Ilma, the second superyacht by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, has set sail on its maiden voyage. Savenio Managing Director, David Brandon was among the first to experience life on board and shares a full review with Karryon Luxury.
The latest ship by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Ilma, has set sail on her maiden voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome and I was fortunate to be among the first guests to step onboard. The luxury superyacht has 224 suites, five restaurants, seven bars, a wine vault, and numerous public spaces.
I found it a stunning yacht, and was truly impressed by how it blends luxury with adventure – it’s the perfect way to explore the world in style.
The atmosphere on board IIma
From the moment I arrive at the terminal, I’m greeted by a host who meets me from my limo and escorts me through immigration to a waiting lounge, where I’m handed a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne.
Afterwards, they return to guide me through the check-in process and personally escort me to the ship. This attentive service is provided to every guest or party. The staff offered very attentive service and couldn’t do any more for you.
My suite
I was in a Signature Suite 813 on Deck 8. It was an elegant and spacious retreat. It featured luxurious furnishings, a private terrace with stunning ocean views, a king-sized bed with plush linens, and a marble bathroom complete with a soaking tub and rain shower.
The suite also includes a separate living area that is elegantly furnished with plush seating, sleek tables, and tasteful artwork. Guests receive personalised service, including a ‘Suite Ambassador’, and have access to exclusive dining and leisure areas on the yacht. The design blends contemporary style with timeless luxury, creating an intimate and refined experience at sea.
The bathroom is all marble, with a soaking tub, walk-in rain shower, and premium fixtures. Plus, there’s a private terrace with comfortable seating to enjoy the stunning ocean views – combining comfort and style perfectly.
The mini-bar is stocked with a selection of non-alcoholic drinks like artisanal sodas, juices, and bottled water. Gourmet snacks, including artisanal chocolates and nuts, are also available – and everything was replenished daily. Premium options are also available including top-shelf spirits, fine wines, craft beers, with a call to your suite ambassador allowing guests to enjoy a drink or snack in the comfort of their suite.
My favourite features are the private terrace, which provides breathtaking views, and the marble bathroom, where the combination of the soaking tub and rain shower creates a spa-like experience right in the suite. The overall ambience is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.
Wining and dining
There are four restaurants and four bars. You can enjoy gourmet meals at the yacht’s main dining venue, Mistral, where the menu combines international cuisine with local flavours, all expertly crafted by world-class chefs.
There are also specialty restaurants focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients, including Beach House by Michael Mina, Tides with its Mediterranean-inspired menu, and Memori, my personal favourite, which offers Pan-Asian cuisine in a sleek setting. The short rib fried rice was very special in Memori!
For those who prefer privacy, Ilma also provides 24-hour in-suite dining. Every dining option is designed to ensure a memorable and luxurious experience at sea.
The extras
The Beach House infinity pool is a stunning outdoor feature that offers a seamless blend of luxury and nature. Situated at the aft of the yacht, the pool appears to merge with the horizon, creating the illusion of an endless expanse of water. Surrounded by comfortable loungers and chic cabanas, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and taking in breathtaking ocean views.
The pool area is also conveniently located near the Beach House restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy a refreshing dip followed by gourmet dining in a relaxed, beach-inspired setting. The serene atmosphere and elegant design make it a standout feature on the yacht.
My highlights
The overall experience on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma was pure luxury. With its intimate size, stunning design, and personalised service, it felt exclusive and serene. The attention to detail, from the artwork to the amenities, made the journey truly special. Beyond the dining highlight at Memori, the spa, cultural excursions, and curated entertainment rounded out an unforgettable experience.
The infinity pool was another highlight, providing not just a place to swim but a great spot to unwind. The view from the pool was magical, especially during sunset, making it one of my favourite places on the yacht to relax.
What type of traveller it appeals to
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection ships will appeal to discerning travellers who seek a blend of luxury, exclusivity, and personalised service. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life and prefer an intimate, refined travel experience over the larger, more crowded cruise ships.
This yacht is ideal for travellers who enjoy gourmet dining, world-class amenities, and curated experiences both onboard and ashore.
Final verdict
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Ilma went beyond my expectations. The perfect mix of luxury, personalised service, and meticulous attention to detail made this experience unforgettable. Dining at Memori was a highlight, but everything on the yacht was thoughtfully crafted.
Overall, Ilma delivered the ideal blend of sophistication and comfort, making it a journey I’ll always remember.
For more information, visit The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
