High Seas, High Stakes: Staying ahead in the luxury cruise industry

In this week’s episode, Sam Gyimah sits down with billionaire entrepreneur Manfredi Lefebvre D’Ovidio—a seasoned leader who has reshaped the cruise and luxury travel industries over five decades. From his early days learning the ropes alongside his influential father, to his bold, industry-redefining moves in acquiring cruise lines and expanding into diverse investments, Manfredi shares his first‐hand insights on overcoming geopolitical turbulence, embracing change, and seizing opportunities with speed and skill. The conversation spans the challenges posed by wars, pandemics, and shifting global trends, along with his thoughts on the future of business innovation and competitiveness. 

Host: 

Sam Gyimah, Founder and CEO of SG& Capital Partners 

Producers: 

Clare Williamson and Duncan Williamson for SG& Capital Partners with SG& 

Co-producer: Nicky Black 

Music composed by: 

Sophie Sirota 

For listener questions or business inquiries please email [e-mail], and to contact SG& Capital Partners please email [e-mail]. 

You can find a summary of the key points in this episode in The Geopolitics of Business Newsletter. 

Disclaimer: 

The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered or relied upon as financial, investment, legal or tax advice. While we seek to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date at the time of release, no warranties or representations are made regarding its accuracy or completeness, and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed. The opinions and views expressed in this podcast are solely the participant’s own personal opinions and do not reflect the opinions of SG&. 

 

00:00 – Early Journey & Family Legacy 

Manfredi reflects on starting his career at 19, following in the footsteps of his innovative father, and outlines a 220-year family history that stretches back from Naples in the post-Napoleonic era. 

03:00 – Building a Maritime Empire 

Delve into the evolution from operating family shipping businesses to pioneering the cruise industry—from early ventures in ferry transport and maritime navigation, to the bold acquisition and turnaround of cruise lines. 

06:00 – Geopolitical and Economic Crosscurrents 

Discussion on how wars, supply chain disruptions, and the pandemic have shaped global travel.

09:00 – The Power of Speed & Skill 

Discover how manmade advantages—nimble decision-making backed by deep industry knowledge and well-organised capital—allowed Manfredi to seize opportunities that others overlooked, even in times of rapid change. 

11:00 – Global Trends & Future Disruptions 

Manfredi outlines the challenges faced by regions like Europe due to high energy costs and rigid labour markets, while looking ahead to emerging technologies.

13:00 – Reflections & Optimism 

Concluding reflections on adaptability, resilience, and the relentless pace of change in global business.

 

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