Ilma (Ritz-Carlton) Review

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s second vessel (the line refers to them as yachts, rather than ships), the 456-passenger Ilma, made its debut in September 2024.

A sister to the 298-passenger Evrima, this super-yacht has 228 suites, all with balconies, and adds a second pool deck and an additional restaurant.

But it’s what it doesn’t have in its deck plan is what sets it apart from most other cruise ships: no buffet, casino, theater, cruise director, an art gallery, announcements or crowds.

Everywhere there is a feeling of hushed wealth, whether that’s in the shops (Bulgari, Hermes, Chanel), the bathroom products (Espa, Diptique), the restaurants, which are Michelin-star quality, the suites, which are sumptuous and beautifully designed, and the robes and accessories (Frette).

Everything is included, including Champagne and caviar, but there are multiple options to spend more money on fine wines, spa treatments or in the Italian restaurant, Seta Su Ilma.

Crew are referred to as “Ladies and Gentlemen”, which may sound pretentious, but affords them a degree of respect and character that you don’t find on many other brands.

And, along with the Ritz-Carlton credo, it also means faultless service with most calling you by your name and knowing your preferences within two or three days.

It’s a sublime experience sailing onboard this vessel, you feel almost cocooned, oblivious to what’s going on in the rest of the world, and it would appeal to those who are used to traveling on the other lines operating at this level, e.g. Silversea, Seabourn, Crystal or Scenic.

Ilma fulfills the vision Ritz-Carlton had when it launched its yacht collection: a five-star hotel that just happens to be on water.

Ilma’s Deck Plan Ensures the Ship Never Feels Crowded

Ilma has 10 decks (although guest decks start at Deck 3), with the main pool deck and an adjoining bar on Deck 10, along with the Mistral Restaurant, which serves Mediterranean fare; and an outside bar with occasional DJ sets.

Decks 9 through 6 are dedicated almost entirely to suites, with the Observation Terrace, a sun deck) at the front of Deck 9.

Deck 5 is the heart of the ship, where you will find the main social area, the Living Room, which centers on a small dance floor/performance space where most of the nighttime action takes place. This multi-use space doubles as a bar, games area and library and is blissfully quiet during the day, a perfect place to read a book or play a game of backgammon.

At the aft is the Beach House restaurant, which has al-fresco seating around an infinity pool. And at the front, you’ll find the Humidor, to savor a fine cigar and a whisky; as well the lower deck suites.

On Deck 4 is Memori Asian restaurant, Guest Services, Ritz Kids, the Gym, Salon, Barber and Spa.

Deck 3 is the closest equivalent to a Main Dining Room, Tides, as well as the for-fee Italian restaurant, Seta Su Ilma, as well as a for-fee private dining room, and the yacht’s wine collection. This is also where you’ll find the Marina Bar and the Marina, Ilma’s watersports space, open in good weather.

All Rooms on Ilma Are Suites With Balconies

All 228 cabins on Ilma are referred to by Ritz-Carlton as suites, athough the 90 entry-level Terraces do not have a separate living room, rather a space with a sofa and small table, which is the only aspect of this ship we have a quibble with.

All suites are beautifully designed and are more similar to hotel rooms in terms of shape and design than the cookie-cutter cabins you find on many vessels, with wood panneling, noise-reducing fabrics on the walls and thick carpets and upholstery.

The best suites are the Owner’s Suites, of which there are eight on the ship: six at the aft and two at the front, which are vast and include a hot tub on the terrace. Though we are very fond of the mid-level, 560-square foot Grand Suites, which have two wardrobes, twin basins, a tub and, on the lower decks, a huge terrace.

It’s worth noting that the lower suites have wider and deeper balconies as the yacht tapers toward the top.

There really aren’t any rooms to avoid, though you may wish to avoid those high up toward the front (specifically 901-904), if you are prone to motion sickness.

Food Onboard Ilma is of Michelin-star Quality

There are five restaurants onboard Ilma, all included bar one, Seta Su Ilma, a fine dining Italian restaurant which comes in at $350 per person, which includes wine pairing.

In all, the food is of exceptional quality, with many staff hailing from a Michelin-star restaurant background, including the chefs and servers.

The equivalent of the Main Dining Room, Tides, also has a wine cellar and private dining area, which can be booked for a fee. Tides is large and spacious and has a menu that changes out every three days. Memori is a combo of sushi bar and pan-Asian cuisine. Top deck Mistral, which also has outdoor seating, is Mediterranean-inspired, and a great spot for breakfast. The Beach House has a casual vibe, with an open kitchen and al-fresco seating round the infinity pool.