Aman, the pioneering hospitality and lifestyle brand renowned for its collection of ultra-luxury hotels, resorts and branded residences, has appointed Jonathan Wilson as Chief Executive Officer of Aman at Sea, a first-of-its-kind luxury motor yacht that will be launched in 2027.

The yacht, whose official name will be announced in due course, will be developed through a joint venture between Aman and Cruise Saudi, bringing the spirit of Aman to the world’s oceans in 2027, a statement said.

An executive leader in the luxury hospitality and cruise industry, Jonathan brings over 20 years of experience to the position. He will lead the development and implementation of Aman’s first luxury superyacht, working closely with Aman’s Chairman and CEO, Vlad Doronin, to deliver the brand’s vision and strategy.

Wilson will also assemble a dynamic and skilled team both on land and aboard, ensuring the vessel and guest experience reflects the level of detail and care revered across Aman’s hotels. 

He has a deep understanding of global markets, having previously served as Vice President, Customer Experience and Innovation at Hilton Worldwide (2019 – 2021), where he oversaw the product development of 17 hotels.

For over 15 years (2000-2015), Wilson also held leadership roles with Princess Cruises and Cunard Line, including as Vice President for hotel operations, product development and food and beverage.

During his tenure, he led the development of new products, including cruise ships, and completed ambitious revitalisation projects to establish an exceptional culinary and entertainment offering, drive brand awareness, optimise growth for the company, and authored the brand’s cookery book, Courses: A Culinary Journey.

His international perspective, coupled with his strong experience in product development and the cruise industry, will enable Jonathan to oversee Aman’s continued expansion and develop a luxury yacht experience that is peerless in every way, a statement said.

Wilson shares: “Aman has been a pioneer in ultra-luxury hospitality for over 35 years and it is a privilege to be joining the company to lead the development of Aman at Sea – an exciting new endeavor for the visionary brand which will bring the first world-class Aman experience to the world’s oceans, setting a new standard in waterborne voyages.”

The 183 metre (600ft) vessel designed in partnership with Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, one of the world’s finest yacht design firms, will feature just 50 spacious luxury suites, with Aman’s eastern heritage and design philosophy integrated seamlessly with the architectural vision, offering a whole new category in on the water exploration.

In January 2023, Aman Group announced the signing of ship building contract with T.Mariotti S.p.A for Aman at Sea, a constructor of ultra-luxury yachts and offshore vessels in Italy since 1928. – TradeArabia News Service