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Sleek and sophisticated, the intimate yachts of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fuse the refined residential feel and legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton with the relaxed freedom of the yachting lifestyle.

A voyage with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers an unprecedented opportunity to be untethered. Sail into the heart of iconic cities and drop anchor off secluded island hideways. Explore the natural beauty of rugged Mediterranean coastlines. Here, freedom and flexibility allow immersion in life's most exceptional experiences.

We never forget that curiosity, awe and adventure are what make travel so transformative, both on land and at sea. At every opportunity, we’ve designed immersive experiences with The Ritz-Carlton sensibility in mind, whether that’s an evening of unexpected entertainment, a truly memorable meal, or a bespoke excursion ashore in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Each Ritz-Carlton yacht has been thoughtfully designed to marry a spacious, residential feel with the innovative design of the world’s most stylish yacht interiors. Our Ladies and Gentlemen ensure that your every need is met with genuine care and the legendary service that The Ritz-Carlton is known for. With every detail considered, you’re free to enjoy each moment of your all-inclusive journey.

Evrima was named for a word of Greek origin that means “discovery.” Explore five restaurants and six lounges; schedule a treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa; enjoy a day on the water from the aft marina; or dance under the stars in The Observation Lounge. 

Our newest yacht, Ilma — slated to set sail for its inaugural season in 2024 — takes its name from the Maltese word for “water.” Connect with the sea on your private terrace, in open-air lounges or via the yacht’s expanded marina. Savor new flavors in one of five restaurants, and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Explore celebrated yachting playgrounds and secluded coves best accessed by yacht, or go ashore to visit historic seaside gems.  

Bask in Caribbean sun, exploring cascading falls and aquamarine waters.

Drop anchor along the chic French, Italian and Dalmatian rivieras or island hop the Greek Isles.

Unplug from the stress of everyday life as you cross the vast ocean.

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See inside the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's second vessel, Ilma

• The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's second ship, Ilma, departed on its maiden voyage Monday.
• The 790-foot-long Ilma is larger than its predecessor Evrima, which launched in 2022.
• The ship will operate cruises in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern Europe ranging from three to 13 nights.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is growing.

The luxury brand’s second ship, Ilma, departed on its maiden voyage Monday. The vessel, which will spend its inaugural season sailing the Mediterranean, was fittingly named for the Maltese word for water.

The 790-foot-long Ilma is larger than 624-foot predecessor Evrima, which launched in 2022 .

“It is with immense pride and excitement that we welcome Ilma to our growing fleet,” executive chairman and CEO Jim Murren said in a news release. “Since Evrima’s debut, we have been steadfast in our pursuit of excellence at sea. The addition of Ilma signifies a continuation of our mission to deliver legendary service and unparalleled enjoyment to our guests.”

Here’s what to expect.

Where does Ilma sail?

Along with the Mediterranean, the 448-guest ship will operate cruises in the Caribbean and Northern Europe ranging from three to 13 nights. The ship’s week-long maiden voyage from Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Rome, Italy, includes stops in Saint-Tropez, France; Bastia on the island of Corsica; and Livorno in Tuscany.

What can passengers expect on board?

For a relatively small vessel, Ilma has a robust culinary program. There are five dining venues, seven bars and a wine vault.

Two of the eateries were crafted by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants. Modern Italian fine dining concept Seta su Ilma by Chef Fabio Trabocchi serves seasonal tasting menus paired with wines – largely Italian reds and whites. The beach club-inspired Beach House offers Pan-Latin dishes, craft beer, an “elevated tequila selection” and more, according to a separate news release , with a menu developed with Chef Michael Mina.

Another space, The Living Room, serves coffee and pastries in the morning, and cocktails, Champagne and wines later in the day, which guests can enjoy while listening to live music.

There are also two pools, including an infinity pool at the vessel’s aft, a spa and fitness studio. Passengers can find direct access to the water for activities like snorkeling and kayaking at the ship’s Marina, or grab a drink at the nearby Marina Terrace.

Each of Ilma’s 224 suites have private terraces, as well.

Floating resorts vs yacht-like vessels: How to pick between big and small cruise ships

How much do cruises on Ilma cost?

Prices vary depending on the sailing date, suite category and other factors, but starting prices for 2024 sailings currently range from $5,200 to $14,900 per person based on double occupancy.

The fare includes multiple dining venues, Wi-Fi, gratuities and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

The ultimate guide to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

• The 298-passenger Evrima — the first ship in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection — set sail in October.
• The all-suite yacht offers six types of accommodations — all with balconies and 24/7 room service.
• Enjoy fine food aboard: A three-star Michelin chef designed some dining experiences.

In one of my favorite movies, "Almost Famous," fictional groupie Penny Lane opined that "It's all happening!" The rock band closest to her heart was finally making it big and she could not contain her glee. I felt that same sense of enthusiasm when The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection finally set sail on Oct. 15, 2022.

It's been a long time coming. The launch of the line was delayed for three years due to a variety of circumstances that included slowdowns at the shipyard , the pandemic and moving its first yacht to a new shipyard for completion. So it was a thrilling moment when its first ship, Evrima, welcomed guests in Barcelona on Saturday.

Way back in 2017, executives at The Ritz-Carlton announced the development of a line of brand-new yachts that would supposedly change the face of luxury cruising — at least for Marriott loyalists and anyone that prefers a small-ship experience.

Whether you're road-tripping or globetrotting, the suite life is always better. Download the free TPG App to upgrade your travel!

Evrima is the first superyacht in the Ritz trio. Ilma and Luminara will join it in the future.

Luxury travel fans that love small-ship sailing with a focus on "greatest hits" cruise destinations, suite-style accommodations and Michelin-level dining want to know if The Ritz-Carlton is worth the wait. Read on for a guide to this brand-new cruise line.

3 things TPG loves about The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

• The superyacht Evrima is intimate, accommodating 298 passengers.
• The aft Marina platform affords easy entry to the sea for swimming and nonmotorized water sports.
• An all-inclusive fare includes beverages, tips, all dining, Wi-Fi, a personal concierge and more.

What we could do without

• We wish the tie-in with Marriott Bonvoy's loyalty program was a bit more advantageous for elites. You need to be Marriott Titanium or higher to receive complimentary priority boarding and departure benefits. We'd love to see the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card add priority boarding as a benefit in the future.
• We'd also love to see some more unusual ports of call once the line hits its stride. For example, while Ritz's Athens (Piraeus), Greece round-trip itinerary with an overnight call on Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey plus Santoniri and Milos, Greece may entice new-to-cruisers, those who take several luxury cruises a year have probably already been to all of those ports of call — more than once or twice. (We know: first-world problems.)

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's fleet

At the inception of the cruise line, the company announced it would sail three identical yachts. While three yachts are still the plan — Ilma and Luminara are set to join Evrima in 2024 and 2025, respectively — the ships will not have the same design.

The line tapped Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, to build ships two and three, and Ilma and Luminara will be much larger than Evrima. They'll be 171 feet longer than their sister ship and measure 46,750 gross register tons compared with Evrima's roughly 24,000 gross register tons. Like Evrima, the second and third ships will be all-suite ships, but they will feature 228 suites instead of 149. Additionally, the next-generation ships will have a higher percentage of larger suites than Evrima.

According to the cruise line, it has an eye toward sustainability. In regards to Ilma and Luminara, it says "each vessel will be fitted with four dual-fuel engines and utilize liquefied natural gas (LNG) as its main fuel source, significantly reducing emissions as compared to traditional practices. Additionally, the yachts will include advanced water treatment systems, an efficient heat recovery loop, LED lighting, and more, with the goal of minimizing environmental impact."

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has an option to order two additional yachts from the shipyard. It will be interesting to see if the line sticks to its three initial ships or expands to a five-ship fleet.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Destinations and itineraries

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has solved a problem I've had for a long time with the luxury cruise market: the length of the sailings offered. Often, luxury lines program incredible voyages of 14 or more nights. Sure, they sound wonderful and I'd love to go ahead and book them. But, my husband is a small business owner, and my job is busy too; it's hard for us to take two weeks or more of vacation at once. We prefer high-end vacations that are on the shorter side.

The Ritz yacht offers a nice mix of voyages that span four to 12 nights, making it much easier for working professionals to book them. But if you do have more time, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection can also accommodate you with back-to-back sailings. That makes it a snap to customize a longer sailing.

Evrima began its sailing career in October 2022 with plans for a series of five European itineraries before it is set to reposition to the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Bahamas for the winter.

The yacht's inaugural "warm weather" season offers five-, seven-, 10- and 12-night itineraries, including:

• Bridgetown, Barbados round trips.
• Bridgetown, Barbados to Philipsburg, St. Martin (and reverse).
• Philipsburg to San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• San Juan round trip.
• San Juan to Bridgetown (and reverse).
• Bridgetown to Panama City, Panama.
• Panama City to San Jose (Puerto Caldera), Costa Rica.
• San Jose round trip.
• San Jose to Fort Lauderdale.
• Fort Lauderdale round trip.

If you love transatlantic sailings, check out Evrima's 13-night April 14 itinerary that departs San Juan and arrives in Lisbon, Portugal with calls on Hamilton, Bermuda; Horta and Ponta Delgada in The Azores; plus nine sea days.

The ship then tours the Mediterranean through October 2023.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

You'll love this line if…

OK. You got us here. The line just started sailing and we haven't been on board just yet so we can't tell you exactly what you'll love about this line. But we can make some educated guesses based on The Ritz's track record, the marketing material we've seen so far and early reviews from other sailors.

The Ritz-Carlton brand is all about exemplary service. We expect this drive to deliver an authentic, above-average experience to find its way onto the yachts. The Ritz offers luxury but it's never stuffy or stodgy. Instead, the line and yacht offer modern and elegant decor (nothing fussy), personalized service and Michelin-star quality dining.

One of the appealing things about The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is its all-inclusive fares — something it will have in common with many luxury cruise lines.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fares include:

• ocean-view accommodations with a private balcony, which The Ritz calls a "terrace."
• a dedicated Personal Concierge.
• all dining at multiple restaurants as well as 24-hour in-suite room service.
• beverages (all nonalcoholic, bottled water, coffee and tea plus select wines and liquors) throughout the yacht and in your suite.
• onboard entertainment and enrichment.
• a marina-style platform with access to nonmotorized watersports while at anchor.
• onboard gratuities for housekeeping, dining and bar staff. (You will need to tip for salon and spa services.)

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Cabins and suites

If you gravitate toward modern interior design with sleek surfaces, mixed textures and muted earth tones, you'll appreciate the suites aboard Evrima. (Each cabin type is referred to as a "suite" in The Ritz-Carlton yacht world even if it's not technically two or more rooms.)

The line tapped Tillberg Design of Sweden to envision its cabins. With a private yacht feel, akin to The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Florida's Sunny Isles Beach and Miami Beach, along with Los Angeles, the emphasis is on comfortable open-concept spaces and natural light.

Upon arrival at your suite, a chilled bottle of Moët et Chandon (Grande Marque Champagne, Brut Imperial, Non-Vintage, according to a publicist we spoke to) will greet you. Enjoy that out on your private balcony before getting to know the intricacies of your cabin. All suites offer a king-size bed with high-end Frette linens, digital flat-screen TV, a minibar stocked with your preferences (bottled water is Perrier) and an in-suite safe. Each suite has a Nespresso machine and a selection of complimentary specially roasted coffee and teas from Illy Cafè and Dammann Frères. If you want hypoallergenic pillows, those are available upon request.

The bathroom features a double vanity, luxury bath amenities, robes and slippers, a vanity mirror and a hair dryer.

You can order 24-hour room service. The All-Day Dining menu features influences from every dining venue on board and a Late-Night Dining menu will also be available.

Each suite is also assigned a personal concierge. According to Ritz-Carlton, this person "is your single onboard touchpoint to ensure a flawless, seamless journey from beginning to end."

Finally, the yacht also offers connecting and convertible suites for families and friends traveling together.

Related: The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship

Let's take a look at what the suites look like:

Terrace Suites

Entry-level cabins are called Terrace Suites. Ninety cabins in this category are 300 square feet with a 67-square-foot balcony. Two Terrace Suites are ADA-compliant (adhering to standards set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act).

Signature Suites

The next cabin category covers more floor space at 429 square feet and accommodates a king bed plus a convertible sleeper sofa. The balcony is 101 square feet. There are 27 Signature Suites and one is ADA-compliant.

Grand Suites

Are you the type that tends to overpack for a voyage? Then a Grand Suite — there are 14 of them on the ship — may be right for you since it offers dual walk-in closets. It also offers a king bed plus a convertible sleeper sofa. The suite interior is 587 square feet and the terrace is 108 square feet.

2-Story Loft Suites

The yacht's 611-square-foot, bi-level Loft Suites are interesting because they separate the living space (upstairs) from your sleeping quarters (downstairs). The plus is that you can enter the suite from hallways on both levels. The bathroom situation is also upgraded, with a double vanity master bathroom that includes a soaking tub and a separate shower (on the lower level) and a powder room on the upper level. Adding a bit of privacy, the convertible sleeper sofa in this stateroom is on the upper level that's otherwise devoted to living/dining space. The terrace is also on the upper level, at 76 square feet, and downstairs features a panoramic picture window for sea views. The yacht features 12 Loft Suites.

View Suites

At first blush on the deck plan, the four View Suites may seem similar to the Grand Suites. But, there's an important difference: floor-to-ceiling windows throughout that offer incredible views of the ocean and port. Suites 732 and 733 are 544 square feet with an 86-square-foot balcony while suites 734 and 735 are larger, at 574 square feet with a 97-square-foot balcony. This cabin category features a king bed and a convertible sleeper sofa.

Owner's Suites

The ship's two Owner's Suites, at 1,091 square feet, are larger than most Manhattan apartments. There are two nice things about this accommodation: a second full bath and a 592-square-foot balcony. The terrace is outfitted with upgrades such as outdoor furniture (a full sofa, two chairs, a coffee table, two loungers and two cocktail tables) and a dining table for four. The piece de resistance, however, is the private hot tub.

Inside, you'll find plenty of room to spread out with a dining table for six, a sitting area with four chairs and a table and a second sitting area with a loveseat, coffee table and two chairs. Beds includes a king bed and a convertible sleeper sofa. One more extra amenity is a pair of high-end binoculars for guest use.

Restaurants and dining

Even though the yachts will only host up to 298 passengers at full capacity, there are several distinct dining venues — including S.E.A, designed by chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg in Germany.

All venues feature fresh, local ingredients while serving cuisine influenced by the destinations the yacht visits.

Related: The 9 best cruise ship steakhouses and steak-serving restaurants

The Evrima Room

While Ritz yachts won't have main dining rooms the way you're used to seeing them aboard mega-ships — huge cavernous venues that pack everyone in tight during meal service — The Evrima Room is the ship's main restaurant. Here, you can dine as a couple or join other travelers in an intimate and relaxed setting. The restaurant is on Deck 4, aft, and the menu will change with the seasons.

This is one of the most romantic spots on the ship. On Deck 8, aft, in front of the pool, this laidback venue was designed for a lunch under the sun or a romantic alfresco meal in the evening. The Mediterranean-style menu features the local catch, and you can order prime cuts of meat from the grill. You can enjoy drinks here, too, as you take in the beauty of the yacht.

Every ship needs a sushi bar, and you'll find one aboard Evrima on Deck 6 at Talaat Nam, which also offers a family-style table experience and outdoor dining with a view of the ship's wake. While we haven't yet seen the sushi menu, a passenger shared the dinner menu and it looks fantastic.

Starters include a Thai mango salad, chicken satay, Vietnamese-style spring rolls, hamachi, gyoza, beef tataki, red miso soup and edamame. Entrees are appealing and include beef rendang, chicken adobo, Thai prawn curry, Thai red curry, pancit noodles, ramen, chicken laksa and kimchee fried rice. Desserts include one of my favorite flavors: pandan. The leaves of this aromatic plant remind me of coconut and vanilla. That's presented in a custard delicacy. You can also order mango sticky rice or an almond sago avocado concoction with coconut ice cream.

The Pool House

When you want to enjoy a more relaxed meal, be it an early-risers breakfast, lunch or late-night nosh, The Pool House — on Deck 5 directly in front of the aft pool — will punch the ticket. Menu items are prepared a la minute in this open-air space.

Passengers on the first sailing reported a breakfast menu that ranged from challah French toast with berries and syrup to a garden frittata, lobster omelet with Hackleback caviar, breakfast tacos, bagels with lox, avocado toast and more. Coffee is by Illy and tea by Dammann Freres.

Lunchtime and afternoon "to share" items looked yummy, too: guacamole, fried calamari, blistered shishito peppers, sticky chicken wings, Peruvian ceviche, baked cauliflower and wild mushroom flatbread.

More substantial menu items included burgers, buttermilk fried chicken, lobster and shrimp rolls, beer-battered cod, steak sandwiches, roasted salmon BBQ baby back ribs and four interesting salads. Dessert is limited but includes ice cream, chocolate fudge brownies and creme brulee.

If you're a fan of chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, his three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, head to S.E.A., on Deck 6 where he's created a "specialty dining experience." In cruise lingo, that usually means it carries an extra surcharge and that is the case here. (We're reaching out to The Ritz to find out the exact cost, but a passenger reported it cost $625 for her and her boyfriend to dine there.) In terms of food, it's a "European tasting menu;" more details to come. Reservations are required.

The Living Room

Coffee drinkers and snackers need to memorize the location of The Living Room on Deck 4. It's a place to socialize or just sink into its comfy chairs to read a book from the library. Throughout the day and night, you can order freshly roasted coffees and espresso and pick up pastries and other treats.

The Marina Terrace

Just above the Marina, you'll find this spot that serves drinks and "light bites."

You'll no doubt spend plenty of time at The Bar. Kick-start each night of your voyage with a special cocktail or Champagne toast and stop by for a nightcap after dinner. Looking for something decadent? This lounge serves premium Champagnes paired with caviar.

In-suite dining

There is an All-Day Dining menu that can be served in your suite or on your balcony 24/7.

Entertainment and activities

Life aboard any yacht is naturally a bit more laid-back than the vibe you'll find on mega-ships that offer dozens of bars, a comedy club, Broadway-style productions, karaoke, casino games and more.

Theaters and shows

While there is no theater on board the ship, there are opportunities to enjoy live music. Initial reports from passengers indicate that evenings are a bit on the quiet side so far.

The Observation Lounge

As twilight descends, passengers seek out The Observation Lounge on Deck 10. With incredible sea views, it's the place to get to know your fellow passengers over a drink at sunset followed by late-night dancing.

As mentioned above, The Living Room does double duty. It's a library and coffee house during the day, but it morphs into a piano bar and dance hall at night. Enjoy live music here in the evening hours. It's expected to be the go-to cocktail lounge on the ship.

Other interior attractions and activities

Despite the ship's intimate stature, it offers the amenities you'd expect of a luxury cruise ship. You'll find a spa, fitness center, cigar bar and boutique. Here are more details.

Forward on Deck 9, The Spa — open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily — is quite well equipped for such a small ship. Here you'll find all manner of salon and beauty services as well as treatments ranging from deep muscle to hot stone massage.

The complete spa oasis includes a Relaxation Lounge and outdoor relaxation areas, including a hot tub all the way forward on that deck. There also are separate "Heat Experience" facilities — aroma steam rooms and dry saunas — for male and female passengers. They're in the changing areas. The spa provides lockers, robes, slippers, shower caps, towels and all the other accouterments you'd expect.

Treatment prices are similar to what you'd find on land. In the beauty salon, a shampoo and style starts at $80 for short hair, $90 for medium and $100 for long. A haircut and style are a bit more expensive, starting at $100 for short hair, $125 for medium and $140 for long hair. Hair straightening or curling (with no wash) is a bargain at $55. If you want a manicure, the 45-minute "Supreme" will set you back $95. For men, a beard trim starts at $35 while a shave starts at $75.

But it's the spa treatments most people get excited about. Aboard the yacht, there are several massage options, such as the 60-or 90-minute signature "Evrima" massage (starting at $255), where light to moderate pressure is paired with aromatherapy essential oils. Also available are deep muscle massages (starting at $205) and piedras calientes therapy treatments, which use warmed stones (starting at $275). After a day in port, you might want the hour-long black masque Leg Renewal Treatment ($130) that alleviates tired legs by reducing inflammation and encouraging enhanced circulation.

An array of facials are also available, including the 90-minute Ultimate Radiance and Renewal Facial ($320) that uses ESPA skincare-brand products.

If you plan to book several treatments, your best bet may be buying one of these packages:

If you didn't prebook a treatment before boarding, your personal concierge can assist you on board; otherwise, call or visit The Spa. A receptionist will explain the options and make your arrangements.

If you use Technogym equipment at home, you'll recognize the gear in the yacht's fitness center on Deck 9 near The Spa. You'll find treadmills, stationary bikes, ellipticals, free weights and more.

In addition to the exercise equipment, you can also sign up for personal training sessions (30 minutes starting at $75), private yoga sessions (an hour starts at $100) and fitness consultations (starting at $275). The Gym is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Talk with The Spa to make reservations.

Guests can also take advantage of complimentary group exercise programs and presentations on such wellness topics as nutrition. Consult the onboard activity guide for more details.

Note that the gym can only be used by passengers who are 18 and older. Sixteen and 17-year-olds can use the facility when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (or upon filling out an authorized consent form).

The Humidor

Most luxury ships have a cigar bar, and Evirma is no different. The Humidor on Deck 10 offers premium cognac paired with hand-rolled cigars.

The Boutique

While you won't find a veritable shopping mall aboard Evrima in the style of Royal Caribbean's Royal Promenade, you will find The Boutique on Deck 4. The line promises leading luxury labels and artwork from local craftspeople.

Deck-top attractions

On Evrima, the deck attractions focus on the great outdoors. The aft Marina will wow anyone that loves watching the waves and jumping into the water to enjoy snorkeling or paddleboarding. Here's what you can expect on the deck of the Ritz-Carlton yachts.

While not on the top deck, The Marina is a standout feature of the yacht. It's on Deck 3 with direct access to the water. Here, you can borrow gear — like paddleboards, windsurf boards, kayaks, sailboats and snorkel equipment — for complimentary watersports. As with similar watersports platforms on other ships, the Marina will only open when weather conditions are right and local authorities permit its usage.

Even if you don't plan to get in the water, The Marina is an ideal spot to spend a sunny day. Multiple seating areas afford incredible views.

This deck is especially atmospheric at night with accent lighting that creates a beautiful blue glow.

Evrima has three pools. The main pool is on Deck 5, aft, near The Pool House restaurant.

A smaller pool is on Deck 8 near Mistral and the Ritz Kidz club.

A small, round pool — with a shade canopy — is located on Deck 9, forward, at The Spa Terrace.

Observation Terrace

The Observation Terrace is all the way forward on Deck 10, in front of the Observation Lounge. This is your perch for a bird's-eye view from the ship. Comfy seating areas abound where you can grab a drink and chat with newfound friends.

Children's programs

Where other cruise lines such as Viking and Virgin Voyages have barred children from their ships, Ritz-Carlton has no such limitations on its yachts. Children as young as 6 months can sail with the line.

The line purposely carved out space aboard each vessel for a Ritz-Kids club on Deck 8 aft. Children ages 4-12 are welcome to attend the programs in the club, which range from educational to arts and crafts. The program will be beefed up during the summer and holidays. There will be a nominal fee for each session.

While guests have access to Ritz-Kids, babysitting services are not offered.

A limited number of cribs are available upon request.

What to know before you go

Here are some big-picture details you should know before you cruise with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Dress codes

The line says it focuses on the "casual freedom of a yachting vacation," so you don't need to worry about packing formal wear. There are no formal nights on Ritz yachts. Passengers on the first sailing report that some gentlemen are wearing sportcoats in the evening while others aren't. Women are donning flowing palazzo pants and pretty blouses as well as cocktail dresses and sundresses.

Even so, when packing for your Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruise, keep these two dress codes in mind:

Yacht Casual: At breakfast and lunch, shirts, shoes and bathing suit cover-ups are required unless you're at the pool. Then you can go barefoot and you don't need to cover up your swimsuit.

In the evening, put away the sleeveless T-shirts and bathing suits. Shirts and shoes are required throughout the yacht in the evening, even if you're sitting by the pool.

Yacht Sophisticated: If you plan to dine at chef Sven Elverfeld's specialty restaurant, collared shirts — though not required — are highly recommended.

Required documents

All passengers must bring aboard a passport that's valid at least six months after the voyage's disembarkation date. Visa requirements vary by destination, and it's up to you to determine what paperwork you need to sail. The line recommends that passengers coordinate visa requests with Pinnacle Travel Document Systems at 1-888-838-4867.

There is no need to tip the staff on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection vessels. A service charge — except for spa treatments and salon appointments — is included in the cruise fare. Of course, feel free to tip any crew member that goes above and beyond during your voyage.

Related: Cruise ship gratuity, service charge and tipping guide

Wi-Fi is included in the cruise fare. Early reports indicate that it's stable and some have even taken Zoom calls from their suites.

Carry-on drinks policy

You can bring wine aboard the yacht. However, there will be a $20 corkage fee if you enjoy it in a dining room. You can't bring liquor aboard.

Smoking policy

There is only one place to go on the ship if you want to smoke (and that includes e-cigarettes): The Humidor on Deck 10. You can't smoke anywhere else — not even on an open deck. If the smell of smoke is detected in your suite, you will be tagged with a $1,000 cleaning fee.

Pressing, laundry and dry-cleaning services are available upon request through in-suite services for an additional cost. A self-service Guest Launderette is located on Deck 9, where an iron, washer, dryer and detergent will be available at no additional cost.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

Suites have both 230v and 120v outlets plus USB charging capabilities.

The U.S. dollar is the official currency of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. When you board, you'll put down a credit card to which all of your onboard purchases will be charged.

Drinking age

According to the line's ticket contract, "Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served wine and beer, and at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages other than wine and beer. When docked or anchored in U.S. ports, or within the U.S. territorial sea, guests must be at least 21 years old to be served any alcoholic beverage."

The loyalty program

You can earn and burn Marriott points on Evrima sailings.

The good news first: Marriott Bonvoy members earn 5 points per $1 spent on cruise fares as well as hotel packages at participating Marriott hotels booked through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

You'll also earn one elite night credit for each night you sail. Note that the passenger paying for the cruise will earn the points and elite night credits.

Now for the not-so-hot news: Redemption rates aren't terrific. Redeem 180,000 points for $1,000 off your cruise fare. You can then spend increments of 90,000 points to get an additional $500 off.

TPG values Marriott points at $0.84 each. That means we'd prefer to use 180,000 points for redemptions that would cost $1,512 or more in cash. The offer to use points on a sailing is below our preferred threshold.

However, sometimes RCYC will offer a more lucrative special promotion; for example, book select sailings and earn 75,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points in addition to what you'll earn per dollar paid on the cruise fare. Check the "Offers" tab of the line's website to check for deals like that.

If you are a Marriott elite, here's what you can expect onboard.

Related: The award traveler's guide to Marriott Bonvoy

What it costs

As you may imagine, you can't book a yacht experience on a shoestring budget, but there are some good values to be had during The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's first sailing season. For a luxury experience of this caliber, expect to pay about $700 to $900 per person per night for Caribbean sailings and from about $1,100-plus per person per night for Mediterranean itineraries.

Maybe this will change in the future, but the line's cruise fares aren't solo traveler-friendly. All suites carry a 200% single supplement (i.e., you will pay double the per-person rate based on double occupancy when you travel in a cabin alone).

Staterooms can accommodate third and fourth guests at a rate of 50% of the first and second berth rate. Those additional guests must be under 14. Note that a limited number of roll-away beds are available upon request.

You'll pay 25% of the first and second berth for infants and toddlers 6 months to 2 years old when reserved as the third berth in a suite. A parent or guardian who's 21 or older must accompany any child. Note that on voyages with three or more consecutive days at sea, the minimum age for children is one year. Children under the age of 5 cannot board the Zodiacs.

Related: 15 ways cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

How to book

At TPG, we recommend that travelers always use a travel agent that specializes in cruise travel to book their cruises. Using a knowledgeable travel agent won't cost you a penny, and it can provide many advantages. First and foremost, travel agents understand the nuances of each cruise line and ship and can recommend the best options for you, from which stateroom to select to the perfect itinerary. Travel agents also often get access to special reduced cruise fares or perks that can add a lot of value to your sailing. If something goes wrong, you've got an ally that can work directly with the cruise line on your behalf for a resolution.

If you don't use a travel agent, you can book directly through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Just give them a call or shoot them an email, and they will match you with an internal cruise adviser.

Or, you can book your voyage online. There are all sorts of online travel agents and discounters from which to choose.

You can even book a Ritz-Carlton yacht adventure through Delta's SkyMiles Cruises. For example, at press time, you can book a seven-night Central America voyage aboard Evrima for $5,400 per person. Bonuses include $1,000 in travel credits to get to/from the ship (that can be used on things such as an upgrade to first-class seats, a limo transfer and pier parking), and you can earn up to 10,000 SkyMiles.

No matter which method you use to book your voyage, maximize your credit card points when paying for the sailing by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offers 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining.

And, of course, you may want to use the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card , Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card or Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card .

Related: 6 tips for booking your first cruise

Bottom line

Pairing The Ritz's long history in the luxury hospitality market with small-ship cruising is a big win for cruisers. The line's participation in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program further sets it apart from other lines that don't have a points partner in the hotel space. While the redemption rate isn't amazing, we still call it a win to be able to book a cruise with points.

More stories to help you plan your next cruise:

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• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The 7 best meals at sea
• The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler
• What to pack for your first cruise

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What It's Like On Board Evrima, The Ritz-Carlton's First Ship

What to expect on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Evrima, a 149-suite ship with five restaurants, six lounges, and plenty of over-the-top hotel amenities.

Maya Kachroo-Levine / Travel + Leisure

“The great thing about yachting is you’re in complete control — whether you’re at anchor or at a dock,” said Doug Prothero, founder of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection . “We have the ability to make something up as we go along — and that is the yachting lifestyle."

We were drinking iced tea at the Marina, an indoor-outdoor venue hovering 10 feet above the water on the third deck of the Evrima . The yacht, named for the Greek word for “discovery,” was anchored in Alcúdia Bay, just off the northeastern coast of Mallorca, Spain. Stairs led down to a platform from which guests could dive directly into the sea. Prothero called the area, lined with sun loungers, “the beach.”

Maya Kachroo-Levine / Travel + Leisure

Prothero explained how The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection structures itineraries aboard the Evrima . Each all-inclusive sailing (with options for five-, seven-, nine-, 10-, 11-, and 12-night journeys) spends at least two days at anchor, affording guests the choice to stay lounging at sea or take a small tender boat to the nearest port (in this case, Alcúdia, Spain, where some visited the Old Town and one group of golfers even went ashore for a 7 a.m. tee time).

“We’re moving this resort,” Prothero said. “There’s never going to be a Ritz-Carlton in this place.” But there is right now.

The Inaugural Sailing

We’d left Barcelona Cruise Port the night before, on October 15, 2022, for Evrima’ s long-anticipated inaugural journey . We set sail with 220 guests, a handful of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection corporate team members, 245 Ritz-Carlton ladies and gentlemen (as the brand calls those working on board), 1,800 bottles of Moët & Chandon, and one Travel + Leisure editor (me).

Some guests had been waiting three years for this moment, having booked the original inaugural sailing, set for February 5, 2020. It was rescheduled eight times — the result of a shipyard bankruptcy, the COVID-19 pandemic, and myriad supply chain delays. And yes, I did meet travelers who had rescheduled every time, one of whom showed me eight confirmation emails over martinis at the Observation Lounge on deck 10.

Christopher Cypert / Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton

On the other hand, many passengers I met had no idea there were delays — including honeymooners who had booked this trip in January 2022 because it departed exactly a week after their wedding; a solo traveler in her 30s who I joined on a four-hour shore excursion filled with tapas and insights into the Gothic architecture of Palma, Mallorca; and a woman whose husband had surprised her with a 50th-birthday celebration aboard The Ritz-Carlton yacht she kept sending him articles about.

Once the ship sailed from Barcelona , no one was thinking about the ups and downs that preceded our voyage or how we got there. We were focused on where we were going. And it was Saturday night on Evrima .

Bars and Restaurants

I was off to The Evrima Room, the fourth-deck main dining room serving three meals a day. I ordered the charred octopus (all the fish and seafood on board are sourced locally from ports every three days), heirloom tomato risotto, and a lemon tart decked out with mini meringues and sugar-spun ornamentation.

There are four other dining venues (plus 24/7 in-room dining) on the 623-foot-long yacht: The Pool House, on the fifth deck, next to the infinity-edge pool; S.E.A., which stands for Sven Elverfeld Afloat, modeled after the chef’s Michelin three-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, Germany, on deck six; Talaat Nam, an indoor-outdoor Southeast Asian spot designed to physically wrap around S.E.A.; and open-air Mediterranean restaurant Mistral on deck eight. I polled about 20 ladies and gentlemen on their favorite restaurant, and Mistral was the overwhelming favorite. The focal point of Mistral is the pool in the middle of the venue — one of two pools on board — “Plus the sea,” Prothero quipped, “that’s the biggest pool."

All food and beverages are included in the sail price, save the curated 120-bottle reserve wine list, a collection of high-end spirits, and the seven-course tasting menu at S.E.A., which starts at $285 with wine pairings.

Amenities and Entertainment

I left The Evrima Room by 10:30 p.m. to see where people were congregating, first dropping by the fourth-deck Living Room, where a jazz trio was warming up.

There are six musicians on board, including a DJ, as well as local artists who continually rotate in. They play in different configurations, including as a pop group and a jazz trio. Guitarist Craig Stuart told me most had never met before coming together in July in Santander, Spain, where the ship was being finished, to spend the month rehearsing together.

With six lounges on board, nearly every space felt lively, but none too crowded. From The Living Room, we migrated to deck 10 where the cozy, 404-square-foot Humidor, outfitted with a The Macallan cart, Davidoff cigars, and an array of reserve-list whiskies, was — sorry, there’s no other way to say it — poppin’ off. 

The Observation Lounge had similar energy, and folks gathered around as the bartender, OJ, who garnered a band of loyal followers during our time on Evrima, strained my Negroni into a coupe, enclosed it in a glass covering, and pumped in smoke, purely for the spectacle — and to add a smoky je ne sais quoi to my nightcap.

Even the ninth-deck Spa Terrace (one of Prothero’s favorite spots because “when we’re moving, you can see the front of the ship, so the view is amazing”) had a small crowd in the whirlpool. I didn’t linger on the Spa Terrace, but came back the next morning for a deep-tissue massage in one of the five treatment rooms and a sumptuous nap in the indoor-outdoor relaxation area. 

The Staterooms

I ended my night on my private balcony wrapped in a Frette robe, transfixed by the waves of the Balearic Sea rhythmically foaming and curling against the ship. There was plenty of space inside my 429-square-foot Signature Suite to sprawl — a full tub and double vanity in the bathroom, a sitting area, a dining table, and a king-size bed.

Room options range from the entry-level Terrace Suites to the 1,000-square-foot Owner’s Suite, with a private whirlpool. Each of the 149 guest rooms has its own balcony. While the two two-story Lofts and their vast 81-square-foot terraces were the top-tier offering on the inaugural sailing, the two Owner's Suites and four View Suites have since been completed, and are now the swankiest rooms on the yacht. 

Francisco Martinez / Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton

A personal concierge is assigned to each suite, though with schedules printed daily (and posted on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection app) detailing onboard happenings, like sunset stretch and meditation on deck nine, and personalized itineraries, I rarely reached out to mine.

An Impeccable Team

As I met concierges, chefs, the two-person wine team (pro tip: always befriend the sommeliers), and shore excursion pros, I was impressed by their expertise. Of the 245 staff members on board, about half come from the world of luxury hotels and half from the world of high-end cruising. That’s how you bring a hotel concept to sea.

I talked luxury hotel shop with Theo Lakkas, a food-and-beverage lead who opened Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection , in Budapest. Executive chef John Suley came from Stephen Starr’s team and very seamlessly worked a “Wolf of Wall Street” quote into conversation. I learned about head sommelier Sebastian Pacheco’s vision for the reserve wine list — he wanted to pick up a highly sought-after case from every port city to bolster the already-expansive selection. He came from Francis Ford Coppola’s Inglenook in Rutherford, California, and was working there the last time I visited the Napa Valley winery in 2019. 

Sotheby’s-educated art concierge Rafaella Vitale, from the London art advisory world, gushed about the private tours she was planning to do with guests and the mini-auctions she’d curate for each sailing. I watched as Pacheco and Vitale ping-ponged ideas off each other for art-and-wine events they could put on during an upcoming transatlantic crossing, all while sipping Ruinart sparkling rosé from the bottle the three of us were sharing. That particular transatlantic voyage was slated to leave from Lisbon after Evrima’s christening on November 5, sail to Tenerife, Spain, spend seven days at sea, and wind up in Bridgetown, Barbados. Vitale planned to have the Bahamian artist behind the ship's upcoming rotating art exhibit, Lynn Parotti , on board for the crossing and Caribbean sailings.

Guest Rewards

As if it weren’t already apparent that this vessel is, in fact, a luxury hotel at sea by the classic light-blue Ritz-Carlton key cards, Frette robes, Diptyque bath products, and signature oils in the spa used at each of the 108 Ritz-Carlton hotels worldwide, the clearest sign came on our second evening. The ship hosted the “first-ever Marriott Bonvoy member reception at sea,” according to Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano, who Zoomed in for the occasion.

The Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program functions for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection much in the the same way it would on dry land: Guests can earn five points per dollar spent on their cruise fare; they can redeem points to reduce the cost of their sailing, with some limitations (an initial redemption of 180,000 points saves you $1,000, and you may then continue to redeem at a clip of 90,000 points for each $500 of savings).

Members will also earn one Elite Night Credit per night (which counts toward Marriott Bonvoy elite status ) and can enjoy a private members-only reception. The higher your status, the more perks you'll have access to, including priority boarding and departure, complimentary laundry services during your cruise, and early access to reservations at S.E.A., among others (depending on your level of status).

Where Evrima Sails — and New Ships on the Horizon

Evrima continued sailing the Mediterranean until the aforementioned transatlantic crossing, after which the yacht spent five months in the Caribbean, visiting idyllic ports of call in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Barbados, and Turks and Caicos, among other islands, before heading back across the Atlantic to the Mediterranean in mid-April 2023. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has two more vessels in the works: Ilma , coming in 2024, and Luminara , coming in 2025, each with a 456-passenger capacity.  While The Ritz-Carlton is now the first luxury hotel brand at sea on this scale, Four Seasons and Aman will soon launch ships of a similar size. In 2022, Four Seasons announced a 679-foot, 95-cabin yacht , designed by the same company that worked on the Evrima , Tillberg Design of Sweden , coming in late 2025. Like Evrima , it will summer on the Mediterranean and winter in the Caribbean. Aman’s 50-suite yacht, Project Sama , also slated for a 2025 delivery, is in partnership with Cruise Saudi and will explore the Middle East.

Christopher Cypert / Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton 

I disembarked on Mallorca halfway through the seven-night inaugural sailing, which concluded in Nice, France, on October 22, 2022. When Evrima anchored off the coast of St. Tropez, the Marina, open only when the ship is at anchor, unfolded with floating platforms and a bevy of water toys, like paddleboards, sailboats, kayaks, and snorkeling accoutrements.

From my layover in London, I texted my marketing contact for pictures of Evrima anchored off St. Tropez (it’s called yacht FOMO, OK?). I could just picture what my morning would look like on board: espresso on my balcony, maybe a mimosa at the Marina, a soak in the ninth-deck whirlpool. For the afternoon, I’d move slowly, go ashore when I wanted, if I wanted, probably make it up as I went along. I hear that’s what the yachting lifestyle is all about.

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Ilma, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: First In

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is new to the cruising scene—its first superyacht, Evrima , launched in 2022, and Ilma is the second in its quickly expanding fleet, which is meant to provide all the luxury and freedom of a private yacht with the refinement and service Ritz-Carlton is known for.

And I have to say they’re nailing it—I truly felt like I was aboard a yacht more than a cruise ship . All of the spaces are designed with intimacy in mind and you can tell.

Tell us about the ship in general .

She’s sleek, she’s sexy, and she has a hotelier’s touch. I stayed at Hôtel Arts Barcelona, a Ritz-Carlton flagship, before Ilma departed, and being onboard felt like a natural extension of the hotel. Everything felt comfortable but not at the expense of style. My mind immediately goes to the director-style dining chairs on deck outside Mistral, the restaurant on deck 10, which were not only designed specifically for Ilma —sleek chrome for the base and classic nautical stripes for the cushions—but improved upon from Evrima for new dimensions catering to comfort. I also can’t rave enough about the linens throughout the ship, from the napkins to the sheets to the bathrobe (more on this later).

All of the decks on board are expansive but never feel overcrowded—the loungers, couches, and tables are arranged to create pockets of intimate spaces, so you never feel like there are 400 other passengers onboard. There are 10 decks in total, the upper deck (10) and lower decks (3-5) being the most social—the main pool deck is on top, with loungers spanning along both sides of the ship and smaller tables between. At the bow, there’s the observation deck, cleverly hidden on the far side of the pool, with couches and its own bar. It’s so private, you almost feel like you might be in the wrong place (replaced quickly by the feeling that this is now your own little secret). The lower decks house most of the restaurants, the fitness studio and spa, and the smaller (infinity) pool deck, as well as the Living Room, which has smaller groupings of couches and tables, separated by natural parts of the architecture, like pillars and bookshelves, so you feel like you’re in, well, someone’s well-appointed family room.

Every design decision feels purposeful because, of course it is. Taking what they learned from Evrima and her guests, the Yacht Collection expanded much of Ilma ’s capacity to respond to what passengers gravitated toward the most, doubling the size of the fitness studios, the number of spa treatment rooms, and and the amount loungers on deck, for which I was grateful. I was relieved not to have to wake up at dawn to stake my claim on a seat.

Who is onboard?

Mostly couples, a few families, and a handful of solo travelers, all ranging in age. We had a lot of longtime Ritz loyalists, many who’d never cruised before, finally willing to give it a shot, thanks to Ilma .

Describe the cabins

Spacious, airy, plenty of room to breathe. My cabin— a Grand Suite —had both dining and living areas, in addition to a bedroom that I could close off while sleeping, avoiding any of the gorgeous Mediterranean sunlight let in by the floor-to-ceiling glass sliding door too early in the morning. Running the whole width of the suite, the door opened onto a balcony to rival the decks above. I had two loungers and two armchairs all to myself, of which I made ample use.

I appreciated the two separate closet spaces (more than I have in my current apartment) that had drawers and hanging space—with enough hangers!—in addition to open shelving, which I used as easy access for the items I reached for the most: jewelry, bags, a sarong for the pool.

As for the linens, they were all from Frette , including the bathrobe, which now has the distinction of being the most comfortable robe I’ve ever used and made me realize how scratchy other robes turn out to be.

The color scheme was, like the rest of the superyacht, refined and understated—soft grays, whites, with a pop of color from the teal couch.

In the bathroom, I relished using the Diptyque products present during every shower, though I did have to hunt for the waste bin, which turned out not to be a separate receptacle but a drawer that was part of the vanity and took some getting used to.

Tell us about the crew

They were attentive and engaged but not overbearing and often knew what I wanted before I did (thinking of the iced oat milk latte I was offered one morning on the pool deck—it turned out to be just what I needed). We were told some of the crew had come from other Ritz properties, and I could tell a few were still getting their sea legs but were well on their way to adapting to the ship.

My suite ambassador, Horacio, was a particular standout, always anticipating what I’d need for the coming day—an extra bottle of Moët early on, then a fresh bottle of sparkling water later. He also made sure my welcome-night dress was freshly pressed in time for dinner and the following party, which I was especially grateful for, as there was no iron in the suite (there are two in the guest launderette, though).

What food and drink options are available on board?

You’ll never want for a drink or snack on Ilma . There are five restaurants, all with distinctive types of cuisine—Tides, Memorī, Beach House, Mistral, and the pièce de resistance: Seta su Ilma . Headed up by Michelin-starred chef Fabio Trabocchi , Seta is the only restaurant on board that requires an additional fee to dine there, and I’d recommend making a reservation as soon as you embark.

I experienced Seta (and it truly is an experience ) my last night on the superyacht, and it was quite the send-off. Dinner is an 11-course tasting menu with a wine pairing for every course, so everyone told me to eat light the day of, and I’m glad I did, especially since my favorite course ( Wagyu beef calabrese) came last before dessert. Seta was the most intimate of the restaurants with only ~40 seats, and all of the tables had staggered seating times. Our (chatty) table was one of the later seatings, and we closed down the restaurant.

And when you’re more parched than peckish, there are six bars aboard, most adjacent to their respective restaurants. My favorite was the Marina Bar, in the aft of the ship. Two of the walls transform out into open-air decks with glass paneling beneath you, so you can get a glimpse of the water below while you sip your cocktail of choice (mine was naturally a piña colada).

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?

Yes and yes—treatments available include the usual suspects, like massages and facials, as well as salon services for both men and women. The Barber—an extension of the Pisterzi brand , which has locations in New York and Milan—and The Salon are the go-to spots for haircuts, shaves, manicures, and all grooming needs in between. (I heard nothing but rave reviews about The Barber from the men aboard—I heard some variation of “best shave of my life” every time.) There’s also a steam room and sauna (one of each for men and women), which you can enjoy even without another treatment booked.

I’m always carrying around a tight back, so I was delighted to be treated to a deep muscle massage and finally feel my shoulders fall below my ears. Before my treatment, my massage therapist asked the usual questions—any injuries, which spots needed the most work, etc.—but then she applied two different oils and asked which I liked better. The one I chose meant my body needed relaxing, naturally. During the treatment, there was a bowl of rose petals on the floor below my head, which I found to be a nice touch. The massage itself was just the amount of pressure I like—a lot—without verging into too much . Afterward, the steam room and sauna were offered to me, but I was eager to heat up by the pool instead.

What about activities and entertainment?

You won’t find a theater or auditorium onboard Ilma and that’s because life is best lived on the decks, so I found—catching sun by one of the two pools or taking advantage of the adult playground that is the “aquabana”—a floating lounge space off the aft of the ship where you can swim in the sea, kayak, paddleboard, or relax with your feet in the water under one of the cabanas. These are common on private yachts , and in keeping with giving passengers a taste of the yachting lifestyle, Ilma acquired the largest one made yet (so I’m told).

There was plenty of live music throughout the voyage: a DJ by the pool deck or a live band in the Living Room— Ilma ’s central lounge space with a coffee bar and rotating gelato flavors by day and a busy cocktail bar by night.

When you’ve had enough sun (hard to imagine, I know), there’s not only a gym but spinning and movement studios, all expanded on Ilma , due to their popularity on Evrima . I had the best intention of spending one morning testing out a treadmill, but whenever I walked by, it seemed like the other guests had it under control.

Instead, I power-walked the decks, taking in all the art—you can find an original Hockney, Warhol, and Picasso onboard—and window shopping at the Bvlgari boutique.

How was the experience for families?

Surprisingly welcoming! I did not expect to see so many families on board, but there was dedicated programming for children through Ritz Kids , as well as a number of children simply enjoying the amenities alongside the rest of us: dancing, swimming, and sipping juices.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?

We sailed from Barcelona to Saint-Tropez, where we anchored overnight, before disembarking in Monte Carlo. The overnight port call in Saint-Tropez gave us plenty of time for both planned excursions, which ranged from winery tours to a pastry-making class, and taking the tender into town for your own exploring.

For my excursion, I took a tour of nearby Port Grimaud, a planned community built in the ‘60s with a network of canals meant to mimic Venice , followed by a seafood tasting at a local restaurant before grabbing an digestif along the harbor back in Saint-Tropez with some of my fellow tour mates. What I really appreciated was how much time to wander we were given on our tour—we had portions of planned activities, like a boat tour through the aforementioned canals, but plenty of time for our own discovery.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

Ilma is the first build in the collection to have a specialized gas system installed, which makes it flexible for current—and future—sustainable fuels, like bio- or synthetic fuels, and the next member of the fleet, Luminara (launching in 2025), will have the same.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

A voyage on Ilma is worth booking to experience the luxury of the yachting lifestyle wherever, whenever—with the full service of a hotel.

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The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Review — Ships, Destinations, Dining, and More

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Table of Contents

The ritz-carlton yacht collection overview, departure ports, private ports/islands, accommodations, dining and beverages, onboard activities and amenities, shore excursions, marriott bonvoy loyalty program, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection finally debuted its first ship, Evrima, in October 2022, after years of delays. This new small-ship luxury cruise line is currently offering sailings throughout the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Each sailing is unique, so guests can stack multiple trips together for the ultimate cruise experience.

Let’s explore The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection to see what it offers and we’ll also look at how you can earn or use Marriott Bonvoy points on these luxury sailings.

Name : The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Number of Ships : 1 (2 more are planned for 2024 and 2025)

Destinations : Caribbean and Mediterranean

Loyalty Program : Marriott Bonvoy

Credit Card : Marriott Bonvoy credit cards

Bottom Line: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a new small-ship luxury cruise line. The line’s first ship, Evrima, set sail on her maiden voyage on October 15, 2022, from Barcelona, Spain.

Currently, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has 1 ship, Evrima , which debuted in October 2022. There are plans for 2 additional ships, Ilma and Lunimara , in 2024 and 2025.

Evrima is a 190-meter yacht that can accommodate up to 298 guests in 149 luxury suites . Each suite includes a private terrace, floor-to-ceiling windows, a king-sized bed, and a double vanity bathroom.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection does not have any private ports or islands.

There are 6 levels of suites available on a sailing with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

The Terrace is the base-level room. This 300-square-foot room has a terrace that measures 54 to 81 square feet and includes all of the standard luxury amenities that are available in every suite onboard, including:

• 24-hour in-suite dining
• Chilled Champagne upon arrival
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Floor-to-ceiling windows
• In-room espresso machine
• King-sized bed
• Luxury bath amenities
• Personal concierge
• Private terrace
• Robe and slippers

The Signature is a 429-square-foot room that has a separate sitting and dining area as well as a sleeper sofa and a soaking tub with a separate shower. The terrace ranges from 81 to 118 square feet.

The Grand has everything offered in The Signature as well as dual walk-in closets. It has 587 square feet of living space with a terrace that measures up to 118 square feet.

The 2-Story Loft has a master bedroom and bathroom as well as an additional king-sized bed sleeping area on the lower level. The upper level has a powder room, living and dining areas, and an 81-square-foot terrace. Both levels of this 611-square-foot suite have entries.

The View has a double vanity bathroom with a soaking tub and separate shower along with a king-sized bed and a sleeper sofa. Rooms range in size from 544 to 574 square feet with a terrace measuring 108 to 129 square feet.

The Owner’s is the largest suite available measuring 1,019 square feet with a 635 square foot terrace. This large suite has 2 full bathrooms, separate living and dining areas, a walk-in closet, a sleeper sofa, and a private whirlpool on the terrace.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is taking dining at sea to a new level with inventive, inspired cuisine served in beautiful spaces . Guests will enjoy regionally-influenced dishes in a variety of venues from intimate dining rooms to outdoor dining to private in-suite meals.

The Evrima Room is the yacht’s main dining room, serving seasonal specialties inspired by the local cuisine.

S.E.A . is a unique dining experience available for an additional fee. Designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld from Aqua, a 3-star Michelin restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany, S.E.A. offers a European tasting menu in a modern setting. Reservations are required.

Talaat Nam serves contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine at family-style tables, in an outdoor dining area, or at the restaurant’s sushi bar.

The Pool House is the yacht’s casual poolside restaurant that serves cruisers from breakfast through late-night bites in an open-air setting.

For outdoor dining with spectacular views, there’s Mistral . This casual space serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes including steak and seafood.

The Living Room is a casual gathering spot featuring an espresso counter and bar. Guests can grab a quick snack or a coffee and freshly-baked pastry throughout the day.

For guests who’d rather stay in to enjoy their suite, in-room dining is available featuring menu items from multiple dining locations on board. A separate late-night menu is also available.

Bottom Line: All dining and premium alcoholic beverages are included in the cruise fare, with the exception of S.E.A., where additional fees may apply.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa

Relax completely with a massage, facial, or locally-inspired treatment in 1 of the 5 private rooms, or enjoy ocean views while getting pampered outside. In addition to a sauna, steam room, and quiet zones , there’s a Beauty Lounge and a Gentlemen’s Grooming Salon. There’s an additional charge for spa services and reservations are required.

Marina Terrace

The Marina Terrace is a deck on the back of the yacht that features a sun deck with loungers and easy entry into the water while anchored. Water toys include paddle boards, windsurf boards, kayaks, sailboats, snorkeling equipment, and floating pontoon platforms.

The Humidor

The Humidor is an intimate lounge offering hand-rolled cigars and cognac .

The ship’s infinity pool is surrounded by a spacious sun deck with loungers and water misters . Guests can order frozen drinks or lunch from the nearby restaurant, The Pool House.

The Living Room

As mentioned above, The Living Room is the yacht’s main gathering lounge. Exuding understated elegance with plenty of comfortable seating, this area also features a library with best sellers and travel guidebooks. In the evenings, this space t ransforms into a cocktail lounge and piano bar .

The Fitness Studio

The Fitness Studio offers an integrated approach to health and wellness by combining lectures and nutrition with classes like yoga and pilates, as well as traditional gym equipment like elliptical machines, stationary bikes, and free weights.

Onboard Boutique

The onboard boutique showcases luxury goods as well as branded items. In select ports, local artisans that partner with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are invited onboard to share their creations.

Entertainment

The entertainment you’ll find on board is designed to enhance each guest’s journey through cultural experiences, including expert-led discussions and partnerships with local artisans and musicians . There are also in-house classical and jazz musicians that move throughout different venues.

The Observation Lounge

The Observation Lounge provides spectacular views in an indoor/outdoor environment. It’s a perfect area for lounging or socializing with fellow cruisers. The evenings bring live entertainment and cocktails, extending The Observation Lounge into a late-night lounge.

Ritz Kids is a dedicated space for young travelers offering both fun and educational programming.

This cozy lounge serves premium-label spirits as well as Champagne and caviar.

During the day on a sailing with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, a “Yacht Casual” dress code is enforced . That means unless you’re at the pool, shirts, shoes, and bathing suit cover-ups are required. For dinner, bathing suits and sleeveless t-shirts are not permitted. Shirts and shoes are required everywhere on the ship in the evening. For guests dining at S.E.A., a “Yacht Sophisticated” dress code that recommends — but does not require — collared shirts is in place. There are no formal nights .

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers 3 types of shore excursions : The Shore Collection, Concierge Ashore, and Epicurean Experiences. There are additional charges for shore excursions.

The Shore Collection is a curated offering of small group excursions designed to immerse travelers in the destination they are visiting. These excursions are offered in unique 5 categories to align with a guest’s particular interests:

• Iconic Sights : These trips take small groups led by local guides to a destination’s most well-known sights and landmarks.
• Cultural Connections : Guests can get an up-close-and-personal view of each destination and its culture.
• Overland Programs : Available on select itineraries, these excursions include an overnight stay at the destination.
• Active Explorations : These high-energy trips focus on active exploration, including swimming, snorkeling, diving, rafting, climbing, and more.
• Stirring the Senses : These low-key excursions, including things like yoga or a beach day at a luxury resort, are designed to help guests rest, relax, and rejuvenate.

The Concierge Ashore program allows guests to choose from private, predesigned trips or assists in creating a bespoke itinerary with the assistance of a personal concierge. This program also allows guests to choose a private version of any of the available Shore Collection trips.

Epicurean Experiences are food-centric excursions that could include cooking classes or a visit to a winery.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection participates in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program , so there are opportunities to either earn or use Marriott points for one of these luxury cruises.

Marriott Bonvoy members can earn 5 points per $1 spent on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fares and any hotel packages,  including participating Marriott locations booked through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Additionally, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn Elite Night Credits through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection to earn higher Marriott Bonvoy status. A member can earn 1 elite night for each night spent on a yacht plus any nights at participating Marriott hotels booked through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection as part of a package.

How To Redeem Marriott Points on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Sailings

Marriott Bonvoy points can be redeemed for 0.56 cents apiece toward a sailing with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection . Since we value Marriott Bonvoy points at ~0.7 apiece , you won’t be getting exceptional value using your points this way, but it’s always good to have the option.

If you decide to redeem points for a yacht sailing, you’ll need to do it in specified increments. To start, you can redeem 180,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for $1,000 in savings on the cruise fare. Then points can be redeemed in increments of 90,000 for a $500 savings. Points won’t cover the cost of taxes, fees, and port charges.

Bottom Line: You can earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruises. You’ll earn 5 points per $1 spent on your fare and will earn elite night credits, too. Alternatively, you can redeem 180,000 Marriott Bonvoy points for a $1,000 savings on the cruise fare. After redeeming the initial 180,000 points, you can redeem more points in 90,000-point increments for $500 in savings.

Benefits for Marriott Bonvoy Elite Members

Marriott Bonvoy elite members are eligible for additional benefits when sailing with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

If you’re planning a trip with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection but don’t have Marriott Bonvoy elite status , consider applying for a credit card that comes with automatic status. This can be an easy way to earn Marriott Bonvoy Silver, Gold, or Platinum status so you can take advantage of the onboard benefits.

As a reminder, here are the credit cards that come with automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status :

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a new small-ship luxury cruise line. Currently, there is only 1 yacht, Evrima, but there are plans for 2 more to join her by 2025. These sailings offer guests an immersive experience through specially curated shore excursions as well as an opportunity to visit smaller ports.

Points and miles lovers will be thrilled to know that The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, allowing guests to earn or use points for sailings, as well as to earn elite status with each night on a yacht or in a participating hotel as part of a package booked through The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business ® American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here .

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• Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrates Luminara ship's float...

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrates Luminara ship's float-out at Saint-Nazaire France

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has successfully floated out its 3rd superyacht , Luminara , at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique/STX France shipyard in Saint-Nazaire . This significant step marks Luminara’s initial contact with water, signaling the commencement of the final construction phase ahead of her projected debut in July 2025.

Following the float-out, the vessel was transferred to an outfitting dock where work will continue on the yacht’s interiors, including the completion of guest suites, dining venues, and other public spaces.

Luminara is scheduled to embark on her maiden voyage in the Mediterranean next summer, before sailing to Asia-Pacific destinations as part of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s first itineraries in the region.

Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection said "the float out ceremony is a testament to the unwavering dedication and craftsmanship of everyone involved in the construction of Luminara."

“Our ongoing collaboration with the team at Chantiers de l’Atlantique has been invaluable. With three yachts soon in the water, we remain committed to delivering exceptional journeys at sea, setting new standards in luxury cruising with unparalleled amenities and service.”

Meet Ilma, Ritz-Carlton's New Superyacht

Spacious suites and michelin-level dining are great ways to see the world.

Cruising is a polarizing vacation.

Some people love it; others hate it with commendable passion.

But everyone likes luxury, ocean-view suites and top-notch food.

So when you can find such things aboard a floating vessel that's more yacht than massive cruise ship, and one that's carrying some serious hotel bonafides, it's worth taking notice.

Ilma is the newly launched superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection . It measures 790 feet and sports just 224 suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea.

It's stopping at ports of call in coveted destinations across the world, including iconic yachting playgrounds in the Mediterranean, the white sand beaches of the Caribbean, and historic cities of Northern Europe.

Onboard, you’ll find a max of 448 guests and one of the highest space ratios at sea. For even more space, book one of the larger upper category suites, which measure more than 1,000 square feet.

The ship has fine dining venues, including restaurants conceptualized by Michelin-starred  chefs.  Seta su   Ilma   by Chef Fabio Trabocchi is a modern Italian fine-dining restaurant, and The Beach House is an indoor/outdoor restaurant offering 180-degree views of the sea   and Pan-Latin cuisine developed in   collaboration with chef Michael Mina. Naturally, there’s also plenty of terrace space, with a pool, pool bar and live entertainment.

Ilma embarked on its maiden voyage on September 2. Plenty more journeys are coming up, in case you enjoy feeling the fresh sea breeze on your face while sipping champagne on your balcony.

On September 26, Ilma takes off on a 12-night voyage from Athens to Rome, stopping in Crete, Mykonos, Sicily and more. On October 22, you can set sail from Barcelona to Lisbon, with stops in Palma de Mallorca and Tangier. 

Other itineraries feature trips in the Caribbean, where you can see St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Martinique. Take a wine-soaked trip from Lisbon to Portsmouth, England, that stops in Porto and Bordeaux. Or book the voyage from Amsterdam to Copenhagen that swings through Oslo and Gothenburg, Sweden. You've got options, and none of them are the cookie-cutter cruises you'll find on the massive, name-brand ships hosting spring breakers and conga lines.

Kevin Gray lives in Texas. He likes whiskey, weekends and hammocks, often at the same time.

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Mapped: Ukraine’s incursion into the Russian Kursk region explained

Ukraine’s attack into kursk has left vladimir putin’s forces scrambling, article bookmarked.

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Ukrainian forces have captured hundreds of square miles of territory inside Russia in one of the most significant incursions into Russia since the Secind World War .

Thousands of Ukrainian troops smashed over the border from Ukraine ’s Sumy region into the neighbouring Russian Kursk region on 6 August.

Since then, Kyiv’s forces have claimed to have taken more land in a fortnight than Russia has in Ukraine during this entire calendar year.

While the ground offensive appears to be slowing down, with Russian forces moving “several thousand” troops from less hot areas on the frontline in Ukraine, Kyiv’s air force have started destroying Moscow’s vital military supply lines, suffocating the troops still defending the area in Kursk. .

How much territory has Ukraine taken in Russia?

The numbers vary. Calculating territory taken during an incursion that ebbs and flows is difficult.

Ukraine’s army chief Colonel General Oleksandr Syrksyi claims his forces have captured almost 445 square miles (1,150 sq kilometres) of land in Kursk, while they have also set up a military commandant’s office in the occupied part of the region.

For context, that is nearly three times the amount of territory they retook in occupied Ukraine during their three-month counteroffensive last summer, according to estimates .

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a US-based think tank that tracks developments on the frontline, offers a more conservative estimate of around 300 square miles (800 sq km).

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky , meanwhile, said last week that Kyiv’s forces were pushing “one to two kilometres” further all along the new frontline.

The attack, which appears as a bulge into mainland Russia, is around 37 miles wide and almost 17 miles deep.

Could Ukraine take more territory?

Last Friday, Ukraine’s air force destroyed the first of three bridges on the Seym River to the west of the Ukrainian troops in Kursk.

On Saturday and then Sunday night, they destroyed the two other permanent bridges in that area, leaving Russian troops in the southern half of the Glushkovsky district, which is bisected by the Seym, effectively trapped between the river, the Ukrainian border and Kyiv’s forces in front of them.

“The aviation of the Air Force continues to deprive the enemy of logistical capabilities with accurate air strikes, which significantly affects the course of hostilities!” air force commander Mykola Oleschuk wrote on Sunday morning.

Recent drone footage from a Ukrainian brigade also suggests that Kyiv is now using first-person view (FPV) drones to destroy the makeshift Russian pontoon crossings erected in the days since the targeted strikes on the bridges.

The Centre for Defence Strategies, a Ukrainian security think tank, wrote that this indicates “that the objective [of Ukrainian forces] is to take control of a portion of Kursk Oblast south of the Seym River.

Should they take this area, they would almost double the territory they currently control.

How many troops are involved?

A Ukrainian colonel who asked not to be identified to speak openly about sensitive issues told The Independent that around 8,000 soldiers were involved in the incursion.

Thousands more Ukrainian soldiers were ready to enter the fray, he said.

He claimed, in comments that were mirrored by multiple Ukrainian officials, including Mr Zelensky, that the troops were planning to hold their positions to create a “buffer zone”.

Most simply, this zone would put more distance between Russian forces and Ukrainian civilians, reducing, though not halting completely, Moscow’s ability to fire artillery and missiles over the border.

It would also prevent another Russian cross-border assault of their own like the one into the nearby northeast Ukrainian region of Kharkiv in May, which brought the country’s second largest city - with a population of around 1.3 million people - roughly within artillery range of Russian forces.

How many Russian civilians have been evacuated?

Russian officials say nearly 200,000 civilians have been evacuated from the Kursk region and the neighbouring Belgorod area.

Ukrainian forces have not entered Belgorod but a state of emergency has been declared and local officials say Ukraine has launched aerial attacks on the area.

Authorities in the Kursk region decided late on Wednesday night to evacuate another district, Glushkov, as Ukrainian forces continue to advance forwards.

The district directly borders Ukraine and has a population of about 20,000 people. Regional governor Alexei Smirnov said on the Telegram messaging app that police and other state bodies would coordinate the evacuation process.

Have Ukraine captured Russian soldiers?

Mr Zelensky this week claimed one of the goals of the incursion was to replenish an “exchange fund” of Russian prisoners of war.

Thousands of POWs from both sides have been swapped throughout the course of the war in Ukraine, with exchanges taking place roughly every few months.

Private and public estimations of how many Russian soldiers have been captured during this incursion differ significantly.

Mr Zelensky has suggested around Ukrainian troops have taken roughly 100 PoWs; the Ukrainian colonel claimed the true figure was closer to 2,000.

Footage has, however, showed blindfolded men that appear to be Russian soldiers being escorted through the Ukrainian Sumy region in the back of a military pick up.

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Out In The Open And On The Move In Russia’s Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian Forces Are Vulnerable—And Losing Lots Of Armored Vehicles

But the losses might be worth it, if Ukraine can seize and hold a big portion of Kursk.

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A Ukrainian gunner with the 45th Artillery Brigade.

Eleven days in their invasion of Russia’s Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian troops firmly control 200 square miles of Kursk—and contest an additional 350 square miles.

But the galloping advance has cost the Ukrainian invasion corps—made up of around a half-dozen brigades and a few independent battalions plus supporting units—a significant number of precious armored vehicles plus potentially scores of troops.

Russian forces have lost only a few vehicles but their bewildered infantry have surrendered to the attacking Ukrainians by the dozen.

The ratio of equipment losses—heavy Ukrainian write-offs compared to relatively few Russian write-offs—is unusual. On average throughout Russia’s 29-month wider war on Ukraine, the Russians have lost many more vehicles than the Ukrainians.

Whether the high losses are worth it to the general staff in Kyiv depends on the invasion’s objectives—and whether the loss ratio flips as the Kursk campaign develops.

On an average day in the 905-day wider war, the Russian military loses nearly four tanks and nearly eight infantry vehicles, according to a running tally by the analysts at Oryx. The Ukrainian military loses just one tank and three infantry vehicles on an average day.

Ukraine’s invasion of Kursk has not been average. Rolling across the border through gaps in Russian defenses on Aug. 6, Ukrainian forces restored maneuver to a war that, for many months, has been static: both sides fighting from trenches and struggling to advance more than a few hundred yards at a time.

But the Ukrainian maneuvers have exposed their tanks and infantry vehicles to Russian drones, artillery and ambushes . In the first nine days of the invasion, the Ukrainians lost four tanks and 41 infantry vehicles, according to one Oryx analyst. The losses have included a rare British-made Challenger 2 tank and several American-supplied Stryker fighting vehicles.

The attrition of infantry vehicles—including tracked fighting vehicles and wheeled personnel carriers—has been especially acute for the Ukrainian armed forces. They’re losing these valuable vehicles at almost double the normal rate. And where the average loss rate is for the entire 700-mile front of the wider war, those losses in Kursk are occurring along a 50-mile front.

The loss of so much valuable equipment may not worry Ukrainian planners—provided, of course, the strategic gains of the Kursk campaign justify the material cost.

If Jack Watling, an analyst for the Royal United Services Institute in London is correct in his assessment, Ukraine wants Kursk Oblast as a bargaining chip. As a bargaining chip, the oblast might be worth—so far—a few dozen armored vehicles.

“Politically, the purpose of the operation is to build leverage ahead of possible negotiations,” Watling wrote in The Guardian . “If Donald Trump wins the U.S. presidency in November, the threat of withdrawing military-technical assistance is likely to force Kyiv to negotiate. The Ukrainian government wants to make sure that if it has to enter that process, it has things that Russia wants to trade for concessions.”

“The Ukrainian military, therefore, must take and hold a sizeable chunk of Russian land for the duration of potential negotiations,” Watling stressed.

It’s also possible that, as the pace of Ukrainian advance inevitably slows, the loss ratio flips. “There is a limit to how far this force can push before it overextends, meaning it will need to dig in soon if the Ukrainians are to hold the ground until negotiations,” Watling explained.

“The best-case scenario for Ukraine is that its units dig in and Russia—feeling compelled to retake the ground—suffers inordinate losses in trying to push the Ukrainians back.”

In that sense, the fighting in Kursk could begin to look more like the fighting along the front line in Ukraine, where poorly-trained Russian troops suffer heavy losses trying—and usually failing—to defeat entrenched Ukrainians.

For now, however, the Ukrainians are out in the open and on the move in Kursk. That makes them vulnerable—and prone to lose many more vehicles than they normally do.

1. Deep State: https://deepstatemap.live/#10/51.1504940/35.4171753

2. Oryx: https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html; https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html

3. Naalsio: https://x.com/naalsio26/status/1823520515543155060

4. Jack Watling: https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/aug/17/ukraine-offensive-russia-political-logic-but-high-risk-strategy

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