Nautor Swan, a leading name in the construction of sailing yachts, has entered into a significant merger with the Sanlorenzo Group. Effective immediately, Sanlorenzo will acquire 60% of Nautor Swan's shareholding. This merger marks a strategic step for Nautor Swan, aimed at bolstering its growth and reinforcing its position in the high-end yacht segment.
Founded in 1966, Nautor Swan has established itself as a prominent shipyard, specializing in yachts ranging from 28 to 131 feet. The company offers a range of services including Nautor Swan Charter and Brokerage, Nautor Swan Global Service, and ClubSwan Racing. The Boatbuilding Technology Centre in Pietarsaari, Finland, will continue to serve as the primary production site.
The merger will be phased over four years, culminating in the complete transfer of ownership by April 2028. This gradual integration is intended to blend the strengths of both brands and create a major player in the luxury nautical sector.
Sanlorenzo’s acquisition is expected to advance Nautor Swan’s commitment to innovation, particularly in areas such as new materials, sustainability, and manufacturing techniques. The partnership aims to enhance product excellence and expand market reach while maintaining Nautor Swan’s established reputation for elegance and performance.
Leonardo Ferragamo, President of Nautor Group, stated that the merger is designed to secure the brand's future by aligning it with Sanlorenzo, a leading player in the marine industry. Massimo Perotti, President and CEO of Sanlorenzo Group, highlighted that the merger will combine the strengths of both companies, preserving their individual heritage while creating a unified, exclusive nautical brand.
Under the new arrangement, Leonardo Ferragamo will continue as President of Nautor Swan, with Massimo Perotti as CEO and Giovanni Pomati as co-CEO. Legal and financial advisory for the merger was provided by Visconti & Associati, CC & Soci, Heritage Holdings, and Unicredit.
Nautor Swan was founded in 1966 in Pietarsaari, Finland. The builder entered the superyacht market in 1999. Since then, the yard has continued building high-performance sailing yachts in three different lines; ClubSwan, Swan Yachts and Maxi Swan Yachts.
Sanlorenzo was founded in 1958 in Viareggio by yacht builder Gionvanni Jannetti. In 2005, Massimo Perrotti became the majority shareholder in the shipyard. Sanlorenzo builds yachts ranging from 28.60 to 73 meters in length.
Credit: Nautor Swan