The Ritz-Carlton has announced its entry into the world of luxury yachting and cruises, taking the award-winning hotel brand’s service and timeless style to sea.
Created with maritime experts Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, The Ritz-Carlton will provide luxury hospitality service under a long-term operating agreement.
Named The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection the venture represents a unique foray into the cruise industry for a luxury hotel operator. The move is tipped to be a big drawcard for luxury travellers throughout the world and has some travel management companies licking their lips on the incentive group travel front.
Big appeal for incentive group travel
“Luxury cruises with boutique vessels are in high demand around the world,” says Tanya Wick, Head of Sales & Marketing for Totem Group
“For incentive group travel this presents us with outstanding options all backed with a trusted brand, Ritz-Carlton.”
The first of three lavish cruising yachts in the series is scheduled to take to sea in the fourth quarter of 2019, and distinguishes Marriott International as the only provider of luxury accommodations both on land and at sea.
“The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will have a distinctive personality and the vessels are sure to be true stand outs in some of the most glamorous ports around the world,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
A new way forward for luxury travel
“This unique combination of yachting and cruising will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world in a relaxed, casually elegant and comfortable atmosphere with the highest level of personalized service,” he added.
A news release from The Ritz-Carlton pointed out itineraries were being developed with an intent to combine the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton’s luxury resorts and “the casual freedom of a yachting vacation”.
Calling at intimate and signature destinations alike, voyages will range from 7 to 10 days. The first ship will cruise a wide variety of destinations depending on the season, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America.
Due to the intimate size of the vessel, the yacht will call at unique locations typically not accessible to large cruise ships, from Capri and Portofino to St Barths and the old town of Cartagena.
With a relaxed pace, that includes both overnight and daytime ports of call, guests will be offered a “uniquely curated destination experience”.
The specially designed small capacity vessel will measure 190-metres, accommodate up to 298 passengers and feature 149 suites, each with its own private balcony. The yacht will also feature two 138 sq/m lavish duplex penthouse suites, with modern craftsmanship and interior finishes.
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