INTERNATIONAL GATHERING ON LAKE GARDA

The International Gathering on Lake Garda Opens the 2026 ASDEC Season

rom 11 to 14 June 2026, Lake Garda hosted the traditional International Vintage Motorboat Gathering, the first major event of the 2026 ASDEC season. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Nautica Casarola, the event brought together some of the world’s most prestigious historic motorboats, including the centenary Ali Babà, an extraordinary 1926 Chris-Craft once owned by aeronautical engineer Alessandro Marchetti, alongside other exceptional vessels from the Museo Barca Lariana and important private collections from Italy and abroad.

During the closing day of the event, Cesare Casarola, affectionately known as “il meccanichino” (“the little mechanic”), was awarded Honorary Membership of ASDEC in recognition of the key role he played in helping transform the Riva boatyard into an internationally renowned success.

The gathering was far more than a reunion of historic boats: it was a celebration of the culture of classic boating, the importance of restoration, and the dedication of those who have devoted decades to preserving this unique heritage. Through meetings, cruises, and educational activities, ASDEC, Museo Barca Lariana, and Nautica Casarola reaffirmed their shared commitment to the preservation and promotion of historic boats, symbolically inaugurating the season that will culminate in Villa d’Este Style – Vintage Yachting on Lake Como this September.