Owner: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Exterior design: Aivan
Interior design: AD Associates
Lighting design: DPA
No two itineraries are alike in the experiential journeys of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, the ultra-luxury superyacht fleet resulting from the collaboration between Marriott International’s Ritz-Carlton brand, Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., and longtime maritime entrepreneur Douglas Prothero.
The itineraries of the new Ilma cruise ship, launched in September 2024, include coveted destinations in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, with culturally enriching stops. Additionally, it will venture into the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe, a first for the summer season of 2025.
This offers guests an exclusive lifestyle that combines The Ritz-Carlton®’s personalized service found on land with the carefree freedom of a sailing vacation. Maintaining a deep connection with the sea throughout the design phase was crucial, encouraging guests to intimately and directly engage with the surrounding landscape.
This inspiration is sealed in the boat’s very name: ‘water’ in Maltese. This collective vision was pursued by all involved designers: the London-based architectural and design firm AD Associates, the award-winning lighting designer DPA, and the Helsinki-based studio Aivan for the exteriors. The fluid relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces defines the over 240-meter-long ship, starting with the 224 suites, each featuring expansive windows and a private ocean-view terrace, including two superior suites with over 1,000 square meters of living space.
A new dining area, The Beach Club, designed in collaboration with Toronto’s Chapi Chapo Design studio, envelops guests in a vibrant 180° sea view, creating an exciting day and night experience.
Natural light takes center stage at The Marina and Marina Terrace, where a hydraulic platform enables a direct connection with the sea, and on Deck 10, a dynamic open-air space for live entertainment and poolside sunbathing. The Spa is no exception, spanning 11 rooms, five of which are equipped for outdoor treatments.
A harmonious flow of geometries and textures creates a tranquil atmosphere throughout, characterized by artisanal quality and neutral tones paired with light and dark finishes reminiscent of the elegant design of private yachts.
