Legend has it that the first time Riva Aquarama was seen at sea, Ferrari drivers left their cars and started swimming towards the boat. Since that day, when it comes to speed and elegance at sea, no second boat has come close to Riva Aquarama.

Designed by Carlo Riva, Aquarama made its debut at the 3rd Milan Boat Show in 1962. The boat was a product of the Riva Company founded by Pietro Riva in 1842 and carried the genes of the Tritone model. Features such as the aft sunbathing area and twin engines were taken from the Tritone. However, the Aquarama's front seats were separated and the stern design was modified to allow easier access to the water. Her open roof and large wind shield removed obstacles, and her nostalgic lines conveyed a sense of timelessness. Her impeccable workmanship dazzled the eye. The name came from the American Cinerama movie format of the 60s. Just like Cinerama, Aquarama gave the user an endless visual experience. Over time, the Aquarama became one of the most sought-after speedboats and became a legend. It later starred in the 17th movie of the James Bond series, The Golden Eye and Ocean's Twelve.

The first test drive of the Aquarama took place in August 1962, by the founder of FIAT, the famous industrialist Giovanni Agnelli. Carlo Riva was so confident in the boat that he made a bet with Agnelli. If he could capsize it, he would give it to Agnelli for free. When the boat didn't capsize, Agnelli had to buy one with his money.

8 meters long and 2.5 meters wide, the first Riva Aquarama was built in four more models throughout the 60s and 70s: Aquarama Lungo, Super Aquarama, Aquarama Special and Riva Lamborghini. After 34 years in production, the boat was discontinued in 1996. Today, the Riva Aquariva model continues to keep the legend alive.

Vinaigrette II, the 100th Aquarama, of which 762 have been built to date, is on display at the Rahmi M. Koç Museum in Istanbul. The boat has two Chris-Craft V8 engines with 230 hp each and if you stand next to it and close your eyes, it is enough to make your hair fly.

Photographs: Rahmi M. Koç Museum, Wikimedia Commons