This ambitious expansion marks a significant milestone for the brand as it continues to redefine the boundaries of high-end maritime travel, offering a meticulously curated selection of journeys aboard its first two superyachts, Evrima and Ilma. Operating from late April through October 2028, the season is designed to cater to the growing demand for "slow travel" and deep cultural immersion, positioning the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection at the forefront of the burgeoning luxury cruise sector. By blending the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton with the freedom and intimacy of a private yachting vacation, the 2028 season promises to deliver unparalleled access to some of the world’s most coveted and secluded coastal destinations. The announcement comes at a time when the ultra-luxury cruise market is experiencing a transformative shift. Discerning travelers are increasingly moving away from mass-market mega-ships in favor of smaller, more agile vessels that can navigate into smaller ports where larger ships cannot dock. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has capitalized on this trend by deploying Evrima and Ilma to a diverse array of European locales, ranging from the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean to the dramatic, mist-covered fjords of Northern Europe. The 2028 schedule features 52 distinct voyages, each ranging from four to nine nights, providing flexibility for both short escapes and extended explorations. Central to the 2028 season is the introduction of two new ports of call: Gijón, Spain, and Portovenere, Italy. Gijón, located in the heart of Spain’s Asturias region, offers guests a gateway to the rugged beauty of the "Costa Verde," known for its cider-making traditions, pre-Romanesque architecture, and Atlantic charm. Portovenere, often referred to as the "sixth town" of the Cinque Terre, provides a more exclusive and serene alternative to its more famous neighbors. With its colorful harbor-front buildings and the historic Church of San Pietro perched on a rocky promontory, Portovenere embodies the "hidden gem" philosophy that guides the brand’s itinerary planning. Ernesto Fara, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, emphasized the brand’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections between travelers and the destinations they visit. “The destinations our guests remember most are often the ones where they form the strongest connections, with the places they visit, the people they meet, and the moments they experience along the way,” Fara stated. “Our Summer 2028 season reflects that belief, bringing together itineraries that encourage guests to spend more time engaging with each place in a way that feels personal and authentic. We believe those connections are what transform a voyage into an experience that stays with them long after they return home.” The 2028 season is strategically divided between the two yachts, each focusing on specific regions to maximize the guest experience. Evrima, the fleet’s inaugural yacht, will spend much of the season navigating the diverse waters of Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. In the north, Evrima will explore the Baltic capitals, the majestic Norwegian fjords, and the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland. These "coolcation" itineraries—a rising trend among luxury travelers seeking to escape the summer heat of Southern Europe—offer a mix of sophisticated urban culture and raw natural beauty. Departing from ports like Reykjavík and London, these voyages allow guests to witness the Midnight Sun and the pristine ecosystems of the North Atlantic. Meanwhile, Ilma, the second yacht in the collection, will focus heavily on the Greek Isles and the Adriatic Sea. Ilma represents an evolution in the fleet’s design, offering increased space and enhanced amenities while maintaining the intimate atmosphere of a private yacht. The expanded Greek itineraries will see Ilma visiting iconic islands such as Mykonos and Santorini, as well as lesser-known treasures like Patmos, Amorgos, and Nafplio. The Adriatic voyages will highlight the stunning Dalmatian Coast, featuring stops in Venice and the historic ports of Croatia and Montenegro. To complement these voyages, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has curated an extensive "Shore Collection," a series of private and group excursions designed to provide deep-tier access to local culture, gastronomy, and adventure. These are not standard sightseeing tours; rather, they are immersive experiences tailored to the interests of the modern luxury traveler. In the Mediterranean, guests can opt for a private boat trip along the scenic Portofino coastline to the secluded Abbey of San Fruttuoso, accessible only by sea or foot. Food enthusiasts might choose an oyster harvesting expedition in Mali Ston Bay, Croatia, followed by a tasting of the world-renowned shellfish. For those seeking a bird’s-eye view, a helicopter tour of Mallorca can be paired with a private visit to an exclusive winery. In the Greek Isles, a Jeep tour of Milos offers a rugged exploration of the island’s unique volcanic geology and hidden beaches. The Northern Europe excursions are equally sophisticated. In Bordeaux, guests can enjoy a private caviar tasting paired with fine Champagne at a historic estate, while in Iceland, helicopter tours provide a dramatic perspective on the country’s glaciers and geothermal fields. These experiences are facilitated by the yachts’ dedicated concierge teams, who work to ensure that every shore excursion feels like a seamless extension of the on-board Ritz-Carlton service. The yachts themselves are masterpieces of contemporary design and maritime engineering. Evrima, measuring 190 meters, accommodates just 298 guests in 149 suites, each featuring a private terrace. The yacht’s high staff-to-guest ratio ensures that every need is anticipated. Ilma, slightly larger at 241 meters, hosts up to 448 guests across 224 suites. Both vessels are designed to feel more like a luxury hotel or a private residence than a traditional cruise ship. They feature multiple dining venues, including specialty restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs, such as S.E.A. by Sven Elverfeld. The yachts also boast the signature Ritz-Carlton Spa, a fitness center, and a marina platform that provides direct access to the sea for water sports and swimming when the yacht is at anchor. The decision to open reservations for 2028 so far in advance reflects the high demand for the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s unique offering. Since its debut, the brand has seen a significant number of repeat guests and a strong crossover from loyal Ritz-Carlton hotel patrons who are part of the Marriott Bonvoy program. This integration allows guests to earn and redeem points for their voyages, creating a powerful synergy between land-based luxury and sea-based exploration. Industry analysts suggest that the expansion of the 2028 season is a proactive move to maintain market share as other luxury hospitality brands, such as Four Seasons and Aman, prepare to launch their own maritime ventures. By securing its presence in key European markets and introducing new, exclusive ports, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is solidifying its reputation as a leader in the ultra-luxury yachting niche. Among the specific highlights of the Evrima 2028 schedule is a seven-night voyage from Nice to Rome departing on May 14. This classic Mediterranean itinerary takes guests through the heart of the French and Italian Rivieras, with stops in the glitzy harbor of Cannes, the picturesque village of Portofino, and the newly added port of Portovenere, before exploring the island of Elba. Later in the season, on July 12, Evrima will embark on a nine-night journey from London to Copenhagen. This Northern Europe highlights tour includes calls at Haugesund and Geiranger in Norway, offering guests the chance to experience the breathtaking scale of the Norwegian fjords, alongside stops in Kristiansand and Aalborg. Ilma’s highlights include a seven-night round-trip voyage from Athens on May 9, which focuses on the spiritual and aesthetic beauty of the Aegean. This itinerary visits the "Holy Island" of Patmos, the dramatic cliffs of Santorini, and the charming port of Nafplio on the Peloponnese peninsula. For those seeking a mid-summer escape, Ilma’s seven-night round-trip from Rome on July 27 offers a quintessential Mediterranean loop, visiting the fortress-city of Valletta in Malta, the historic Sicilian town of Taormina, and the stunning Amalfi Coast. As the travel industry continues to evolve, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection remains focused on the "human element" of luxury. The 2028 season is not just about the ships or the destinations; it is about the stories that guests will tell years later. Whether it is the taste of a freshly harvested oyster in Croatia, the silence of a Norwegian fjord at dawn, or the warmth of a local welcome in a Spanish coastal town, these voyages are designed to leave a lasting impact. For travelers looking to secure their place on one of these 52 voyages, reservations are now officially open. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection continues to invite guests to discover the world in a way that is as refined as it is adventurous, promising a Summer 2028 season that will set a new benchmark for excellence in the luxury travel industry. Detailed information regarding specific itineraries, suite availability, and the comprehensive suite of on-board amenities can be found through authorized travel professionals or by visiting the official Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection website. Post navigation Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Unveils Expansive Summer 2028 European Season Featuring 52 Luxury Voyages.
