For over a century and a half, the name Matteri has been synonymous with exceptional craftmanship, timeless design and authentic nautical tradition. At the heart of this legacy stands Erio Matteri, a master shipwright whose passion for classic boats has shaped the identity of Matteri boats and reaffirmed their status as symbols of artisan excellence on Lake Como and beyond.
Matteri boats:
tradition, prestige
and technology
1865
/
Boatbuilding activity on Lake Como began with Giovanni Mostes, who built the first boats used for fishing and for transporting goods and animals.
late ‘800
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His son, Enrico Mostes, continued his father’s work and specialized in the repair and maintenance of ferries and passenger boats.
1912
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Enrico moved to Lezzeno and founded the family shipyard.
1920
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The ferry serving the Bellagio – Cadenabbia – Varenna route was built.
’50s – ’70s
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The historic Burchiello and Spingarda models were produced, along with boats that later became collectors’ items.
1960
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In 1960, the legacy passed from Enrico Mostes to his son Amos, marking the beginning of a new era in which the Lucia became the iconic symbol of the Matteri Shipyard, embodying the very soul of Lake Como.
1979
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Erio Matteri became the owner of the shipyard and the Cantiere Nautico Erio Matteri was established.
1980s
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The charm of the lake captivated international personalities as well: fashion designer Gianni Versace chose a Lucia built by Amos in the 1960s, helping to spark the first great wave of celebrity presence on Lake Como.
1990s
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The shipyard once again demonstrated its ability to evolve: fiberglass opened new possibilities, and under Erio’s guidance, production expanded—from working boats for fishing to sports boats, and elegant solutions for tourism. The electric motor launch “Lo Spirito di Volta,” dedicated to Alessandro Volta, was launched. Research into electric propulsion began. At the same time, the tradition of wood craftsmanship continued with passion, preserving the construction and restoration of the lake’s typical boats. This legacy would be further enriched in the following decade with the development of the restoration of the legendary Riva boats—true timeless masterpieces and symbols of Italian style and refinement.
1986
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Amos Matteri was appointed “Cavaliere del Lavoro” by the then President of the Italian Republic, Francesco Cossiga.
2004
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The shipyard took part in the filming of Ocean’s Twelve, starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Matt Damon. The experience brought the charm of cinema to the waters of Lake Como through private shooting services provided by Matteri.
2023
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In 2023, the first Riva Private Deck in Italy was inaugurated on Lake Como, celebrating the collaboration with Ferretti Group. An exclusive space where Riva’s elegance meets the historic legacy of the Matteri shipyards.
Today
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The activity continues at the Yacht Club Eriolario under the direction of Francesca Matteri, preserving a strong commitment to bespoke artisanal craftsmanship. Particular care is devoted to the quality and customization of each boat, with some models also developed with electric propulsion.
Erio Matteri: master restorer and ambassador of nautical excellence
Not only a master builder, Erio Matteri, son of Amos, is now celebrated worldwide as a thoughtful restorer of classic wooden boats, including the legendary Riva fleet that has long graced the waters of Lake Como. His profound knowledge of wood, form, and function has made Matteri boats a symbol of refined nautical tradition and artisanal mastery.
In addition to his craft, Erio holds prominent roles in the nautical community: he serves as a consultant for institutional relations with the Armed Forces and the National Nautical Commission, contributes to the Aeronautics and Nautical Sector of ASI, has acted as a judge for multiple editions of the Concours d’Élégance at Lake Tahoe and is a member of the scientific committee of the Museo della Barca Lariana.
Today, Matteri boats are more than vessels; they are ambassadors of Italian culture, carrying the legacy of Lake Como’s nautical history into the future. With every boat crafted or restored by Erio Matteri and his team, a story of passion, skill and tradition is brought to life, creating unforgettable experiences on the water and perpetuating a family heritage that remains as alive and vibrant as the lake itself.
