Four Seasons Yachts appoints Kate McCue as captain of inaugural vessel

Four Seasons Yachts has appointed Kate McCue as the inaugural captain of Four Seasons I, the first ultra-luxury yacht in the highly anticipated fleet.

A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, Captain McCue brings nearly three decades of maritime expertise, combining technical precision with a passion for hospitality to create a truly transformative yachting experience. A pioneer in the industry, she made history in 2015 as the first American female captain of a mega-ton cruise ship.

“Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting,” Four Seasons president global operations hotels and resorts, Rainer Stampfer, said. “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, knowing she will inspire both guests and employees alike.”

As captain, she is responsible for the safe navigation on the yacht, as well as the onboard experience for all guests and crew members – a 1:1 guest to staff ratio that ensures a truly personalised journey from port to port. From charting journeys throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean to establishing a best-in-class onboard service culture, Captain Kate is eager to shape the journey ahead.

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

Prior to joining Four Seasons, Captain Kate spent nearly a decade with Celebrity Cruises, where she most recently served as Captain of the Celebrity Beyond and played a key role in increasing female representation on ship bridges to more than 30 per cent 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.

“We are thrilled that Captain Kate has assumed the leadership position for Four Seasons l and will be responsible for the overall operation, safety, and navigation of our first luxury Yacht,” Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, joint owner/operator of Four Seasons Yachts, general Counsel and chief talent and culture officer, Tony Faso, said. “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. She brings a wealth of experience, expertise, dedication, and passion for excellence that aligns perfectly with our commitment to being leaders in luxury hospitality at sea.”

Captain McCue’s appointment marks another milestone for Four Seasons Yachts as the brand prepares to welcome its first guests aboard Four Seasons I in January 2026.