Early Life
Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio was born in Rome, Italy, on April 30, 1953. He is the son of Antonio Lefebvre d'Ovidio, an Italian maritime law specialist, and Eugenia Beck. From a young age, he developed a passion for the marine industry and the travel business. His family has invested in ships since 1840.
Rise to Success
In 1994, Manfredi's father founded Silversea Cruises with two ships. Manfredi became chairman in 2001. Under his leadership, Silversea grew into a prominent ultra-luxury cruise line. In 2018, he sold a two-thirds stake in Silversea to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for approximately $1 billion. Following the sale, he directed the proceeds toward diversifying the family's investment activities through Heritage Group.
Key Business Strategies
Manfredi's key business strategies included expanding Silversea's fleet and geographical reach, making the company a leader in the ultra-luxury cruise market. He focused on providing high-end travel experiences and expanding into new markets. He also strategically partnered with Royal Caribbean to accelerate growth. More recently, he has focused on investments through Heritage Group in sectors like technology and clean energy.
Philanthropy
Manfredi is involved in philanthropy and appointed as Ambassador-at-Large for Culture and Philanthropy by the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. He also supports cultural initiatives. The Antonio Lefebvre D'Ovidio Di Balsorano Philanthropy was founded in 2024.
