In the heart of Las Vegas, a unique culinary journey awaits aboard the Fortuna, a private yacht owned by the renowned Carbone restaurant. This luxurious vessel, which sets sail from the iconic Bellagio Fountain, offers an exclusive dining experience that combines fine cuisine with spectacular views. As the fountains dance to music, guests can enjoy gourmet dishes paired with champagne and caviar, making it a truly unforgettable outing.
The Fortuna is not just any yacht; it is a symbol of elegance and sophistication. With careful attention to detail, the yacht is designed to enhance the dining experience, ensuring that guests savor every moment as they glide along the picturesque waters. The journey typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, allowing ample time to indulge in the culinary offerings while taking in the breathtaking backdrop of the Bellagio’s famous fountain display.
Exclusive access and culinary delights
Access to the Fortuna is highly exclusive, primarily reserved for celebrities, influencers, and close friends of Mario Carbone, the mastermind behind this culinary venture. While invitations are rare, most guests must be part of an elite circle to secure a spot on this lavish yacht. The culinary team on board specializes in creating an array of delectable dishes, with champagne and caviar being the recommended fare for an optimal experience.
Dining at Carbone Riviera
After the yacht experience, guests are encouraged to dine at the upcoming Carbone Riviera, a new restaurant that deviates from Carbone’s traditional offerings. Unlike its predecessors, which feature a darker, club-like atmosphere, Riviera boasts a bright and airy design filled with stunning blue and gold mosaics. The visionary behind this transformation is Martin Brudnizki, known for designing high-profile establishments like Annabel’s in London.
Carbone Riviera aims to capture the essence of its namesake, incorporating a seafood-focused menu that reflects the aquatic themes of its surroundings. The new establishment is set to feature an array of innovative dishes, including crudos, whole roasted fish, and a highly anticipated spicy lobster fettuccine, which Carbone believes will rival the beloved spicy rigatoni from his original restaurant.
Inspiration and creation of Fortuna
The inception of the Fortuna yacht can be traced back to a summer getaway that Bill Hornbuckle, the CEO of MGM Resorts, enjoyed aboard a Riva boat along the Amalfi Coast. This experience sparked the idea of bringing a similar luxury yacht experience to Las Vegas, leading to the acquisition of a limited-edition Riva yacht. The Fortuna, specifically number 11 out of 18 ‘Anniversario’ yachts, was carefully craned into the Bellagio’s waters just weeks ago, much to the delight of onlookers.
During its christening ceremony, both Carbone and Hornbuckle participated in a celebratory ritual, breaking bottles of Dom Perignon against the boat’s hull. As they embarked on their inaugural voyage, the sounds of Frank Sinatra filled the air, encapsulating the essence of romance and grandeur that defines both the boat and its surroundings.
The future of Carbone
With the introduction of Fortuna and the anticipated opening of Carbone Riviera, Mario Carbone continues to expand his culinary empire. His ventures have grown increasingly ambitious, with a private club in New York City costing $30,000 for membership and exclusive dining experiences attracting celebrities like Jeff Bezos and Ivanka Trump. As he moves forward, Carbone has plans for properties beyond restaurants, eyeing potential hotel developments that promise to intertwine heritage with modern luxury.
Reflecting on his 13th Carbone establishment, Carbone remains optimistic about the future. With the Fortuna as a testament to his vision of luxury dining experiences, he encourages guests to embrace the romance of the Bellagio and the lake—a sentiment reflected in his remark, ‘Put it on black tonight.’ This journey is not just about food; it’s about crafting memories that linger long after the last dish is served.