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The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Achieves a Milestone

In a significant advancement for luxury at sea, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has become the first cruise brand to receive a Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide. This prestigious recognition was awarded to its latest yacht, Ilma, during the 2026 Star Awards ceremony, which set a new standard in the realm of maritime hospitality.

Ilma: The Pinnacle of Luxury

Launched in September 2024, Ilma measures an impressive 790 feet, accommodating up to 448 guests in 224 elegant suites, all featuring private ocean-view terraces. The yacht was designed with meticulous attention to detail, prioritizing an intuitive guest experience that seamlessly blends service, aesthetic design, and ample space. This approach aligns with Forbes' commitment to authenticity and excellence. The yacht’s name, Ilma, translates to “water” in Maltese—a fitting tribute to its maritime endeavors.

A Unique Design Philosophy

Crafted by the esteemed London-based firm AD Associates, Ilma's interiors reflect a polished yet relaxed design ethos. The lighting, skillfully executed by dpa lighting, complements the sleek exterior designed by Aivan, a Helsinki studio. Particular highlights include the Beach House, a space designed by Chapi Design Luxury Division that offers guests a delightful open-air environment that evolves from day to night, enhancing the yacht's connection to the stunning seascapes and coastal destinations it visits.

Unforgettable Journeys

Ilma embarks on carefully curated itineraries that explore both iconic and off-the-beaten-path destinations throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean. The intimate design of the yacht promotes a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for guests to unwind after a day of exploring historical towns and vibrant cultural sites. Cruises are tailored with thoughtful shore excursions and onboard programming, fostering immersive experiences for travelers.

Culinary Experiences at Sea

Onboard, guests can indulge in gourmet culinary offerings across five distinctive dining venues, where award-winning chefs like Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina collaborate to create unique dishes. The yacht also boasts seven bars and lounges, alongside a dedicated wine vault, ensuring diverse choices for various palates. Complementing these amenities, The Ritz-Carlton Spa® offers rejuvenating treatments by renowned brands such as ESPA and 111SKIN, delivering relaxation in both indoor and outdoor settings.

A Commitment to Excellence

The ethos of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection centers on exceptional service and guest satisfaction. According to Ernesto Fara, President & CEO, the recognition as the first Five-Star yacht signals a new era in ultra-luxury voyages, highlighting the team’s dedication to creating remarkable experiences afloat. The Five-Star rating from Forbes isn't easily earned; it reflects a comprehensive evaluation process that values consistent, high-quality service from initial booking to disembarkation. Amanda Frasier, President of Ratings at Forbes, noted that this recognition is a testament to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Evolution of Luxury Cruising

In addition to Ilma, the collection includes Evrima, the inaugural yacht launched in October 2022, which accommodates 298 guests, and Luminara, which debuted in July 2025 with new routes to lesser-known harbors. Each yacht maintains extraordinary employee-to-guest and space-to-guest ratios, ensuring that any experiences are highly personalized and exceed expectations.

With the Five-Star rating achievement, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection not only raises the bar for luxury cruises but also redefines the essence of cruising for a new generation of travelers seeking personalized, high-end travel experiences. For more details about the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Ilma, visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com.