During a ceremony at Chantiers de l'Atlantique/STX France (shipbuilding yard in Saint-Nazaire), Jim Murren (Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's CEO) marked the beginning of Ilma's launch/float-out with the opening of a 6-liter Moet & Chandon champagne bottle.
Ritz-Carlton intends to build 8 to 10 new ships for various Marriott International brands, likely at STX France.
Ilma, Ritz-Carlton's second ship and the first of two LNG-powered vessels, was celebrated during a drydock event.
Attendees included senior management from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, bankers, investors, a Marriott International representative, media, and shipyard guests.
Despite previous challenges with the construction of the first yacht, Evrima, CEO Murren expressed his gratitude to the team and discussed the company's growth plans, including the aspiration to go public in three to four years. Ilma's delivery is anticipated in mid-July following 6 months of assembly.