As the luxury market expands, new players are entering the fold, and Four Seasons Yachts will be the latest cruise operator when its first vessel sets sail in 2025. Maiden itineraries for the luxury line will include over 130 distinct destinations in more than 30 countries and territories, just in the brand’s first year. Regions traversed will encompass the Caribbean and Mediterranean.
To get a better sense of what the brand is all about, we chatted with Thatcher Brown, the line’s chief commercial officer and head of joint operations.
The Four Seasons Yachts fleet is being described as a “category of one.” What does that mean exactly, and how will the brand differ from other hoteliers currently entering the luxury cruise market?
We are creating a unique hybrid vessel that will be unlike anything out there in the market. From its design and construction to the itinerary development to the amenities and services, we are redefining luxury at sea.
More specifically, we’re spending $4.3 million per stateroom against an industry average of approximately $850,000 per stateroom. The yacht will have more space per guest than any vessel that exists; in fact, it will offer nearly 50% more living space than our nearest competitor. It will also feature 12 suites that include accommodation for guests’ staff traveling with them, such as a personal assistant. No other ship has this. Beyond this, there are over 100 different combinations of connecting suites through sound-proof moveable walls.
We’re spending $4.3 million per stateroom against an industry average of approximately $850,000 per stateroom.
This is also the first vessel of its size to offer two marinas, with an innovative transverse marina spanning the entire ship from port to starboard to create yacht moments unlike any other. From a service standpoint, the guest-to-staff ratio is 1:1, with Four Seasons fully managing the service experience, both onboard and on shore, ensuring that every step of the journey is personalized for each guest’s wishes, so they can explore their own passions and curiosities.
And how will Four Seasons differ from mainstream cruise lines?
Four Seasons Yachts diverge significantly from mainstream cruise lines by prioritizing space, privacy and personalized service. The fact that Four Seasons is operating the onboard experiences and bringing its renowned culture of heartfelt service is a powerful point of differentiation.
With only 95 suites, our yachts offer a more spacious luxury experience, focusing on the individual needs and preferences of our guests. Further, we have employed a team of Personal Yacht Consultants to provide a level of individualized, dedicated service to assist the guest every step of the way during the reservation process and beyond.
Clients can expect 11 restaurants and bars to be among the many amenities onboard the first Four Seasons yacht.
Credit: 2024 Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator Four Seasons YachtsWhat can you tell us about the ship itself?
The first Four Seasons Yacht is a marvel of design and engineering, especially highlighted by our signature 'Funnel Suite’ — a four-level, 9,600-square-foot suite that is an epitome of luxury at sea, featuring a private wading pool, a spa and breathtaking panoramic views through its curved glass windows. The funnel suite offers the largest terrace deck at sea and has its own private access.
The yacht's distinctive transverse marina is another innovation, offering guests direct access to water sports and adventures from the yacht, a feature usually reserved for private super yachts. The marina also functions as a seaside lounge area, offering a “yacht club” feel with a seaside bar. These elements showcase our commitment to providing guests with an unmatched luxury experience. This is complemented by a full-service spa, multiple dining venues and unique entertainment options.
What kind of dining and entertainment experiences can guests expect onboard?
Guests onboard Four Seasons Yachts can anticipate an eclectic range of dining and entertainment experiences. With 11 restaurants and bars, each venue promises a unique culinary journey, from casual alfresco meals to fine dining, curated by world-renowned chefs.
Entertainment on the yacht is designed to complement the luxurious ambiance, offering everything from outdoor performances in our convertible saltwater pool space to intimate lounge settings. Our focus is on creating memorable moments, whether through exquisite meals or bespoke entertainment.
Why should a travel advisor who usually sells legacy luxury lines such as Crystal and Silversea now consider selling Four Seasons?
Agents can offer their clients something beyond the traditional cruise — a journey that combines the renowned Four Seasons service with the freedom and exclusivity of a private yacht experience, setting a new standard in luxury travel. What’s more, trend data shows that ultra-high-net-worth individuals are increasingly using travel advisors, and we encourage and recommend that guests use their preferred specialists.
What further incentives will there be for travel advisors specifically? And how can they get their customers in on the earliest bookings?
Four Seasons Yachts has a proactive policy of asking its interested guests if they have a trusted travel advisor to whom they would like to “delegate” their booking. As part of the initial launch period, Four Seasons will ensure that its valued Preferred Partners (travel advisors) are informed and engaged as a priority.
Our focus is on creating memorable moments, whether through exquisite meals or bespoke entertainment.
There is a waitlist mechanism that welcomes new qualified travel advisors to register their interest immediately. This waitlist is actively cleared in the context of demand and available inventory. A special division of Personal Yacht Consultants has been created for the sole purpose of offering exceptional service to our travel advisor partners and their guests. There will be a dedicated “e-portal” designed to provide our travel advisor partners with the needed information and tools to take care of their clients in a timely and professional manner.
We look forward to introducing Four Seasons Yachts to loyal Four Seasons guests and valued travel partners, as well as luxury yachting and cruising enthusiasts who might be experiencing the brand for the first time onboard our inaugural vessel.
Editor's Note: Since this interview was published and initial details for the line were introduced, further details have emerged, including the announcement that Larry Pimentel is no longer involved.
Additionally, we now know that the aforementioned Funnel Suite will be joined by other signature suites measuring 2,981 to 9,975 square feet (indoor and outdoor) in size. The connectable accommodations will sport two to three bedrooms, delineated living rooms, indoor and al fresco dining space, splash pools and outdoor showers. The Loft Suite specifically will be 7,952 square feet and, when connected to seven extra suites, can accommodate up to 20 guests.
