The luxury travel market continues to expand beyond traditional hotels and resorts, with high-end brands now offering cruises. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, a venture into the world of seafaring luxury, aims to provide a hotel-like experience on the water. This review provides an in-depth look at the Evrima, Ritz-Carlton’s first ship, covering accommodations, amenities, dining, and value for money. The experience is impressive, potentially redefining what luxury cruising can be.
Pricing and Booking
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection cruises typically range from $700 to $2,000 per person per day, placing them at the higher end of the cruise market. However, considering the rising costs of luxury accommodations, this pricing is competitive. A three-night voyage from San Juan costs around $3,100 per person for a standard suite.
Booking through Marriott STARS is highly recommended, as it provides additional benefits such as a $150 onboard credit per person, a welcome amenity (a bottle of Veuve Clicquot instead of Moet), and a special bridge tour. The fare remains the same as booking direct, making it a no-brainer to leverage the program’s perks.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers an all-inclusive experience that includes accommodations, gratuities, most dining and drinks, entertainment, and unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi. The few exclusions are spa treatments, shore excursions, specialty restaurant dining, premium wines and spirits, and laundry services.
However, the inclusions feel generous, with no pressure to spend beyond the initial fare. The selection of alcohol is high-quality (including Moet), and tipping is not expected beyond the included gratuities. The only additional cost for most passengers will be optional excursions or specialty dining.
The ship’s excursions and transfers can be expensive. A private car transfer from the ship to the airport, a 15-minute drive, costs $338. While luxury brands often markup services, this price point raises questions about value.
Ship Layout and Basics
The Evrima is Ritz-Carlton’s smallest ship, built in 2021, weighing 25,400 tons and accommodating 298 guests across 149 suites. The fleet also includes the Ilma (built in 2024) at 46,750 tons with 224 suites, and the Luminara (built in 2025) at 46,750 tons with 226 suites.
The Evrima feels intimate, never crowded. Its layout includes eight accessible floors, with suites on four levels, restaurants and bars on five, and a dedicated wellness floor. The ship is easy to navigate, with a central staircase and elevators.
Check-In, Boarding, and Tendering
Boarding the Evrima in San Juan was seamless, taking less than five minutes. Luggage was dropped off immediately upon arrival, and guests were escorted through check-in with live music and refreshments. Passports, credit cards, and photos were the only requirements.
The ship’s small size contributes to the efficient boarding process. Tendering in St. John and St. Barts was equally smooth, with frequent departures and minimal waiting. The shaded seating areas at docking points provided a comfortable transition between ship and shore.
Suite Accommodations
The Evrima offers six suite categories, ranging from terrace suites to loft suites. The entry-level terrace suites (280 sq ft with a 75 sq ft terrace) offer luxury finishes but may not qualify as a “suite” in hotel terms.
Grand suites (570 sq ft with an 118 sq ft terrace) provide double the space, with a separate living area, dining table, and sofa. The bathroom includes double sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower.
Loft suites, unique to the Evrima, span two levels (decks four and five), offering a living room on the upper level and a bedroom below. This configuration provides additional privacy and space but may not be ideal for families due to the stairs.
All suites feature high-end amenities, including Nespresso machines, Diptyque toiletries, and premium alcohol available on demand. Upgrades are possible, but not guaranteed, even with Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
In conclusion, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima offers a compelling alternative to traditional cruises. The all-inclusive approach, luxurious accommodations, and seamless service create a high-end experience that justifies the premium price. The Evrima stands out as a refined option for those seeking a floating boutique hotel experience.
