The World, Residences at Sea Announces the Appointment of Sai Baddi as General Manager Effective September 2026
[FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida, 11 August 2026] – The World, Residences at Sea, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sai Baddi as General Manager, effective September 2026. A respected and long-standing member of The World’s leadership team, Baddi brings 18 years of experience aboard the ship and a deep understanding of its unique Community, culture and commitment to exceptional personalized service.
The World, a one-of-a-kind privately owned residential mega yacht and the only ship of its kind presently in operation, is home to more than 150 families from 20 countries. Together they own the homes on board and travel the globe in complete luxury following an itinerary chosen by the Residents themselves.
As General Manager, Baddi will oversee all hotel operations aboard the ship and lead a team dedicated to delivering the personalized service, exceptional hospitality and an enriching lifestyle that have distinguished The World for more than two decades. His appointment comes as the private residential community continues its extraordinary global journey, visiting some of the planet’s most remarkable destinations while delivering world-class service, experiences and operational excellence.
“Sai exemplifies the leadership, professionalism and unwavering commitment to excellence that define our ship,” said Jessica Hoppe, President and CEO of The World. “His deep understanding of our unique community, combined with his collaborative leadership style and operational expertise, make him exceptionally well suited for this role. Additionally, promoting from within reflects our commitment to developing outstanding talent, and we are delighted to see Sai step into this well-earned position as we continue building on the strong foundation that has made The World unlike any other ship at sea.”
Baddi joined The World in 2008 as Relief F&B Manager and subsequently held the positions of F&B Manager, F&B Director and Senior F&B Director, the position he held until his recent promotion. During his tenure, he has introduced many of ship’s signature dining concepts while working alongside Michelin-starred chefs and internationally recognized culinary experts, helping further elevate the ship’s renowned culinary program.
Baddi’s hospitality career spans more than three decades, including senior positions with some of the world’s most respected luxury hospitality brands. Before joining The World, he held leadership roles with Cunard Line, where he was a member of the pre-opening teams for both Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria, as well as with Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the Taj Group of Hotels and Sheraton.
Baddi’s commitment to leadership excellence is reflected in executive leadership studies at Oxford University and Cornell University, as well as advanced leadership development programs that have shaped his collaborative, people-focused management style.
His broad operational experience, strategic vision and deep appreciation for The World’s distinctive lifestyle uniquely position him to lead the ship and its community into the future. Baddi replaces former General Manager Thomas Legner who stepped down earlier this year.
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About The World, Residences at Sea
Launched in 2002, The World® is the largest privately owned, residential yacht on earth with 165 luxury Residences. A diverse group of more than 150 Residents from 20 countries own the homes onboard and share interests in world cultures, history and adventure, and exploring fascinating destinations. They circumnavigate the globe every two to three years following an extraordinary itinerary that they select. In-depth expeditions and one-of-a-kind experiences are complemented by world-class amenities and impeccable service.
This private community at sea offers the ultimate combination of luxurious and enriching travel with world-class amenities and facilities. These include impeccable culinary mastery in six restaurants, exceptional golf facilities with onboard putting greens, a state-of-the-art golf simulator and golf professional, the only full-size regulation tennis court at sea, swimming pools, a spa, a fitness center complete with personal trainers, expert destination lecturers, a library, cinema, hobby and games rooms, and more.
This strikingly beautiful ship provides gracious and personalized service for the families who call The World home, with every experience customized to Residents’ preferences in a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels much like a private yacht, well-staffed home or exclusive country club.
To learn more about The World’s unique lifestyle, call +1.954.538.8449 or visit aboardtheworld.com.
Media Contact
For additional information or to request images of The World, please contact: [email protected].