Riva 90' Argo Review (2019 Edition)

While renowned for its sports boats and yachts, this iconic Italian shipyard boasts a rich history of crafting top-tier flybridge models. The legacy dates back to the 1980s, with the influential 12-15m (39-49ft) SuperAmericas setting enduring style standards.

In the present era, Riva has elevated its game with a range of crew-operated flybridge yachts, featuring the 28m (93ft) Argo, 100 Corsaro, and 110 Dolce Vita.

The imminent launch of a 40m (130ft) model signals Riva's intent to leave an indelible mark in the semi-custom market. Focused on the entry-level 90 Argo, Riva, perched at the summit of pricing, isn't just joining conversations - it's instigating a new dialogue.

A new level of finish

The 90 Argo doesn't attempt to surpass its production counterparts in sheer volume. While it may not boast an extensive number of cabins, providing four instead of the common five, it compensates with an unparalleled level of finish and attention to detail seldom found outside the realm of custom yachts. Although the Argo we examined exhibited a more conservative finish, Riva offers an impressive array of choices, collaborating with each owner to craft a highly personalized expression of style.

The exterior design mirrors the sleek, streamlined, and refined aesthetics of its larger counterparts, featuring expansive stretches of tinted glass seamlessly integrated into a meticulously crafted metallic superstructure and topsides.

Every corner of this Riva yacht showcases impeccable build quality. The full-height salon windows are elegantly framed in stainless steel, the custom-made furniture, including exquisite bar stools, reflects meticulous attention to detail, and the deck finish is nothing short of exceptional. Riva's commitment to using materials like teak, stainless steel, carbon fibre, and leather is evident throughout, setting a standard that would likely incur double the usual costs in both labour and materials.

This dedication results in a yacht that appears designed to withstand not just one, but multiple lifetimes, with the promise of improving over time and usage. The only potential drawback to such a robust build and finish is the associated weight. However, a well-designed hull, featuring a modified Vee design, ensures an impressive top speed of 26 knots with the standard twin 2000hp MTU engines for this nearly 100-tonne vessel. Opting for the top-rated 2400hp engine options opens the door to reaching 30 knots.

If you appreciate the four-cabin layout, you'll be delighted by what Riva has achieved with them. The master suite, a significant feature akin to larger yachts, is strategically placed on the main deck, allowing the guest accommodations to extend below decks. This arrangement results in three VIP guest cabins. Forward, two equally luxurious quarters are positioned on each side, featuring spacious double berths, generous ensuites, and extensive hull-side glass panels.

Now, let's explore what we'll term the VVIP positioned amidships. This meticulously designed cabin might even surpass the larger main deck master in terms of cohesive style and neatness. A desk and lounge grace each side, accompanied by a spacious en suite and wardrobe located aft. Across from the double berth stands a tall mirrored panel housing the TV.

Across all guest cabins, the finish is exceptional, featuring bright marble ensuites, and dark cabinetry adorned with leather handles, white panelling, and stainless steel frames. Riva's slatted cabinetry adds a pleasantly nautical touch, evoking the louvred finish reminiscent of classic yachts.

The main deck master suite stands out as the largest cabin, truly one of the best in its class. With the en suite positioned forward, descending into the bows, the master spans the full beam with large windows set into the flare of the topsides and a skylight illuminating the steps leading to the en suite. The practicalities of cruising life are well-addressed with rows of cabinetry, a walk-in closet, and a dressing area.

Social grace

Moving aft from this secluded area, you'll traverse a central stairwell leading down to the guest accommodation or up to the pilothouse before entering the main salon. The layout adheres to tradition, with the dining area positioned forward, in proximity to the discreetly accessed galley, and the lounge extending aft.

The entire social space is enveloped in glass, featuring triple side windows and full-width cockpit doors that create a nearly uninterrupted view outward. Not to be overshadowed, the dining area is bordered by floor-to-ceiling windows; the only drawback is that they are fixed. Nevertheless, we believe that if an owner desires operable windows, Riva would endeavour to accommodate such preferences.

Designed for crew operation, the galley is meticulously compartmentalized, featuring a sleek modern finish and accommodating a full-size cabinet fridge-freezer with ample storage. The crew quarters are conveniently accessed through the galley, comprising two twin bunked ensuite cabins. Crucially, there's also a small mess area equipped with a galley, affording your crew privacy and self-sufficiency.

The lower helm exudes sophistication, providing a mini-pilothouse for the skipper, ideal for extended passages. Encircled by a wraparound console, the pedestal seat features four multifunctional displays (MFDs) positioned forward, complemented by a ship's systems schematic along one side. While the helm station boasts a superb finish, the forward view is somewhat restricted by the raked windscreen frames.

The Argo being a fast flybridge yacht, the upper helm is where most of the fun will be had. Here four chunky seats run across the front of the flybridge, the helm itself set to starboard. Furthermore, the console itself folds away leaving just the steering, throttles, and basic controls.

Amidst all the luxurious interiors, it's on the deck where one truly grasps the essence of both this yacht's and Riva's philosophy. This yacht is destined to age gracefully, acquiring a richer look and feel over the years as its materials soften and adapt to their maritime roles.

Let's begin with the flybridge, where the intricately sculpted hardtop roof could easily grace the Biennale. Below, an extensive seating arrangement for dining unfolds, with the aft section intentionally left open for the inclusion of freestanding lounge furniture tailored to your preferences.

The dining section is graced by an exquisite table and wet bar, typically overlooked for anything beyond practicality. Yet, here, they command attention solely for the impeccable construction quality. The Argo's bar and its teak and stainless steel stools exude sophistication and attention to detail, surpassing entire yachts in both consideration and refinement. Notably, both the flybridge and the aft deck bars boast smoothly hinging lids, adding an extra layer of elegance.

Beach club flavor

The main deck aft on our test yacht exuded a beach club ambiance, adorned with thoughtfully arranged furniture to fashion a laid-back lounge area. Similar to the flybridge, there's flexibility in choosing your preferred furniture, with Riva presenting a diverse selection that blends luxury with versatility.

Throughout the decks, the moldings boast a robust, polished finish resembling mirrors. Teak and stainless steel are incorporated where others might opt for additional GRP, and when plastic is utilized, it frequently leans towards the lightweight and durable nature of carbon fiber.

On the flybridge, a tidy door provides access to the elevated port deck, leading to the forward cockpit equipped with two loungers extending from the coachroof. While the port side offers good deck access, the starboard deck serves as the primary working area with complete access from stern to bow. Both decks are generously recessed and sheltered by the flybridge overhang, providing a secure and protected ambiance.

At the stern, a hydraulic hi-lo bathing platform serves as a waterside terrace or a launch mechanism for the tender garage, accommodating a 4.5m (15ft) RIB and PWC.

Riva's semi-custom approach emphasises owner choice, tailoring each Argo to individual styles. While much customization is included in the base price, extensive personalisation options may increase costs.

The focus on build quality, distinctive styling, and overall performance often translates into extended ownership satisfaction, justifying the initial investment. It is also worth noting that resale values for Riva yachts are robust, contributing to a solid investment.

However, it's essential to note that the Argo, with its four cabins, may not suit those requiring five cabins. The decision between four and five cabins extends beyond accommodating guests; it also impacts chartering possibilities for those considering such ventures.