Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection said its second ship, the Ilma, takes design inspiration from Maltese mythology, coastlines, history and native fauna.
Named after the Maltese word for “water,” the Ilma will follow Ritz-Carlton’s Evrima, which debuted in late 2022. The 790-foot Ilma will be a considerably larger ship than the 624-foot Evrima and will accommodate 448 passengers; the Evrima has capacity for 298.
The Ilma will feature a new concept, the Beach House, a restaurant serving Peruvian and Pan-Latin cuisine and craft cocktails. Conceptualized by Toronto-based luxury design firm Chapi Chapo Designs, the indoor-outdoor venue is meant to evoke a serene coastal atmosphere with 180-degree views.
Ritz-Carlton Yacht called “the fluid link between interior and exterior spaces” a defining feature of the Ilma.
The spa on the Ilma will offer 11 rooms, five equipped for outdoor treatments. The ship will have three fitness spaces — a Movement Studio, Cycle Studio and Fitness Studio. It will have five dining venues, seven bars and a wine vault.
Throughout the Ilma, the interior’s designs will incorporate neutral tones in contrast with light and dark finishes. Communal areas are meant to be intimate to foster connection.
“With an aesthetic influenced by superyacht design cues, Ilma’s defining feature is its seamless integration of spaces, fostering a profound connection to the sea, said Nicola Preece, design director for AD Associates.
The ship’s interior finishes are by London-based architectural and design firm AD Associates and lighting designer DPA. The exterior was designed by Helsinki-based Aivan design studio.
Each suite will feature floor-to-ceiling windows and a private terrace. The suites will be designed to contrast rich textures, warm lighting and delicate hues. The Ilma will expand on the Marina and Marina Terrace with large Panasonic glass windows to draw in natural light, side doors that open and float above the water and a hydraulic platform.
The Ilma’s maiden cruise is scheduled to depart Monte Carlo on Sept. 2 and arrive in Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) on Sept. 9.