The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrated a milestone at the keel-laying ceremony held on March 22nd at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard (fka STX France) in Saint-Nazaire.
A maritime tradition, the keel-laying marked the official start of construction: the first modular block of Ritz-Carlton Ilma was lowered into the building dock.
Douglas Prothero (Ritz-Carlton Yachts' CEO) said they were thrilled to celebrate the important milestone and to partner with Chantiers de l’Atlantique on Ilma's construction.
“As we expand our fleet, we look forward to continuing to create unique experiences that celebrate the yachting lifestyle and are transforming the luxury cruising category.”
Scheduled to debut in 2024, Ilma, which means “water” in Maltese, will be the 2nd yacht for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
This specially designed new mega-yacht is expected to feature the highest passenger-to-space and staff-to-passenger ratios in the luxury cruising category.
Like the sistership Luminara, Ilma has LOA length 241 m (790 ft), 10 decks, 228 staterooms, max capacity 456 passengers (plus 374 staff/crew).
Ilma will be Ritz-Carlton's first LNG-powered vessel.