The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has officially raised the bar for luxury cruising with the debut of its newest ultra-luxury yacht, Luminara, which embarked on its inaugural sailing from Monte Carlo on July 3, 2025. This long-anticipated addition to Ritz-Carlton’s boutique fleet is setting a new standard in high-end travel, blending elite hotel-style service with the romance of the open sea.
Luminara’s debut seven-night voyage winds through some of the most enchanting ports in the Mediterranean, including Cannes, Livorno, Portofino, and concludes in Rome, offering guests a seamless fusion of old-world charm and modern elegance.
A Floating Ritz-Carlton Resort at Sea
With just 226 suites, the Luminara promises an intimate and personalized yachting experience, unlike larger cruise ships. Onboard, guests are treated to lavish accommodations, Michelin-inspired dining, curated shore excursions, and world-class amenities that uphold the Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service.
According to Ernesto Fara, President of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, “Welcoming Luminara to our fleet reflects our continued focus on thoughtful expansion and innovation. This launch brings together years of collaboration and intentional design to deliver a yacht that sets a new benchmark for the industry.”
Designed in partnership with world-renowned architects and maritime engineers, the Luminara features modern nautical aesthetics, sustainable marine technology, and immersive lifestyle offerings that place it among the finest vessels on the seas today.
Celebrated Christening Ceremony in Monte Carlo
The christening event in Monte Carlo was a star-studded celebration, attended by top executives from Marriott International and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The ceremony was presided over by Simone Ashley, British actress and official godmother of Luminara. Alongside her were key figures like Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO, and Tina Edmundson, President of Luxury at Marriott International.
Edmundson described the launch as a defining moment for Marriott’s expansion into luxury travel by sea: “The Luminara is a testament and extension of our pioneering role in yachting. It embodies the emotional richness of travel — places that stay with you and cultures that shape you.”
Mediterranean Itinerary Highlights
Luminara’s maiden journey showcases the beauty and heritage of Europe’s most iconic coastal destinations. In Cannes, guests explore the glitz of the French Riviera, followed by a stop in Livorno, gateway to Tuscany’s vineyards and renaissance cities. Portofino, with its pastel harbor, offers chic boutiques and seaside charm before the cruise ends in Rome, where ancient wonders await.
This bespoke itinerary, enhanced by local guides and personalized excursions, elevates cruising into a deeply cultural and enriching experience.
Future Global Voyages: Asia-Pacific and North America on the Horizon
While the Mediterranean is Luminara’s launching pad, its future sails extend far beyond. In December 2025, the yacht sets course for Asia-Pacific, bringing guests to Hạ Long Bay in Vietnam, Osaka in Japan, and Bangkok in Thailand. Each port will offer immersive shore activities, from ancient temple tours to cooking classes and traditional performances.
By May 2026, Luminara will reach the coasts of Alaska and Canada, where guests will explore glacial fjords, rainforests, and Indigenous cultural sites, along with the cosmopolitan flair of cities like Vancouver.
These curated voyages are part of Ritz-Carlton’s commitment to delivering experiential travel across the globe, all while maintaining the comfort and prestige of a five-star resort at sea.
Elevated Amenities and All-Inclusive Indulgence
Luminara’s onboard features include expansive ocean-view suites with private terraces, holistic wellness programs, fine dining led by globally acclaimed chefs, and exclusive lounges. The yacht also offers a marina-style water platform with access to kayaks and paddleboards for when anchored in scenic coves.
What truly sets the experience apart is its all-inclusive model—covering everything from gourmet meals and premium beverages to flights, airport transfers, gratuities, and onboard entertainment. Guests can enjoy every element of the voyage without hidden fees, making it a stress-free luxury journey from start to finish.
Booking and Reservations Open
Reservations for upcoming Mediterranean, Asia-Pacific, and North American itineraries aboard the Luminara are now open via the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s official website and select travel advisors. With the demand for ultra-luxury travel surging post-pandemic, the yacht’s intimate capacity ensures high exclusivity and early booking is recommended.
As boutique yachting emerges as a dominant trend in global luxury travel, Ritz-Carlton’s Luminara is positioned to lead the way. Whether navigating ancient Roman shores or drifting through Southeast Asia’s emerald bays, the yacht promises travelers a voyage of refined elegance, cultural immersion, and timeless luxury.
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