The Ritz-Carlton is to make its debut at sea with the launch of the first of three luxury yachts in 2019 that will offer curated trips around the world.

Created by The Ritz-Carlton in collaboration with Oaktree Capital Management and Dolce Cruise Management, The Ritz-Carlton will provide luxury hospitality service under a long-term operating agreement. 

This represents the first foray into the cruise industry for a luxury hotel operator. 

The first of three lavish cruising yachts in this series is scheduled to take to the sea in 2019, and will distinguish the brand’s parent Marriott International as the only provider of luxury accommodations both on land and at sea.

“The yachts of The Ritz-Carlton will have a distinctive personality and sense of place,” said Herve Humler, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “This unique combination of yachting and cruising will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world in a relaxed, casually elegant, and comfortable atmosphere with the highest level of personalised service.”

Itineraries are being developed with an intent to combine the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton’s luxury resorts and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation. Calling at intimate and signature destinations alike, voyages will range from seven to ten days. With a relaxed pace, that includes both overnight and daytime ports of call, guests will be offered a uniquely curated destination experience.

The specially designed yacht will measure 190 m, accommodate up to 298 passengers, and feature 149 suites, each with its own private balcony. 

The yacht will also feature two 138-sq-m lavish duplex penthouse suites, with modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading cruise ship design firm, Tillberg Design of Sweden. 

The onboard experience will reflect the sublime comfort and unparalleled level of individualized guest service for which the Ritz-Carlton is recognized, the brand says. 

“The Ritz-Carlton is known for its legendary service and high standards,” said Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, Co-Founders and Managing Directors, Dolce Cruise, “We are delighted to collaborate with The Ritz-Carlton as our hospitality operator in offering the most exclusive yachting experience to be found at sea in a venture that will give new meaning to curated luxury travel.”

Throughout the journey, guests will indulge in a cruising style that is unparalleled in the ultra-luxury cruise and private yachting sectors. The Ritz-Carlton yachts will feature a restaurant by Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg; a signature Ritz-Carlton Spa; and a Panorama Lounge and wine bar, offering a wide variety of on-board entertainment. Additionally, the yacht will offer one-of-a-kind curated destination journeys through collaborations with local chefs, musicians and artists, allowing guests to experience the locations in unique and experiential ways, both onboard and ashore. 

Reservations will open in February 2018

Part of the US-based Marriott International, The Ritz-Carlton currently operates more than 90 hotels and 40 residential properties in more than 30 countries and territories.