Photography by SINOT
22 December 2021
Project Sama, hailed as a first of its kind luxury motor yacht was developed through a joint venture between Aman and Cruise Saudi, of which Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is a shareholder.
The 783-metre (600-foot) vessel will feature 50 spacious luxury suites, each with a private balcony. 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, set to launch in 2025.
True to the pioneering ethos of the brand, Aman will direct the entire development process of the project – from design and build to operations and management –5 ensuring that guests enjoy the Aman way of life onboard, in every sense.
Designed in partnership with SINOT Yacht Architecture & Design, one of the world’s finest yacht design firms, the vessel will see Aman’s eastern heritage and design philosophy integrated seamlessly with the architectural vision to create the brand’s expression of a cruising experience in a timeless yet contemporary vessel, which has a harmonious balance between the exterior and interior spaces.
Project Sama will champion privacy, space, and gracious hospitality and most importantly, the Aman experience: exceptional, unique and restorative.
In addition to the 5O suites, the vessel will be home to an array of dining options, including an informal all-day restaurant, plus international dining options and a relaxed club and lounge, a serene and spacious Aman Spa, complete with a Japanese garden, two helipads, plus the 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 its ongoing gentle evolution, with further urban destinations in the pipeline, including Aman New York and Aman Miami, as well as otherworldly resort locations including Riyadh, AIUla and the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia.
Project Sama continues this ambition to offer pioneering travel experiences with Aman’s core values of privacy, peace, generosity of space and unparalleled service.
The joint venture between Aman and Cruise Saudi has been signed by Cruise Saudi’s Managing Director, Mr Fawaz Farooqui, and Chairman and CEO of Aman, Mr Vlad Doronin, marking an ongoing collaboration and partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Chairman and CEO of Aman, Vlad Doronin, welcomed the pioneering new project for the brand, commenting “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.
“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.”
Commenting on the partnership and project, Mr Fawaz Farooqui, MD of Cruise Saudi, 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 is expected to launch in 2025. Its official name will be announced shortly.