The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection marked a significant construction milestone with the successful float out of its next superyacht Ilma at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.
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This traditional maritime celebration brought together senior leadership and shipbuilders in anticipation of Ilma touching water for the first time. Ilma, meaning “water” in Maltese, will be the second newbuild superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Measuring 790 feet the yacht will feature 224 airy, light-filled suites, all with private terraces, and will accommodate up to 448 passengers. Paving the way for a new era of cruising, this brand extension introduces an entirely unique experience at sea, illustrating the ongoing commitment to innovative luxury travel experiences from The Ritz-Carlton.
Ilma will offer expansive public spaces and will have one of the highest space ratios at sea, ensuring an exceptional journey. The onboard experience will reflect the unparalleled lifestyle and legendary service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is recognized, including state-of-the-art technology, five distinct dining venues, and a Ritz-Carlton Spa. Delivering thoughtfully curated itineraries and unforgettable journeys for guests, Ilma will join the company’s first yacht Evrima in visiting the most coveted destinations in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, with select ports of call in Central America and South America, depending on the season.
The yacht’s sleek and graceful exterior design, expertly crafted by Helsinki-based design studio Aivan, draws inspiration from the elegant aesthetics of private yacht design. Interiors will seamlessly blend warmth and sophistication with a relaxed atmosphere, showcasing modern craftsmanship and interior finishes imagined by AD Associates, a renowned London architectural and design firm, and award-winning lighting designer, DPA. Reservations for Ilma and Evrima are currently open, and the superyachts are also available for private charter.
As part of the float out, the yacht’s dry dock was filled with water overnight, then moved to an outfitting dock where it will remain for the rest of its build leading to sea trials in April and start of its first season. Now afloat, final-stage construction will focus on completing interiors, fixtures, and fittings for suites, restaurants, and other public spaces that will welcome guests to experience a new journey of discovery at sea. Ilma doesn't look like just another big yacht, it's like a town with everything you want on water. ■
