MS Ilma, the second superyacht/newest ship of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, officially joined the fleet on July 12th, following the delivery from the French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France.
The ceremony, which marked the completion of two years of construction, featured several maritime traditions, including the changing of flags on board the yacht and a celebratory toast on Ilma’s pool deck. Company leadership, including Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO, and Ernesto Fara, President and CFO, attended the event, alongside representatives from Chantiers de l’Atlantique, including Laurent Castaing, General Manager, and Arnaud Le Joncour, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing and Project Director. Captain Steve MacBeath and over 350 of the yacht’s crew were also present.
Ilma, named after the Maltese word for water, has LOA length 790 ft (241 m), 10 decks and accommodates max 448 passengers across 224 staterooms. Each Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows and a private step-out terrace.
The vessel boasts one of the highest space ratios at sea, including two new upper-category suites with ample outdoor space.
Designed to meet the highest luxury standards in guest experience, technical innovation, and craftsmanship, Ilma features 5 restaurants, 7 bars, a wine vault, and signature spaces such as an expanded Marina with a mezzanine and The Ritz-Carlton Spa with 11 treatment rooms. Amenities also include 3 fitness spaces and a dynamic pool and entertainment area on Deck 10.
With one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the luxury cruising category, Ilma provides nearly one staff member for every guest, ensuring an exceptional level of service.
Ilma will commence her maiden voyage from Monte Carlo on September 2, 2024. She will sail to yachting destinations and hidden gems throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean, joining the company’s inaugural yacht, Evrima. In the summer of 2025, Ilma will explore the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe, offering guests the opportunity to discover cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Reykjavík.