Story adapted from Insider Travel Report and Business Insider.
Over the past year, there has been robust and almost frenzy-like activity by cruise lines to enter the luxury yacht expedition market. The popularity of this type of travel has grown so considerably that brands who have historically been in the hotel and resort game have announced an expansion into the ultra-luxury yachting market. Last year, the Ritz-Carlton revealed concrete plans to launch three new mega yachts to begin sailing in 2020. Fast forward a year later, the first of three has touched water for the first time.
With exterior construction almost complete, the yacht has now entered the outfitting phase and is one step closer to its anticipated launch in 2020. RCYC will celebrate its naming ceremony this December and will hold a christening celebration prior to the inaugural sailing in February 2020.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (RCYC) celebrated the launching ceremony of its inaugural yacht on Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Hijos De J. Barreras Shipyard in Vigo, Spain. The ceremony marked a significant moment in the ship building process where after a ceremonial blessing, the yacht moved stern-first down the slipway and touched water for the first time.
RCYC’s specially designed yacht will measure 190-meters and will feature 149 suites, each with its own private terrace. The yacht will also feature two 158-square-meter owner’s suites, each with its own private whirlpool, modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and Tillberg Design of Sweden. The yacht also will feature one of the highest staff to guest service ratios in the cruise industry.
RCYC guests will enjoy an all-inclusive luxury sailing experience, including large accommodations, onboard activities and entertainment, beverages, multiple dining venues, onboard gratuities, Wi-Fi and watersports from the yacht’s marina. Signature experiences available for an additional fee include a culinary event at Aqua, the yacht’s signature restaurant designed by Michelin-starred chef Sven Elverfeld; spa treatments; and immersive excursions offered through the Shore Collection. RCYC yachts also are available for private charter.
Reservations for the first of three Ritz-Carlton yachts in this series will open in May. The inaugural ship will cruise a wide variety of destinations depending on the season, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. These specially designed, small capacity vessels will measure 190-meters and feature 149 luxury suites to accommodate up to 298 passengers. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will offer voyages ranging from seven to ten days, combining signature Ritz-Carlton service and amenities onboard with uniquely curated destination experiences. The ships of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter. For more information, click on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
