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Setting Sail in Style: The Unrivaled Magic of Ritz Cruises
For decades, the name “Ritz-Carlton” has been the gold standard for luxury on land. It’s a name that evokes images of impeccable service, plush linens, and that legendary “Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen” philosophy. But what happens when you take that world-class hospitality and set it adrift on the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean or the Caribbean?
You get Ritz Cruises—officially known as The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for the elegance of a boutique hotel combined with the adventure of a global voyage, you aren’t alone. Ritz-Carlton has redefined the cruising industry by moving away from “mega-ships” and focusing on the intimate, yacht-style experience. Let’s dive into why this is currently the most talked-about way to see the world from the water.
A Yacht, Not a Ship: The Intimacy of Scale
The first thing you’ll notice about Ritz Cruises is the size. Unlike traditional cruise ships that carry thousands of passengers, the yachts in the Ritz-Carlton fleet—like the Evrima, Ilma, and Luminara—are designed to feel like your own private vessel.
With space for only about 300 to 450 guests, the atmosphere is quiet, relaxed, and incredibly personal. There are no “buffet lines” or crowded pool decks here. Instead, you’ll find expansive terrace suites, hidden nooks for reading, and a crew-to-guest ratio that ensures your favorite drink is in your hand before you even have to ask for it.
The Suite Life at Sea
One of the biggest draws of a Ritz Cruise is that every single room is a “Suite.” There are no interior cabins here.
Each suite features a private terrace (balcony), floor-to-ceiling windows, and the same signature Ritz-Carlton bedding that guests have loved for years. Whether you’re in a cozy Terrace Suite or a sprawling Two-Story Loft, the design is modern, airy, and nautical-chic. It’s the kind of room that makes it very hard to actually leave and go exploring!
Culinary Excellence: Dining That Defies the Waves
If you’re a “foodie,” you’ve come to the right place. Ritz Cruises have elevated maritime dining to an art form. You won’t find tired “themed nights” here. Instead, you’ll enjoy:
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S.E.A.: A signature dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of the three-Michelin-starred Aqua. It’s an intimate, multi-course journey that rivals the best restaurants in Paris or New York.
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Talaat Nam: Stunning Southeast Asian cuisine with a modern twist.
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Mistral: A poolside grill where you can enjoy fresh seafood and prime cuts of meat while watching the sunset over the horizon.
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The Marina: While not a dining room, the Marina is a highlight. When the yacht is anchored, the back of the boat opens up directly onto the sea, allowing you to enjoy a cocktail while your feet dangle over the water, or take out a paddleboard for a quick morning workout.
Curated Destinations: Going Where the Big Ships Can’t
Because the Ritz-Carlton yachts are smaller and sleeker, they can access ports that are strictly off-limits to the giants of the sea.
A Ritz Cruise itinerary is often slow and intentional. You might wake up in the glamour of St. Tropez, spend the next day in a hidden cove in the Greek Isles, or navigate the narrow fjords of Northern Europe. They also focus on “overnighting,” meaning the yacht stays in port until late at night or even for multiple days, allowing you to experience the local nightlife and dinner scene rather than rushing back for a 5:00 PM departure.
The “All-Inclusive” Elegance
One of the most polite and refreshing aspects of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is their approach to pricing. When they say “all-inclusive,” they truly mean it. Your fare typically covers:
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All onboard meals and 24-hour in-suite dining.
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A wide selection of premium wines, spirits, and beverages.
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Wi-Fi throughout the yacht.
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All gratuities for the staff (a huge relief for travelers who hate calculating tips at the end of a trip!).
This allows you to focus on the experience and the company of your fellow travelers without reaching for your wallet every ten minutes.
Who is a Ritz Cruise For?
While many cruises cater to a “one-size-fits-all” demographic, Ritz Cruises are specifically designed for:
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Couples: Seeking a romantic, low-stress getaway with five-star service.
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Solo Travelers: Who appreciate safety, privacy, and a sophisticated social atmosphere.
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Multi-Generational Families: While there is a dedicated kids’ program (Ritz Kids), the vibe is definitely geared toward adults who enjoy quiet luxury.
Final Thoughts
The world looks different when viewed from the deck of a yacht. There is a sense of peace, a connection to the ocean, and a level of comfort that is simply hard to find elsewhere. If you’re looking to celebrate a milestone or simply want to escape the noise of the modern world, Ritz Cruises offer a sanctuary on the sea.
It’s the Ritz-Carlton you know and love, just with a much better view.