Setting Sail in Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma Floats Out

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Celebrates Float Out of Much-Anticipated Second Yacht, Ilma.The latest ultra-luxury superyacht enters the water for the first time at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, moving one step closer to its debut in 2024.

The Much-Anticipated Second Yacht Embarks on Its Journey to Splendor

For luxury travelers and high-end cruise enthusiasts, there’s a new reason to celebrate – the stunning Ilma, the latest ultra-luxury superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, has officially touched water for the first time in Saint-Nazaire, France. The traditional maritime float-out ceremony was a grand celebration, signifying a significant milestone in the yacht’s journey toward its debut in 2024.

A Lavish Celebration:

The float-out event was graced by top leadership figures from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, including Jim Murren, Executive Chairman, and CEO, and Ernesto Fara, President and CFO. The occasion also saw the presence of esteemed representatives from Chantiers de l’Atlantique, including Laurent Castaing, General Manager, and Arnaud Le Joncour, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. It was a gathering of maritime excellence and luxury, marking the transition of Ilma into the next phase of construction, preparing for its inaugural voyage in less than a year.

A Triumph of Craftsmanship:

As part of the float-out process, Ilma’s dry dock was filled with water overnight, gracefully transitioning to an outfitting dock where the yacht will undergo the final stages of construction. This phase will focus on the completion of interiors, fixtures, and fittings for the sumptuous suites, exquisite restaurants, and other opulent public spaces that will welcome guests on a journey of discovery at sea.

Jim Murren, reflecting on this remarkable achievement, said, “We are thrilled to have partnered with the team at Chantiers de l’Atlantique and are excited to enter the next stage of construction and outfitting in anticipation of the yacht’s inaugural journey next year, expanding our fleet and vision within the ultra-luxury space.”

A Floating Oasis:

Ilma, a name meaning “water” in Maltese, is the second newbuild superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Measuring an impressive 790 feet, the yacht will feature 224 spacious, light-filled suites, each with its private terrace, offering accommodations for up to 448 passengers. It’s poised to set new standards for cruise luxury, with expansive public spaces and one of the highest space ratios at sea, promising an extraordinary journey.

The Ritz-Carlton Experience at Sea:

Guests aboard Ilma can expect the unparalleled lifestyle and legendary service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned. The yacht will offer state-of-the-art technology, five distinct dining venues, and a Ritz-Carlton Spa®. Thoughtfully curated itineraries will provide unforgettable journeys, with Ilma joining the company’s first yacht, Evrima, in exploring the Mediterranean and Caribbean, and even venturing to Central and South America, depending on the season.

Elegance on the High Seas:

Ilma’s sleek and graceful exterior design, crafted by the Helsinki-based design studio Aivan, draws inspiration from the aesthetics of private yacht design. Its interiors will effortlessly blend warmth and sophistication, creating a relaxed atmosphere that showcases modern craftsmanship and finishes designed by AD Associates, a renowned London-based architectural and design firm, along with award-winning lighting designer, DPA.

A Vision of Luxury Travel:

Arnaud Le Joncour, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, commented, “This milestone marks the beginning of the next construction phase of outfitting. Drawing inspiration from Ilma’s elegance, clean lines, and unique features, our teams are united in the pursuit of meeting the expectations of today’s most discerning luxury travelers.”