The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrated the christening of its latest luxury superyacht, Ilma, this week in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Honouring maritime traditions, the ceremony featured a ceremonial blessing and the iconic breaking of a Champagne bottle, symbolising 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 Sasha Tyas, General Manager along with 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.
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The celebration was held aboard Ilma at Port Everglades, which was attended by employees from the company’s Fort Lauderdale office, local officials and 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.
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 241 metres and accommodates up to 448 guests across its 224 spacious suites. 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 personalised service.
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. There are also options to popular destinations including the Greek Isles, the Balearic Islands, the French Riviera and the Italian Riviera.
