It seemed a bafflingly abrupt end to a brilliant career at sea when long-time well-known Capt. Kate McCue announced she was retiring from Celebrity Cruises after a groundbreaking 22 -year career.
The first American woman to take the helm of a large cruise ship, announced her departure with only a cryptic explanation: “Are my sailing days over? Absolutely not!” she wrote in a February Instagram announcement. “I’ve got too much salt in my veins to leave the sea behind.”
There’s a simple reason. It turns out her retirement was remarkably short-lived. She’s moving to become the first captain of the new 95-suite Four Seasons I, expected to begin sailing in January 2026, wintering in the Caribbean and spending summers in the Mediterranean.
Four Seasons Yachts president of global hotel operations Rainer Stampfer called McCue “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 said it would be an honor to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience, adding that she is looking forward to connecting with guests, leading the crew and engaging with local communities.
The Four Seasons Yacht’s canoe-shaped aft will be home to an expansive pool deck. This area will transform into an outdoor movie theater or space for an array of private events. The industry-first transverse marina will feature specially designed aqua leisure toys and accessories.
The company says the restaurants, lounges and bar concepts will celebrate the excellence and creativity that have been the hallmark of Four Seasons history of culinary innovation. “A perfect cappuccino in the lobby, a Mediterranean-inspired lunch, a dinner tasting at the sushi bar or a glass of champagne on the breathtaking terrace – guests will never be far from a perfect bite always paired with remarkable sea views, renowned intuitive service, and much more.”
Tillberg Design of Sweden is the lead architect responsible for the design of exterior and suites, and London-based Martin Brudnizki Design Studio is designing many of the public areas, along with Prosper Assouline.
Moving to Four Seasons is a new chapter to a career that has seen Capt. McCue on 11 ships with Royal Caribbean Group, most recently as the captain of Celebrity Beyond. When she was named commanding officer of the Celebrity Summit in 2015, she became the first American woman to captain a large cruise ship. McCue also captained the Celebrity Equinox and Celebrity Edge.
Leading up to the Beyond’s debut in 2022, McCue was a spokeswoman for Celebrity, starring in videos promoting the line’s third Edge-class ship.
Almost as famous as McCue was her hairless cat, Bug Naked, who lived with her on the ship. Bug passed away in late 2024.
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