Four Seasons Yachts appoints Kate McCue as captain

A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, McCue brings nearly three decades of maritime expertise – -combining technical precision with a passion for hospitality, to create a truly transformative yachting experience. McCue made history in 2015 as the first American female captain of a mega-ton cruise ship.

As captain, she is responsible for the safe navigation of the Yacht, as well as the onboard experience for all guests and crew members – -a 1:1 guest to staff ratio that ensures a personalized journey from port to port. From charting journeys throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean, to establishing a best-in-class onboard service culture, she is eager to shape the journey ahead.

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 per cent across the fleet. Before that, she worked at Royal Caribbean Ltd., Disney Cruise Line and Maersk Line.

“Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting,” says 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. 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.”