The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrated the christening of its latest luxury superyacht, Ilma, on December 11 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Honoring maritime traditions, the ceremony featured a ceremonial blessing and the iconic breaking of a Champagne bottle, symbolizing good fortune and safe travels for all guests and employees on board.
Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Ernesto Fara, President and CFO, joined Ilma’s Captain Magnus Bengtsson and General Manager Sasha Tyas, along Father Sandford Sears – affectionately known as “Father Sandy” – from Seafarers' House at Port Everglades. Together, they celebrated an esteemed group of female leaders from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, both shipboard and shoreside, who collectively fulfilled the role of Ilma’s godmothers. Each team member represents a unique story of leadership and inspiration, uniting to embody the spirit of discovery and elegance that defines Ilma.
The celebration was held abord Ilma at Port Everglades, which was attended by employees from the company’s Fort Lauderdale office, local officials, and distinguished guests. Attendees enjoyed light bites, signature cocktails inspired by the yacht’s culinary offerings, and a live performance. The godmothers then took the stage to officially christen Ilma with the traditional Champagne bottle break, offering their heartfelt wishes for the yacht’s journeys ahead.
“The christening of Ilma marks a significant moment in our journey, as we officially welcome this extraordinary yacht into our fleet. Ilma represents growth and the exciting future of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection,” said Murren. “We are incredibly grateful to all those who have worked tirelessly to bring this beautiful yacht to life – from our dedicated team members to our global partners. This ceremony offers a glimpse of the exceptional design, innovative dining, legendary service, and unforgettable experiences that await those who step aboard Ilma.”
Joining Evrima, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s inaugural yacht, Ilma made its debut in the Mediterranean in September 2024, sailing from Monte Carlo to Rome. Named after the Maltese word for “water,” Ilma measures 790 feet (241 meters) and accommodates up to 448 guests across its 224 spacious suites, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces with sweeping sea views. With one of the highest space-to-guest and guest-to-employee ratios at sea, Ilma sets new standards for the ultra-luxury yachting experience with exceptional dining, innovative design, outstanding amenities, and personalized service.
Ilma offers seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces, connecting guests to the sea and breathtaking destinations. Guests can enjoy five world-class dining venues, a refreshed in-suite dining program, seven bars, and a signature wine vault. Highlights include dining concepts by Michelin-starred restaurant chefs Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina, an extensive Marina and Marina Terrace bringing guests to the water’s edge, a dynamic open-air pool and entertainment deck, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa®, featuring treatments from ESPA, 111SKIN, and Pisterzi.
For the 2024-2025 winter season, Ilma joins Evrima in the Caribbean, offering scenic voyages to the region’s most captivating islands. In summer 2025, Ilma will explore Northern Europe, marking the company’s first itineraries in the North and Baltic Seas, calling on dynamic cities like Copenhagen, Reykjavík, and Bordeaux. Guests will also enjoy voyages to beloved yachting havens, including the Greek Isles, the Balearic Islands, the French Riviera, and the Italian Riviera.