Forbes Travel Guide recognized Ilma for redefining hospitality at sea through thoughtful design, personalized service, and experiences that connect guests more deeply to the journey.
There is a certain ease to life aboard Ilma. Days unfold naturally, guided as much by personal curiosity as by itinerary — whether that means lingering over coffee as a new destination comes into view, spending an afternoon on the water from the yacht’s Marina, or simply savoring uninterrupted time at sea.
This philosophy recently garnered recognition from Forbes Travel Guide, which awarded Ilma the world’s first Five-Star rating for a cruise ship or superyacht. The distinction recognizes The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s reimagining of the at-sea experience — replacing many traditional elements with the intimacy, personalized service, residential design, and meaningful experiences more associated with a Ritz-Carlton hotel or a private yacht. Throughout Ilma, spacious suites and a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere create an experience that feels distinctly different at sea.
A Personal Haven at Sea
Forbes Travel Guide noted the yacht’s spacious all-suite accommodations as central to the experience, with every suite featuring a private terrace and an atmosphere that feels more residential than a traditional cruise experience. Inspired by elegant private residences, each of Ilma’s 224 suites incorporates warm wood finishes, natural stone, and a neutral palette to create a calming atmosphere that feels sophisticated and inviting. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to ocean-view private terraces, providing a constant connection to the horizon and the sea.
Public spaces continue the same philosophy of openness and ease. Light-filled atriums, custom artwork, and expansive walkways encourage a natural flow between indoor lounges and open-air decks. At the yacht’s aft, The Marina Terrace provides panoramic views and an ideal setting for afternoon cocktails, and at select destinations, the retractable Marina platform transforms into a water-level lounge offering direct ocean access, inviting guests to swim, kayak, paddleboard, or float atop the waves.
An Ocean-Going Sanctuary
Space aboard Ilma is designed for not only comfort but also connection with family, friends, and yourself.
Treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa are inspired by wellness traditions from around the world, complemented by tranquil relaxation spaces and expansive views. Throughout the yacht, infinity pools and spacious sundecks offer quiet places to unwind, soak up the afternoon sun or watch the horizon unfold.
The atmosphere throughout the yacht reflects a deliberate sense of calm. Rather than casinos, grand theaters, or other traditional cruise venues, Ilma favors intimate lounges, expansive outdoor spaces, and quieter moments of discovery — an approach Forbes recognized for creating a more relaxed and deeply personal experience at sea.
Service Designed Around You
Exceptional hospitality often reveals itself through the smallest details.
Because Forbes Travel Guide places emphasis on service, the guide cited the yacht’s anticipatory hospitality and one of the industry’s highest employee-to-guest ratios among the defining elements behind the Five-Star distinction. For instance, each suite includes the dedicated attention of a Suite Ambassador, providing highly personalized service throughout the voyage. Preferences are anticipated, arrangements are handled seamlessly, and every aspect of the experience is tailored to the individual guest, including a generous set of inclusions.
Whether coordinating a private celebration, arranging a dining experience at Seta Su Ilma, or assisting with plans ashore, the service philosophy remains consistent: attentive, not intrusive.
Exclusive Experiences, On Board and Ashore
The journey extends well beyond the yacht itself.
Private and small-group excursions offer opportunities to experience destinations through a more local lens — exploring historic estates, discovering hidden coastal landscapes, or enjoying culinary experiences guided by local experts. Back on board, evenings are shaped by the same spirit of discovery. Intimate live performances, destination-inspired dining, and conversations with fellow travelers create a social atmosphere that feels relaxed and engaging.
Together, these experiences create the freedom to explore deeply and intimately, while enjoying the comfort and ease created by thoughtful design, personalized hospitality, and the feeling that every detail has been considered long before you arrive.