Captain Kate McCue Named First Captain of Four Seasons I
Four Seasons Yachts has officially appointed Kate McCue as the first captain of Four Seasons I, which is set to begin service in early 2026.
A Trailblazing Leader at the Helm
Captain McCue, a graduate of the California Maritime Academy, brings nearly 30 years of maritime experience to this prestigious role. She made history in 2015 as the first American woman to captain a mega cruise ship and recently departed from Celebrity Cruises to take on this new challenge.
"Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting," said Rainer Stampfer, President of Global Operations for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. "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 our guests and employees alike."
Captain Kate’s Vision for Luxury Yachting
Captain McCue expressed her excitement about joining Four Seasons Yachts, emphasizing how the yachting lifestyle reflects a serene and rejuvenating connection to the sea.
"Yachting truly embodies the essence of the sea – calm, effortless, and deeply rejuvenating. This is the same philosophy behind Four Seasons I," she said. "This role is both an incredible honor 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."
A Distinguished Career in the Maritime Industry
Before joining Four Seasons Yachts, McCue spent nearly a decade with Celebrity Cruises, where she most recently commanded the Celebrity Beyond. She also played a key role in advancing gender diversity on ship bridges, helping increase female representation in leadership roles to over 30% across the fleet.
Throughout her maritime career, McCue has served in various positions, including cadet, deck officer, Master Mariner, and Captain, and has sailed with Royal Caribbean International and Disney Cruise Line.
A Key Leadership Role for Four Seasons Yachts
The leadership team at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, the joint owner and operator of Four Seasons Yachts, praised McCue’s appointment.
"We are thrilled that Captain Kate has assumed the leadership position for Four Seasons I and will be responsible for the overall operation, safety, and navigation of our first luxury yacht," said Tony Faso, General Counsel and Chief Talent and Culture Officer.
"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."
With her extensive experience and visionary leadership, Captain McCue is set to play a pivotal role in shaping Four Seasons Yachts’ debut voyage and future success in the luxury cruise market.
*Image created by AI and is a representation of a female captain.