Ritz Carlton Cruise Review: A Luxurious And Unforgettable Experience

by | Jul 25, 2023 | Cruise Lines & Cruise Types

I have always enjoyed my stays in Ritz Carlton hotels. So naturally, if given the opportunity to sail on a new Ritz Carlton cruise, I will certainly do it.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has been making waves in the luxury cruise industry since the launch of their first ship, Evrima, in October 2022. With a focus on personalized service, Michelin-level dining, and unique itineraries, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the top luxury cruise lines in the world.

Overview of Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a venture from Marriott International, one of the top hospitality companies, providing an exclusive cruising experience. With its high-end service and comfort, guests are guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind experience.

The collection currently has one ship, the superyacht Evrima, which debuted in October 2022. The ship is 190 meters long and has a gross tonnage of 26,500. It can accommodate up to 298 guests in 149 luxury suites, each with its own terrace. The yacht's suite experience is unrivaled at sea, designed for the comfort of luxury travelers.

The aft Marina platform affords easy entry to the sea for swimming and non-motorized water sports. The superyacht Evrima is intimate, accommodating 298 passengers and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and amenities.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers an all-inclusive experience, which includes gourmet dining, premium beverages, and a range of activities and entertainment. With nearly as many staff members as guests, the unwavering commitment to service takes to sea.

The collection has plans for two additional ships, Ilma and Lunimara, in 2024 and 2025, respectively. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is committed to providing luxury cruising experiences that exceed guests' expectations, making it a top choice for travelers seeking the ultimate in comfort and style.

The Ship: Evrima

Evrima is a 298-passenger luxury yacht from the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. It is the first of three new-builds and started sailing in October 2022. The ship was designed by Tillberg Design of Sweden, a leading design firm in the cruise industry.

The interior of Evrima is sleek and modern, with a focus on natural materials and soft, neutral colors. The ship features LED lighting throughout, which not only provides a warm and inviting atmosphere but also reduces energy consumption. Additionally, Evrima has a heat recovery loop system that recycles waste heat from the ship's engines, reducing its carbon footprint.

One of the most notable features of Evrima is its use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a fuel source. LNG is a cleaner-burning fuel than traditional diesel, which helps to reduce emissions and improve air quality. This is a significant step forward in the cruise industry's efforts to become more environmentally friendly.

Evrima has a range of onboard amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. The ship also has a marina platform, which allows guests to enjoy water sports and other aquatic activities.

Overall, Evrima is a beautiful and well-designed ship that offers guests a luxurious and eco-friendly cruising experience.

Accommodation

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a range of luxurious accommodations to suit different needs and preferences. The suites on board the yacht are spacious, comfortable, and elegantly furnished to provide guests with an exceptional cruising experience.

The suites are designed to accommodate two guests and come in four categories: Terrace Suites, View Suites, Grand Suites, and Owner's Suites. Each suite is equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet.

The Terrace Suites are the entry-level accommodations on board and feature a private terrace with outdoor furniture. These suites are spacious and comfortable, measuring approximately 312 square feet. The View Suites, on the other hand, offer stunning ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows. These suites are slightly larger than the Terrace Suites, measuring approximately 345 square feet.

For guests who desire more space and luxury, the Grand Suites and Owner's Suites are the perfect choice. The Grand Suites measure approximately 592 square feet and feature a separate living room and bedroom, a private terrace, and a marble bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub. The Owner's Suites are the most luxurious accommodations on board, measuring approximately 840 square feet. These suites feature a separate living room and bedroom, a large private terrace, and a marble bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub.

All suites on board the yacht are designed to provide guests with maximum comfort and luxury. The suites feature plush bedding, high-quality linens, and premium bath amenities. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour room service and a dedicated butler service.

Overall, the accommodations on board the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are designed to provide guests with an exceptional cruising experience. Whether guests choose the Terrace Suites or the Owner's Suites, they can expect to enjoy luxurious accommodations and unparalleled service.

Dining and Cuisine

The Ritz-Carlton Evrima cruise offers a variety of dining options, including multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. Guests can indulge in a range of cuisines, from Mediterranean to Asian, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

One of the standout dining venues on the ship is S.E.A, which offers a unique seafood-focused menu. The restaurant's name stands for "sea, earth, and air," and the menu reflects this with dishes like octopus carpaccio and roasted lamb with sea salt.

Another popular dining spot is Aqua, which features a contemporary menu with a focus on international flavors. Guests can choose from a variety of dishes, including grilled lobster with garlic butter and crispy pork belly with apple compote.

For more casual dining options, the ship also offers a buffet-style restaurant with a wide selection of dishes. Guests can choose from a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, and Indian.

Overall, the dining options on the Ritz-Carlton Evrima cruise are diverse and well-executed, with something to suit every taste and preference. Whether guests are looking for a fine dining experience or a more casual meal, they are sure to find something to satisfy their cravings.

On-board Services

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers exceptional on-board services to make guests feel pampered and well taken care of. From personalized service to attentive crew members, the cruise line ensures a luxurious experience for all guests.

Each suite on the yacht comes with a dedicated personal assistant who is available to assist guests with anything they may need, from booking shore excursions to making restaurant reservations. The personal assistant is also responsible for ensuring that the suite is always well-stocked with amenities and supplies.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection also offers a concierge service to help guests plan their itinerary and make the most of their time on board. The concierge can arrange for private tours, spa appointments, and other special requests.

The crew members on board the yacht are trained to provide personalized service to each guest, ensuring that their every need is met. Whether it's providing extra towels or arranging for a special meal, the crew members are always ready to assist.

In addition to the personalized service, the yacht also offers a range of amenities to make guests feel comfortable and relaxed. These include a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options, including a Michelin-level restaurant.

Overall, the on-board services provided by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are top-notch and ensure a luxurious and comfortable experience for all guests.

Entertainment and Relaxation

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a variety of entertainment and relaxation options to keep guests entertained throughout their voyage. Whether guests are looking to relax and unwind or stay active and engaged, there is something for everyone.

For those looking to take a dip, the yacht features a pool located on the upper deck. The pool is surrounded by comfortable lounge chairs and is the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the sea breeze. Guests can also relax in the pool house, which offers a shaded retreat from the sun.

The observation lounge is another great place to relax and take in the views. Located at the front of the ship, the lounge features floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of the surrounding ocean. Guests can enjoy a drink from the bar while taking in the scenery.

For those looking to stay active, the fitness center is equipped with a variety of equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and weight machines. The fitness center also offers fitness classes, including yoga and Pilates.

Guests looking to be pampered can visit the beauty salon or the Ritz-Carlton Spa. The beauty salon offers a range of services, including haircuts, styling, and manicures. The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.

In terms of entertainment, the yacht offers a variety of options, including live music, theater performances, and movie screenings. Guests can also participate in cooking classes and wine tastings.

Overall, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a range of entertainment and relaxation options to keep guests entertained and engaged throughout their voyage.

Outdoor Activities

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a variety of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy during their cruise. From water sports to lounging on the marina platform, there is something for everyone.

One of the unique features of the yacht is the aft marina platform. This platform extends from the back of the ship and allows guests to easily access the water for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. The platform also features a bar, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a drink while taking in the views.

For those looking for more adventurous water activities, the yacht offers a range of water toys, including paddleboards and jet skis. Guests can also take part in guided snorkeling and diving excursions to explore the underwater world.

For a more relaxing outdoor experience, guests can lounge on the marina platform or enjoy a drink at one of the yacht's bars while taking in the views. The yacht also offers yoga and fitness classes on the deck, allowing guests to stay active while enjoying the fresh sea air.

Overall, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a range of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy during their cruise. Whether looking for adventure or relaxation, guests are sure to find something to suit their interests.

Family Services

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a variety of family-friendly services and amenities to ensure that guests of all ages have an enjoyable and comfortable voyage.

Families traveling with children can take advantage of the Ritz Kids program, which offers supervised activities and entertainment for children ages 5-12. The program includes a range of activities, such as arts and crafts, games, and educational programs, all designed to engage and entertain young guests.

Parents can also take advantage of the babysitting services available onboard, allowing them to enjoy some time alone while their children are well-cared for by experienced staff.

For families traveling with infants, the yacht collection provides a range of amenities, including cribs, bottle warmers, and baby monitors, ensuring that parents have everything they need to keep their little ones comfortable and happy.

In addition to these services, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection also offers a variety of family-friendly excursions, such as beach outings and cultural tours, allowing families to explore and experience the destinations they visit together.

Overall, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a great choice for families looking for a luxurious and comfortable cruise experience that caters to guests of all ages.

Ports and Itineraries

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a variety of itineraries that cover both the Mediterranean and Caribbean regions. The yacht is smaller than most cruise ships, which allows it to visit smaller ports that are inaccessible to larger vessels. The itinerary includes ports of call such as Saint-Tropez, Barcelona, and Mistral.

Passengers can expect to visit off-the-beaten-path enclaves like Mayreau in the Caribbean or explore the historic cities of Europe. The yacht does not have any private ports or islands, but it does offer a unique experience of visiting both types of ports on a single cruise.

There are six levels of suites available on a sailing with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The Terrace is the base-level room. The company hopes its new 298-passenger yacht will be as much of a destination in and of itself as the ports it visits.

The current position of The Ritz-Carlton Evrima can be monitored by CruiseMapper. Utilizing this service, one can easily pinpoint the vessel's whereabouts. The yacht's homeports include: Puerto Rico's San Juan, Athens' Piraeus, Barbados' Bridgetown, Italy's Civitavecchia-Rome, and Florida's Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades).

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers an exclusive trip for those that seek out small-ship sailing. They provide guests opportunities to visit well-known and iconic spots, in addition to providing suite-type cabins and Michelin-level cuisine. All these features combined give a luxury experience like no other.

Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Program

The Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program is home to the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, where loyalty members can benefit from exclusive offers. This means that guests can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points during their cruise. The program offers a range of benefits to loyalists, including elite night credits, priority boarding, and more.

To earn points, guests must book their cruise directly through the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection website or by calling their reservation center. Guests will earn 5 Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar spent on their cruise fare, and on-board purchases can also earn points at a rate of 1 point per dollar spent.

Marriott loyalists can also earn elite night credits for their cruise. For every night spent on board, guests will receive one elite night credit towards their Marriott Bonvoy status. This is a great way for Marriott loyalists to maintain or improve their status while enjoying a luxury cruise.

One of the benefits of being a Marriott Titanium or higher member is complimentary priority boarding and departure benefits. While this is a nice perk, it is unfortunate that it is only available to higher-tier members. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card does not currently offer priority boarding as a benefit, but it would be great to see this added in the future.

Overall, the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program offers a great way for guests to earn and redeem points on their Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruise. With elite night credits, priority boarding, and the ability to earn points on-board, Marriott loyalists can enjoy a luxurious vacation while still reaping the benefits of their loyalty program.

Cruise Fare and Booking

When it comes to booking a Ritz-Carlton cruise, the cruise fare varies depending on the itinerary, sailing date, and suite category. It is advisable to book early to secure the best rates and availability. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a Best Rate Guarantee, which promises to match any lower publicly available fares for the same itinerary, suite category, and sailing date.

The cruise fare includes all meals, beverages, and gratuities. Onboard activities, entertainment, and shore excursions are also included in the fare, except for some exclusive experiences that come with an additional charge. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection also offers a complimentary one-night pre-cruise hotel stay and transfers for guests booked in a Terrace, Veranda, or Signature Suite.

Guests can book a Ritz-Carlton cruise through their preferred travel advisor or directly with the cruise line. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has a dedicated team of Personal Concierges who can assist guests with their booking, itinerary planning, and onboard requests. Guests can also join the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Loyalty Program, which offers exclusive benefits such as priority access to shore excursions, onboard credits, and complimentary upgrades.

In terms of payment, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection requires a deposit of 25% of the total fare at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 120 days before departure. Guests can also purchase travel insurance through the cruise line or their preferred provider to protect their investment and provide peace of mind.

Overall, booking a Ritz-Carlton cruise offers a seamless and all-inclusive experience, with personalized service and luxurious amenities. The cruise fare may be higher than other cruise lines, but the value and exclusivity of the Ritz-Carlton brand make it a worthwhile investment for discerning travelers.

Comparison with Other Yacht Services

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a unique luxury experience that stands out from other yacht services. However, it is worth comparing it with other yacht services to get a better understanding of what it offers.

One of the closest competitors of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is the SeaDream Yacht Club. SeaDream offers a similar luxury experience, but with a smaller ship and a more intimate atmosphere. SeaDream's ships accommodate only up to 112 passengers, whereas The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's ships can accommodate up to 298 passengers. SeaDream offers a more relaxed and casual atmosphere, whereas The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a more formal and elegant atmosphere. SeaDream also offers a marina platform that allows passengers to swim, snorkel, and kayak in the ocean, which The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection does not have.

Another competitor is Scenic, which offers luxury river cruises and ocean cruises. Scenic's ships are larger than The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's ships, accommodating up to 228 passengers. Scenic offers a more inclusive experience, with all meals, drinks, and shore excursions included in the fare. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, on the other hand, offers a more exclusive experience, with a focus on personalized service and Michelin-level dining. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's ships are also equipped with a marina platform that allows passengers to enjoy water sports.

Overall, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers a unique luxury experience that stands out from other yacht services. Its focus on personalized service, Michelin-level dining, and exclusive itineraries make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-end luxury experience. However, those looking for a more relaxed, casual atmosphere or a more inclusive experience may prefer other yacht services such as SeaDream or Scenic.

I will be looking for Ritz Carlton cruises out of Fort Lauderdale in the near future.