Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo, is widely recognised as one of the most influential figures in the global luxury yachting industry. Born in Turin and educated in economics, Perotti began his career in yachting with the prestigious Azimut Benetti group, rising through the ranks before embarking on his own transformational journey with Sanlorenzo in 2005.
Since acquiring the company, Perotti has redefined luxury boatbuilding by merging meticulous craftsmanship with cutting-edge design and international culture. Under his leadership, Sanlorenzo has grown from modest beginnings into a global beacon of bespoke yachting excellence, with production facilities across Italy and a flourishing international presence.
Crafting Extraordinary Experiences, On Sea and Beyond
Perotti’s vision goes far beyond building yachts. He believes in creating curated experiences — where design, art, sustainability, and craftsmanship converge. In collaboration with internationally acclaimed architects and designers such as Piero Lissoni (Sanlorenzo’s Art Director since 2018), Patricia Urquiola, Rodolfo Dordoni, and John Pawson, Sanlorenzo has pushed the boundaries of naval architecture and interior design, turning boats into floating masterpieces.
But Perotti’s ambition does not stop at design. He has strategically linked the world of yachting with contemporary art, forging significant cultural partnerships. Since 2018, Sanlorenzo has been a global partner of Art Basel, with VIP presentations at major editions in Hong Kong, Basel, Miami Beach and Paris — blending elite yachting with the highest levels of modern artistic expression.
In Venice, a city synonymous with art and culture, Sanlorenzo’s commitment has taken tangible form. The company became the main sponsor of the Italian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale Arte in 2022 — a historic moment that placed a leading yacht builder at the heart of the world’s foremost art exhibition.
Casa Sanlorenzo — A Cultural Beacon in Venice
In 2025, Perotti unveiled Casa Sanlorenzo — a dedicated cultural hub in Venice designed by Piero Lissoni and housed in a restored 1940s palazzo overlooking Santa Maria della Salute. This new venue hosts contemporary art exhibitions such as Breathtaking, a powerful installation addressing ocean pollution. The cultural calendar for Venice now regularly brings together luminaries from art, architecture, design, and cinema — reflecting Perotti’s belief in cross-disciplinary creativity and environmental consciousness.
Where to Encounter Massimo Perotti
For VIPs and industry insiders seeking to meet Perotti and witness Sanlorenzo’s latest innovations, there are key events on the global calendar:
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Cannes Yachting Festival — where Sanlorenzo regularly debuts flagship models and showcases its vision for design and sustainability.
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Monaco Yacht Show — a premier gathering of the world’s most luxurious vessels and elite owners.
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Art Basel (Hong Kong, Basel, Miami Beach) — where Sanlorenzo hosts curated spaces and connects high-end clients with contemporary creativity.
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Venice Art Biennale & Venice Architecture Biennale — thanks to Casa Sanlorenzo’s presence and collaborations, Venice has become a cultural hub where yachting meets global art.
At these events, Perotti often participates in discussions on innovation, design, sustainability, and the future of luxury lifestyles — making them must-attend occasions for high-net-worth collectors, cultural patrons, and potential partners.
Beyond Business — The Man Behind the Helm
While Perotti is a titan of industry, he is also known for his passion for craftsmanship, design, and the sea. He continues to uphold Italian artisanal traditions while championing sustainability — from hydrogen fuel-cell technology in superyachts to eco-conscious cultural initiatives.
Described by peers as a thoughtful, strategic leader, Perotti has earned numerous accolades, including Italy’s Cavaliere del Lavoro and the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award. His leadership style blends entrepreneurial grit with an appreciation for art and beauty — qualities that resonate deeply with Sanlorenzo’s global clientele.
Conclusion
Massimo Perotti’s influence extends well beyond the luxury yacht industry. Through bold innovation, strategic partnerships, and a passion for culture, he has positioned Sanlorenzo at the intersection of craftsmanship, art, and global luxury. Whether on the docks of Cannes, the galleries of Art Basel, or the canals of Venice, Perotti’s impact is unmistakable — making him not just a leader of boats, but a pioneer of refined global lifestyle experiences.
