Engine
Chriscraft/Riva KCL
Total Power
120hp
Engine Hours
-
Class
Runabout
Length
17,75ft
Year
1954
Model
Florida
Capacity
-
Peter Keats Boat Sales
Boat Details
Description
In a time when Europe was rebuilding after the ravages of World War II, austerity and hardship were the order of the day. The 1950s saw the emergence of hope, wealth and even decadence. Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn were amongst the most glamorous stars and both were associated with Riva boats - a brand unrivalled for its reputation of building beautiful boats for beautiful people.
"Calypso" is a Riva Florida that was built in 1954 and she is the absolute epitome of class and grace.. She is simply stunning, and turns heads wherever she goes. "Calypso" underwent a restoration in the early 2020's that saw her hull stripped back to the bare planks.
The Chriscraft/Riva KCL 120hp engine was given a thorough overhaul during the refit, and enhanced with electronic ignition.
This Riva Florida is a rare opportunity to purchase a classic craft of the highest quality. She attracts admiration from all those that see her....and not a little envy!
Contact Information
More Details
Construction
Honduras Mahogany hull
Honduras Mahogany and maple deck
Stainless steel pop up spring cleats
Helm bench seat for three
"Sunken" aft cockpit with bench seat converts to a sun pad
Fully re-upholstered during the re-fit
All over cover
APPROXIMATE DIMENSIONS:
Length Overall: 5.4m (17'9")
Beam: 1.9m (6'3")
ROAD TRAILER:
4 wheel braked trailer with bunks
Machinery
Chriscraft/Riva KCL 120hp six cylinder motor
Fully refurbished in 2020s re-fit
Electronic ignition
Shaft drive to three blade bronze propeller
12v accessory outlet at the helm
12v battery with isolator switch
Fresh water engine flush system
Owner's Comments
About five years ago, I went to visit a boat museum in London, and whilst wandering around their boatyard, I happened to see "Calypso" and fell in love.
I had always adored the aesthetic lines of the classic Riva sportsboats and when I discovered "Calypso" was for sale, I snapped her up.
"Calypso" needed some light refurbishment, but me being me went somewhat over the top! All her coatings were stripped and renewed whilst any woodwork that showed the slightest signs of degradation was replaced.
The refit was finished with a focus on the mechanicals, with an engine bay blower (the outlet looks like a stainless steel exhaust at the transom), fresh water engine flush system and the update to electronic ignition.
To make transporting and storing her easier, I invested in a new trailer with a folding drawbar, reducing the overall length to just 17’6”, which allows her to be stored conveniently in a garage.
The final touches included brand-new upholstery and a custom overall cover, completing the transformation of "Calypso" into the stunning classic she is today.
I used the boat with my family in Poole Harbour, with some fabulous trips around the islands and up the river to Wareham.
My time with "Calypso" is now sadly coming to an end. I am not quite as young as I used to be and I would like her to go to another enthusiastic owner who is looking to take her on to her next chapter.
Disclaimer
Propulsion
Engine Make:Chriscraft/Riva
Engine Model:KCL
Engine Year:1954
Total Power:120hp
Engine Type:Inboard
Drive Type:Direct Drive
Fuel Type:Petrol
Propeller Type:3 Blade
Propeller Material:Bronze
Measurements
Dimensions
Length Overall:17.75ft
Beam:6.25ft
Miscellaneous
Hull Material:Wood
Tanks
Fresh Water Tank:
Fuel Tank:1 x 90 l
Holding Tank: