Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection vs Four Seasons Yachts: Which Is Right for You?
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection vs Four Seasons Yachts: Which Is Right for You?
The world of ultra-luxury cruising is evolving fast. No longer confined to traditional cruise ships, discerning travelers are turning to luxury yacht collections that combine the intimacy of a private yacht with the amenities and service of a five-star hotel. Two of the biggest names in hospitality — The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons — are redefining what it means to sail in style.
But how do these two offerings compare? Should you book a voyage with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, already sailing across the Caribbean and Mediterranean, or wait for the highly anticipated launch of Four Seasons Yachts?
At Stars Desk, we help our clients navigate these choices by providing access to exclusive booking programs and VIP perks. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between Ritz-Carlton Yachts and Four Seasons Yachts — from design and itineraries to onboard experiences and service — so you can decide which is the best fit for your next luxury adventure.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: A Pioneer in Hotel-Branded Yachts
Launched in 2022, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was the first major hotel group to bring its legendary brand of luxury onto the seas.
Fleet: Currently operates Evrima, with more ships (Ilma and Luminara) launching in 2024 and 2025.
Size: Around 298 guests per ship — much smaller than traditional cruise liners.
Suites: All-suite accommodations, each with a private terrace; spacious compared to industry norms.
Design: Sleek, modern interiors with Scandinavian-inspired luxury, designed to feel like a private yacht.
Itineraries: Focus on the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Northern Europe, with immersive port stays (often overnight).
Dining: Multiple gourmet venues, including one curated by Michelin-starred Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg.
Service: High crew-to-guest ratio, with Ritz-Carlton’s signature hospitality carried over from land to sea.
Vibe: Relaxed, yacht-like atmosphere — a blend of luxury cruising with the intimacy of a boutique hotel.
For travelers who want immediate access to the water (via marina platforms) and a brand they already know and trust, Ritz-Carlton offers a polished, ready-to-sail experience.
Four Seasons Yachts: Setting a New Benchmark
Unveiled in 2022 and scheduled for its maiden voyage in 2026, Four Seasons Yachts is shaping up to be a game-changer in the ultra-luxury cruise market.
Fleet: The first yacht is being built in collaboration with Fincantieri, with more planned.
Size: About 95 suites — fewer than Ritz-Carlton, meaning even greater exclusivity.
Suites: Average size of 581 square feet (spacious by cruise standards). Signature “Funnel Suite” spans an incredible 9,600 square feet with panoramic views.
Design: Four Seasons’ signature style — elegant, residential, and contemporary, with a focus on privacy and comfort.
Itineraries: Expected to include the Caribbean and Mediterranean initially, expanding to unique destinations as the fleet grows.
Dining: Multiple world-class restaurants and bars, reflecting Four Seasons’ culinary pedigree.
Service: Promises the legendary Four Seasons service culture — personalized, intuitive, and seamless, with nearly a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio.
Vibe: Ultra-exclusive, akin to sailing on a billionaire’s private yacht, with the refinement and polish that Four Seasons is known for.
Four Seasons Yachts are positioning themselves at the very top of the market, with a smaller, more intimate experience compared to Ritz-Carlton — ideal for travelers seeking privacy, exclusivity, and the newest in yacht design.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection | Four Seasons Yachts |
|---|---|---|
| Launched | 2022 (Evrima) | 2026 (first yacht) |
| Fleet Size | 1 active, 2 more by 2025 | 1 in development |
| Guest Capacity | ~298 guests | ~190 guests |
| Suites | All with terraces; spacious | Larger suites; iconic 9,600 sq ft Funnel Suite |
| Service | Ritz-Carlton hospitality, high crew ratio | Legendary Four Seasons service, near 1:1 ratio |
| Dining | Michelin-starred collaborations | Expected fine dining + Four Seasons culinary standards |
| Destinations | Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe | Caribbean, Mediterranean (initially) |
| Atmosphere | Polished, yacht-like, relaxed luxury | Ultra-exclusive, ultra-private, residential feel |
Which One Should You Choose?
Both Ritz-Carlton Yachts and Four Seasons Yachts appeal to a similar audience: travelers who love luxury hotels, want a more intimate alternative to large cruise ships, and value design, service, and exclusivity. But there are subtle differences.
Choose Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection if:
You want to sail now (ships are already operating).
You prefer a slightly larger ship with more social energy.
You’re loyal to Ritz-Carlton/Marriott Bonvoy and like consistency across land and sea.
You enjoy a relaxed, polished yachting vibe with excellent dining and marina access.
Choose Four Seasons Yachts if:
You’re looking for the newest, most exclusive luxury yacht experience.
Privacy and suite size are top priorities.
You’re loyal to Four Seasons and love the brand’s attention to detail.
You’re planning future travel (2026 and beyond).
The Stars Desk Advantage
Whether you’re considering Ritz-Carlton Yachts or Four Seasons Yachts, booking through Stars Desk ensures your journey is elevated from the start.
Direct relationships with yacht sales and reservations teams
Priority access to the best suites and itineraries as they open
VIP recognition — your booking is flagged to management for personal attention
Added perks where available through preferred partner programs
24/7 support to assist with pre- and post-cruise arrangements (hotels, transfers, private tours)
With the limited capacity of these yachts, early booking is essential. Suites sell quickly, especially on inaugural voyages and peak-season itineraries.
Conclusion: Two Icons of Luxury, Two Unique Experiences
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Four Seasons Yachts represent the future of luxury travel at sea. Ritz-Carlton offers a head start with ships already sailing, while Four Seasons promises to raise the bar even higher when its fleet debuts.
Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy the intimacy of a private yacht combined with the service and polish of a world-class hotel brand.
👉 Ready to plan your next luxury voyage? Contact Stars Desk today to secure your place aboard Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection or Four Seasons Yachts — and let us ensure you sail in true VIP style.
