Revived & Reinvented: Carlo Riva Port’s €70m redevelopment

Storm damaged in 2018, the site now features 250 berths and a range of modern amenities.

The resurgence of Carlo Riva Port in Rapallo, Italy marks a pivotal moment in Liguria's maritime history, signifying the restoration of a crucial infrastructure and the revitalization of the region's economic and touristic prospects.

Following the devastation wrought by a storm in October 2018 storm, which left the port in disrepair, international group Bizzi & Partners, in partnership with Argo and Fidim by Luca Rovati, undertook a €UR 70M redevelopment, with the new Carlo Riva Port now boasting over 250 berths across nine docks capable of accommodating yachts up to 60m (197ft) in length. 

Porto Carlo Riva

A significant portion of the redevelopment allocation was used to fortify the outer breakwater and other sea-facing facilities with 1,600 20-ton tetrapods and 170,000 tons of boulders, alongside constructing a 7m (23ft) high sea wall.

A range of commercial and dining amenities was also added to ensure the service-oriented port integrated well with the city of Rapallo. Furthermore, to enhance its environmental credentials, Carlo Riva Port will pioneer sustainable practices by sourcing up to 80% of its non-potable water needs from the Rapallo purification plant.

Porto Carlo Riva
Porto Carlo Riva

Designed by architect Susanna Scarabicchi of Tectoo, the architectural overhaul of the Italian port is expected to create over 200 new employment opportunities, reinforcing its role as a key economic driver in the region.

The reopening of the port of Rapallo, the most important in the Tigullio will have a great and positive tourist value for the whole territory and, at the same time, it also has a great symbolic value after the storm of 2018 which devastated it. Today we inaugurate a better Carlo Riva than the previous one.

Augusto Sartori

Regional Councilor for Tourism

Liguria