Convertible cars have been a symbol of luxury and leisure in the automotive industry since the technology began rolling onto the car scene in the 70s. It’s only recently that top designers of the boating industry have taken notice, and have developed the perfect system to make this optional wind-in-your-hair technology transition onto water. The Riva 88’ Florida is the first mastered product, taking notes in style from its predecessors and incorporating modern technology, making it this year’s ocean showstopper. It’s the newest superyacht from the Ferretti Group but with classic style inspired by the legendary Riva Bahamas, the bestselling sea staple of decades previous. The revolutionary hardtop convertible feature makes this yacht not only the world’s first power-convertible motor superyacht, but also the new standard for yacht designers and owners.

The design, patented by the Ferretti Group, gives the Riva 88’ Florida the versatility of identifying as a coupe or as a convertible in three different ways. The hard top is integrated thoughtfully into the deckhouse shape and windshield and roll bar profiles, making it not only sleek but entirely functional. When the hard top is secured, it angles toward the bow, covering the dinette while keeping the yacht aerodynamic and the driver in a quiet, enclosed haven. When open and locked to the deckhouse, provides a vast open space to catch some serious shade with cocktails in hand. The roof can be paused at any point in between once unlocked from the windshield to provide a sun-shade over the deck with the ocean breeze still in full-effect. If the owner chooses, the cockpit can be completely closed in with the use of the top and an installation of lateral see-through awnings. And you don’t have to be a tech genius or an ex-ship captain to operate it; the electronic power unit and sensor monitors ensure perfect execution, uninterrupted movement and safety with every desired change. It’s so effortless, the transition can be made without even spilling your champagne.

The interior is where designer Mauro Micheli pulled inspiration from classic colors and materials most commonly seen in previous bestselling Riva yachts, namely the Riva Bahamas from a couple decades ago. The light wood runs throughout the deck and the cabin, complimented by a crisp fair leather on furniture and stainless steel trim and accents. Vintage honey-colored wood panelling and cabinetry is also prominent in the three guest cabins, the double guest cabin and the smaller cabin for crew members, as well as all full-size bathrooms. Without the deep blue ocean views, the coziness might bring you to forget you’re inside a boat. In addition to the bedrooms and washrooms, there is a living room with a complete horizon ocean view and guest lobby, as well as the dinette on the deck, the sunbathing lounge, the cockpit and a vast garage. The garage is equipped to hold four jet skis, and has technology to lower any water toys up to a meter in water and moved away from the stern.

As for the Riva 88’s performance in the water, it received anything but short attention on engine and power design. It has two MTU 16 V 200 M93, 2435 mhp engines that makes its maximum speed at 38.5 knots and has a cruising speed of 34 knots. That provides a range of 310 and 340 nautical miles. But if more power was what you were looking for, an upgraded configuration provides two MTU 16 v 200 M94, 2638 mhp engines, which gives you a range of 300 and 330 nautical miles. You can get to your destination in a hurry or with great leisure; either way, you’re getting ample power and a smooth cruise.

As for the exterior, description simply doesn’t do the yacht justice. This sleek steel aerodynamic design makes the Riva 88’ sport-boat quite a head-turner. Its appearance and size makes the Riva 88’ Florida’s grandeur unmissable. At a length of 87.6 feet and a beam of 20.5 feet, there’s more than enough space for the wildest of bachelor parties or multiple spots for unsolicited, tranquil alone time.

The evolution of Riva is beautifully shown with this superyacht, with the 88’ Florida demanding other yacht groups notice of its granditure in the boating world. The price can be disclosed upon request. All other information can be found at riva-yacht.com.