Born in 1947, Vitelli’s passion for the sea and his vision for innovation were evident from an early age. While still a university student pursuing economics and commerce, he founded Azimut Srl in 1969.
Initially a sailboat rental business, Azimut rapidly expanded its scope to include yacht distribution and, soon after, yacht design and manufacturing. This evolution positioned the company as a cornerstone of the Italian luxury yacht sector.
Revolutionising yacht design
Vitelli’s contributions to the boating industry were nothing short of transformative. Under his leadership, Azimut became synonymous with innovation and excellence. In 1975, the company introduced its first proprietary yacht, the AZ 43′ Bali, constructed from fibreglass—a pioneering material at the time.
Two years later, the AZ 32′ Targa, designed by John Bennett and nicknamed the “Ford T of the Sea,” made waves for its groundbreaking design with its raised wheelhouse and opening sunroof.
The 1980s marked a period of rapid growth for Azimut. In 1982, the company became the first to use fibreglass in yachts over 30 metres, setting new industry standards. The acquisition of Benetti in 1985 was a defining moment, rescuing the historic Italian brand from bankruptcy and integrating its heritage of megayacht excellence with Azimut’s innovative approach. The formation of the Azimut-Benetti Group established a global powerhouse that still dominates the luxury yacht industry decades later.
Innovating for the future
Vitelli’s relentless drive to innovate extended beyond materials and design. He introduced frameless windows, electric seats, and walnut interiors to Azimut’s yachts, setting new benchmarks for luxury and functionality. In 1991, leveraging automotive construction techniques, Azimut pioneered uninterrupted windows by directly bonding them to fibreglass, creating a sleek and modern aesthetic. Collaborations with renowned design firms like Pininfarina further elevated Azimut’s reputation for cutting-edge design.
Landmark achievements continued into the 2000s, with the introduction of curvilinear windows, the world’s first nautical coupé (the Azimut 68S), and the development of the Magellano series for long-range, all-weather cruising. In 2015, the Azimut Fly 72 debuted as part of the industry’s first carbon-tech generation, reinforcing Vitelli’s commitment to sustainability and performance.
A global legacy
Today, the Azimut-Benetti Group operates six shipyards across Italy and Brazil, producing motor yachts ranging from 9 to 110 metres. The group employs approximately 2,500 people and collaborates with a supply chain of 5,000 individuals. With 95% of its production exported to 70 countries, the company exemplifies the global reach of Vitelli’s vision.
Beyond yachting, Vitelli also made significant contributions to hospitality and marina development. He restored historical buildings into boutique hotels in France and Italy, earning accolades such as the “amis de la Vallée d’Aoste”. He also spearheaded marina projects in Varazze, Viareggio, Livorno, and as far afield as Malta and Moscow.
Leadership and public service
Vitelli’s influence extended beyond business. As president of UCINA (now Confindustria Nautica) from 1998 to 2006, he championed the interests of the Italian nautical industry. In 2004, the Polytechnic University of Turin recognised his contributions with an honorary degree in mechanical engineering. From 2013 to 2015, he served as a deputy in the Italian Parliament, demonstrating his dedication to public service.
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In 2023, Vitelli’s daughter Giovanna was appointed president of the Azimut-Benetti Group, ensuring that the company remains a family-led enterprise. Her leadership marks the continuation of her father’s legacy, blending innovation with a deep respect for tradition.
