#United States #Fort Lauderdale #Ritz-Carlton #ILMA #Johanna Ortiz

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Meets Fashion

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has embarked on a distinctive journey by joining forces with the acclaimed Colombian fashion designer Johanna Ortiz. This collaboration, officially launched aboard their luxurious yacht, Ilma, on February 17, 2026, promises to redefine the luxury travel experience at sea. The partnership centers around a vibrant celebration of tropical aesthetics, paying homage to the beauty of travel and the allure of artisanal craftsmanship.

An Exclusive Transformation

Capturing the spirit of both the Caribbean and Mediterranean, this takeover brings Ortiz’s signature prints and textiles to the decks of Ilma. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns that reflect the essence of joy in travel. As the yacht sails through sunlit shores and majestic coastlines, Decks 9 and 10 transform into exquisite representations of the destinations that guests explore onshore.

Gaby Aiguesvives, Chief Marketing Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, expressed excitement about this partnership, stating, “Johanna Ortiz brings an unmistakable point of view that embodies culture, emotion, and beauty in motion.” He added that the collaboration invites guests to perceive their maritime adventure through a fashion-forward lens, seamlessly blending design with experience.

Resort Decks with a Latin Spirit

At the heart of this takeover lies Ortiz’s ‘Tropical Exuberance’ collection, which celebrates the Caribbean’s diverse flora and fauna. The yacht features two main upper-deck spaces, each showcasing distinct designs based on two signature prints: La Rumba and La Siesta. These spaces not only encapsulate the vibrancy of the Caribbean Sea but also reflect the tranquility found in nature.

On Deck 10, known as Ilma’s Pool Deck, ‘La Rumba’ pulsates with deep blue hues, inviting guests to enjoy lively gatherings filled with laughter, music, and moments of connection. Meanwhile, Deck 9’s ‘La Siesta’ offers a more serene atmosphere, rendered in lush tropical greens, perfect for relaxation and reflection. Together, these contrasting yet complementary environments encapsulate the spirit of the voyage.

A Sensory Journey

Ortiz's designs are intricately tied to her Latin heritage, characterized by fluidity, artisanal detail, and a spirited elegance that translates beautifully to the luxurious setting aboard Ilma. “Both moods reflect my love for travel, moments of celebration and pause,” explains Ortiz. Her philosophy of travel as an experiential journey resonated profoundly with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, where every detail is curated to spark curiosity and create meaningful connections.

This collaboration not only beautifies the yacht but extends into guest experiences with unique Caribbean-inspired cocktails and mocktails available at the bars in both takeover areas. Each drink features tropical fruits and aromatic herbs, tantalizing guests’ palates and enriching their overall journey.

A Boutique Experience at Sea

As a full embodiment of the partnership, a selection of Johanna Ortiz’s ready-to-wear pieces is available in the onboard boutique. This extension of the collaboration allows guests to take home a piece of the experience, further blending luxury, fashion, and travel.

Ilma itself, which translates to ‘water’ in Maltese, marks another chapter in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's evolution as a cultural connector and curator of elevated experiences at sea. The yacht debuted in September 2024, spanning 790 feet and accommodating up to 448 guests in 224 elegantly designed suites, each boasting a private terrace.

As sails unfurl and the waves dance beneath the yacht, the collaboration between The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Johanna Ortiz invites travelers to redefine their journey — not just as a moment of leisure, but as an experience filled with artistry, vibrancy, and deep connections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Johanna Ortiz’s collaboration is a transformative event in luxury travel, one where the convergence of fashion and vacation offers guests a unique opportunity to indulge in beauty, culture, and exploration. As this first-of-its-kind takeover at sea unfolds, expect journeys that are not merely about destinations but about the experiences crafted along the way. The essence of Ortiz's vibrant designs and the luxury of the Ritz-Carlton promise an enchanting maritime experience that lingers long after the voyage ends.