Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara completes sea trials ahead of July debut

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is preparing to launch its second vessel, Luminara, following the successful completion of sea trials under the supervision of shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

The ship, scheduled to enter service on July 3rd with a maiden voyage from Monaco to Rome, will become the brand’s first vessel to sail in Asia, followed by a deployment in Alaska in 2025.

Described by the company as a continuation of its approach to ultra-luxury yachting, Luminara introduces several updates across design, culinary experiences, and guest spaces. 

The vessel will accommodate 452 guests and features interiors styled in walnut wood and Arabescato Corchia marble, with a colour palette of soft blues, warm greys, and deep ocean hues, accented by bronze and ruby tones.

A collection of 731 artworks will be displayed onboard, with approximately 65% commissioned specifically for the vessel. Many pieces explore themes of light and heritage, with several works referencing Malta’s cultural and historical legacy. 

A seven-storey suspended light sculpture in the aft staircase atrium will serve as a focal point, linking the decks and uniting art and architecture.

The yacht will offer five dining venues, including two developed in collaboration with James Beard Award winners and Michelin-starred chefs. Seta su Luminara, curated by Fabio Trabocchi, will present an eight-course tasting menu alongside à la carte modern Italian dishes inspired by Venice’s spice trade. Beach House, designed with chef Michael Mina, will offer Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine influenced by his Egyptian heritage.

Additional venues include Azur on Luminara, with seasonal menus rooted in regional ingredients; Haesu Bit, a pan-Asian restaurant drawing from Japanese, Thai, Korean, Cantonese, and Vietnamese cuisines; and Mistral, a seafood-led venue inspired by Mediterranean coastal dining.

Seven bars will be available across the ship, including the new Art Bar, featuring a curated Cycladic art installation. The yacht will also include a Marina with an adjacent Terrace and Beach area, centred on a floating lounge platform with a sea-level pool, enabling direct access to the ocean.

Retail spaces aboard Luminara will host boutiques from Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, and Piaget — each making their debut with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.