Marevivo honours Pierfrancesco Vago with accolade of ‘Knight for the Sea’

Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee receives prestigious recognition for his “exceptional dedication to marine conservation and the protection of our oceans”

Focus Area: Marine Conservation

Pierfrancesco Vago, Chair of the MSC Foundation Executive Committee and Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, has been awarded the honour of Marevivo Cavaliere per il Mare (Knight for the Sea) in recognition of his “exceptional dedication to marine conservation and the protection of our oceans”.

This prestigious accolade, awarded during a ceremony in Florence, was established in 2017 to celebrate individuals who embody Marevivo’s mission and values, raising awareness and inspiring action in defence of the seas. Mr Vago joins MSC’s Captain Gianluigi Aponte and Diego Aponte, who have also received this distinguished honour.

The Cavalieri per il Mare are Marevivo’s ambassadors – individuals from diverse professional fields who share a deep commitment to protecting the ocean. They are chosen for their integrity, influence and ability to build awareness of critical environmental challenges.

Mr Vago has consistently demonstrated his active passion for ocean preservation, supporting groundbreaking conservation initiatives over the years. His efforts express Marevivo’s core belief that change is not only necessary but achievable.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Vago expressed his gratitude for the honour, with special acknowledgement to Marevivo’s founder, Rosalba Giugni. Reflecting on his personal connection with the sea, Mr Vago shared how it has been a constant presence in his life – both in his youth spent on the Italian coasts and throughout his career, which encompasses ferry, cargo and cruises, where his journey with MSC began.

“The sea is at the heart of everything we do at MSC. And with that comes a profound responsibility to protect it,” Mr. Vago explained during his speech. “As a family, we are united by a long-term vision that is constantly focused on the future and how we can make a difference.

It’s an honour to stand alongside my father-in-law and brother-in-law, also Knights for the Sea, sharing this commitment to safeguard our oceans. At MSC, we are advancing cutting-edge technologies to reduce our impact, while working with schools through the MSC Foundation’s partnership with Marevivo to engage the next generation, equipping them with the knowledge and tools they will need to care for our oceans in the years to come.”