Yacht Class n°38 (sept-oct-nov 2024)

Riva Yachts – ferretti group

Alberto Galassi, CEO of the Ferretti Group, describes this 40-metre Riva in rather flattering terms. Having observed and “lived” aboard this large flybridge, we can understand the Ferretti Group boss‘s enthusiasm. The 130‘Bellissima is a high-flying seducer. Her silhouette, habitability and exterior spaces make her a captivating unit.

Written by : Alain Brousse – Photos : DR

There’s no doubt that this Riva deserves her name, Bellissima, with an exterior design that will leave no one indifferent, flybridge enthusiast or not. This refined silhouette is the work of architects and designers with whom Riva has collaborated for over two decades: Officina Italiana Design, an office run by two of the greatest names in motor yacht design, Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta. They worked under the supervision of two Ferretti Group departments: the Strategic Product Committee (Piero Ferrari) and the Engineering Department. Thanks to this extensive team, Alberto Galassi, CEO of the Ferretti Group, can describe the Bellissima in glowing terms: “Riva Bellissima is a premium boat, both in name and in fact. As the new flagship of the flybridge range, she has my admiration and enthusiasm.” Of course, looking at this four-deck yacht with her perfectly balanced lines, it’s safe to assume that her seductive silhouette will age without getting old, she is timeless.

Well thought-out exterior features

The Riva 130′ Bellissima does not just have beauty, she also has other qualities, including habitability. And she has no trouble proving it, with plans that speak for themselves: 280 m² of exterior space and 260 m² of interior space. Hospitality is her strong point, and we shall be looking at it from stern to bow. The stern of this 40-metre boat will be much appreciated during water sports, thanks to a seven-metre-wide bathing platform topped by a 12 m² beach club. A bench seat covers the entire transom and unfolds to form a solarium where four passengers can enjoy the UV rays. On either side, a staircase leads to the cockpit (38 m²), which is completely sheltered by the upper deck. Here, it’s time to relax, with a bench seat and armchairs to encourage conversation and snacks accompanied by amuse-bouches, quickly prepared thanks to a kitchenette unit with a grill. As for the foredeck, it is not to be outdone with its 58 m² and its fairly sophisticated equipment: a lounge area for six to eight passengers, a solarium and finally a pool for those who prefer fresh water with whirlpools. As a four-decker, the Riva Bellissima is dominated by a 58 m² sunbridge with a roof at its centre, providing welcome shade and supporting the radomes. It’s also the perfect place to relax, either on deckchairs aft or in the two lounges facing each other forward. Not to mention the panoramic view from this dominant position. To conclude with the exterior surfaces of the Bellissima, one has to recognise their great qualities. The same is true of the interior layout, which we shall now explore.

A superb saloon on the main deck

As you would expect, access to the interior is from the cockpit. A bay window opens out across half the width of the superstructure, giving an impressive view of a saloon with a large sofa on each side. Enough room for a dozen passengers who, like us, will undoubtedly be seduced by this very convivial space where natural light abounds through the side windows and from which you can enjoy a beautiful view. From the carpets to the ceiling and the fabrics on the sofa, the dominant colour is white, a choice we feel is so appropriate that we cannot resist it. And the buyer of such a unit will opt for his favourite colours since the yard will obviously comply with his wishes. Following on from the living room, the dining room, which occupies no less than 25 m², also benefits from a pleasant view. The table and seating can accommodate up to 10 passengers. The free-standing kitchen boasts all the meticulous equipment you would expect from a professional establishment. All that remains is to find a master chef. In the meantime, let’s head for the forward part of the main deck, dedicated to the owner, who is likely to appreciate his vast, comfortable 50 m² suite, decorated like the saloon in shades of white, though with the contrast of varnished mahogany on each edge, a successful effect. The generous side windows bring much-needed light into this cosy space. This suite has a full-width bathroom, allowing for two separate toilet areas and two washbasins. They are separated in the centre by a shower. On this unit, the space on the lower deck is, unsurprisingly, allocated to guests with four double cabins, each with its own bathroom, and also to the crew (three cabins, each with two bunk beds and a bathroom). This area also includes a dining area with a small galley, the mess as a matter of fact. For some time now, the Riva brand has had a privileged position in the large yacht segment, above 20 metres. The 130′ Bellissima is not going to change that. This yacht has class. It’s easy to imagine that cruises aboard her will become unforgettable memories.