Ritz Carlton Yacht

We recommend Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection to clients who prioritize luxury above all else and want a true yacht experience rather than traditional cruising. With only three ships carrying 149-448 guests, this is hospitality’s most exclusive entry into yachting. Sir Richard Branson may have said “If you don’t like cruises, you will absolutely love Virgin,” but Ritz Carlton takes it further: “This isn’t cruising at all.” Every suite features a private terrace, there are no buffets, and the experience feels more like a floating Ritz Carlton hotel than anything resembling a cruise ship.

The Ritz Carlton Experience

Guest reviews reveal a sophisticated atmosphere that attracts high-end professionals in their 40s-50s. One Reddit user noted: “I thought it was the best money I’ve spent on vacation. I compared to all the others that come up. Viking, Silver Sea, etc… The staff were just phenomenal.” Another shared: “The atmosphere on board felt akin to a standard Club-level Ritz Carlton experience… The average age of guests seemed to be in the mid-50s, primarily consisting of higher-end professionals.”

Newest Ships & Innovation

Evrima (149 suites) launched in 2022, Ilma (224 suites) debuted September 2024, and Luminara (226 suites) launches 2025. Ilma features “the highest ratio of space per guest at sea” – more than any cruise ship or yacht currently sailing. All suites range from 300 to 1,091 square feet with private terraces, and the Owner’s Suite includes a wraparound terrace with whirlpool, outdoor dining for four, and a separate full bathroom with shower. The ships’ sleek design features marina-style water access, making them feel more like private superyachts than cruise vessels.

Unique Ritz Carlton Experiences

The Marina platform sits at water level, offering direct sea access for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming when anchored. Private beach events are arranged on pristine sands where “the sound of gentle waves lapping the shore may lull you into a reverie”. The yachts access smaller, exclusive ports that larger ships cannot reach. The “En Blanc” event invites guests to don summer whites and sip Old Cuban Mojitos while listening to live music. Unlike traditional cruises, there are no formal nights, casinos, or buffets – just sophisticated relaxation in an intimate setting.

Sophisticated Entertainment

Entertainment revolves around The Living Room for quieter pre-dinner gatherings with live music and hors d’oeuvres, while The Observation Lounge hosts late-night parties with live bands and DJ sets until early hours. There’s no theater or formal entertainment – instead, you’ll find jazz musicians, classical pianists, and curated performances by local artists. Activities include cooking classes, wine tastings, pop-up culinary events like paella and sangria, plus art tours with the resident Art Concierge. The atmosphere emphasizes intimate conversation and relaxation over high-energy shows.

Michelin-Caliber Dining

Each yacht features five restaurants, with only S.E.A./Seta su Ilma requiring an additional fee ($245-285 per person). S.E.A. on Evrima features a five-course tasting menu by three-Michelin-star chef Sven Elverfeld, while Seta su Ilma offers Italian fine dining by Michelin-starred chef Fabio Trabocchi. The Beach House by James Beard Award winner Chef Michael Mina focuses on Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. All restaurants make food fresh to order with no buffets or reheated items, and menus change every three days incorporating local ingredients from ports visited.