Aruba welcomes Cruise Ship "Ilma" from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
ORANJESTAD – On January 29, 2025, the luxurious cruise ship "Ilma" from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet made its inaugural visit to Aruba. To celebrate this historic event, a formal ceremony was held with representatives from the Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA), Aruba Ports Authority (APA), Aruba Immigration, and Port Agency Maduro & Sons.
Ilma, the newest member of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, represents an elegant blend of sustainability and luxury. As the second vessel in the collection, following Evrima (launched in 2022), Ilma features innovative characteristics that elevate luxury cruise tourism to new heights. Its name comes from the Maltese word "ilma," meaning "water," reinforcing its connection to maritime sustainability.
Launched in 2024, Ilma is 241 meters long, has a crew of 350 members, and accommodates 456 passengers in 228 suites, each with its own private terrace. The yacht also offers several gourmet restaurants. Its Caribbean itinerary begins in Bridgetown, Barbados, sailing towards Bonaire, Curaçao, and arriving in Aruba in the morning, before departing the next day at noon for Canouan in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, completing an eight-night voyage back to Bridgetown.
Ilma is equipped with hybrid technology using LNG fuel, a modern luxury design in all its spacious suites, an infinity pool, a wellness center, and an expansive spa. Guests can expect personalized and renowned Ritz-Carlton service, redefining the art of luxury travel.
This special visit allows Ilma's guests to enjoy an overnight stay in Aruba, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island’s vibrant culture and attractions.
Ronella Croes, CEO of ATA, and Marc Figaroa, CEO of APA, each presented a commemorative plaque to Ilma’s captain, Darin Bowland, who expressed gratitude for the warm welcome. The traditional exchange of plaques is a maritime custom honoring the first visit of a cruise ship to a port.
Ilma’s arrival supports Aruba’s strategy to attract luxury cruises and enhance the tourism experience by:
- Attracting high-value guests who contribute significantly to the local economy.
- Encouraging longer stays at Aruba’s ports.
- Increasing cruise visits during the low season, improving the annual cruise ship distribution, and better spreading of guests across the island.
- Investing in training and development for local partners in the cruise industry.
- Providing risk-management training and product development to elevate service quality and promote sustainability and responsible tourism.
As Ilma departs for its next destination, Aruba looks forward to further collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and other luxury cruise lines. This visit strengthens Aruba’s position as a high-value destination in the Caribbean, where luxury and sustainability go hand in hand to create unforgettable experiences.