See: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection adds second vessel

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is growing.
The luxury brand’s second ship, Ilma, departed on its maiden voyage Monday. The vessel, which will spend its inaugural season sailing the Mediterranean, was fittingly named for the Maltese word for water.
The 790-foot-long Ilma is larger than 624-foot predecessor Evrima, which launched in 2022.
“It is with immense pride and excitement that we welcome Ilma to our growing fleet,” executive chairman and CEO Jim Murren said in a news release. “Since Evrima’s debut, we have been steadfast in our pursuit of excellence at sea. The addition of Ilma signifies a continuation of our mission to deliver legendary service and unparalleled enjoyment to our guests.”
Here’s what to expect.
Along with the Mediterranean, the 448-guest ship will operate cruises in the Caribbean and Northern Europe ranging from three to 13 nights. The ship’s week-long maiden voyage from Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Rome, Italy, includes stops in Saint-Tropez, France; Bastia on the island of Corsica; and Livorno in Tuscany.
For a relatively small vessel, Ilma has a robust culinary program. There are five dining venues, seven bars and a wine vault.
Two of the eateries were crafted by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants. Modern Italian fine dining concept Seta su Ilma by Chef Fabio Trabocchi serves seasonal tasting menus paired with wines – largely Italian reds and whites. The beach club-inspired Beach House offers Pan-Latin dishes, craft beer, an “elevated tequila selection” and more, according to a separate news release, with a menu developed with Chef Michael Mina.
Another space, The Living Room, serves coffee and pastries in the morning, and cocktails, Champagne and wines later in the day, which guests can enjoy while listening to live music.
There are also two pools, including an infinity pool at the vessel’s aft, a spa and fitness studio. Passengers can find direct access to the water for activities like snorkeling and kayaking at the ship’s Marina, or grab a drink at the nearby Marina Terrace.
Each of Ilma’s 224 suites have private terraces, as well.
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Prices vary depending on the sailing date, suite category and other factors, but starting prices for 2024 sailings currently range from $5,200 to $14,900 per person based on double occupancy.
The fare includes multiple dining venues, Wi-Fi, gratuities and more.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].