We have had this discussion before concerning the rise of these luxury-branded small cruise ships that identify themselves as 'yachts'...namely Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection ("Evrima", "Ilma", "Luminara"), Emerald Cruises ("Emerald Azzurra", "Emerald Sakara"), Four Seasons Yachts ("Four Seasons 1") and Aman At Sea ( "Amangati" (in 2027). However, a new segment where there will be so-called Residence-'Yachts' is about to come to to fruition with the build contract for the "Ulyssia" being signed in China. China Merchants Cruise Shipbuilding (CMCS) now has the contract and this vessel will be built for delivery in 2031.
This vessel was previously expected to be built at the Meyer Werft yard in Germany which is known for its prowess at building cruise ships. So it is quite interesting that a contract was signed in China.
Espen Oeino is responsible for the design. The project will comprise 122 private residences and 22 guest suites.
Probably the most important sentence in the original announcement with Meyer Shipyard was: pending financing (or something like that). I guess they have now found the necessary money for this project in China.
Here is another one that just broke, this is the Maybach Ocean Club 155-meter "Beyond Horizons". Yes, this is going to be built...in fact, Lloyd Werft just announced that they have been selected to build this 'member-only' 'superyacht'. 30 large apartment styled suites will be onboard.Interestingly, this project was presented at the 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS). The 155-meter has been developed in collaboration with Splendid Sea, German naval architects Dölker + Voges, Mercedes-Maybach and Lloyd Werft. Delivery is scheduled for 2029. Lloyd Werft has built large superyachts before namely, "Luna" and "Solaris".
