Ritz-Carlton super yacht to cruise Asia-Pacific in 2025-26

Ritz-Carlton has unveiled plans to expand its luxury Yacht Collection to the Asia-Pacific region, with Luminara offering 10 voyages between December 2025 and May 2026.

The cruises will explore 28 ports across 10 countries, including Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Thailand and beyond.

Luminara will feature 226 suites, accommodating up to 452 guests. The onboard experience boasts one of the highest staff and space ratios at sea and facilities will include a choice of F&B outlets with an extensive wine collection, a Ritz-Carlton Spa, and an expanded dynamic marina providing direct access to the sea.

“As luxury travelers continue to seek unforgettable, personalized experiences around the world, we are thrilled to introduce voyages in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “These new itineraries exemplify our steadfast commitment to continually raising the bar in luxury cruising, offering innovative ways to experience our super yachts and explore vibrant local cultures across the globe.”

The 10 cruises, ranging from 10 to 15 nights in length will depart from either Tokyo, Hong Kong or Singapore, and will include stops in coveted ports such as Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam; Puerto Princesa, Philippines, as well as city centers such as Seoul, South Korea; Osaka, Japan; Bangkok, Thailand; and more.

A sample of four of the planned cruises include:

- 30 December 2025 | 14-Night - Singapore to Hong Kong: Toast the New Year with a celebration aboard Luminara and then relax into 2026 on the renowned beaches of Koh Samui before sailing for an overnight stay in the vibrant Thai capital of Bangkok. In Vietnam, explore the subterranean Cu Chi Tunnels outside Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) and discover the many delights of the country's capital city Hanoi, which passengers could explore during their stay in scenic Hạ Long Bay.

- 13 January 2026 | 12-Night - Hong Kong to Singapore: The heart of this journey explores the islands of Philippines, including the forested mountains and white sand beaches of Busuanga, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa. Equally spectacular is the island of Borneo, where gentle waves lap at the beaches and proboscis monkeys inhabit the treetops of Bako National Park near Kuching.

- 20 March 2026 | 10-Night - Tokyo Round-Trip: The cultural treasures of Japan are even more impressive during cherry blossom season when the blooms blanket the grounds of Osaka Castle and accent the views of Mount Sakurajima from Kagoshima. This voyage also calls on UNESCO World Heritage sites ranging from the floating shrine and peace memorial of Hiroshima to the remains of Christian castles and cathedrals in the Nagasaki region.

- 30 March 2026 | 12-Night - Tokyo to Hong Kong: Considered a food capital of the world, Osaka merits in-depth exploration, while Japan’s UNESCO-listed castles of Himeji, Nara and Kyoto are also nearby. South Korea’s dynamic capital of Seoul boasts its own UNESCO palaces along with traditional villages offering authentic cuisine and crafts. During an overnight in Shanghai, experience a performance of the ancient art of acrobatics before sailing for Hong Kong, one of the greatest and most vibrant cities on earth.

Passengers will be able to choose from Select Group Excursions, Pre-Designed Private Excursions, or Custom Private Excursions. Whether kiteboarding in Philippines, exploring the delicious and varied street food in Thailand, white water rafting in Malaysia, or discovering museums in Vietnam, guests can tailor their journey, diving into their personal passions from the leisurely to the more adventurous.

“We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our yacht voyages into Asia’s most sought-after destinations. This milestone underscores our commitment to providing exclusive and immersive experiences that cater to the discerning tastes of luxury travelers,” said Jenni Benzaquen, Senior Vice President of Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts. “Today’s sophisticated adventurers seek intimate, authentic, personalized journeys that go well beyond traditional hospitality, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers guests unparalleled access to the world’s most exquisite destinations, all while enjoying the hallmarks of luxury and personalized service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned.”

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection launched in October 2022 with Evrima. Ilma, the collection’s second luxury super yacht, is slated to set sail in September 2024, followed by Luminara, the third luxury super yacht, in July 2025.

© Travel News Asia