World’s Largest Hotel-Branded Superyacht Sets Sail For Maiden Voyage
Ritz-Carlton's New Ilma Superyacht: A $600 Million Luxury Experience
Ritz-Carlton’s New Ilma Superyacht Sets Sail After Many Challenges
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has launched its second superyacht, Ilma, a luxurious ship that can hold 448 passengers. It was unveiled on September 2, and it is now the world’s largest hotel-branded superyacht. The cost to build this impressive vessel was $600 million.
The journey to Ilma’s debut wasn’t easy. There were many challenges, like delays in building and switching shipbuilders. Originally, a Spanish shipyard was supposed to build the yacht, but the work was transferred to Chantiers de l’Atlantique in St. Nazaire, France.
A Greener Ship for the Future
One of Ilma’s standout features is its eco-friendly design. The ship is equipped with a hybrid liquid natural gas system, which helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions. This system also prepares the ship to use sustainable fuels in the future, making it a greener option for travel.
New Leadership for Ritz-Carlton Yachts
With the launch of Ilma, a new management team is leading the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Jim Murren, who used to work at MGM Resorts International, is the company’s new CEO. He is guiding the brand as it expands its fleet.
Bigger and Better than Evrima
Ilma is 790 feet long, which is larger than Ritz-Carlton’s first yacht, Evrima, which is 628 feet. Ilma offers even more luxury, based on feedback from guests who sailed on Evrima. The new yacht has bigger spaces per passenger, ensuring everyone has more room to relax and enjoy the sea views.
The Ultimate Luxury Experience
Sailing on Ilma comes with a hefty price tag. Rates start at $2,600 per cabin per night, but passengers are paying for an exclusive, first-class experience. The ship is filled with luxurious amenities. The main pool, located on the top deck, is surrounded by daybeds and loungers, offering a relaxing space with beautiful views.
One of Evrima’s popular features, The Marina, has been updated on Ilma with a floating platform for even more water activities. This new platform was designed by AquaBanas, a company known for creating fun water sports equipment.
Stylish Suites and More Amenities
For those looking for even more luxury, Ilma offers eight “owner suites” and four Concierge Suites. These suites come with private outdoor spaces, marble interiors, and custom furnishings. Guests can also enjoy an upgraded Ritz-Carlton Spa with 11 treatment rooms, a larger cycling studio, and dining experiences that rival Michelin-star restaurants.
Dining and Nightlife on Ilma
Dining on Ilma is a special experience. Guests can enjoy meals at the open-air Beach House, which serves pan-Latin cuisine and features an infinity splash pool. For a more intimate experience, Seta su Ilma offers an 11-course modern Italian tasting menu.
For nightlife, passengers can visit the Living Room, a high-ceilinged pub with a dance floor. There’s also Mistral, a Mediterranean-inspired nightclub perfect for evening entertainment.
Traveling the World in Style
Ilma will sail between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, offering passengers breathtaking views and unique experiences. In July, the superyacht will also explore Northern Europe and the Baltic region.
Ritz-Carlton has plans to expand its yacht collection, with three more ships already in the works. The next ship, Luminara, will launch in July next year. Luminara will be able to carry 452 passengers and will travel to the Asia-Pacific region starting in December 2025.
To help fund these new ships, Ritz-Carlton raised $300 million through a senior secured bond offering.
Shorter and Longer Cruise Options
In addition to seven-night cruises, the company will soon offer shorter three- and four-night trips. These shorter cruises will still provide luxury experiences, like helicopter trips to Barbuda for sushi-making sessions and sunset sailing with a private chef.
