9 July 2024 – Heralding a significant milestone in the visionary development of a new category of ultraluxury motor yacht, today T, Mariotti and Aman – the world’s preeminent lifestyle and hospitality brand –commenced construction for Aman at Sea during a ceremonial keel laying held at the T. Mariotti shipyard in San Giorgio di Nogaro, Italy. A joint venture with Cruise Saudi, the 183 meters (600ft) vessel will feature just 50 spacious luxury suites, each with private balcony, and is anticipated to welcome guests from 2027, setting a new standard in waterborne voyages.
At the ceremony, Jonathan Wilson, CEO of Aman at Sea and Marco Ghiglione, CEO of T. Mariotti lowered the first 200 tons steel block for the new motor yacht in the construction area. A longstanding maritime tradition, representatives also placed newly minted coins on the steel to bestow good luck on the vessel during both construction and future sailings.
True to the pioneering ethos of the brand, Aman is directing the entire development process of the project. T. Mariotti, renowned constructors of ultraluxury custom cruise and expedition vessels and megayachts in Italy since 1928, has been appointed to deliver this first-of-its-kind vessel and will provide the highest standard of design, mirroring the level of detail and care experienced across Aman’s hotels.
“Today ceremony signifies a momentous step forward in the development of Aman at Sea and my strategic vision to create a new category of ultra-luxury megayacht which will provide exceptional travel experiences alongside Aman’s core values of privacy, peace, generosity of space and unparalleled service” said Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman Group. “This is an exciting evolution for the brand as we continue to diversify our geographical portfolio on land, with a pipeline of 12-strong forthcoming properties, and bring the renowned spirit and architectural distinction of Aman to the world’s oceans for the first time with the launch of Aman at Sea.”
Commenting on the steel cutting ceremony, Marco Ghiglione, CEO of T. Mariotti, said: “We are extremely proud to have achieved another important milestone in building this incredible project. Laying the keel of the world’s most luxurious yacht brings to life the ambitious design our team has produced with their efforts so far. We are grateful to all who have been involved and we can’t wait to see the continued progress of this unique project.”
At 183 meters (600ft), the vessel will be the first dual fuel powered new build, using marine diesel oil and methanol to run, showcasing Aman Group’s commitment to sustainability while offering a one-of-a-kind experience on the water. Featuring just 50 spacious luxury suites, each will feature its own private balcony. The vessel will be home to an array of dining options, including an informal all-day restaurant, plus international dining options and a relaxed club and lounge, a serene and spacious Aman Spa, complete with Japanese garden, two helipads, plus an expansive Beach Club, which will offer guests direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht. The vessel’s official name and journeys will be announced in due course.