Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection announces fleet growth
U.S. hotel and travel group Ritz Carlton has ordered two luxury cruise ships of about 46,000gt from French yard Chantiers de l’Atlantique, with an option for additional vessels. The announcement comes at a time as The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection prepares to launch its first superyacht, Evrima, this summer.
The two 240m-long vessels, Ilma and Luminara, will carry about 450 passengers and are scheduled to enter service in 2024 and 2025. Each vessel will be fitted with four dual-fuel engines and use LNG as main fuel source, significantly reducing emissions as compared to traditional practices. Additionally, the vessels will include advanced water treatment systems, an efficient heat recovery loop, LED lighting and other features with the goal of minimising environmental impact. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, the group’s cruise division, said the order included options for an undisclosed number of repeat vessels. Chantiers de l’Atlantique will carry out all construction and development, including advanced design and sustainability features.
“These ships will provide the highest quality standards and comfort level to their guests and simultaneously be at the forefront of environmental performances,” said Mr Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
The specially designed vessels, termed superyachts, will have a high space level for passengers, with 228 suites, each with its own private terrace. They will offer a high percentage of larger suites, with two new upper suite categories measuring up to 100sq.m in size.