Luxury yacht cruise fleets expand with new ships
Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Orient Express, Aman, Ponant Explorations and Aqua Expeditions are adding small ships and specialized itineraries.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has expanded steadily since launching the 298-passenger Evrima in fall 2022. The brand followed with Ilma in 2024 and Luminara in 2025.
Four Seasons has entered the yacht sector with Four Seasons I. The vessel offers 95 suites and is staffed at a one-to-one ratio with guests.
Orient Express christened Corinthian in April. The sailing yacht has three masts, 54 suites, five restaurants and a spa that includes a hammam.
Aman is also preparing to join the market. The company plans a spring debut for Amangati, a 47-suite vessel.
Other operators are extending luxury cruising into remote regions. Ponant Explorations introduced the 123-cabin Le Commandant Charcot five years before the reported expansion. Aqua Expeditions has since debuted Aqua Lares, which is scheduled to operate in the Seychelles during winter and the Arctic during summer.