Is there a new type of cruising on the horizon?
There is a reason there are two different industries within maritime for cruise ships and superyachts; they have stark differences. But recently, there have been exciting developments on the horizon for something, perhaps, in between.
Luxury hospitality brands have taken to the sea. Whether labeled as small cruise liners, mega-yachts, or ships, they are taking on similar forms, around the 700 ft long mark with a more significant space-to-guest ratio than a typical cruise ship.
Not classing themselves as part of the cruise industry highlights that they are trying to bridge the gap, create something new, and raise the bar by bringing a competitive alternative to superyachts. They are taking the best of the cruise and the yacht industry to combine into a new era of cruising. One that gives the comforts and ease of their hotel brand rather than standard cruise accommodation, lots more space, personalized luxury experiences, and an improved guest-to-staff ratio.
Who's getting involved?
Last month, the Ritz-Carlton yacht collection launched its first ship, Evrima, after several Covid-related delays. Comfortably hosting 298 guests in 149 suites with private terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows. The brand has two more vessels under construction to be launched in 2024 and 2025.
The giveaway was that they launched this at Monaco Yacht Show - clearly giving the vibe that this isn't your usual cruise ship. The 679-footer will launch in 2025 with 95 suites, many of which will connect to allow large groups to travel together - an intimate yacht charter within a larger yacht.
This luxury group is set to launch 'Project Sama' in 2025. The 600-foot yacht, in partnership with Cruise Saudi, will have 50 suites. Aman is entering into this space to continue to offer experiences with the brand's core values of privacy and unparalleled service at the forefront.
From land to sea, successfully?
Will these well-known hoteliers and brands get their models right at sea? Although they have already mastered high-quality 5-star service on land, how will they fare at sea - a new product with way more variables to contend with. At least after a few months for the Ritz-Carleton yacht in operation, things for these models will become clearer.
It may also be an excellent catalyst for further growth in the superyacht industry. After UHNWI’s take the luxury cruises with their trusted luxury hotelier, they may get a taste for on-the-water luxury and purchase their own yacht.
What are your thoughts on these brands entering this sphere? I am always open to chat more about developments in the industry, so, shoot me a note.
