Ritz-Carlton Is Launching a Luxury Cruise Line

What’s even better than a Ritz-Carlton hotel? A floating Ritz-Carlton.

That’s the new plan from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, which is taking to the sea with an entry into luxury yachting and cruises.

“The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will have a distinctive personality and the vessels are sure to be true stand outs in some of the most glamorous ports around the world,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “This unique combination of yachting and cruising will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world in a relaxed, casually elegant and comfortable atmosphere with the highest level of personalized service.”

The first of three cruising yachts in this series is scheduled to set sail in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Created by The Ritz-Carlton and maritime experts Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, in collaboration with funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., The Ritz-Carlton will provide luxury hospitality service under a long-term operating agreement.

The company is developing itineraries that seek to combine the lifestyle of its luxury resorts and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, it said in a statement.

Calling at both intimate and signatures destinations, the voyages will range from seven to ten days.

Rendering of the marina at aft end at one of the ships part of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

The first ship will cruise a wide variety of destinations depending on the season, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Due to the size of the vessel – 190 meters – the yacht will have the ability to call at locations typically not accessible to large cruise ships.

With a relaxed pace that includes both overnight and daytime ports of call, guests will be offered a uniquely curated destination experience.

The yacht can accommodate up to 298 passengers, and features 149 suites, each with its own private balcony.

It will also feature two 138 square-meter duplex penthouse suites, with modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading cruise ship design firm, Tillberg Design of Sweden.

“The Ritz-Carlton is known for its legendary service and high standards,” said Douglas Prothero Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “We are delighted to collaborate with The Ritz-Carlton as our hospitality operator in offering the most exclusive yachting experience to be found at sea in a venture that will give new meaning to curated luxury travel,” continued Lars Clasen, Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

The yachts will feature a restaurant by Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg; a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa; and a Panorama Lounge and wine bar, offering a variety of on-board entertainment.

They will also offer curated destination journeys through collaborations with local chefs, musicians and artists, allowing guests to experience the locations in distinct, experiential ways, both onboard and ashore.

Reservations will open in May 2018.

The ships of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter.