Fort Lauderdale, FL – May 14, 2024 – The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is pleased to reveal the elevated interior design of Ilma, the latest addition to its ultra-luxury superyacht fleet. Named after the Maltese word for “water,” Ilma is slated to debut on a 7-night voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome on September 2, 2024. At the heart of Ilma‘s inspiration lies the unique guest experience, infusing expertise and insight into integrated design to create enduring memories for guests. The company’s second newbuild superyacht will feature spacious suites with private oceanview terraces, intimate communal areas encouraging connection, and exciting new venues including the Beach House—a Peruvian and Pan-Latin-inspired eatery—and an expansive pool deck offering some of the most spectacular views at sea.
“As we look forward to the launch of Ilma, our commitment to expanding our superyacht fleet reinforces our vision of ultra-luxury hospitality at sea,” expressed Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “Ilma has been meticulously crafted to enliven the senses and elevate every aspect of our guests’ journey.”
The 790-foot superyacht will showcase expert craftsmanship and polished interior finishes, envisioned by renowned London-based architectural and design firm AD Associates and award-winning lighting designer DPA, while exteriors reflect the vision of Helsinki-based design studio, Aivan. The fluid link between interior and exterior spaces is a defining feature of Ilma, inviting guests to soak in the azure waters and coastlines it sails.
Visual storytelling
Ilma’s design subtly tells stories inspired by the shores of its flag. Design features, color palettes, materiality, patterns, and works of art are inspired by elements of Maltese mythology, coastline, history, and native fauna. Its interiors will incorporate fresh, neutral tones juxtaposed by light and dark finishes, enhancing the visual richness, while the adorned exterior nods to the sleek design of private yachts.
“With an aesthetic influenced by superyacht design cues, Ilma’s defining feature is its seamless integration of spaces, fostering a profound connection to the sea,” said Nicola Preece, Design Director at AD Associates. “A harmonious flow of geometry and texture between the interior and exterior creates a cohesive and tranquil atmosphere.”
Serene suites
The 224 suites aboard Ilma epitomize a refined sophistication, where careful attention and a peaceful setting capture the romanticism of private yachting. Each suite boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and a private terrace, resulting in light-filled accommodations that envelop guests in scenic seascapes and seaside harbors. Within the suites, delicate hues contrast-rich textures and warm lighting. Designed with both serenity and versatility at their core, every suite can be adjusted to a variety of functions that seamlessly adapt to guest preferences.
Immersive interiors throughout
Across the yacht, guests will discover a myriad of beautiful spaces for both social and private experiences. The onboard art program has been meticulously curated with thought-provoking pieces that encourage guests to immerse in their surroundings. A signature feature across the fleet, Ilma will expand on The Marina and Marina Terrace, featuring large Panasonic glass windows that draw in natural light, side doors that open and float above the water, and a hydraulic platform that will connect guests directly with the sea. Deck 10 presents a dynamic open-air space for live entertainment and sunbathing, with the main pool, pool bar, and an outdoor LED screen.
Cultural connections
A new destination onboard Ilma will be the Beach House, conceptualized with Toronto-based luxury design firm Chapi Chapo Design. This indoor/outdoor restaurant will transport guests to a vibrant waterfront haven with 180-degree views, enveloping them in a casually elegant environment where they can discover unique ingredients and culinary creativity rooted in Peruvian and Pan-Latin cuisine, alongside craft cocktails. Embodying its natural surroundings, the Beach House seamlessly integrates with the coast, creating a daytime-to-nighttime experience where guests can relax and unwind. The design evokes a serene coastal atmosphere that reflects the sand and the sea, evoking understated indulgence.
“Our guiding principle was to embrace the diverse flavors and colors that are not only part of Peruvian cuisine but also deeply ingrained in the culture and lifestyle there,” expressed Tatiana Sheveleva, Partner at Chapi Chapo Design. “We looked to their bold use of patterns, unexpected color palettes, and vivacious spirit for inspiration. We wanted to create a space that lived and breathed these foundations, celebrating and reflecting the culture both aesthetically and atmospherically.”
An onboard oasis
The Ritz-Carlton Spa, an onboard oasis with revitalizing treatments from 111SKIN and ESPA, will expand to 11 rooms, with five equipped to offer outdoor treatment options. There will also be three distinct fitness spaces with a Movement Studio, Cycle Studio, and Fitness Studio with weights and cardio machines. The new superyacht will include five distinct and expanded dining venues, seven bars, and a wine vault in addition to exceptional amenities.
Ilma’s itineraries will complement those enjoyed on Evrima, visiting coveted destinations in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, promising culturally immersive getaways. In addition, Ilma will sail the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe, a first for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, during the 2025 summer season. For more information, please visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com.
About the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Designed to combine the luxury lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton® with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers bespoke voyages in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, and Central America. Calling on unique and distinguished destinations, voyages typically span five to ten nights with an all-inclusive onboard journey and curated excursions ashore.
Its inaugural yacht, Evrima, embarked on its maiden voyage in October 2022. Measuring 624 feet in length, Evrima features 149 airy suites across various categories, each with a private terrace, creating a relaxed and intimate ambiance for up to 298 guests. Continuing the fleet’s expansion, two new superyachts boasting among the highest space ratios per guest at sea, Ilma and Luminara, are slated to set sail in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Spanning 790 feet, Ilma will offer 224 spacious, light-filled suites of varying categories, accommodating up to 448 guests. Slated to make its 2025 debut, Luminara will join Ilma and Evrima on voyages to secluded harbors and iconic cities. Reflective of The Ritz-Carlton on land, each yacht offers personalized service, elevated dining experiences, and exclusive amenities.
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Check out the Cruise Ship Interiors (CSI) Design Expo Europe blog for more design insights and the latest industry updates. CSI Design Expo Europe is a specialised conference and exhibition catered exclusively to the European cruise interior design industry, with a unique focus on Europe’s luxury ocean, river, and expedition cruising. The next event will be taking place on 4 – 5 December 2024 alongside the Sustainable Design Summit at Excel London.