Superstar cruise ship Captain Kate has a new home – the world’s most luxurious yachts

• Long time cruise ship Captain with Celebrity Cruises Kate McCue is now off on her next adventure.
• The famed cruise captain will be heading to take charge of Four Seasons Yachts first ship.
• The cruise captain has a huge social media following, offering insight into life at sea.

Kate McCue, social media phenomenon and former cruise ship captain of Celebrity Cruises, has announced where she’ll be heading next. The cruise ship superstar will become the captain of Four Season I, the first ship of Four Season’s new Yacht collection.

Set to begin sailing in January 2026, the ship will mark a new era for both Four Seasons and McCue herself, as they head into new territory.

While Celebrity Cruises is nothing to shrug at, the social media star will be moving to another level of luxury at sea, with some cabins on the luxury vessel costing as much as $45,000USD a night.

McCue expressed her excitement for the new change: “Yachting truly embodies the essence of the sea – calm, effortless, and deeply rejuvenating. 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. 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.” 

The cruise line released an equally excited statement, sharing their gratitude for having such a key industry figure at the helm.

Rainer Stampfer, President, Global Operations, Hotels and Resorts, Four Seasons said: “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.

“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.”

What to know about McCue

Kate McCue posts a massive one million followers on Instagram, where she used to share daily updates of life on Celebrity Cruises, before her most recent announcement of pivoting towards the Four Seasons.

She had humble beginnings, working as third mate with Disney Cruise Line in the late 90s, before becoming an officer for Royal Caribbean in 2003.

She kept working her way until she became a Celebrity Cruises captain in 2015, making her the first American woman to be in charge of a large cruise ship.

McCue would share info on social media about being at sea, what it takes to be a cruise ship captain and funny tidbits and anecdotes of her unique profession and position in the industry.

Her popular extends so far that even her cat Bug Naked, had nearly 100,000 Instagram followers, until it unfortunately passed away in late 2024.

Having worker across 11 different ships in the Royal Caribbean Group, the pivot to Four Seasons is a big change for her, but represents an exciting move for her, as well as her keen social media followers who will get sneak glimpses into the luxury yachting lifestyle.