In our Inner Circle interview series, we speak to The Circle Business members, to find out what inspires them, how their brands are differentiated and what we can expect to see in the not-too-distant future.
With inspiration, knowledge and creativity front of mind, we caught up with Alain Gruber, Chief Executive Officer at Ulyssia Residences.
Q: What’s the vision for ULYSSIA?
The world’s most exclusive residential superyacht community, bringing together like-minded individuals who are ready to be part of an extraordinary experience. Aboard ULYSSIA, residents from all over the globe will journey in safety and privacy to all corners of the world, from chic yachting ports and iconic cities, to the remotest locations on Earth. Individual preferences will vary, however all will be united in their passion for travel, exploration and an appreciation of exceptional service and the very highest standards of living.
Q: What’s on offer TO ULYSSIA’S residents?
Residents are encouraged to live without boundaries, to discover new horizons, unlock fresh perspectives and leave a positive impact on the world, all from the exceptional comfort of their own home. Residents will be encouraged to explore magnificent destinations, returning to familiarity where all their needs and preferences are dutifully met.
Community remains at the heart of the offering, with residents enjoying shared spaces with well-travelled, highly educated and open minded individuals who are keen to take exploration to a new level.
Q: What will they experience on board?
Exceptional programming of experiences will be consistent throughout daily life on board ULYSSIA. For each destination visited, residents will be fully immersed in the vibrancy and uniqueness of each location. Education is a key component of travel and ULYSSIA will benefit from being connected to global experts in various fields – art, archaeology, finance, government, history and current trends, allowing residents to deepen their understanding of the intricacies of various cultures. All of this will be enjoyed in the safest environment possible, with a full medical service offering on board, as well as the highest security measures installed both on and off the yacht.
Residents aboard ULYSSIA can also expect an unparalleled level of service from our best-in-class crew. We are investing heavily in our crew. For instance, we will be the first vessel ever built to offer single accommodation for each and every crew member on board. We want to make sure we attract the very best individuals in the world to look after our residents, so we are committed to providing sector-leading welfare and training on board to ensure low turnover. This low crew turnover will guarantee exceptional service across the board.
Q: How are you planning to curate a global community?
A 320-metre masterpiece designed by Espen Øino, ULYSSIA will comprise 132 residences, along with 22 guest suites. She will be inhabited by a global community united by their passion for discovery. The community will have a philanthropic spirit, attracting those who care about environmental conservation and cultural preservation. Residents will be invited to leave a positive impact wherever they go. As the team behind ULYSSIA are keen to have a variety of interests represented, from gastronomy to sports, arts to adventure, we are currently staging a global roadshow, visiting key destinations in Europe, America, Asia, The Middle East and Australia, inviting selected groups in each location to learn more about this exclusive offering. The idea being, it doesn’t matter where residents arrive from, they will be unified by their passions and interests once aboard ULYSSIA.
Q: Who are the Partners involved?
ULYSSIA has partnered with a highly curated group of experts within their respective fields, bringing together industry leaders to ensure residents are able to enjoy the very best offering across the board. A key part of the ULYSSIA experience is to cater to all tastes.
For those who enjoy wellness, Chenot the leaders within the wellbeing community, who’ve been empowering thousands since 1970 to make meaningful change and optimise their health, slow down or even reverse biological ageing, have a permanent residency on board. In addition, a Chenot medical facility staffed by certified doctors, dentists and specialists will be on hand to attend to any medical requirement – from emergencies, to rehabilitation and rejuvenation.
For those who thrive off adventure and enjoy exploring uncharted territories, EYOS Expeditions will deliver the thrill of adventure to those ready to explore the unknown, with their vast experience undertaking expeditions in the remotest parts of the world.
Of course, the ULYSSIA experience begins before residents step on board, so we have partnered with transport experts Blacklane, whose world-class chauffeurs go the extra mile. We thereby ensure all travel is seamless on land as well as by sea. Meanwhile, for travel by air, VistaJet will be providing residents access to a global fleet of jets, while ULYSSIA will be home to two on board helicopters. More partners are to be announced in the near future.
Finally, we are partnered with Marine Guard, the world leader in protecting UHNW families in the marine and yachting industries. We will be able to detect and deal with any threats from the air, on the water and underwater, thereby ensuring our residents’ safety in all corners of the world.
Q: What do you believe will be the most fulfilling ASPECT OF ULYSSIA in the future?
Travel – getting to experience places, cultures and people different to oneself – is so important and must be protected. We are living in a world where mass tourism is making it harder to be spontaneous and to enjoy the wonders of the world in peace and quiet. ULYSSIA will enable residents to freely explore both popular and off the beaten track locations, avoiding the queues and chaos that far too often dilute the experience. Friendships will be formed with families on board, as different generations spend time together experiencing the true wonders of the world.
The ULYSSIA community will be the legacy.
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