Ferretti Group has held a charity auction to raise funds for the territories of central Italy affected by the recent, terrible earthquakes. 

It auctioned off a single, unique Aquariva Super, especially made in the exclusive "Blue Wonderful" colour, chosen by Sir Elton John personally.

The charity auction was announced by the artist and Alberto Galassi, CEO of the Group, during the Ferretti Group Private Preview last September 2 in Monte Carlo.

"The centre Italy was hit by a terrible earthquake that caused devastation to local communities, that are in serious trouble now," Sir Elton John stated. “As a friend of Ferretti Group and Riva owner, I am happy to support the Group's commitment in helping the populations of those regions acting solidarity.

“Ferretti Group decided to create and auction a special edition of the Aquariva Super called 'Blue Wonderful', to which I give my personal contribution. Our hearts go out to those who are still suffering and we are confident that the auction proceeds will contribute to comfort and help to those who need it most."

The Aquariva Super "Blue Wonderful", the only one with the colour and interior elements selected with the contribution of the legendary British pop star and Officina Italiana Design - the studio that exclusively creates the design of the brand Riva -, went to a generous owner who asked to remain anonymous.

The final and winning bid was an amount of €430,000 ($446,766) plus tax. The proceeds will be donated to the Italian Civil Protection for immediate interventions to support communities of central Italy hit by the earthquake.

"As a symbol of Italian excellence in the yachting industry, we immediately felt the need to give our support to the areas hit hardest by the earthquake," commented Galassi at the end of the splendid evening. "We decided to donate one of our most beautiful and iconic boats, the Aquariva Super, made even more exceptional by the creative genius of our friend, and Riva owner, Sir Elton John, who personally selected this version of ‘Blue Wonderful’ making this a unique and unrepeatable unit.

The proceeds of this initiative will entirely go to the Italian Civil Protection, to support immediate relief projects and support reconstruction of one of the most beautiful areas of the country, the richest in culture, history and traditions. We chose the Aquariva Super because it is a symbol of Italy's extraordinary manufacturing expertise and unique capabilities that characterise the Riva brand and all of Ferretti Group. The yacht will have a special commemorative plaque to remember that this Aquariva ‘Blue Wonderful’ was donated by Ferretti Group to its country.”