Less than a month after announcing her departure from Celebrity Cruises, Kate McCue has been appointed as the inaugural captain of Four Seasons I, the first yacht from Four Seasons Yachts, set to debut in 2026.
Rainer Stampfer, President of Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts at Four Seasons, praised McCue’s appointment, stating, “Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting. Her passion for hospitality, commitment to excellence, and trailblazing leadership align perfectly with our vision to reimagine the yachting experience.”
McCue brings over three decades of maritime experience to her new role. A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, she made history as the first American woman to captain a large cruise ship. Most recently, she served as the captain of Celebrity Beyond.
Beyond her professional achievements, McCue has cultivated a significant online following, sharing her life at sea with fans. Her hairless cat, Bug Naked, who lived with her onboard, also became a beloved figure online. Bug Naked passed away on December 26, 2024.
Reflecting on her decision to leave Celebrity Cruises after more than a decade, McCue shared on Instagram, “I’ve recently had some big life changes, and this just happens to be one of those.”
Now, McCue is eager to embrace her new role with Four Seasons Yachts. “Yachting truly embodies the essence of the sea—calm, effortless, and deeply rejuvenating,” she said. “This is the same philosophy behind Four Seasons I. This role is both an incredible honor and an exciting opportunity to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience from the very first voyage.”
She added, “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.”
McCue’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Four Seasons Yachts as it prepares to enter the luxury yachting market in 2026.
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