The floating arms race is underway
Three of the world's most coveted hotel brands are launching yachts simultaneously; and it bodes well for travellers.
Four Seasons, Aman and Orient Express are hallowed names in on-land luxury; but the race to reign supreme on the water is now underway. For years, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection — launched in 2022 — was the only game in town when it came to hotel-branded superyacht experiences. That era is over. Within a single twelve-month window, Four Seasons, Aman and Orient Express have all entered the water, creating a competitive landscape that is as exciting for guests as it is demanding for operators.
Four Seasons
Four Seasons I debuted in the Caribbean in January 2026, setting an immediate benchmark. At 207 metres (679 feet) and 34,000 gross tonnes, the vessel carries just 95 suites — each with floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony — giving 50 per cent more space per passenger than any direct competitor. The smallest suite measures 500 square feet; the largest stretches to nearly 10,000. Two custom-built limo tenders ferry guests to and from shore, mirroring the brand's signature ground transport on land. After its Caribbean season, the yacht will repositions to the Mediterranean from March 2026 and has itineraries for Valentines Day, Thanksgiving,
Vessel: Four Seasons I
Launch date: January 2026
LOA: 207 metres
Suites: 95
Largest suite: 470m² + terrace of 457m²
Smallest suite: 44m2
Restaurants and lounges: Eleven
Guide price: From (approx) $USD17,900 - $78,100
Four Seasons I debuted in the Caribbean in January 2026 and has a range of itineraries available covering the Mediterranean, Atlantic crossing, and the Caribbean,
Orient Express
Orient Express' Corinthian — due in the Northern Hemisphere summer 2026 — takes a different philosophical approach, leaning into the brand's legendary association with romance and craftsmanship. Fifty-four suites averaging 70 metres (754 square feet) each are finished in dark wood with fine French glasswork and handcrafted materials. Dining across eight restaurants and bars is curated by Chef Yannick Alléno, whose empire holds 17 Michelin stars. The ship will also be the world's largest sailing vessel on its launch, with solid sails capable of propelling it to 17 knots, in addition to a hybrid LNG propulsion system that cuts fuel consumption by roughly 40 per cent.
Vessel: Corinthian
Launch date: June 2026
LOA: 220 metres
Suites: 54
Largest suite: 225m2 + terrace of 180m2
Smallest suite: 46m2
Restaurants and lounges: Eight
Guide price: From €29,500 inc. taxes per suite
On her launch, Corinthian by Orient Express will be the largest sailing vessel on the water.
Aman
In 2027 Aman will introduce Amangati, Sanskrit for 'peaceful motion, and potentially the most-anticipated of all three vessels. With just 47 suites across a 183 metre (600-foot vessel), and catering for 94 guests with a one-to-one, crew-to-guest ratio, Amangati comes closest to delivering a superyacht-style experience. The yacht is designed by SINOT Yacht Architecture and Design (the firm behind Larry Ellison's Musashi) and will be small enough to pull alongside Aman Venice on the Grand Canal; something none of its rivals can claim. Ensuring the signature Aman experience continues onboard, Amangati carries an Aman Spa with Japanese garden, plus eight distinctive dining and lounge venues.
Inaugural sailings begin summer 2027 in the Western Mediterranean, timed to coincide with the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix.
Vessel: Amangati
Launch date: May 2027
LOA: 183 metres
Suites: 47
Largest suite: 354m2
Smallest suite: 65m2
Restaurants and lounges: Eight
Guide price: TBC
Amangati will offer an intimate experience with 47 suites, cruising Mediterranean itineraries.