Gettin’ On The Ritz

It’s been said that there is a cruise for everyone. But what is an upper-echelon pleasure seeker to do when you don’t want a cruise that’s for everyone? You want one for you! Who do you turn to when generic five-star service just isn’t good enough? 

The answer lies with The Ritz-Carlton’s announcement that it is entering the luxury cruise marketplace with a planned trio of super yachts. Appropriately christened The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, this initiative represents a confident foray into the growing demographic of executive-premium-level cruising. Ritz-Carlton is calling on its impeccable hospitality reputation to create a cruise concept of lavish exclusivity for connoisseurs of luxury travel. There isn’t much in life more luxurious than a yacht and the Ritz-Carlton Collection is the embodiment of style and class. 

A Luxury Hotel at Sea

A Stunning View | Photo: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Website Screenshot

As we should expect, the list of innovative and unique amenities distinguishing these hedonistic pleasure vessels from mainstream cruising is staggering. The yachts ooze elegance and refinement because that’s what people expect from the world’s most luxurious hotel company. 

Start with ultra-luxe suites boasting private terraces and two glamorous 138-square-foot penthouse suites. The intricacies stun visually and leave most speechless. 

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Gourmet appetites will love Michelin-class cuisine served in multiple dining venues. Public areas will evoke a private club–like atmosphere and contribute to the vessel’s casual elegance. That refined spirit continues outside to a snazzy infinity pool overlooking a sea-level sunbathing terrace. Below, a speedboat or kayak awaits.

Ritz-Carlton Yachts: The Lifestyle

Factor in the iconic Ritz-Carlton–personalized service and the result is an intimate experience for fewer than 300 pampered guests. Blending an upscale resort lifestyle into the casual freedom of yacht travel is a bold endeavor, however I’m confident that the luxury brand is up to the challenge. 

-Steve Leland