Four Seasons Yachts is set to debut in January 2026, and when its first small-ship, ultra-luxury vessel takes to the seas, it will be helmed by a very familiar figure. One might even say, a “Celebrity.” Captain Kate McCue has moved from Celebrity Cruises to the new cruise line.

Even cruise aficionados who have never sailed on Celebrity have likely heard about ‘Captain Kate.’ She made history in 2015 as the first American woman to captain a mega-ton cruise ship, and in her time at Celebrity, has become something of a social media superstar, posting about her life at sea (with her cat, who sadly passed away recently, gaining its own avid following.)

During Captain Kate’s decade with Celebrity Cruises, she 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.

A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, Captain Kate brings nearly three decades of maritime expertise, combining technical precision with a passion for hospitality for the modern age that Four Seasons says it’s eager to tap to create a truly transformative yachting experience on its new fleet.

“Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter,” says Rainer Stampfer, President of Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts, Four Seasons. “Her passion for hospitality, commitment to excellence, and trailblazing leadership align perfectly with our vision to re-imagine the yachting experience.”

As Captain, McCue will be responsible for the safe navigation of the Yacht, as well as the onboard experience for all guests and crew members.

“Yachting truly embodies the essence of the sea – calm, effortless, and deeply rejuvenating. This is the same philosophy behind Four Seasons I,” says Captain Kate.

“This role is both an incredible honour and an exciting opportunity to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience from the very first voyage. I look forward to doing what I love most – connecting with guests, leading an exceptional crew, and engaging with local communities. 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.”

About Four Seasons Yachts

This new brand in ultra-luxury, small-ship cruising brings together three fabled brands: luxury yachting company Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator of the new cruise line, venerated Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, and legendary Four Seasons hospitality.

With 95 residential-style suites and a 1:1 crew: guest ratio, Four Seasons Yachts will extend the renowned luxury hospitality brand to the sea. The Yacht also features a 9,975 square feet Funnel Suite's iconic floor-to-ceiling wraparound curved glass window modules, made up of the largest contiguous piece of glass at sea; and a bespoke onboard transverse marina featuring expansive openings across the vessel from port to starboard.

Setting sail in January 2026, winter and spring itineraries in the Caribbean will be followed by Mediterranean itineraries in the summer season each year. All voyages are styled to immerse guests into the culture, history and natural splendor of each locale, and crafted with flexibility in mind to allow for exploring beyond the usual.