Porto Carlo Riva Marina Rapallo
Brand Strategy & Design
Share
Service
Industry
Opportunity in the Storm
Following the destruction of the Rapallo marina by a storm in 2018, Bizzi & Partners saw an opportunity to reposition it as a destination that could complement the prestige of neighbouring Portofino and Santa Margherita.
Charting a New Course
We developed a brand rooted in nautical culture that elevated the experience to appeal to a sophisticated international yachting audience.
Located on the eastern coast of Liguria, Rapallo sits just next to the iconic bays of Portofino and Santa Margherita. Though traditionally seen as the less glamorous neighbour, Rapallo holds unique potential—particularly in the world of yachting. Following the destruction of its marina in a 2018 storm, Bizzi & Partners, in collaboration with the Riva family, saw an opportunity not just to rebuild, but to reposition the marina and, with it, the image of Rapallo itself.
As the first private marina in Italy, it was designed by and named after the legendary boat designer Carlo Riva. Known for crafting some of the world’s most iconic wooden speedboats—including the Aquarama, often referred to as the “Stradivarius of the Sea”—Riva is synonymous with Italian elegance and maritime innovation. In celebration of this heritage, the name Carlo Riva was kept in the rebranding. His legacy helped steer our own creative approach as we draw visual inspiration from nautical maps and compass motifs.
As the first private marina in Italy, it was designed by and named after the legendary boat designer Carlo Riva. Known for crafting some of the world’s most iconic wooden speedboats—including the Aquarama, often referred to as the “Stradivarius of the Sea”
A deep navy blue anchors the brand’s colour palette, while layered monograms and graphic patterns evoke the precision, luxury and timeless appeal of Riva’s own designs. To support the brand rollout, we developed marketing and communication assets ranging from sales tools to uniforms, and signage that integrates seamlessly with the architecture. The result is a coherent, aspirational identity that reflects the future of Rapallo as a rising destination on the Ligurian coast—one that is both elegant and enduring.
