Four Seasons has entered the cruise industry with its new yacht line, offering an experience designed for those accustomed to ultra-high-end hospitality. Unlike traditional cruises, Four Seasons Yachts caters to a clientele that might not have considered cruising before, blending the brand’s signature service with the freedom of maritime travel. The first voyages have begun, making this a reality rather than a future concept.
A Redefined Cruise Experience
Four Seasons Yachts distinguishes itself through exclusivity and space. Each vessel accommodates just 95 guests in all-suite accommodations, ensuring a level of intimacy rarely found in large-scale cruising. This is a deliberate departure from the crowded nature of many cruise ships, aligning more closely with the personalized service expected from Four Seasons resorts.
The ship itself, built by Fincantieri and designed with interiors by Tillberg of Sweden and creative direction from Prosper Assouline, represents a significant investment, with each vessel costing approximately €400 million. Measuring 207 meters long and 27 meters wide, the yacht boasts 14 decks, 11 dining and lounge venues, and a unique transverse marina for water sports access. The aft deck features one of the largest saltwater pools at sea, capable of transforming into a multi-functional event space.
Notably, Four Seasons Yachts offers nearly 50% more living space per guest compared to industry standards, with a staff-to-guest ratio approaching 1:1. This commitment to spaciousness and personalized attention sets it apart from competitors like Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which, while also luxury-focused, operates with higher occupancy on its vessels.
Suite Options: From Spacious to Extravagant
The accommodations on Four Seasons Yachts range from Seaview Suites at 537 square feet to the astonishing Funnel Suite, a four-level residence spanning nearly 10,000 square feet. The four main suite categories are designed for comfort and privacy:
- Seaview Suites: Ideal for couples, offering a private terrace and marble bathroom.
- Superior Seaview Suites: Larger, with a separate sitting area and enhanced amenities.
- Ocean Suites: Featuring a dedicated living room and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.
- Grand Ocean Suites: “L-shaped” suites designed for small families or those seeking ample space.
The Funnel Suite, however, is in a class of its own, complete with a splash pool, private elevator, outdoor gym, and full kitchen. These suites redefine luxury at sea.
Dining and Inclusions: A Curated Experience
Four Seasons Yachts offers 11 distinct dining concepts, from casual terraces serving Mediterranean cuisine to an exclusive Japanese omakase experience. However, a key difference from many cruises is the a la carte approach to dining. Breakfast, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are included, but lunch, dinner, and alcoholic drinks come at an additional cost. This strategy aligns with the brand’s land-based resorts, where all-inclusive pricing is not standard.
The decision to exclude full board is intentional. Four Seasons assumes many guests will explore local restaurants in ports of call, such as those in the Mediterranean, making an all-inclusive model less relevant. The ship’s itineraries are designed to allow for both onboard indulgence and off-ship exploration, with a focus on destinations like Saint-Tropez, Mykonos, Santorini, and Hvar.
Booking and Costs: Exclusivity Comes at a Price
Pricing starts around $3,000 per suite per night, but the actual cost varies significantly depending on the itinerary and suite chosen. The Funnel Suite can easily exceed $200,000 per journey.
The most effective way to secure a booking is through a Four Seasons Preferred Partner travel advisor. These advisors can often add shipboard credit, offsetting some of the onboard expenses. Deposits are required, with full payment due 150 days before sailing.
Four Seasons Yachts currently operates in the Caribbean during winter and the Mediterranean during summer, offering itineraries ranging from five to 14 nights. The routes are dynamic, with weekly variations designed to encourage longer, multi-destination voyages.
In conclusion, Four Seasons Yachts is not merely a cruise line; it’s an extension of the brand’s luxury hospitality into the maritime world. The focus on space, personalized service, and curated experiences positions it as a premium alternative for affluent travelers seeking a new level of exclusivity at sea.
