As Barbara Muckermann, Group CEO of Kempinski Hotels, formerly of Siversea Cruises, and chair of the 25th Hospitality Awards, aptly put it: ‘There isn’t that much difference between the cruise industry and the hotel industry; a ship is a floating hotel.’
This idea has been taken up by several hotel groups, which have embraced this obvious fact to offer their high-income customers a maritime experience that is at least equivalent to what their finest palaces have to offer. Marriott, Four Seasons and Accor have taken their teams aboard luxury ships with ‘small’ capacities alongside the giants of the seas. A new recognised player in the luxury sector has just joined them: Aman Resorts, which is launching Aman at Sea.
Its flagship vessel, Amangati, designed with Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, is currently under construction at the Mariotti shipyards in Genoa. The 183-metre vessel will be able to accommodate up to 94 guests in 47 suites ranging from a minimum of 50 m² to 180 m² for the presidential suite. Each suite will have a large private terrace, some with a swimming pool, opening directly onto the ocean, and will have its own dedicated butler.
Inspired by the interior architecture of Japanese ryokans, they have been designed as havens of calm, with lounge areas, seating areas and king-size beds, using materials that bring warmth and refinement.
The onboard experience will reflect the Aman Resorts lifestyle: wellness, varied gastronomic concepts (Nama, signature Japanese restaurant, informal Mediterranean space, Aman Grill and Jazz Club), and Aman Spa with Japanese garden.
The maiden voyage will take place in the Mediterranean in 2027, focusing on unique ports of call that take advantage of the ship’s size. The ship is also available for private hire.
