The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection achieved a significant milestone as it celebrated the successful float-out of its next superyacht, Ilma, at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This traditional maritime ceremony brought together senior leadership and shipbuilders, marking the commencement of the next phase of construction as the yacht prepares for its inaugural voyage in 2024.
Among those attending the float-out event were key figures from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, including Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO, and Ernesto Fara, President and CFO. Representatives from Chantiers de l’Atlantique, including Laurent Castaing, General Manager, and Arnaud Le Joncour, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, were also present.
During the float-out, the yacht’s dry dock was filled with water overnight before being moved to an outfitting dock where it will undergo the final stages of construction. Sea trials are scheduled for April, followed by the start of its first season. With the yacht now afloat, the focus will shift to completing interiors, fixtures, and fittings for suites, restaurants, and other public spaces, all set to welcome guests on a new voyage of discovery at sea in less than a year.
Jim Murren expressed his pride in this remarkable milestone, saying, “As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we are immensely proud of the dedication and craftsmanship by all those involved in the construction of Ilma.” He added, “We are thrilled to have partnered with the team at Chantiers de l’Atlantique and are excited to enter the next stage of construction and outfitting in anticipation of the yacht’s inaugural journey next year, expanding our fleet and vision within the ultra-luxury space.”
Named after the Maltese word for “water,” Ilma is the second newbuild superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Measuring 790 feet, the yacht will offer 224 spacious suites, all with private terraces, accommodating up to 448 passengers. This new era of cruising aims to deliver a unique luxury travel experience while upholding the renowned standards of The Ritz-Carlton brand. Ilma will feature expansive public spaces and one of the highest space ratios at sea, promising an exceptional voyage.
Onboard, guests can expect the lifestyle and legendary service synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton brand, including cutting-edge technology, five distinct dining venues, and a Ritz-Carlton Spa®. Ilma will offer meticulously curated itineraries, taking travelers to coveted Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations, with occasional stops in Central America and South America, depending on the season.
The yacht’s elegant exterior design, crafted by Helsinki-based design studio Aivan, draws inspiration from private yacht aesthetics. Interiors will seamlessly blend warmth and sophistication with a relaxed atmosphere, featuring modern craftsmanship and finishes envisioned by AD Associates, a renowned London-based architectural and design firm, along with award-winning lighting designer DPA.
