27ft "Iseo" Riva-Inspired Wooden Runabout | Custom Build Consultation

The Riva Iseo 27ft is a contemporary Italian luxury runabout inspired by the legendary styling language of the Riva shipyard on Lake Iseo. Designed as a refined day cruiser, the Iseo combines sleek proportions, a deep-V performance hull, and unmistakable mahogany deck detailing to deliver modern speed wrapped in timeless elegance. She represents the evolution of the classic wooden runabout into a sophisticated 21st-century sport cruiser.

Our workshop faithfully recreates this iconic design using premium marine materials-including Western Red Cedar, Mahogany, Teak, and U.S.-made Hexcel fiberglass finished with System Three marine spar varnish-built entirely by hand with the traditional plank-on-frame construction method.

Every signature detail-from the sculpted sheerline and tumblehome stern to the elegant deck inlays and refined cockpit layout-is carefully preserved. Typical build time is approximately 4-5 months of meticulous craftsmanship.

Clients may customize wood selection, finish, upholstery, deck configuration, helm layout, and engine installation to reflect personal preferences-bringing modern Italian yachting elegance to life with bespoke craftsmanship.

General Dimensions

• Length Overall (LOA): 27ft (8.24 m)

• Maximum Beam: Approx. 8.2ft (2.5 m)

• Draft: Approx. 3.2ft (0.96 m) depending on drive configuration

• Passenger Capacity: 6-8 persons

Performance & Use

Powered by a high-performance stern-drive engine (commonly 300-350 HP range), the Riva Iseo typically achieves 35-40+ knots, delivering smooth acceleration and responsive handling. The deep-V hull ensures confident tracking and stability in both inland lakes and light coastal waters.

The Riva Iseo was introduced in 2011 by the renowned Italian shipyard Riva Yachts as a modern reinterpretation of the brand's legendary wooden runabouts. Named after Lake Iseo, the historic home of the Riva shipyard in Sarnico, the model was conceived as an entry-level luxury runabout that would carry the spirit of mid-century Riva icons into the contemporary era.

The Iseo was designed under the direction of Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta of Officina Italiana Design, the long-time design studio responsible for Riva's modern fleet. Their goal was to preserve the unmistakable DNA established during the golden age of Riva-particularly the elegance popularized under Carlo Riva-while integrating advanced hull engineering, updated ergonomics, and contemporary propulsion systems.

Although constructed using modern fiberglass technology rather than traditional all-wood planking, the Iseo visually pays homage to classics such as the Aquarama through its high-gloss mahogany deck with maple inlays, sculpted tumblehome stern, and polished stainless-steel detailing. This careful balance between heritage styling and modern performance positioned the Iseo as a refined day cruiser for lakes and coastal waters.

Today, the Riva Iseo represents a key chapter in Riva's evolution-bridging the craftsmanship legacy of its wooden past with the innovation and engineering standards of modern Italian yacht building.