Two of the world’s leading visionaries in luxury travel have come together to further develop Abercrombie & Kent as the premier brand in luxury and experiential travel.

It was announced this week that Geoffrey J.W. Kent, Founder, Chairman and CEO of luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent, has formed a strategic partnership with Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Chairman of Heritage group, to jointly acquire 100% of the Abercrombie & Kent Group of Companies S.A. (Abercrombie & Kent).

Geoffrey Kent is a true pioneer and visionary in the travel industry. He created the first luxury tented photographic safaris in 1962 in Kenya and has built A&K into the world’s leading luxury and adventure travel company.

“I am very excited to be working with Manfredi,” said Kent. “I cannot think of a better or more experienced partner for the next phase of A&K’s growth.”

Manfredi Lefebvre built Silversea Cruises, created by his father in 1994 with the purchase of two ships, Silver Cloud and Silver Wind, into the leading luxury and expedition cruise line. Recently Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) acquired a 66% stake in Silversea Cruises. A&K is a separate and unique investment by Heritage group, led by Manfredi Lefebvre, and does not involve Silversea.

Since their humble beginnings, both companies have grown to become the dominant players in their respective fields, offering a discerning clientele the ultimate in luxury travel.

Geoffrey Kent and Manfredi Lefebvre have known each other for more than 20 years and have also been business partners, acquiring the MV Explorer in 1992.

“Abercrombie & Kent is the finest luxury travel company in the world,” said Lefebvre d’Ovidio, “and I am honored to be able to partner with Geoffrey Kent to help this remarkable company continue its record growth.”

“Both Geoffrey and I are based in Monaco, and A&K will be headquartered in the Principality,” he added.

Heritage group will own 85% of Abercrombie & Kent and Geoffrey Kent 15%. Geoffrey Kent will continue to be Chairman and CEO of the operating company, while Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio will become Chairman of Abercrombie & Kent Holding.

The closing is expected to be completed later in the year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Barclays Bank Plc served as financial advisor to Heritage group.