Sun Sep 15 10:52:17 UTC 2024: ## Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Unveils New Flagship: Ilma, a Luxury Vessel Aiming for Cruise Market Dominance

**Monte Carlo, Monaco -** Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is set to launch its second luxury superyacht, the 448-passenger Ilma, on September 2nd. This $600 million vessel represents a major step for the brand, significantly larger than its first yacht, the Evrima, and signaling a greater ambition within the ultra-luxury cruise market.

The Ilma is a product of lessons learned from the Evrima, incorporating feedback from guests and a desire to offer even more luxurious experiences. It boasts a larger pool, expanded Marina with a floating AquaBanas platform, and a wider variety of suite options, including eight owner suites and new Concierge Suites. The yacht also features an expanded Ritz-Carlton Spa, diverse dining options including a pan-Latin Beach House with an infinity splash pool, and meticulously curated art throughout.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is aggressively pursuing market domination with plans to expand its fleet to five ships, broadening the concept to other Marriott luxury hotel brands, and ultimately going public. The company has already secured financing for Ilma and a sister ship, Luminara, due next July, and is exploring options for ships No. 4 and No. 5.

The Ilma’s maiden voyage will take place on September 2nd, sailing from Monte Carlo to Rome for a seven-night journey. Future itineraries include voyages through the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, and the Baltic region, with a focus on both seven-night and shorter trips to accommodate busy travelers.

The arrival of Ilma comes amidst growing competition from other luxury hotel brands like Four Seasons, Orient Express, and Aman, who are all set to enter the cruise market in the coming years. However, with a projected annual market potential of over $5 billion and only 50,000 suites available, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is confident it has a strong position to capture a significant portion of this burgeoning industry.

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