Aman is making a play at the cruise market, unveiling plans for new luxury yacht in partnership with Cruise Saudi. The 183 metre, all-balcony 50-suite ship has been dubbed ‘Project Sama’ (meaning tranquility in Sanskirt), is slated to debut in 2025.
Aman will direct the entire development process of the project – from design and build to operations and management – ensuring that guests enjoy the Aman way of life onboard, in every sense.
“Project Sama will champion privacy, space and gracious hospitality and most importantly, the Aman experience; exceptional, unique and restorative,” the company said.
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The motor yacht will be designed in partnership with SINOT Yacht Architecture & Design, one of the world’s finest yacht design firms.
SINOT has been working on another similar downsized yacht project called AQUA (see below renders), which is Hydrogen fuelled, for a number of years.
Aman says Project Sama will offer an array of dining options, including an informal all-day restaurant, plus international dining options and a relaxed club and lounge, Aman Spa complete with Japanese garden, two helipads, plus a Beach Club which will offer guests direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.
The joint venture between Aman and Cruise Saudi has been signed by Cruise Saudi’s Managing Director, Fawaz Farooqui, and Chairman and CEO of Aman, Vlad Doronin, marking an ongoing collaboration and partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“The announcement of Project Sama marks an exciting moment in Aman’s growth and evolution, as we not only continue to diversify our geographical portfolio on land, but also at sea, creating sanctuaries in unfrequented locations and continuing to reframe the concept of luxury hospitality,” said Doronin.
“Project Sama will provide transformative experiences within the revered Aman setting and service, which is unlike any other yacht experience, ultimately creating a whole new category in on the water discovery.”
Cruise Saudi’s Farooqui said: “The signing of this partnership adds a new layer to Cruise Saudi’s offering and is a testament to the unique tourism experience that is exploring Saudi by sea, as well as demonstrating Cruise Saudi’s commitment to growing and expanding the cruise industry in Saudi. We aspire to further collaboration with Aman that will bring additional ultra-luxury experiences at sea.
“We look forward to working with Aman in reaching our vision of Saudi becoming a premier global destination and immersing our guests in diverse nature, rich culture and heritage through an unforgettable journey that is truly unique to Saudi.”
Project Sama’s official name will be announced at a later date.