The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection introduced its second vessel, the Ilma late 2024. Unlike traditional cruise ships, the company refers to its vessels as “yachts,” underscoring their focus on exclusivity and luxury. This 456-passenger super-yacht, a larger sibling to the 298-passenger Evrima, boasts 228 suites, each equipped with private balconies. Enhancements over its predecessor include a second pool deck and an additional restaurant, offering guests an elevated onboard experience.
What sets Ilma apart is not only what it includes but also what it deliberately excludes. Unlike most cruise ships, Ilma eschews amenities like buffets, casinos, theaters, art galleries, and even cruise directors. There are no overhead announcements or bustling crowds, creating an ambiance of serene exclusivity. The experience is further elevated by premium touches such as boutiques featuring luxury brands like Bulgari, Hermès, and Chanel; indulgent bathroom products by Espa and Diptyque; and Michelin-quality dining. Even the details—Frette robes and upscale room accessories—reflect a commitment to refinement.
Ilma operates as an all-inclusive experience, with offerings such as Champagne and caviar included. However, discerning guests can opt to spend more on bespoke enhancements, such as fine wines, spa treatments, or a meal at the Italian fine-dining venue, Seta Su Ilma. The crew, referred to as “Ladies and Gentlemen,” uphold Ritz-Carlton’s signature service standards, knowing guests by name and anticipating their preferences within days. This level of personalized service, combined with the yacht’s tranquil luxury, appeals to seasoned travelers familiar with high-end lines like Silversea, Seabourn, Crystal, and Scenic.
A Floating Five-Star Hotel
Ilma epitomizes Ritz-Carlton’s vision of creating a luxury hotel experience on the water. With 10 decks (guest decks begin on Deck 3), the yacht’s layout is designed to avoid the crowded feel of conventional cruise ships. At its pinnacle, Deck 10 features a main pool deck, a bar hosting occasional DJ sets, and Mistral, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Decks 9 through 6 are almost entirely dedicated to suites, with a serene sun deck, the Observation Terrace, located at the front of Deck 9.
Deck 5 serves as the yacht’s social hub, centering on the Living Room, a multi-use space that transforms from a quiet daytime lounge into a lively nighttime venue with a performance area and dance floor. The Living Room also houses a bar, games area, and library. Nearby, the Beach House restaurant offers al fresco dining around an infinity pool, while the Humidor caters to cigar and whiskey enthusiasts.
Deck 4 hosts Memori, an Asian-inspired restaurant, alongside guest services, a gym, a spa, and salons for both men and women. On Deck 3, guests can enjoy dining at Tides, Ilma’s equivalent of a main dining room, or at the specialty Italian venue, Seta Su Ilma. The deck also features a private dining room, a wine collection, the Marina Bar, and Ilma’s watersports platform, which operates in favorable weather conditions.
Suite Luxury with Balconies
Every accommodation on Ilma is classified as a suite, though the 90 entry-level Terrace Suites lack separate living rooms, featuring instead a combined sitting area with a sofa and small table. Despite this, the suites surpass the design quality of typical cruise ship cabins. Thoughtful touches like wood paneling, noise-reducing fabrics, plush carpets, and elegant upholstery ensure a hotel-like atmosphere.
The pinnacle of accommodation is the Owner’s Suites, eight expansive units with terraces featuring private hot tubs. Positioned at both the front and rear of the yacht, these suites offer unparalleled space and luxury. The mid-tier Grand Suites are another standout, with features such as dual wardrobes, twin bathroom basins, and generously sized terraces on the lower decks. Guests prone to motion sickness may prefer to avoid suites high up at the yacht’s front, particularly those numbered 901–904.
Michelin-Starred Culinary Excellence
Dining aboard Ilma is a highlight, with five restaurants delivering extraordinary quality. The crown jewel is Seta Su Ilma, an intimate Italian fine-dining venue priced at $350 per person, including wine pairings. Tides, the yacht’s equivalent of a main dining room, offers a menu that rotates every three days, along with a wine cellar and private dining options. Memori combines sushi and pan-Asian cuisine, while Mistral, on the top deck, provides Mediterranean-inspired dishes in an open-air setting. The Beach House features a casual vibe, complete with an open kitchen and seating around the infinity pool.
Each dining venue reflects Ritz-Carlton’s commitment to excellence, with many staff hailing from Michelin-starred establishments. From the fresh, locally sourced ingredients to the impeccable service, every meal aboard Ilma is an indulgent culinary journey.
Sailing aboard Ilma is an experience of understated opulence, far removed from the distractions of the outside world. Designed for travelers who value privacy, exceptional service, and world-class amenities, Ilma redefines luxury cruising. For those accustomed to the finest in travel, this super-yacht delivers on every promise, blending the intimacy of a private yacht with the sophistication of a five-star hotel.
Prices vary depending on the sailing date, suite category and other factors, but starting prices for 2024 sailings ranged from $5,200 to $14,900 per person based on double occupancy. That fare includes multiple dining venues, Wi-Fi, gratuities and more.
