The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection launches second superyacht

i By September 5, 2024 No Comments

Ilma, the second new-build luxury superyacht in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, embarked this week on its maiden voyage, a seven-night journey from Monte Carlo to Rome.

“It is with immense pride and excitement that we welcome Ilma to our growing fleet,” said Jim Murren, executive chairman and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “Since Evrima’s debut, we have been steadfast in our pursuit of excellence at sea. The addition of Ilma signifies a continuation of our mission to deliver legendary service and unparalleled enjoyment to our guests.”

Ilma measures 790 feet, offering 224 suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. It accommodates up to 448 guests, and has one of the highest space-to-guest and guest-to-staff ratios at sea.

A defining characteristic of Ilma is the seamless transition between its interior spaces, which were designed by London-based architectural and design firm AD Associates and lighting designer DPA, and its exterior, which reflects the vision of Helsinki-based design studio, Aivan. Named after the Maltese word for “water,” it features design elements drawing inspiration from Maltese mythology, coastline, history, and native fauna. The design narrative incorporates fresh, neutral tones juxtaposed by light and dark finishes, while the exterior nods to the sleek design of private yachts.

Ilma also features:

  • five dining venues, including a modern Italian fine-dining restaurant – Seta su Ilma – by Michelin-starred chef Fabio Trabocchi, and The Beach House, a beach-club inspired venue that serves a menu inspired by the cuisines of South and Central America developed in collaboration with James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina;
  • seven bars and a signature wine vault;
  • an extensive Marina and Marina Terrace, a signature space across the fleet featuring large glass windows, side doors that open and float above the water, and a hydraulic platform that connects guests with the sea when the yacht is at anchor;
  • Deck 10, an open-air space for live entertaining and sunbathing, complete with the main pool, pool bar and an outdoor LED screen;
  • and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, an oasis with 11 treatment rooms – five equipped to offer outdoor treatment options – and three distinct fitness spaces (Movement Studio, Cycle Studio, and Fitness Studio with weights and cardio machines).

Ilma’s inaugural season in the Mediterranean includes ports of call visiting the blue waters of Santorini, the iconic yachting playgrounds of Porto Cervo, and the historic sites of Valletta, before departing for the Caribbean, where stops include Virgin Gorda, the harbor of Gustavia, and  St. John. Ilma will additionally sail the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe—a first for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection—during the 2025 summer season offering itineraries that include destinations like Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Reykjavík.

“The launch of Ilma exemplifies the unwavering dedication of The Ritz-Carlton to setting new benchmarks in luxury travel, with the company’s commitment to thoughtful and transformative travel experiences guiding its mission,” said Jenni Benzaquen, senior vice-president of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts. “Ilma brings the exceptional luxury accommodations and personalized service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned to the sea, further redefining the standards in the luxury industry.”