Little can compare to the sheer opulence of award-winning luxury hotel giant, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Recognized for delivering happiness in the form of euphoric experiences, its mission is rooted in a commitment to personalized service. With over 100 properties in 30 countries worldwide, it is safe to say the brand has conquered the hospitality industry. And soon, Ritz-Carlton plans to master the sea.
Scheduled to set sail in early-2020, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (RCYC) promises an onboard experience unlike any of its cruising predecessors. In fact, the new lodging option distinguishes parent company Marriott International as the only provider of luxury accommodations on both land and sea. Offering elegant and enlightening expeditions, each lasting from seven to 10 days, RCYC has opened reservations to the public and began booking interested guests in June of 2018.
The Vessel
So, what makes RCYC so special? The first thing of note is the vessel. Crafted in partnership with leading cruise ship design firm Tillberg Design of Sweden, the collection is comprised of three custom-built yachts. The ships are intimate in size, measuring 190-meters, and feature a sexy, matte black exterior. Up to 298 guests can cruise comfortably in the relaxed, yet glamorous atmosphere. Each of the ship’s 149 suites comes with a private terrace, and in true, high-roller style, there will also be two 158 square-meter “Owner” suites up for grabs.
The Destinations
Another standout characteristic is the collection’s uncommon ports of call. Inaugural tours will cover familiar cruise destinations of the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. But because the yachts are smaller than traditional cruise lines’, they will also dock at more intimate ports such as Portofino, Mykonos and St. Barths.
The Amenities
As with every Ritz-Carlton experience, guests will enjoy an array of amenities atop the wondrous waters. A few of the most lavish being a restaurant by Sven Elverfield of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg; a signature Ritz-Carlton spa; and elegant lounges offering live entertainment.
The Onshore Experience
Though the onboard activities will be hard to leave behind, Ritz-Carlton has hand-crafted fascinating itineraries for travelers to enjoy onshore. Guided by a dedicated Concierge Ashore, excursions will be accessible in five engaging categories: Iconic Sights, Stirring the Senses, Cultural Connections, Active Explorations and Epicurean Experiences. The paths were tailored to immerse travelers in the respective cultures and highlight the local beauty. During the Aruba Aloe Tour, guests visit an island aloe facility to learn about the product’s healing powers before creating their own sugar scrub at The Ritz Carlton Spa, Aruba. Whereas, the Flightseeing over Blue Hole and Mayan Ruins exploration offers a sky-high look into history complete with waterfall and hillside views just before a wine and food pairing deep in the jungle. For the travelers who prefer to design their own days on land, the concierge will be on-hand to assist with bespoke schedules.
Ritz-Carlton perseveres as a hospitality frontrunner with its trademark, timeless style. Now, the brand will make waves as an industry pioneer. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection gives new meaning to luxury cruising and because of its “captain’s” legendary reputation, travelers shouldn’t hesitate to climb aboard.
