The Yacht Portfolio, a maritime investment company, has entered into a letter of intent to acquire Sea Cloud Cruises of Hamburg, Germany. The cruise company operates a fleet of three masted, full-rigged luxury tall ships—the Sea Cloud (64 passengers), the Sea Cloud II (94 passengers) and the recent new-build Sea Cloud Spirit (136 passengers).
Potentially the bigger piece of news, however, is that the acquisition not only grows The Yacht Portfolio’s presence in the luxury cruise sector but creates an opportunity to expand its relationship with Marriott International beyond The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, giving Marriott the opportunity to enter the cruise industry through these other luxury brands. (Sea Cloud Cruises would be The Yacht Portfolio’s second brand extension, after The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.)
“Sea Cloud offers such a unique, environmentally friendly experience in the cruise space, which aligns well with our continued focus on building a strong portfolio of niche luxury brands,” said Douglas Prothero, CEO of The Yacht Portfolio, in a press announcement. “We look forward to completing a transaction with the Sea Cloud team and supporting the brand’s next phase of growth in the luxury cruise space.”
For several months Sea Cloud Cruises has been in contact with The Yacht Portfolio. The negotiations have shown, according to a joint press release, that both sides are ideal partners for strengthening their respective market positions. Sea Cloud Cruises is known as an exclusive operator of environmentally friendly sailing cruises in the five-star segment for over 40 years. Through The Yacht Portfolio, the course is set for many more years of successful international marketing for Sea Cloud Cruises and the foundation is laid for further growth.
In addition to the continuation of the successful business model, the headquarters of Sea Cloud Cruises will remain based in Hamburg and the team of employees will continue in their roles as part of this transaction; this aims to ensure that the employees' personal relationships with all customers and business partners will be maintained. The existing voyage planning and charter commitments are intended to be continued.
Related Stories
Atlas Removes Air Fare/Shore Excursions; Delays 2nd Ship’s Start
American Cruise Lines Unveils New Catamaran-Style Vessels