The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Earns Industry-First Five-Star Rating from Forbes Travel Guide

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection sets a new benchmark in luxury hospitality, becoming the first cruise brand to earn a Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide. Ilma, the company’s second ultra-luxury yacht, receives the milestone distinction in the newly unveiled 2026 Star Awards, announced today by Forbes Travel Guide, the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and cruise ships.

Industry-First Recognition
- Ilma, the second vessel in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, has become the world’s first and only cruise ship to earn a Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide.
- This marks a historic expansion of Forbes’ luxury ratings into the cruise sector, traditionally focused on hotels, resorts, restaurants, and spas.

Significance
- The award underscores Marriott International’s Luxury Group strategy of blending land-based hospitality with ultra-luxury travel experiences at sea.
- It validates the brand’s commitment to service excellence, design innovation, and curated guest experiences across new formats.

Broader Context
- This recognition was part of Marriott Luxury Group’s 397 total honors in the 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards, including 11 new Five-Star properties worldwide.
- It highlights how Marriott is diversifying luxury beyond hotels—into yachts, reserves, and lifestyle-driven experiences.

This achievement positions The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection as a pioneer in luxury cruising, setting a new benchmark for service and hospitality at sea.