Inside the Ritz-Carlton’s New Luxury Cruise Liner Launching This Fall

The Ritz-Carlton wants to give you a virtual tour of its second cruise liner.

The American hospitality titan unveiled interior renders of the 790-foot Ilma on Tuesday. The “superyacht,” as Ritz-Carlton calls it, first hit the water at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, last September, with her debut voyage slated for this fall. The Ritz-Carlton fleet also includes the 623-foot Evrima that launched in 2022 and the 794-foot Luminara that will hit the seas in 2025.

“As we look forward to the launch of Ilma, our commitment to expanding our superyacht fleet reinforces our vision of ultra-luxury hospitality at sea,” Jim Murren, executive chairman and CEO of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, said in a statement. “Ilma has been meticulously crafted to enliven the senses and elevate every aspect of our guests’ journey.”

Named after the Maltese word for “water,” Ilma showcases a sleek, superyacht-inspired exterior by the folks at Finnish studio Aivan and an elegant, light-filled interior by British firm AD Associates. Inspired by elements of Maltese mythology, coastline, history, and native fauna, the decor sees neutral tones juxtaposed by dark finishes and statement lighting by designer DPA. The curated art collection also includes “thought-provoking pieces that encourage guests to immerse in their surroundings,” according to Ritz-Carlton.

The 790-footer includes 224 spacious suites that can sleep up to 448 passengers. Each suite showcases floor-to-ceiling windows and private oceanview terraces that foster a connection to the sea. As with Evrima, Ilma has a collection of larger, more luxurious suites for seafarers looking to go all out. The Owner’s Suite, for instance, offers just over 1,000 square feet of living space, an in-suite bar, and a chic dining area. The crew-to-guest ratio is almost one-to-one, so you can expect personalized service akin to a five-star hotel, too.

Ilma is also replete with plush lounges and communal areas indoors and out. The ship will feature the fleet’s signature marina and marina terrace, with a hydraulic platform that provides direct access to the ocean. Other highlights include an open-air entertainment space, an expansive pool area, a spa with 11 treatment rooms, three distinct fitness spaces, and an outdoor cinema. One exciting new addition is the indoor-outdoor Beach House restaurant, which will serve Peruvian and Pan-Latin-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails. In total, the liner is home to five distinct dining venues, seven bars, and a wine vault.

Ilma will kick off her cruising career with a seven-night trip from Monte Carlo to Rome on September 2, after which she will embark on more voyages to the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Ilma will then sail the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe during the 2025 summer season. For reservations, contact (833) 999-7292 or your travel professional.

Click here to see all the photos of Ilma.