The sea is often associated with ideas of freedom, horizon, and adventure. What is your first memory connected to it, and where does your passion for the sea come from?

I love the sea because it gives me a sense of infinity, an open space where everything seems possible. I was born in Naples, more precisely in Posillipo, and since childhood I’ve had the privilege of looking out every day at one of the most beautiful views in the world, dominated by the sea. Even today, every time I look at it, I feel the same emotion. The sea has an extraordinary ability to clear the mind, to free you from every thought.

Kiton and SACS both represent Italian excellence in their respective fields. What fundamental values do you see in common between Kiton’s tailoring and SACS’s nautical engineering?

My connection with SACS came about quite naturally, thanks to my great passion for the sea and the world of boating. From the very beginning, I had the chance to meet Christian Grande, and there was an instant harmony between us. Like us, he pays close attention to detail, to innovation, and to everything that breaks the mould. This creative and unconventional approach is surprisingly close to what we do at Kiton: while we are deeply rooted in sartorial tradition, innovation is an essential value for us.

Boating, like tailoring, requires obsessive attention to detail and a constant pursuit of perfection. Is there an anecdote or a particular moment in your career when an apparently insignificant detail made the difference between a good result and an exceptional one?

An obsessive focus on detail is, without a doubt, what makes the difference. My uncle Ciro always used to say, “The best is +1.” And that “+1” perfectly expresses our philosophy: never settle, never feel you’ve arrived. That extra detail, that unexpected gesture, is what allows you to surprise the client, to exceed their expectations. Every season, every collection, is an opportunity to build the perfect wardrobe, and that can only be achieved through extreme care for every single element.

For many people, being at sea means switching off and rediscovering themselves. Is there a particular seaside place that inspires you, or where you like to retreat to recharge and perhaps find new ideas for Kiton?

For me, the sea — and the boat — truly represent the only moment when I can completely disconnect. As a Neapolitan, I’m surrounded by extraordinary places like Capri, Ischia, Procida, and the Amalfi Coast. But there’s one place I hold especially close to my heart: Sant’Angelo d’Ischia. It’s a tiny pedestrian village with a small harbour where only a few boats can dock — mine, fortunately, often among them. It’s a magical place that always gives me new energy, that regenerates me after an intense week or at the end of a holiday. I recommend it to everyone… but not too many of you should come!

If you had to describe the boat born from this collaboration using a single Kiton garment, which would it be and why?

I would compare it to a blue vicuña jacket, suitable for all seasons. A garment of immeasurable quality — rare and precious — capable of combining comfort, elegance, and resilience. Just like this boat, it’s the result of an extreme pursuit of perfection, where every detail serves a precise function and contributes to a timeless aesthetic. It’s a symbol of authentic luxury, one that doesn’t need to show off, but simply to be lived.

Beyond your role as CEO, what is your greatest passion outside the world of fashion? Is there a hobby or activity that helps you maintain balance and fuel your creativity?

As I mentioned, boating is without a doubt my greatest passion outside of work. I don’t see myself an expert, but rather an enthusiastic sailor. I don’t go out to sea to prove something, but to find peace and silence. I use my boat with care, and I have a deep respect for the sea: before every crossing, I always check the forecast, because I have a certain fear of the sea — and it’s precisely for that reason that I love it. Whenever I can, I try to get back on the water. That’s where I find balance, inspiration, and new energy.