Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Earns Industry's First Five-Star Rating

Ilma, the brand's second ultra-luxury yacht, recognized as the world's first Five-Star Cruise Ship by Forbes Travel Guide

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has become the first cruise brand to earn a prestigious Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide. Ilma, the company's second ultra-luxury yacht, received this milestone distinction in the newly unveiled 2026 Star Awards, joining a select group of global hospitality honorees. This recognition reflects the brand's commitment to delivering a highly personalized and refined experience at sea, with thoughtful design, service, and space working in harmony.

Why it matters

This industry-first Five-Star rating for a cruise brand underscores The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's leadership in redefining luxury travel at sea. It demonstrates the brand's ability to consistently deliver an exceptional guest experience across every touchpoint, from reservation service to disembarking, earning the trust and confidence of discerning travelers.

The details

Ilma, meaning "water" in Maltese, launched in September 2024 and spans 790 feet, welcoming up to 448 guests across 224 light-filled suites, each featuring a private ocean-view terrace. The yacht's design, created by London-based AD Associates and Helsinki-based Aivan, blurs the line between interior and exterior living, while the on-board Beach House concept by Chapi Design Luxury Division introduces a relaxed, open-air aesthetic. Ilma offers five exceptional dining venues, a Ritz-Carlton Spa, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and a Marina providing direct access to the sea for activities.

  • Ilma, the second superyacht in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, debuted in September 2024.
  • The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's inaugural yacht, Evrima, launched in October 2022.
  • Luminara, the third yacht in the collection, set sail in July 2025.

The players

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

A cruise brand that redefines luxury travel at sea, seamlessly blending the legendary service and refined amenities of The Ritz-Carlton with the freedom and elegance of yachting.

Ilma

The second ultra-luxury yacht in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, spanning 790 feet and accommodating up to 448 guests.

Ernesto Fara

President & CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Amanda Frasier

President of Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide.

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What they’re saying

“From day one, we set out to redefine travel at sea through a highly personalized approach rooted in service, care, and attention to detail. Ilma's recognition as an industry first underscores a new era of ultra-luxury voyages and reflects years of dedication from our Ladies and Gentlemen, both on board and ashore, who deliver exceptional experiences for our guests every day.”

— Ernesto Fara, President & CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

“Our coveted Five-Star award is not given; it is earned through our exacting, incognito evaluation process. The Five-Star recognition is not just about delivering an exceptional guest experience but about delivering it consistently from reservation service to disembarking – earning the guest's trust and confidence. This doesn't occur by happenstance, but through dedication and coordination. We congratulate the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection on this impressive achievement.”

— Amanda Frasier, President of Ratings, Forbes Travel Guide

The takeaway

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's industry-first Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide sets a new benchmark for luxury hospitality at sea, demonstrating the brand's commitment to delivering an exceptional and consistently exceptional guest experience across every aspect of the journey.