Four Seasons I Launches New Era in Luxury Cruising
The ultra-luxury cruise ship Four Seasons I was officially delivered at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard on February 25, marking a significant milestone in the luxury cruising sector. This vessel, the first of two ordered by the renowned hotel brand, is designed to redefine the standards of opulence at sea. With a capacity for just 222 guests, the ship promises an unparalleled experience with its spacious accommodations and extensive amenities.
Unmatched Luxury and Innovative Design
Weighing in at 35,040 gross tons, the Four Seasons I features only 95 luxury suites, offering an impressive 50% more living space per guest compared to other cruise ships. Measuring 207 meters (679 feet) in length, this ship is designed to provide a residential-style experience, a concept developed in collaboration with Tilberg Design of Sweden. The suites range from 2,981 to 9,975 square feet, with modular walls that allow for over 100 different configurations, including unique loft suites and the expansive Funnel Suite, which boasts one of the largest glass walls at sea.
Guests can indulge in 11 dining options, a full-service spa, and a transverse marina. Notably, the ship features a stern pool measuring approximately 65 feet long and 18 feet wide, making it one of the largest pools available on any cruise ship. According to Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, the joint owner/operator, this innovative design aims to elevate the cruising experience to new heights.
“Today we deliver not just a ship, but a new paradigm for the hospitality industry,” stated Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri. He emphasized that the Four Seasons I is the first of its kind, equipped with a digital intellect that allows it to learn and adapt to the needs of its guests. This vessel is built on a sophisticated digital architecture that utilizes artificial intelligence and real-time data to enhance operational efficiency and safety, ensuring a future-proof experience for travelers.
Four Seasons’ First Ultra-Luxury Yacht Cruise Ship Floated by Fincantieri
Future of Ultra-Luxury Cruising
The assembly of the Four Seasons I began in July 2024, with the ship launched in January 2025. More than 2,000 workers have been involved in its outfitting, and the ship is set to embark on its maiden voyage on March 20 in the Mediterranean. The order for this luxurious vessel was placed in July 2022, with Fincantieri estimating its value at over €400 million. A second ship was ordered in June 2023, scheduled for delivery in 2027, with a third expected by 2030.
As the luxury cruise market expands, Four Seasons joins other prestigious hotel brands venturing into this segment. Ritz-Carlton launched its cruise product in October 2022, while Orient Express plans to enter the market in June 2026 with the Orient Express Corinthian. Financial analysts predict that these hotel brands will significantly influence the growth of ultra-luxury cruising. Meredith Prichard Jensen from HSBC Global Investment Research noted that these companies have strong loyalty bases, positioning them as key players in setting new pricing standards within the industry.
In addition to hotel brands, cruise companies are also investing heavily in the ultra-luxury segment. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings recently expanded its order for ultra-luxury ships, while MSC is progressing with its Explora Journeys brand. Currently, there are 30 ultra-luxury cruise ships on order, representing nearly half of the 75 cruise ships scheduled for delivery by 2037, highlighting a robust future for luxury cruising.
