The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection proudly announces the delivery of its second ultra-luxury superyacht, Ilma, marking a significant milestone in the world of luxury cruising. The ceremonial handover occurred on July 12, 2024, at the esteemed Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where company officials celebrated this momentous occasion.

Celebrating Craftsmanship and Excellence

Key figures from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, including Executive Chairman and CEO Jim Murren and President and CFO Ernesto Fara, graced the event. Representatives from Chantiers de l’Atlantique, such as General Manager Laurent Castaing, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing and Project Director Arnaud Le Joncour, were also in attendance. Captain Steve MacBeath and over 350 of the yacht’s distinguished crew members were present, preparing for the vessel’s maiden voyage from Monte Carlo on September 2, 2024.

Jim Murren expressed his gratitude: “Today marks the culmination of a shared vision and the relentless pursuit of excellence, a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of all those involved. We are deeply grateful to the exceptional teams here at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, whose hard work and passion have brought this vision to life.”

RCYC CDA Speech Captain Steve MacBeath.

Arnaud Le Joncour echoed these sentiments, adding, “Ilma represents a collaboration of two likeminded organizations committed to excellence, offering the best in both hospitality and shipbuilding. The design and construction of Ilma have been a distinctive project for Chantiers de l’Atlantique that has elevated the highest luxury standards in terms of guest experience, technical innovation, and craftsmanship. We are incredibly proud to deliver an ultra-luxury cruise product that achieves both elegance and performance.”

A Masterpiece of Design and Luxury

Ilma, derived from the Maltese word “water,” is a testament to luxury and innovation. Measuring an impressive 790 feet (241 meters), this superyacht can accommodate up to 448 guests across 224 elegantly appointed suites. Each suite has floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces that offer breathtaking sea views, creating a seamless connection between guests and their maritime surroundings.

The interior of Ilma is a harmonious blend of contemporary craftsmanship and relaxed elegance, envisioned by the renowned London-based architectural and design firm AD Associates and enhanced by the award-winning lighting designer DPA. The yacht’s exterior design, crafted by Helsinki-based studio Aivan, draws inspiration from the graceful aesthetics of private yacht design.

Exceptional Amenities and Unparalleled Service

Ilma promises an unrivalled luxury experience with its comprehensive range of amenities. The yacht features five restaurants, seven bars, a wine vault, and signature spaces such as an expanded Marina with a mezzanine feature and The Ritz-Carlton Spa® with 11 treatment rooms. Guests can enjoy three distinct fitness spaces and a dynamic pool and entertainment area on Deck 10. One of the standout onboard destinations is the Beach House, a vibrant Pan-Latin restaurant and global beach-house-inspired lounge space conceptualized with Toronto-based luxury design firm Chapi Chapo Design, offering 180-degree views and a transformative dining experience.

Reflecting The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service, Ilma boasts one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the luxury cruising industry, ensuring personalized and attentive service for each guest.

Commitment to Sustainability

In line with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s commitment to sustainability, Ilma is equipped with four dual-fuel engines that utilize liquefied natural gas (LNG) as the primary fuel source. The yacht also features advanced energy efficiency measures and cutting-edge water treatment systems designed to minimize environmental impact, setting a new standard for sustainable luxury cruising.

Expanding Horizons

Ilma will continue to build on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s vision of redefining luxury cruising. The yacht will join the company’s inaugural vessel, Evima, in offering highly tailored itineraries to iconic yachting destinations and hidden gems throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean. In the summer of 2025, Ilma will explore Northern Europe’s North and Baltic Seas, allowing guests to discover dynamic cities such as Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Reykjavík.

For more information about The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and to book your voyage on Ilma, visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com.

By delivering an unparalleled blend of luxury, innovation, and sustainability, Ilma is set to redefine the standards of ultra-luxury cruising. With its exquisite design, exceptional amenities, and commitment to environmental responsibility, Ilma promises an unforgettable experience for discerning travellers seeking the ultimate in maritime luxury.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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