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A storied boat builder meets the House of Gucci. By Chris Moore The partnering of Riva shipyards with the House of Gucci marks a moment in history where one can acquire a speedboat that is not only crafted by a legendary boat builder, but is styled by one of the iconic fashion design firms of the world. Gucci has joined with renowned Italian yacht maker Riva to produce the one-of-a-kind 2011 Aquariva Gucci. The yacht - unveiled during the 50th International Boat Show in Genoa last month - exhibits all of the appointments one expects of a luxury speedboat of this caliber. The project is an assertion of the fundamental vision of both firms to bring luxury concepts and designs to the exclusive market, and is offered as a celebration of Gucci's 90th anniversary. The Aquariva Gucci platform is based on the Aquariva model designed by Officina Italiana Design in 2000. The model has since become a contemporary classic of yacht design; anyone even somewhat familiar with the style will recognize it instantly. From the open cockpit to the extensive full-length cushioned rear deck for sunbathing, the line is exceptional. The design takes its cues from the legendary Riva Aquarama of the '50s and '60s, which was coveted by celebrities and royalty the world over and saw its final year in 1996. Following in this spirit, the new Aquariva Gucci manages to achieve the essence of a modern yacht while maintaining its classic appeal. Add to this Gucci's finishing touches - from the upholstery to the color schemes to the understated flair - and the model distinguishes itself as a first among equals. The yacht's hull and layout remain true to the familiar Aquariva platform, but the dcor and style are entirely Gucci, as expressed by creative director Frida Giannini, to reflect the company's true aesthetic in a modern pleasure boat. The hull is all white, in Gucci style, with its Plimsoll line painted in the traditional red-and-green Gucci stripe. Inside, the signature waterproof sundeck and seat coverings are emblazoned with the superlative Guccissima print, giving the yacht an understated iconic touch that is both visual and tactile. This exquisite style extends to the windscreen, which is made from green-hued crystal for both a reduced glare and a handsome appearance. The yacht is packaged with must-have, custom-designed Riva by Gucci accessories, including bags, deck towels and flip-flops that also accent the Aquariva Gucci's dcor. Topping the white fiberglass hull, the deck is laid in traditional Riva mahogany and finished with no less than 24 coats of varnish, half of which are applied with a custom hand-brushing technique. The mahogany decking harkens back to the firm's iconic mid-century designs, when its vessels were custom built exclusively from wood. The all-mahogany decking is exquisite at first sight, its dark golden tones contrasting perfectly with the white hull. But there is more to the Aquariva Gucci than its grand looks. The yacht achieves a top speed of forty-one knots with its twin 380-horsepower Yanmar engines and a maximum cruising range of 150 nautical miles. As a pleasure boat, the Aquariva Gucci's length of 33 feet provides plenty of space within for several passengers to comfortably socialize, and the rear sundeck allows for serene and extended sunbathing while the boat is under way. Riva yachts of this length are still made in the factory in the medieval town of Sarnico, Italy, on the shores of Lake Iseo, where founder Pietro Riva began the Riva tradition some 160 years ago. Today, buyers can be part of a legacy that has expanded to include the House of Gucci. The price for the Aquariva Gucci is $750,000. Riva, +39.035.910.202, www.riva-yacht.com The Affluent Page is the global source for luxury products and services.
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Gucci, Riva, yachts, Aquariva, luxury yachts,
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