Heralding a significant milestone in the development of a new category of ultra-luxury motor yachts, Aman –the world’s preeminent lifestyle and hospitality brand – commenced construction for Aman at Sea with a ceremonial keel laying at the T.Mariotti shipyard in San Giorgio di Nogaro, Italy. A joint venture with Cruise Saudi, the 183 metre (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, Lars Clasen, CEO of Cruise Saudi and Marco Ghiglione, CEO of T.Mariotti, lowered the first 200-ton steel block for the new motor yacht. 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. Renowned constructors of ultraluxury cruise and expedition vessels and superyachts in Italy since 1928, T.Mariotti 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 signifies a momentous step forward in the development of Aman at Sea and my strategic vision to create a new category of ultra luxury superyachts 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 represents a significant milestone for the brand as we continue to diversify our geographical portfolio on land, with a strong pipeline of projects, 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 metres (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. •
ABOUT AMAN
Aman was founded in 1988 with the vision of building a collection of intimate retreats with the unassuming, warm hospitality of a gracious private home. The first, Amanpuri (place of peace), in Phuket, Thailand, introduced the concept and, since then, Aman has grown to encompass 35 exquisitely serene hotels, resorts and branded residences, ranging from the urban to the remote, in 20 destinations across the globe, and a robust pipeline of future projects under construction.
In recent years, Aman Group has grown to offer its coveted lifestyle beyond the parameters of its havens including Aman Skincare (2018), supplement range Sva (2020), Aman Fine Fragrance (2020), ready-to-wear collection The Essentials by Aman (2021), performance skincare line Aman Essential Skin (2023) and Aman Interiors (2023) offering bespoke designed furniture items inspired by the world of Aman.
With innovation a cornerstone of the brand’s philosophy, in 2020 Aman introduced a new hotel brand, Janu – meaning ‘soul’ in Sanskrit. Janu offers a unique take on hospitality where genuine human interaction, playful expression and social wellness are at the core of the experience. Janu aims to bring balance to the head and heart and rekindle the soul. In March 2024, Janu’s inaugural hotel, Janu Tokyo, opened its doors and several forthcoming Janu hotels are already in development.
