The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection unveiled its summer 2025 itineraries

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection unveiled its summer 2025 itineraries across its fleet, Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara, marking an exciting moment as the company opens bookings for the inaugural season of its third superyacht. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection debuted in October 2022 with the launch of Evrima, the first time a luxury hospitality brand expanded into the cruising category. With all three superyachts now open for reservations, the brand extension continues to build on its success signifying continued growth and offering more opportunities for luxury travelers to enjoy unforgettable getaways at sea.

"A standard in luxury cruising was set in 2022 with the introduction of Evrima, the first of our Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet, marking our expansion into the yachting category," said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury, Marriott International. "In a short time, our world-class itineraries have attracted guests who are new to the category and interested in exploring new horizons and cultures with the assurance of The Ritz- Carlton brand. We are thrilled to have created experiences that redefine luxury cruising. Endless explorations await as we prepare to launch our second yacht, Ilma, in 2024, and our third, Luminara, in 2025."

"With Luminara, we are not just adding another superyacht to our fleet; we are expanding the horizons of ultra-luxury travel," stated Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. "This growth embodies our unwavering dedication to exploration, enrichment, and the pursuit of extraordinary experiences for our guests. Luminara is an invitation to embark on remarkable journeys and discover the world's most captivating destinations with unparalleled amenities and service."

The Inaugural Season of Luminara

Inspiring curiosities and celebrations, Luminara, derived from Latin origin and meaning "light," will measure 794 feet (242 meters) and accommodate up to 452 guests. In addition to 226 spacious suites, each boasting a private ocean-view terrace, a higher percentage of upper-suite categories, and superior guest amenities, the onboard experience will feature world-class dining, a wine vault, The Ritz-Carlton Spa®, and an expanded marina providing direct access to the sea. Among its range of upper-suite categories will be a new expansive accommodation, The Residential Suite, promising a collection of offerings that caters to a variety of preferences.

Luminara will embody contemporary craftsmanship and refined interior finishes envisioned by AD Associates, a renowned London-based architectural and design firm, with creative direction by Chapi Chapo Design, an internationally acclaimed Toronto-based luxury design firm, and celebrated lighting designer DPA. The yacht's sleek and graceful exterior design, expertly envisioned by Helsinki-based design studio Aivan, draws inspiration from the elegant aesthetics of private yacht design. Inspired by light and luminescence, Luminara's design emphasizes elegance and sophistication. Its layout, featuring explorative passages and favoring circular silhouettes over geometric edges, creates a seamless design, forming a sense of limitless space in each area. A serene color palette of soft brown oak, Calcutta marble, leather accents, and touches of rich red, navy, and green will provide an elegant oasis at sea.

The 2025 Summer Season

The summer season spanning from April to October 2025 presents a curated selection of 53 itineraries, featuring new ports of call, standout shore excursions, and an inaugural experience – nine exclusive voyages aboard Ilma in Northern Europe. Ilma will navigate the North Sea and Baltic Sea, offering journeys to dynamic cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Reykjavík, alongside culturally rich stops in Belfast, Bergen, Antwerp, and more. Guests will also explore beloved yachting havens, including the Greek Isles, the Balearic Islands, the French Riviera, and the Italian Riviera.

Breathtaking ports of call bring novel adventures to travelers such as the historic maritime city of Toulon, the lively nightlife of Marbella, and the pristine beaches in Kos. Wine enthusiasts can discover the iconic vineyards of Bordeaux while history aficionados can venture through the historic castles of Edinburgh. With more time in port, the new voyages allow plenty of time for exploration.

Providing the opportunity to uncover all a destination has to offer, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a curated collection of enriching onshore excursions. In Palma de Mallorca, guests are invited to book a private helicopter tour to a wine tasting nestled at the foot of Mallorca's mountain region. Guests in Livorno, Italy may sail the canals of the city in a boat exclusively for guests of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection before disembarking for a mixology class with a world class bartender. Panoramic views of Portofino Bay await voyagers at the elegant Hotel Splendido where guests will enjoy a lunch of traditional Italian recipes, paired with one of Italy's most precious ingredients: olive oil.

History of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a pioneering venture in the luxury yacht cruise segment, combining the refined hospitality of The Ritz-Carlton with the relaxed freedom of yachting. The collection's first yacht, Evrima, set sail on its maiden voyage in October 2022, marking a significant milestone in the industry. This article explores the history and evolution of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, highlighting its unique features and the trends it has set in the luxury travel market.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was officially inaugurated in 2022, following a series of delays due to shipbuilding and the COVID-19 pandemic. The collection's first ship, Evrima, was designed to offer an unparalleled luxury experience, blending the best of land-based Ritz-Carlton hotels with the freedom and flexibility of a yachting vacation. The yacht features 149 suites, each with its own private terrace, and accommodates up to 298 guests in a relaxed, casually elegant atmosphere. Evrima's maiden voyage was a sold-out success, and the brand has since expanded its fleet with the upcoming launches of Ilma and Luminara.

The idea for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was first announced in June 2017, with plans to launch a fleet of three superyachts. The brand aimed to create a new category of luxury yacht cruising, offering bespoke travel experiences at sea. However, the initial launch date was delayed due to shipbuilding delays and the COVID-19 pandemic. The first ship, Evrima, was finally launched in October 2022, with its maiden voyage commencing from Lisbon to Palma de Mallorca.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has continued to expand its fleet, with the second ship, Ilma, scheduled to set sail in the second half of 2024. Ilma will feature 224 suites and a staff ratio of roughly one onboard employee for every guest, ensuring exceptional personalized service. The third ship, Luminara, is set to launch in 2025, further solidifying the collection's presence in the luxury yacht cruise market.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has established itself as a leader in the luxury yacht cruise segment. The brand's unique combination of luxury hospitality and yachting freedom has attracted a diverse range of guests, including both seasoned cruisers and those new to the luxury travel market. The collection's success has also inspired other luxury brands to enter the market, with Four Seasons, Aman Resorts, and Accor's Orient Express Silenseas all unveiling superyachts of their own.