinking the Aft Deck Footprint
To maximize utility at the waterline, the designers heavily modified the stern and beach club areas. The transom garage door now incorporates a massive sunpad and opens to reveal storage for a Williams 435 tender alongside a jet ski. To facilitate immediate ocean access, the adjacent swim platform can be lowered directly into the water. Above on the main deck, the cockpit features two large sofas with adjustable backrests, an al fresco dining table, and supplementary storage. Up top, the flybridge is equipped with a new bar unit and mahogany-topped tables.
Shifting the Internal Layout
The 96′ Argo Super offers multiple interior configurations, with the first unit placing the dining area aft and the primary lounge forward in the main saloon to create a convivial atmosphere. The day head was relocated from the lower deck to the main deck to free up structural volume below. Positioned forward, the full-beam master suite utilizes expansive glazed surfaces to maximize natural light and views over the water. The lower deck accommodates guests across three generous cabins, including a full-beam VIP suite comparable to a second master, or an alternative four-cabin layout.
Polished Wood and Navigational Hardware
The interior styling relies on polished wengé wood contrasted by pale matt oak, mirrored surfaces, and contemporary polished steel detailing. To match this aesthetic with heavy-duty performance, the hull is powered by a pair of 2,000hp MTU 12V 2000 M96X engines. Operational stability and safety are managed by two Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilisers, a Watchit collision prevention system, and Xenta’s X-AID manoeuvring aid paired with a virtual anchor setup and a stern thruster.
