We have had this discussion before concerning the rise of these luxury-branded small cruise ships that identify themselves as 'yachts'...namely Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection ("Evrima", "Ilma", "Luminara"), Emerald Cruises ("Emerald Azzurra", "Emerald Sakara"), Four Seasons Yachts ("Four Seasons 1") and Aman At Sea ( "Amangati" (in 2027). However, a new segment where there will be so-called Residence-'Yachts' is about to come to to fruition with the build contract for the "Ulyssia" being signed in China. China Merchants Cruise Shipbuilding (CMCS) now has the contract and this vessel will be built for delivery in 2031.
This vessel was previously expected to be built at the Meyer Werft yard in Germany which is known for its prowess at building cruise ships. So it is quite interesting that a contract was signed in China.
Espen Oeino is responsible for the design. The project will comprise 122 private residences and 22 guest suites.
Probably the most important sentence in the original announcement with Meyer Shipyard was: pending financing (or something like that). I guess they have now found the necessary money for this project in China.