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Captain Heritage

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

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

Regular price $100.00 USD
Regular price $100.00 USD Sale price $100.00 USD
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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.
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What makes our wooden boats so unique and special? 

Hundreds of hours go into the construction of our boats, as perfection is the only options.

- ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY: We use only certified top-grade, hand-selected wood such as Canadian red cedar, mahogany, rosewood, teak and more. 

- THE ART OF CRAFTSMANSHIP: Merging centuries-old customs with technological innovation, we bring you boats that excel in every categories. 

- IN-HOUSE QUALITY CONTROL: Each of our wooden boats goes through a demand quality control process including in water testing before leaving the workshop.

 

About Woodenboat USA™

The story of time-honored traditions of boat building. 

More than just watercraft, our wooden boats, kayaks and canoes represent connections to a legacy of craftsmanship and old world techniques. Woodenboat USA is invested in the type of construction that recalls generations of boat making. Over thirty years in business, our commitment has always been and will continue to be, to excellence, to tradition and to creating products that you can enjoy both for their performance and incredible beauty.

Inspired by history, the names of our watercraft are derived from the northern waterways where natives and settlers have used them for centuries. Merging centuries-old customs with improvements in technology, we bring you boats that excel in every category.

Beginning with pliable, high quality Canadian cedar and hardwood, our craftsmen hand join each individual strip. Hundreds of hours go into the construction of our boats, as perfection is the only option. Once built, the piece is encapsulated in fiberglass epoxy resin adding an extra layer of durability and strength. At last, the water craft is ready for its nautical debut.

FAQ's

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What are your canoes and kayaks made of?

Our canoes and kayaks are made of the highest quality western red cedar and some hardwoods. The larger boats are made of western red cedar, pine, and hardwoods such as oak, mahogany, teak, and some locally available woods. Our wooden watercraft are then coated both inside and out in an incredibly durable American made fiberglass and epoxy resin.

You mentioned that you use fiberglass in your boats, so what is the difference between your boats and fiberglass boats?

We only use 1 or 2 clear thin layers of fiberglass coating on top of the wood for reinforcement and added integrity. You never see any fiberglass, only beautiful, hand-joined cedar and hardwoods.

What is a typical cedar strip canoe or kayak weight?

A 15’ kayak weighs approximately 45lbs, making it very easy for one person to carry. A 16’ canoe weighs about 48lbs.

What type of boats do you build?

Our wooden strip canoes and kayaks are hugely popular for touring and recreational purposes. We also build wooden dinghies, wooden sail boats, classic wooden runabouts, and speedboats. Additionally, we can custom-build any design with which you supply us.

What methods do you use to build the boats?

Focused on integrating traditional technique with modern design, all boats are built by hand, typically taking hundreds of man hours to create.

How do I order?

Please contact our dealers or call (877) 88 Boats for more information.

How long does an order take?

Boats that we have in stock can be shipped to you within a week). New or custom products generally take 2-3 months as everything we sell is 100% hand crafted.

How do you ship it?

We can ship via trucking company very safely. We also insure all freight so in the very rare case that a shipment is damaged during transit, we will take care of the details and immediately replace the item for you. We also have distributors all over the world, so please contact us to find out more information.

How do I become a distributor of your products?

We welcome qualified dealers and distributors all over the world. Please contact us today at (877) 88 Boats or email us at info@woodenboatusa.com for more information.

What kind of warranty can I expect?

For all products we offer a 6 month limited warranty on materials and craftsmanship.

Guidelines for use

CARE:

With a little bit of care and maintenance, your beautiful canoe can last for generations. While our products are certainly durable and solid, they still require the right type of care and handling to ensure that they perform optimally.

  • It is recommended that you rinse your canoe off with fresh clean water after every use.
  • Upon returning from the trip, allow your canoe to air-dry in the shade.

STORAGE:

Besides taking care of your canoe, storage also plays an essential role in maintaining your canoe’s appearance and beauty.

  • Always store your wooden canoe in shade.
  • Turn it upside down on the support thereby keeping it off the ground.
  • Hanging your boat from the rafters in your garage or shop would be ideal storage.

REPAIR:

Minor scratches can be repaired by marine spar vanish or some brand of automobile wax. Smooth the damaged area with sand paper, wipe clean, then apply marine spar vanish.

SAFETY:

Wooden Boat USA strongly recommends that a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is worn whenever paddling.

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