Luxury Hotel Chains Venturing into the Cruise Yacht Business

In a bid to captivate affluent travelers, luxury hotel brands are venturing into the cruise yacht industry, offering floating opulence complete with helipads, expansive suites, and meals prepared by chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants.

Ritz-Carlton's Sailing Adventures

Leading the charge for hotel-backed luxury cruises, Ritz-Carlton introduced 'Evrima,' a 624-foot vessel, in 2022. This venture proved successful, showcasing a marina with water access, an infinity pool, a cigar lounge, and nearly a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio. Dining experiences include a special tastings menu crafted by the Michelin three-star Aqua restaurant's chef.

Continuing their success, Ritz-Carlton launched 'Ilma,' a larger vessel, and anticipates the launch of 'Luminara' in July. Rates for these lavish voyages commence at $3,100 per person for a three-night stay on Ilma.

Four Seasons Embarks on a New Chapter

Join Four Seasons as they take to the seas with their inaugural yacht 'Four Seasons I' scheduled for a January debut. This impressive 679-foot yacht will feature 11 dining facilities, a water-accessible lounge, and 95 luxury suites complete with private balconies. The grand 9,975-square-foot Funnel Suite is designed to offer exclusive amenities like a private pool and an elevator.

Guests can expect to spend around $17,300 for a five-night journey starting in Miami, with breakfast included; however, other meals and drinks will incur additional costs.

Aman Branches into the Maritime World

By responding to guest demands, Aman is embracing cruising, already renowned for the elite experiences its Amandira yacht provides. In 2027, they aim to debut a traditional 600-foot-long cruise yacht, equipped with Japanese gardens, two helipads, and various dining venues.

Crafted by Italian shipbuilders T. Mariotti, this vessel promises luxurious guest accommodations and a variety of casual and international dining choices.

Orient Express Reimagined at Sea

The iconic Orient Express brand is set to make waves with the launch of their luxury travel yacht, 'Orient Express Corinthian,' in June 2026. This 721-foot yachting marvel will journey across Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Caribbean waters powered by large sails.

Elegantly designed, it will host 54 suites with a range of exquisite amenities, including a theater, recording studio, and multiple bars. Their second yacht, 'Orient Express Olympian,' is set for the following year with construction by Chantiers de l'Atlantique in France.

VidantaWorld Steps into the Cruise Sphere

Grupo Vidanta, known for its upscale resorts, is preparing to expand into maritime hospitality with an adult-exclusive cruise experience. Set to debut in 2026, after postponement, the 500-foot 'Elegant' ship will provide guests with a host of facilities, including three pools and 13 diverse dining establishments.

Starting at $12,500 per person for a weeklong voyage, travelers can enjoy the sole complimentary buffet option aboard, with other culinary pursuits coming at an extra cost.