Project Sama will be a ‘first of its kind’ luxury motor yacht developed by luxury hotel brand Aman, in partnership with Cruise Saudi. Jenny Southan reports
Scheduled to set sail in 2025, Project Sama (as it is codenamed) will be an 83-metre super yacht featuring 50 suites, each with their own private balcony.
Described as an “architectural vision” that will “set a new standard in waterborne voyages”, Project Sama, meaning tranquillity in Sanskrit, will bring the “cherished spirit of Aman to the world’s seas and oceans”.
Luxury hotel brand Aman will apparently 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” while onboard. Privacy, space and “gracious hospitality” will be central to the experience.
Designed in partnership with SINOT Yacht Architecture & Design, the boat will see Aman’s eastern heritage and minimalist design philosophy integrated seamlessly with the build to create the brand’s “expression of a super yacht experience in a timeless yet contemporary vessel, which has a harmonious balance between exterior and interior spaces”.
Project Sama will also feature an all-day restaurant, “international dining options” and a club and lounge, an Aman spa complete with Japanese garden (see below), two helipads, and an expansive beach club, which will offer guests direct access to the water at the stern of the yacht.
Since the successful opening of Aman Tokyo in 2014, Aman’s first city hotel Aman has committed
to an on-going “gentle” evolution, with further urban destinations in the pipeline including Aman New Work and Aman Miami, as well as otherworldIy resort locations including Riyadh AIUIa and the Red Sea Saudi Arabia.
The joint venture between Aman and Cruise Saudi, of which Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a shareholder, marks a continuing collaboration and partnership between the hotel brand and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Although as yet unconfirmed, Project Sama will likely incorporate Saudi Arabia in its itineraries.
Doronin says: “The announcement of Project Sama marks an exciting moment in Aman’s growth and
evolution, as we not only continue to diversity our geographical portfolio on land, but also at sea creating sanctuaries in unfrequented locations and continuing to reframe the concept of luxury hospitality.
“Project Sama will provide transformative experiences within the revered Am an setting and service which is unlike any other yacht experience, ultimately creating a whole new category in on the water discovery.”
Farooqui says: “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.”
The launch is further evidence that “VIP Voyages” will be a significant trend in the years ahead, as predicted by Globetrender. Other hotel brands to have launched their own yachts include Ritz-Carlton – it’s three custom-built yachts are expected to to debut in 2022.