The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrated a construction milestone as their upcoming superyacht, Ilma, was floated out at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This traditional maritime event gathered senior leaders and shipbuilders, marking the exciting moment when Ilma touched the water for the first time. This event symbolizes the beginning of the next phase of construction, as the yacht prepares for its inaugural voyage in 2024. The ship is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), 230 m long, and equipped with 228 suites to accommodate 458 passengers.

Key figures from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection were present at the float-out ceremony, including Jim Murren, the Executive Chairman and CEO, and Ernesto Fara, the President and CFO. Representatives from Chantiers de l'Atlantique, including Laurent Castaing, the General Manager, and Arnaud Le Joncour, the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, were also in attendance.

During the float-out, the yacht's dry dock was filled with water overnight, and it was then moved to an outfitting dock where the final stages of construction will take place. This phase will focus on completing the interiors, fixtures, and fittings for suites, restaurants, and other public spaces, all of which will provide guests with an exceptional voyage of discovery at sea in less than a year. Sea trials are scheduled for April, marking a significant step towards Ilma's inaugural season.