The Ritz-Carlton Ilma: The Ultimate Luxury Yacht Experience
Introduction: A New Era of Ultra-Luxury Cruising
The Ritz-Carlton has long been synonymous with unparalleled luxury, and its foray into yachting has redefined high-end travel at sea. Following the success of its first yacht, Evrima, the brand is set to elevate the experience even further with its newest vessel—Ilma (meaning “water” in Maltese).
Launched in September 2024, Ilma represents the next evolution of intimate, all-inclusive yachting, blending the elegance of a five-star resort with the freedom of a private yacht. With only 224 guests and a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio, this vessel promises unmatched service, lavish accommodations, and exclusive access to the world’s most coveted destinations.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore:
– The refined design and ultra-spacious suites
– Gourmet dining and world-class mixology
– Wellness, entertainment and bespoke excursions
– 2024-2025 itineraries in the Mediterranean and Caribbean
– How Ilma compares to Evrima and competitors like Four Seasons Yachts
1. The Ilma Experience: Luxury Redefined
Why Choose a Ritz-Carlton Yacht?
Unlike traditional cruises, Ilma offers:
– Yacht-style intimacy (only 224 guests)
– All-suite accommodations, each with a private terrace
– All-inclusive luxury (fine dining, premium drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities)
– Access to hidden ports (St. Barth’s, Portofino, Costa Rica)
Key Specifications
Feature – Details
Length – 790 ft (241m)
Gross Tonnage – 46,750 GT
Guests – 224
Suites – 112 (all with terraces)
Crew – 228 (1:1 service ratio)
Maiden Voyage – September 2024 (Mediterranean)
2. Suite Perfection: Your Private Sanctuary at Sea
Every suite on Ilma is a luxury residence at sea, featuring:
– Private terraces with ocean views
– Plush king beds with premium linens
– Marble bathrooms (double vanities, rain showers)
– Custom minibars and 24/7 in-suite dining
Suite Categories
Type – Size (sq. ft.) – Highlights
Terrace Suite – 300-350 – Entry-level luxury, floor-to-ceiling windows
Grand Suite – 574-1,076 – Separate living area, walk-in closet
Duplex Suite – 1,066 (two levels) – Spiral staircase, private upper terrace
The Duplex Suites are among the most spacious at sea, rivaling private yacht charters.
3. Culinary Excellence: A World of Flavors
Ilma features five distinct dining venues, each offering a unique gourmet experience:
Signature Restaurants
S.E.A. – A Michelin-starred dining experience by Chef Sven Elverfeld (of The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg).
The Evrima Room – Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
Talaat Nam – Southeast Asian flavors in an elegant, open-kitchen setting.
Casual and Alfresco Options
Marina Terrace – Fresh seafood and cocktails by the water’s edge.
The Living Room Café – Artisanal coffees, pastries, and afternoon tea.
All dining is included, along with premium wines, spirits, and Champagne.
4. Wellness, Relaxation and Entertainment
The Ritz-Carlton Spa
– Holistic treatments (massages, facials, CBD therapies)
– Sauna, steam room and relaxation lounge
– Fitness center with personal trainers
Infinity Pool and Sun Deck
– A stunning aft infinity pool with panoramic views
– Private cabanas and champagne service
Evening Entertainment
– Live jazz and piano performances
– Cocktail parties under the stars
– Destination-themed nights (e.g., Ibiza sunset soirée)
5. Unforgettable Itineraries (2024-2025)
Ilma will sail 7- to 10-night voyages in the most exclusive destinations:
Mediterranean Highlights (2024)
French Riviera (Nice, St. Tropez, Cannes)
Amalfi Coast (Capri, Positano, Sorrento)
Ibiza and Mallorca (private beach clubs, yacht tenders)
Caribbean and Central America (2024-2025)
St. Barth’s (New Year’s Eve fireworks)
Turks and Caicos (private island beach day)
Dominican Republic (Taino Bay Port, top excursions)
Costa Rica and Panama (jungle excursions, luxury eco-resorts)
Guests can also book private yacht charters for customized group voyages.
6. How Ilma Compares to Evrima and Competitors
Feature – Ritz-Carlton Ilma – Ritz-Carlton Evrima – Four Seasons Yacht – Seabourn Venture
Guests – 224 – 298 – 190 – 264
Suites – 112 (all with terraces) – 149 (all with terraces) – 95 (larger layouts) – 132 (luxury cabins)
Dining – 5 restaurants – 5 restaurants – 4 restaurants – 4 restaurants
Wellness – Full spa and pool – Spa and gym – Extensive wellness – Expedition-focused
Starting Price – ~$5,000/person – ~$4,500/person – ~$7,000/person – ~$6,000/person
Why Ilma Stands Out:
– More intimate than Evrima (fewer guests, same luxury)
– Superior suite sizes vs. Four Seasons (Duplex Suites)
– All-inclusive (unlike some competitors with à la carte pricing)
7. Booking and Pricing: Is Ilma Worth It?
– Starting Price: ~$5,000 per person (7-night Mediterranean)
– Inclusions: All dining, premium drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, select excursions
– Best For: Luxury travelers who value privacy, gourmet dining, and unique ports
TRACKERS & ITINERARY
How to Book
– Directly through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
– Via luxury travel advisors (exclusive perks available)
DECK PLANS – Click to view all
Final Verdict: A New Benchmark in Luxury Yachting
The Ritz-Carlton Ilma is not just another cruise—it’s a floating five-star resort designed for those who seek the finest things in life. With its spacious suites, Michelin-level dining, and impeccable service, it sets a new standard for ultra-luxury yachting. If you crave an intimate, all-inclusive escape with Ritz-Carlton’s legendary hospitality, Ilma is the ultimate choice.
