Captain Kate of Celebrity Cruises reveals move to Four Seasons Yachts

Captain Kate McCue of Celebrity Cruises fame has been revealed as the inaugural Captain of Four Seasons l, which enters service in early 2026.

Captain Kate left Celebrity Cruises earlier this year, but her future plans were not revealed until Four Seasons Yachts confirmed her appointment.

A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, Captain Kate brings nearly three decades of maritime expertise to the role and is well-respected as a pioneer in the industry.

She made history in 2015 as the first American female captain of a mega cruise ship, and has a large following on Instagram where she shares behind the scenes insights on cruise ship navigation.

“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, Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts, Four Seasons. 

“Her passion for hospitality, commitment to excellence, and trailblazing leadership align perfectly with our vision to reimagine the yachting experience,” he added. “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.”

Prior to joining Four Seasons, McCue 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 percent across the fleet, according to a press release. 

“This role is both an incredible honour and an exciting opportunity to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience from the very first voyage,” Captain Kate said in a statement. “I look forward to doing what I love most – connecting with guests, leading an exceptional crew, and engaging with local communities.”

Four Seasons I is the first ultra-luxury vessel under construction for Four Seasons Yachts, which will be delivered at the end of this year and sets sail in January, 2026.

The 34,000 gross tons, 207-metre vessel will have capacity for 190 guests at double occupancy in 95 suites and will feature 11 unique dining options, as well as a spa and wellness area, a state-of-the-art transverse marina, and a stern pool, set to be one of the largest in the industry at nearly 19 metres long and 5 metres wide (65 feet long and 18 feet wide).