Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Announces Fashion Takeover

- The *Ilma* is the second and larger of the brand's superyachts, accommodating 448 guests in 228 suites, all of which feature private terraces. It is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) to reduce emissions. - Johanna Ortiz is a Colombian designer whose brand is known for a feminine aesthetic, vibrant floral prints, and a celebrity following that includes Michelle Obama and Beyoncé. Her ready-to-wear dresses typically retail for between $1,500 and $3,250. - While this is a first for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, other luxury fashion houses have partnered with shipyards, including Gucci's collaboration with Riva and Giorgio Armani's design of a 72-meter superyacht with Admiral. - The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is in a significant growth phase, with a third yacht, *Luminara*, planned for 2025 and an eventual goal of a 10-ship fleet. The company is reportedly seeking up to $400 million in financing for future vessels and may pursue an IPO. - The yacht features five restaurants, six bars, a wine vault, and an expanded aft marina with a mezzanine, allowing guests to dine alfresco or access watersports directly from the vessel. - Ortiz has previously collaborated with mass-market brands, including a collection for H&M in 2020, making her the first Latin American designer to do so. - The venture targets a specific loyal customer base, with about 75% of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's passengers being members of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. - The designer's company is based in her hometown of Cali, Colombia, where it employs over 450 people and produces more than 90% of its pieces in-house, focusing on social inclusion and partnerships with indigenous artisan communities.