Hotel company Four Seasons has revealed it will enter the luxury cruise sector with the launch of a new division called Four Seasons Yachts.

Its first vessel, to be built by shipbuilder Fincantieri, is expected to sail its inaugural cruise in late 2025. The agreement also includes the option for two additional vessels, amounting to a total value of €1.2 billion.

The ship will offer nearly 50 per cent more living space per guest than currently available, according to Four Seasons. The 95 spacious accommodations will feature a network of joining suite combinations creating “adaptable, villa-like residences”.

Suite accommodations will start at an average of 54 square metres. The Funnel Suite will be on four levels, offering combined indoor/outdoor living space.

A spa, salon, and wellness programme will also be available, while the canoe-shaped aft will be home to a pool deck that will transform into an outdoor movie theatre.

In a statement, the company said it will focus on “bespoke craftsmanship, personalised service and a dedication to excellence”, appealing to guests who are “looking to reimagine their love of travel by experiencing the splendour of modern sea voyaging”.

A ‘milestone’ moment for Four Seasons

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts president Christian Clerc said: “Four Seasons Yachts represents the next chapter of our long history of industry leading innovation, and a milestone moment for our company as we continue to capitalise on new opportunities to extend the world of Four Seasons.

“True vision rests in the ability to imagine the possibilities while always remaining loyal to one’s values. Our vision for this new venture does exactly that.

“Together with our partners at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, we are creating something extraordinary that combines their expertise with what Four Seasons does best – delivering unmatched quality and excellence, surrounded by beautiful acts of service and love for our guests.”

Veteran luxury travel industry expert Larry Pimentel is responsible for leading the new enterprise.

He added: “In partnership with Four Seasons, we are creating a new category of luxury lifestyle travel that appeals to discerning guests.

“We are bringing together the very best across industries to create the pinnacle yachting offering through world-class design, curated experiences, and truly exceptional service.

“When we launch in 2025, there will be nothing else like it on the open seas. Our shipbuilding partnership with Fincantieri rounds out a triumvirate of industry leaders in this unprecedented luxury lifestyle project.”