Luxury Italian Yachtmaker Sanlorenzo Seeks to Expand in US (1)

Italian yachtmaker Sanlorenzo SpA is exploring a US acquisition that would boost its presence in the world’s top market for luxury water craft, Chief Executive Officer Massimo Perotti said.

“There are interesting opportunities in America,” Perotti said in an interview. Sanlorenzo is holding exploratory talks with a potential target, he said, declining to offer specifics.

People work onboard a Sanlorenzo-made yacht in Singapore.

Photographer: Wei Leng Tay/Bloomberg

Shares of Sanlorenzo, based in Ameglia near Italy’s western coast, advanced 0.9% on Friday in Milan.

The company makes about 70 yachts per year, with prices averaging about €12.5 million ($14.5 million), Perotti said. Adding US production would bring it closer to its biggest ...