One of the defining factors of a typical luxury cruise experience is an all-inclusive pricing structure, and most — if not all — lines in the category adhere to that scheme. That is, until Four Seasons Yachts came onto the scene.
Fares on the upcoming ocean brand will not be inclusive of lunch, dinner, room service or any alcoholic beverages. Also excluded are spa treatments, shore excursions, laundry service and similar offerings.
When Four Seasons I launches in January 2026, fares will only include breakfast in certain restaurants and light snacks for adults; breakfast, lunch and dinner for children; a selection of non-alcoholic beverages; Wi-Fi internet access; marina water sports; exercise classes; gratuities; taxes; and port fees.
Interesting to note, though, is that published fares are not per person, but per suite — and maximum sleeping capacity is up to seven guests. Per guest cruise pricing is more common, usually based on double occupancy.
Another unique offering are the PA Studios, individual cabins with separate keys for personal staff or other family members. They are available as extra accommodations and are integrated into the total price of the primary suite.
Why Differ From Other Luxury Lines?
So, why change the model? We spoke with Nils Lindstad, vice president, business development and sales excellence for Four Seasons Yachts, and Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, owner and joint operator of the company, to better understand.
What led Four Seasons Yachts to not be all-inclusive like its sailing competitors? Is it to be more like a la carte shoreside properties versus traditional cruise ships?
The yachting experience delivered on Four Seasons I will be aligned with the experience guests know and love at Four Seasons hotels and resorts around the world. The yacht will replicate this land experience at sea, offering the very best across culinary, wellness and adventure, while encouraging guests to explore and dine in destinations visited.
The a la carte offerings create flexibility and customization that will allow guests to make their journeys truly their own.
How does the decision affect the value proposition and per diems of your guests?
We are dedicated to delivering a highly personalized experience for our guests, whether through the modular design of some of our suites — allowing them to customize their space — or through our 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio, helping us ensure a seamless service delivery.
/Guests-will-be-able-to-customize-their-experience-.jpg?tr=w-768%2Ch-432%2Cfo-auto "Guests will be able to customize their experience with a la carte offerings.")
Guests will be able to customize their experience with a la carte offerings.
Credit: 2024 Four Seasons YachtsThe guests that will sail with us see tremendous value in this, and it is a key differentiator for Four Seasons Yachts compared to other offerings at sea. Our guests are at the center of our decision making, as we curate offerings and experiences with an unmatched level of comfort, attention to detail and human connection.
How was it decided what would and what would not be bundled in the price?
We are creating an experience that is reflective of the yachting lifestyle, and the onboard and offshore inclusions and non-inclusions are aligned with this.
What will the restaurants and in-suite dining cost accordingly?
The pricing in the restaurants will be aligned with what is offered at Four Seasons properties.
The 11 onboard restaurant and lounge locations celebrate Four Seasons’ history of culinary innovation and attention to guest preferences. Guests will enjoy a variety of options, from Mediterranean cuisine to comfort food favorites, [offered] indoors, alfresco or in the comfort of suites and private outdoor terraces.
Specific dietary preferences and requirements will be accommodated with prior notice and careful preparation.
