Ritz Carlton’s Ilma Christened in Ft. Lauderdale

Posted on 16 December, 2024 by Spacejunkie2

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection celebrated the christening of the Ilma on Dec. 11, 2024, at Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The company said in a press release that in honour of maritime traditions, the ceremony featured a ceremonial blessing and the iconic breaking of a Champagne bottle, symbolizing good fortune and safe travels for all guests and employees on board.

Jim Murren, executive chairman and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Ernesto Fara, president and CFO, joined from Seafarers’ House at Port Everglades.

They were joined by the Ilma’s Captain Magnus Bengtsson and General Manager Sasha Tyas, along with Father Sandford Sears, who is said to be known as “Father Sandy.”

Together, they celebrated a group of female leaders from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, both shipboard and shoreside, who collectively fulfilled the role of the Alma’s godmothers.

“The christening of the Ilma marks a significant moment in our journey as we officially welcome this extraordinary yacht into our fleet. The Ilma represents growth and the exciting future of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection,” said Murren.

“We are incredibly grateful to all those who have worked tirelessly to bring this beautiful yacht to life, from our dedicated team members to our global partners,” added Murren.

The celebration was held aboard the Ilma at Port Everglades and attended by employees from the company’s Ft. Lauderdale office, local officials and guests.

Joining the Evrima, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s first ship, the Ilma debuted in the Mediterranean in September 2024, sailing from Monte Carlo to Rome.

For the 2024-25 winter season, the Ilma joins the Evrima in the Caribbean, offering voyages to the region’s islands. In summer 2025, the Ilma will explore Northern Europe, marking the company’s first itineraries in the North and Baltic Seas, calling on cities like Copenhagen, Reykjavík and Bordeaux.

Photo: From left: Ernesto Fara and Jim Murren

Crew Advocate Pushes for Monthly Full Day Off

Posted on 16 December, 2024 by Spacejunkie2

Crew advocate Rinell Banda has called on cruise lines to implement a full day off for all crew members, according to a post from CrewCenter.

Founder of Buhay Sa Cruise Ship and a social media influencer with over 900,000 followers, Banda proposed the initiative after hearing concerns from thousands of cruise ship crew members on his platforms.

The initiative aims to help crew recharge, increase productivity and ultimately enhance the guest experience.

In a video shared on his page, Banda called for action, stating, “To all the amazing CEOs of the cruise ship industry, I have a suggestion that could transform the lives of our hard-working crew members and make our ships even more efficient and happier places to work: implementing a day off at least once a month for all crew members.”

Currently, most crew members only receive partial time off. Banda suggests a full day off each month to address these challenges.

“Think about it: Happy crew members lead to happy guests. It’s a win-win for everyone! So, to all the cruise ship CEOs out there: Let’s lead by example and set a new standard in the maritime industry. One day off a month can make all the difference. Your crew, your strength. Let’s give them the break they deserve,” concludes Banda.

Crew Center has supported the proposal, highlighting its potential benefits for crew members and the cruise industry as a whole.

Anthem of the Seas Arrives in Singapore

Posted on 28 November, 2024 by Spacejunkie2

Photo credit Spacejunkie2

Royal Caribbean International’s Anthem of the Seas arrived in Singapore to kick off its inaugural season in Asia, according to a press release.

The ship will offer a series of sailings in Southeast Asia, ranging from short three—to four-night escapes to longer voyages in Malaysia and Thailand, among other destinations.

“We’re thrilled to introduce Anthem to the region and look forward to welcoming holidaymakers onboard as they embark on new adventures with Royal Caribbean,” said Chad Grospe, vice president of Asia-Pacific, Royal Caribbean International.

“Whether it’s a short three- to four-night escape or a longer adventure to fan-favourite destinations across Malaysia, Thailand and more, every type of holidaymaker can look forward to a variety of experiences on deck, from showstopping entertainment to restaurants and spots to grab a bite with flavours from around the world.”

Travellers can choose among 30 voyages aboard the Anthem, including:

Three- to four-night getaways to destinations like Penang, Malaysia, and Phuket, Thailand.
Five-night Spice of Southeast Asia cruises with visits to Penang and Phuket, with opportunities to explore nearby attractions such as the Phi Phi Islands.
Eight-night Bali Adventure sailings featuring stops along Bali’s coastline, with access to cultural landmarks and scenic beaches.
Ten-night Ultimate Southeast Asia cruises, with visits to Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang and Bangkok, among other destinations in Vietnam and Thailand.
Four-night Christmas voyage, departing on December 24, 2024, with stops at Penang and Phuket.
Five-night New Year’s cruise, departing December 28, 2024, visiting Malaysia and Thailand for a festive celebration.