Four Seasons Yachts appoints captain of its first vessel

Four Seasons Yachts has recruited Kate McCue as the inaugural captain of its first ultra-luxury yacht, Four Seasons I.

The brand will welcome its first guests aboard Four Seasons I in January 2026.

She brings nearly three decades of maritime expertise and made history in 2015 as the first American female captain of a mega-ton cruise ship.

Before joining Four Seasons, McCue, who has a huge social media profile, spent nearly a decade with Celebrity Cruises, where she most recently served as captain of Celebrity Beyond and played a key role in increasing female representation on ship bridges to more than 30% across the fleet.

She has also held numerous maritime positions, from cadet and deck officer to master mariner and captain, and has sailed with Royal Caribbean International and Disney Cruise Line.

As captain, she is responsible for the safe navigation of the yacht, as well as the onboard experience for all guests and crew members, with a 1:1 guest to staff ratio onboard.

Rainer Stampfer, president for global operations, hotels and resorts at Four Seasons, said: “Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting.

“Her passion for hospitality, commitment to excellence, and trailblazing leadership align perfectly with our vision to reimagine the yachting experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome her aboard as we prepare to set sail in 2026.”

McCue said: “This role is both an incredible honour and an exciting opportunity to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience from the very first voyage.

“Together with our crew, we’ll craft unforgettable journeys and set new standards in luxury yachting, ensuring every milestone is a celebration of Four Seasons’ legendary service and innovation.”

Tony Faso, general counsel and chief talent and culture officer at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings – the joint owner/operator at Four Seasons Yachts, added: “The selection of Captain Kate for this leadership position is reflective of our mission to attract and retain a first-in-class team of exceptional crew and top talent in the industry.”

Picture credit: Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd, joint owner/operator Four Seasons Yachts