The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: A Complete Guide

Launch Timeline: Evrima (2022), Ilma (2024), Luminara (2025)

Guest Capacity:

• Evrima: 298 guests
• Ilma: 448 guests
• Luminara: 452 guests

Suites:

• Evrima: 149 suites, starting at ~300 sq. ft., all with private terraces
• Ilma & Luminara: ~224 suites each, among the most spacious at sea

Dining: Several world-class dining venues, including concepts developed by a three-star Michelin chef

Service: Elevated staff-to-guest ratio, 24/7 in-suite dining, and personalized concierge support

Wellness & Leisure: Full-service spa, water sports marina, infinity pool, and curated cultural enrichment programs

Destinations: Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, and transatlantic crossings

Vibe: Modern, elegant yachting with a relaxed sophistication, perfect for Ritz-Carlton hotel enthusiasts and luxury cruise converts seeking more space, privacy, and culinary excellence.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection currently consists of three yachts, each offering the same overall Ritz-Carlton service philosophy while differing in size, onboard amenities, and itinerary options. Evrima is the original and smallest yacht, Ilma is larger with additional onboard variety, and Luminara is the newest addition to the fleet.

• Evrima
  The flagship superyacht of the collection, Evrima, accommodates 298 guests in 149 thoughtfully designed suites, each with a private terrace. Its intimate size allows access to exclusive yachting destinations and hidden harbors often unreachable by larger ships.

• Ilma
  Launched in 2024, Ilma features 224 suites and one of the industry’s highest space-per-guest ratios, along with an expanded marina and open-air lounges for true indoor-outdoor living at sea. It offers additional dining venues and onboard amenities while maintaining the intimate scale that distinguishes the Yacht Collection from traditional cruise ships. Ilma sails a range of Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries. For travelers who want the intimacy of a yacht but prefer more onboard variety, Ilma can be a particularly appealing option.

• Luminara
  Most recently launched, Luminara introduces 226 airy, light-filled suites and a modern design aesthetic, offering a fresh interpretation of luxury cruising with transformative journeys at sea. The yacht continues the collection’s modern design approach while offering the newest onboard environment in the fleet. For travelers who prioritize being aboard the newest Ritz-Carlton yacht, Luminara is the natural choice. Itinerary availability and specific onboard details can vary, so we recommend confirming the current sailing lineup when planning a trip.

Two of the newest names in luxury yacht travel are the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Four Seasons Yachts. Both offer small-ship luxury and all-inclusive experiences, but the two brands have different service philosophies, design approaches, and itinerary offerings.

The Key Differentiator Between Four Seasons Yachts and Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection:

The most important distinction between the two is ultimately brand experience.

Four Seasons is going more innovative and more spacious, with fewer guests, more personal space, and a greater staff-to-guest ratio. The Ritz Carlton offers a luxury cruise that is still intimate but has a slightly more traditional cruise structure with more passengers per sailing.

For the complete Four Seasons Yachts breakdown, see our Four Seasons Yachts guide.

One of the most refreshing aspects of The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection is its flexibility in voyage length,  something the luxury cruise market has long lacked. While many high-end lines offer itineraries of 14+ nights, Ritz Carlton’s yachts feature a balanced mix of 4- to 12-night sailings, ideal for busy professionals or those wishing to pair their journey with a land-based adventure. For those with more time, back-to-back voyages can be seamlessly combined, creating fully customized extended itineraries.

Signature Voyages

Pearls of the Pacific — South Pacific
Sail aboard Evrima through Polynesia, the cradle of ocean exploration. Discover fern-lined grottoes, serene lagoons, and the intoxicating scent of blooming tiare flowers, each island offering its own stories and traditions.

Wild & Untamed — Alaska
Experience Alaska’s remote beauty, from glacier-carved bays to wildlife-rich coastlines. Enjoy long summer days and rare encounters, all from the comfort of refined yacht living.

Untold Treasures — Asia
From vibrant metropolises to tranquil island hideaways, Asia reveals itself as a tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and natural wonders. Each port invites you deeper into its traditions and landscapes.

A Kaleidoscope of Color — Caribbean
White-sand beaches, crystalline waters, and vibrant coral reefs await. Beyond the postcard views, immerse yourself in the rhythm of sun-soaked island life.

A Celebration of Glamour — Mediterranean
Explore timeless cities where ancient ruins, world-class cuisine, and coastal charm converge. Each port offers a new chapter in Europe’s enduring story.

Land of Contrasts — Northern Europe & Baltic
Discover fjord-carved coastlines, medieval castles, and cosmopolitan capitals. From Iceland’s dramatic landscapes to Norway’s peaceful fishing villages, this is Europe at its most cinematic.

The Golden Age of Travel — Crossing Voyages
Relish unhurried days at sea with fine dining, enriching lectures, and ocean views that stretch to the horizon — the perfect balance of leisure and exploration.

For travelers who appreciate modern design with sleek lines, layered textures, and a palette of muted earth tones, the suites offer a refined retreat at sea. Every accommodation is referred to as a “suite” — a nod to the yacht’s elevated standard — and is designed in collaboration with Tillberg Design of Sweden. The aesthetic reflects the understated elegance of The Ritz Carlton Residences in Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, and Los Angeles, with an emphasis on open, light-filled spaces that feel both sophisticated and residential.

Suite categories include:

• Terrace Suites: Entry-level accommodations with a private terrace
• Loft Suites: Signature two-story accommodations
• Owner’s Suite: One of the collection’s top-tier suite categories and its largest accommodations

On arrival, guests are welcomed with a chilled bottle of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial to enjoy on their private terrace. Inside, each suite features a king-size bed dressed in Frette linens, a fully stocked minibar curated to guest preferences (including Perrier), and a Nespresso machine with premium Illy coffee and Dammann Frères teas. Hypoallergenic pillows are available on request. Entertainment is provided by a digital flat-screen TV, while an in-suite safe offers added convenience.

The spacious bathrooms are appointed with double vanities, luxury bath amenities, plush robes and slippers, a vanity mirror, and a hair dryer.

Dining is available 24 hours a day, with menus inspired by the yacht’s diverse culinary venues and a dedicated late-night selection. Every suite is attended by a personal concierge — a single, highly trained point of contact to anticipate needs and ensure a flawless journey from embarkation to disembarkation. For those traveling with family or friends, connecting and convertible suites are available.

Small-Ship Intimacy

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is significantly smaller than a traditional ocean cruise ship. With approximately 149 to 226 suites depending on the yacht, the experience is designed around a much smaller guest population than the 2,000- to 4,000-plus passengers found on many traditional cruise ships.

All-Inclusive Pricing

The fare includes most onboard expenses, including dining, beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and a range of onboard activities. However, “all-inclusive” does not mean every possible travel expense is included. Shore excursions, spa treatments, and pre- and post-cruise travel arrangements are generally additional.

Refined Dining

The yachts offer multiple dining venues, with specialty dining generally included rather than treated as an additional cruise fare upcharge.

Yacht-Style Design

The yachts are designed to feel more like private vessels than traditional cruise ships, with open spaces, terraces, and a strong connection to the water.

Their smaller scale can also allow access to ports and destinations that may not be practical for larger ships.

Ritz-Carlton Service

The experience carries the same broader brand DNA as Ritz-Carlton hotels: personalized service, attentive hospitality, and an emphasis on residential comfort.

Lower Passenger-to-Staff Ratio

The smaller scale allows for a more personalized service experience than travelers typically find aboard larger cruise ships.

Life on board Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara is more relaxed than on larger cruise ships, with a focus on intimate spaces, great views, and personalized service.

The Marina
Located on Deck 3, The Marina offers direct access to the water and complimentary gear, including paddleboards, kayaks, windsurf boards, sailboats, and snorkel equipment. It’s a great place to spend a sunny day, even if you’re not getting in the water, thanks to multiple seating areas with incredible views. At night, soft blue accent lighting makes it especially inviting. Certain watersports and equipment availability can vary by sailing.

Observation Lounge and Libraries
On Deck 10, the Observation Lounge is a popular spot for sunset cocktails, socializing, and late-night dancing.

The Living Room
By day, The Living Room is a quiet library and coffee lounge. In the evening, it becomes a piano bar with live music and cocktails.

Aqua di Lusso Spa & Fitness
The Aqua di Lusso Spa on Deck 9 offers massages, facials, salon services, and relaxation areas with steam rooms and saunas. The fitness center features Technogym equipment, free weights, and space for yoga, along with personal training and group fitness classes.

The Boutique
The Boutique, located on Deck 4, offers a selection of luxury fashion, accessories, and locally crafted artisan pieces.

Outdoor Spaces
Along with The Marina, guests can enjoy a smaller pool on Deck 8 near Mistral restaurant and the Ritz Kids club, or simply relax on deck with ocean views.

The Ritz Carlton name is synonymous with exceptional service, and that same dedication to creating authentic, memorable moments extends seamlessly to The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection. The atmosphere is luxurious yet relaxed, never overly formal, with modern, elegant design, personalized attention, and Michelin-caliber dining as hallmarks of the experience.

A standout feature is the collection’s all-inclusive fares, offering exceptional value and convenience for travelers accustomed to luxury.

Included in Your Voyage:

• Ocean-view accommodations with a private balcony — referred to as a “terrace” — in every suite

• Dedicated Personal Concierge for each suite

• Dining across multiple restaurants plus 24-hour in-suite room service

• Beverages, including all nonalcoholic drinks, bottled water, coffee, tea, and select wines and spirits, are available throughout the yacht and in-suite

• Onboard entertainment and enrichment programming

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Marina-style platform with access to nonmotorized watersports while at anchor

• All onboard gratuities for housekeeping, dining, and bar staff (gratuities for salon and spa services not included)

Booking through a Marriott STARS partner like Ourisman Travel gives you a VIP welcome and ensures you’re prioritized for upgrades and the best experiences onboard, especially valuable given the limited suite availability on Ritz Carlton Yachts.

“Everything about the Rit Carlton Yacht Collection is truly first class. It’s an entirely different experience from any other cruise ship we’ve been on — more like staying in a luxurious hotel at sea, with comfortable, inviting spaces designed for relaxation. The Living Room quickly became the heart of our voyage, offering a welcoming place to gather and unwind.

The dining was excellent, with Tides emerging as our favorite. A highlight of the trip was an unforgettable 10-course dinner at Seta su Ilma. The presentation and flavors were exceptional, and it’s an experience we may not have had without your thoughtful planning — something we deeply appreciate.

While the weather brought some wind and a few rough nights, it was still a welcome escape from the Utah snow. We were surprised to see that Ilma is nearly the same size as a Seabourn ship, yet it delivers such a distinctive, intimate atmosphere that the term ‘yacht’ still feels fitting.

All in all, it was a wonderful getaway, and we’re grateful for the care and attention that made it so memorable.”

Luxury yacht sailings can book out well in advance, particularly for peak-season and holiday departures.

• Most sailings are released approximately 18–24 months in advance.
• We recommend booking peak Mediterranean and Caribbean sailings 9–12 months ahead, with earlier booking recommended for particularly popular itineraries.
• Christmas, New Year’s, and holiday-week sailings can require 12–18 months of advance planning.
• Suite availability changes as departure approaches.

Because the suite category is such an important part of the experience, we generally recommend booking earlier when travelers have a specific suite preference or are planning around a particular itinerary.

Ourisman Travel can also help identify current inventory, compare sailing dates, and determine which suite category makes the most sense for your trip.

Is Ritz-Carlton Yachts All-Inclusive?

Yes. Fares include all-suite accommodations, onboard gratuities, dining at multiple venues, beverages (including fine wines and spirits), onboard activities, and Wi-Fi. Select shore excursions and spa services are available for an additional cost.

What’s Included in the All-Inclusive Fare

Generally included in the voyage fare:

• All meals at onboard restaurants
• Beverages, including premium wines, spirits, beer, coffee, and other beverages
• Gratuities for crew and staff
• Wi-Fi onboard
• Watersports from the marina platform when the yacht is anchored
• Onboard entertainment and enrichment programming
• 24-hour room service

What’s Not Included

Some expenses remain additional, including:

• Shore excursions, which are typically optional add-ons
• Spa treatments at the Aqua di Lusso spa
• Certain specialty wine pairings or rare vintages outside the standard beverage program
• Pre- and post-cruise flights, hotels, and transfers
• Travel insurance

In other words, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is genuinely all-inclusive for most of the onboard experience, but travelers should budget separately for excursions and certain services and travel arrangements.

What types of guests are best suited for Ritz Carlton Yachts?

The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection appeals to couples, families with younger children, and loyal Ritz Carlton guests who value personalized service, privacy, and spacious accommodations. The typical guest is an affluent traveler aged 40 to 60, often professionals or retirees seeking a refined, intimate yachting experience rather than the busier atmosphere of larger cruise ships. This group appreciates elegant design, Michelin-level dining, and thoughtfully curated itineraries that blend iconic ports with lesser-known destinations, offering a luxury hotel feel at sea instead of a traditional cruise.

How is it different from a typical cruise?

Think of this as a floating Ritz Carlton resort. It’s not a mega cruise ship. It’s an intimate, immersive, design-led yacht with ultra-luxury service.

What is the dress code aboard The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection?

The dress code embraces the “casual freedom of a yachting vacation,” so there are no formal nights and no need to pack formal wear.

• Yacht Casual: During breakfast and lunch, shirts, shoes, and bathing suit cover-ups are required except when you’re by the pool, where bare feet and swimsuits are allowed. In the evening, sleeveless T-shirts and swimsuits are not permitted anywhere on the yacht. Shirts and shoes are required at all times after dark, even by the pool.

• Yacht Sophisticated: For dining at specialty restaurants, such as chef Sven Elverfeld’s venue, collared shirts are recommended but not mandatory.

Guests typically dress in relaxed yet polished attire.

Is The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection kid-friendly?

Yes. Children as young as 6 months are welcome aboard.

Does the yacht have a kids’ club?

Yes. Each yacht features a Ritz Kids club located on Deck 8 aft, designed for children ages 4–12. Programs include educational activities, arts and crafts, and special seasonal offerings during summer and holidays. A small fee applies for each session.

Is babysitting available?

No, babysitting services are not provided onboard.

Can I request a crib?

Yes, a limited number of cribs are available upon request.

When should I book?

The best time is now! As a new entrant in the market, sailings will sell out early, especially for holiday and summer voyages.

The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection delivers one of the most luxurious and personalized cruise experiences available in the world today. If you’re a fan of Ritz Carlton hotels and crave privacy, design, and service without compromise, this is your yacht.

Booking through our Yachts & Cruise service ensures not only the best access and perks but a truly white-glove experience from booking to boarding. Let us elevate your journey with insider access, upgrades, and tailored support every step of the way.

All of our clients receive the following STARS amenities when booking their cruise through us:

• Private reserve upgraded bottle of champagne
• Culinary confection (i.e.. Confections/Fruits etc.)
• Complimentary dinner for 2 at the Specialty dining restaurant S.E.A.* subject to availability
• Personalized welcome note
• Bridge tour at Captain’s discretion
• One Category Suite Upgrade Special rate within 30 days of sailing, (not including Concierge, View, and Owners suites) *subject to availability

Contact us to learn more or fill out a Travel Request Form to reserve your preferred suite before these intimate voyages sell out.