Riva 88’ Folgore Review: 38 Knots and Italian Engineering

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The Folgore represents Riva’s most successful attempt at balancing speed with space in the sub-90-foot sportfly category. The MTU 16V package is the right call here, proven reliable and backed by a service network that actually answers the phone. The hull design is conservative in the best sense, prioritizing predictable handling over aggressive styling. Build quality is consistent with Ferretti Group standards, which means solid but not custom-yard meticulous. The carbon fiber and structural glass are well-integrated, and the mahogany inlay is restrained enough to feel modern rather than retro.

This boat is for the owner who already knows they want a Riva and understands what that means operationally. It’s not for someone stepping up from a 60-footer who thinks they can weekend-warrior an 88-foot sportfly. You need crew, you need budget, and you need to use the performance envelope or you’re paying for capability you’ll never access. The Folgore makes sense for someone splitting time between South Florida and the Bahamas, or running the Italian coast where speed and style both matter. It doesn’t make sense for someone who plans to dock it 10 months a year and take it out twice.

Resale will track with the broader Riva market, which has been strong but not immune to economic cycles. The sportfly category holds value better than pure open boats because the layout appeals to a wider buyer base. Maintenance costs are high but predictable if you stay on top of the service schedule. The MTU engines will run forever if you treat them right, but deferred maintenance on a boat this size turns into six-figure problems fast. Buy this boat if you’re ready to use it and maintain it properly. Skip it if you’re looking for a status symbol that sits at the dock.”