Captain Cate McCue: From Celebrity Beyond to Four Seasons Yachts
Who Is Captain Cate McCue?
Captain Cate McCue is one of the most renowned female cruise ship captains in the world. She began her maritime career as a cadet and steadily climbed the ranks, earning her captain’s license in 2016. Known for her leadership and expertise, she became one of the few women to command large luxury cruise ships.
Before joining Four Seasons Yachts, she served as the captain of Celebrity Beyond, one of Celebrity Cruises’ most advanced Edge-class ships. Her tenure at Royal Caribbean Group (RCCL) solidified her reputation as a top-tier maritime professional.
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Her Husband, Nicola Petrovic: A High-Ranking Maritime Engineer
Captain McCue is married to Nicola Petrovic, a highly experienced marine engineer. Petrovic previously served as Fleet Chief Engineer at Virgin Voyages, overseeing the technical operations of their innovative cruise ships.
In 2023, he transitioned to Royal Caribbean International, where he now holds the same prestigious position. His expertise in ship engineering complements McCue’s command experience, making them a formidable couple in the cruise industry.
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Why Did She Leave Celebrity Cruises for Four Seasons Yachts?
In a surprising career move, Captain McCue departed from Celebrity Cruises to join Four Seasons Yachts, a new ultra-luxury venture. Several factors likely influenced her decision:
- A New Challenge – After commanding Celebrity Beyond, she may have sought a pioneering role in a fresh luxury segment.
- Smaller, More Exclusive Ships – Four Seasons Yachts will feature intimate, boutique-style vessels with only 95 suites, offering a more personalized experience.
- Higher Standards of Luxury – Four Seasons is known for its five-star hospitality, and its yachts will elevate ocean travel with ultra-premium service.
The Growing Trend: Hotel Brands Launching Luxury Yachts
Four Seasons is not alone in entering the cruise industry. Several high-end hotel chains are now building luxury expedition yachts, targeting affluent travelers who seek exclusivity.
1. Four Seasons Yachts
- First Yacht: FS1 (Debuts in late 2025)
- Shipyard: Fincantieri (Italy)
- Capacity: 95 suites
- Features:
- All-suite accommodations with private terraces
- Michelin-star-level dining
- Custom itineraries to hidden destinations
🔗 Source: Four Seasons Yachts Official Page
2. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
- Current Yachts:
- Evrima (2022)
- Ilma (2024)
- Luminara (2025)
- Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique (France)
- Capacity: 149 to 224 suites
- Features:
- Spa by 111SKIN
- Marina-style water sports platform
🔗 Source: The Ritz-Carlton Yachts
3. Aman Resorts – Aman at Sea
- First Yacht: Project Sama (Expected 2026)
- Shipyard: TBA
- Features:
- Ultra-luxury, wellness-focused voyages
- Limited to 50 suites
🔗 Source: Aman’s Cruise Venture
4. Orient Express – Silenseas (by Accor)
- First Yacht: Orient Express Silenseas (2026)
- Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique
- Features:
- The world’s largest sailing yacht
- 54 suites, including a 1,415 sqm Presidential Suite
🔗 Source: Orient Express Yachts
What’s Next for Captain McCue?
As the inaugural captain of Four Seasons Yachts, McCue will lead a new era of luxury cruising. The first yacht, FS1, is set to debut in late 2025, offering unmatched elegance and service.
Her move highlights a major industry shift, where luxury hotel brands are redefining sea travel with smaller, more exclusive ships.
Final Thoughts
Captain Cate McCue’s career continues to break barriers. From Celebrity Beyond to Four Seasons Yachts, she remains a trailblazer in maritime leadership. With her expertise, Four Seasons Yachts is poised to become a top choice for elite travelers.
Stay tuned for more updates on her journey and the launch of FS1!
