Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s flagship vessel, Ilma, has completed its first year of operation, setting a new standard for luxury, sustainability, and personalized cruising. Launched in July 2024 and officially entering service in September 2024, Ilma has already made waves in upscale cruise tourism. Offering intimate luxury with its innovative features, the ship has sailed across the Western Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas, earning recognition for its eco-friendly technologies and bespoke services.
A New Era in Luxury Yacht Tourism
Constructed at the prestigious Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard, Ilma is one of the largest ships in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The vessel accommodates up to 456 guests and offers 224 luxurious suites, each featuring private terraces for the ultimate in personal space and comfort. The design of Ilma emphasizes elegance, with expansive open-air lounges, a state-of-the-art marina, and direct sea access, allowing guests to enjoy seamless interaction with the ocean.
Ilma’s environmental credentials are equally impressive. Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the ship operates with the cleanest fossil fuel available, minimizing emissions and supporting sustainable tourism. Advanced water treatment systems, LED lighting, and energy-efficient design further enhance Ilma’s commitment to protecting the environment while offering an exceptional travel experience.
Luxurious Onboard Amenities and Experiences
Ilma excels in delivering luxury on every level. Its onboard lifestyle includes five diverse restaurants, each offering gourmet dining experiences designed to delight even the most discerning tastes. The ship also features seven stylish bars that serve refined beverage selections, contributing to an atmosphere of relaxation and indulgence. The emphasis on culinary excellence and sophisticated leisure extends to the ship’s spa, fitness center, and an innovative marina offering activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and a floating beach club experience.
Designed for travelers seeking not only luxury but also unique experiences, Ilma provides a perfect balance of wellness, fine dining, and unforgettable entertainment. The yacht’s design and services cater to affluent travelers looking for a customized, experiential journey that blends relaxation, exploration, and world-class hospitality.
Ilma’s Inaugural Year: Expanding Horizons Across Iconic Destinations
Ilma’s inaugural year has seen successful voyages across some of the world’s most beautiful regions. The Western Mediterranean served as the perfect backdrop for the ship’s debut season in September 2024. One of its first routes featured a seven-night cruise from Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Civitavecchia, Italy, a gateway to Rome. This voyage showcased top European destinations, including Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Porto Cervo, and Bastia, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culture, history, and scenic beauty of the region.
In October 2024, Ilma sailed across the Atlantic to christen its winter Caribbean and Bahamas season. The ship’s voyages included seven- to twelve-night itineraries with stops at tropical destinations like Bimini, Key West, Gustavia, and Soufrière. These voyages not only provided travelers with luxurious escapes but also significantly contributed to local economies, drawing high-value tourists to these picturesque regions.
In 2025, Ilma expanded its horizons to Northern Europe, navigating the Baltic and North Seas, and exploring destinations such as Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Reykjavík, and Belfast. This expansion opens up the world of luxury yacht tourism to new markets, offering exclusive access to boutique ports and enriching experiences in iconic European cities and natural wonders like scenic fjords.
Economic and Environmental Impact: Supporting Sustainable Growth
Ilma’s presence in high-profile destinations directly benefits local economies. As a luxury vessel, it attracts affluent travelers who contribute to regional businesses through dining, shopping, excursions, and other luxury services. This ripple effect generates employment opportunities and promotes sustainable tourism, benefiting local communities.
Ilma’s commitment to sustainability is a significant driver in the growing trend of environmentally responsible tourism. The ship’s LNG-powered engines, eco-friendly design, and minimal emissions align with global efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the travel industry. Ilma is proving that luxury travel can be both sustainable and indulgent, appealing to eco-conscious travelers who want to enjoy the world without compromising its future.
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: A Vision for the Future of Luxury Cruises
Ilma joins Evrima, the first ship in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, as part of a growing fleet that promises to reshape the landscape of luxury cruising. The Evrima, which debuted in 2023, accommodates fewer guests and offers a more intimate experience. With Ilma and the upcoming Luminara—set to debut in 2025—Ritz-Carlton is broadening its reach to new destinations, including Asia and Alaska. These vessels provide an exceptional cruise experience, emphasizing smaller ships, personalized itineraries, and exclusive access to boutique ports.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has set itself apart by offering flexible itineraries, highly personalized services, and sustainable practices. The addition of Ilma and future vessels will continue to cater to luxury travelers seeking privacy, exclusivity, and extraordinary experiences on the water.
Shaping the Future of Cruise Tourism
As Ilma marks its first year, it stands as a shining example of how luxury and sustainability can seamlessly blend to create exceptional cruise experiences. With a commitment to environmental responsibility, local economic growth, and offering one-of-a-kind itineraries, Ilma is not just a luxury yacht; it’s a benchmark for the future of cruise tourism. Whether exploring the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or Northern Europe, Ilma has redefined what it means to travel in style, offering a sophisticated yet eco-conscious experience that is setting new standards for the industry.
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