Sanlorenzo Celebrates 20 Years of Massimo Perotti at the Helm
On 13th June 2025, Sanlorenzo hosted a celebration at Florence’s iconic Stazione Leopolda to commemorate 20 years of visionary leadership by its Chairman and CEO, Massimo Perotti. The event brought together employees, key figures from the shipyard, and industry stakeholders to honour two decades of innovation, craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication to excellence, while also looking forward to the promising future of one of the world’s most prestigious yacht builders.
Founded in 1958, Sanlorenzo has established itself as a paragon of luxury in the yachting industry, specialising in the design and construction of bespoke yachts and superyachts ranging from 24 to 70 metres. Operating through four shipyards in La Spezia, Ameglia, Viareggio, and Massa, the company is known for its ability to blend artistry with cutting-edge technology, delivering tailor-made vessels under the Sanlorenzo and Bluegame brands. Sanlorenzo’s global presence spans Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa, supported by a network of over 1,500 artisan companies and an international distribution and service network.
Since acquiring the company in 2005, Massimo Perotti has been the driving force behind Sanlorenzo’s transformation into a global leader. His leadership has propelled the company from a revenue of €42 million in 2004 to €930 million in 2024, reflecting a period of extraordinary growth. Perotti’s strategic vision has expanded Sanlorenzo’s portfolio to include the Bluegame and Nautor Swan brands, as well as the acquisition of Simpson Marine, strengthening its position in the Asia-Pacific market.
The event was attended by employees from around the world, who were treated to a private tour of the Uffizi Galleries, offering them a unique experience in the heart of Florence. This cultural highlight aligned with Sanlorenzo’s commitment to art and design, reflecting Perotti’s passion for creativity and setting the tone for the rest of the celebration.
At the gala dinner, the evening began with an interview with Massimo Perotti, where he reflected on the challenges and triumphs of the past two decades. Guests were then served an enjoyable dinner, followed by a live band performance. The event concluded with a toast to “the legacy of Sanlorenzo — and the many chapters still to come.”
Massimo Perotti: An Exceptional Leader
Born in Turin in 1960, Massimo Perotti began his career in yachting at the age of 23, working with Azimut-Benetti under the mentorship of Paolo Vitelli. After two decades at Azimut, where he served as CEO, Perotti acquired Sanlorenzo in 2005, taking on the challenge of leading a smaller shipyard. His transition from manager to entrepreneur was marked by a year of mentorship under Sanlorenzo’s founder, Giovanni Jannetti, which Perotti credits for shaping his approach to leadership.
Perotti’s contributions extend beyond Sanlorenzo. He has served as president of UCINA (Confindustria Nautica) and is a board member at the Superyacht Builders Association (SYBAss). His accolades include the ‘Cavaliere del Lavoro’ honour in 2017, the EY ‘Imprenditore dell’Anno’ award in 2019, and the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the 2023 Boat Builder Awards, recognising his indelible mark on the yachting industry.
Under Perotti’s leadership, Sanlorenzo has embraced innovation, particularly in sustainability. The company has pioneered eco-friendly technologies, such as hydrogen-hybrid boats and foiling catamarans, while maintaining its commitment to craftsmanship and design. Perotti’s passion for art and design is evident in Sanlorenzo’s partnerships with Art Basel, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the establishment of Sanlorenzo Arts, a cultural initiative launched in 2025.
A Vision for the Future
The celebration at Stazione Leopolda was not only a reflection on past successes but also a reaffirmation of Sanlorenzo’s commitment to its core values of innovation, quality, and sustainability. As the company looks to the future, it aims to further expand its global presence, particularly in the emerging Asia-Pacific region, while continuing to push the boundaries of yacht design and technology.