Singapore Welcomes Ritz-Carlton’s Luminara For Asia-Pacific Cruises, Marking New Era For Ultra-Luxury Sailing

Published on December 27, 2025

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest opulent cruiser, Luminara, is now operating in the Asia-Pacific region, starting from Singapore, which signifies a new era for luxury cruising in the area. On December 23, 2025, Luminara made her first sailing on a week-long round trip to Singapore, marking the ship’s entry into the Asia-Pacific region. The first itinerary is comprised of visits to Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Malacca, Phuket and Penang, which raises high hopes for the delivery of ultra-luxury tourist experiences in these popular destinations.

An Ultra-Luxury Addition to Singapore’s Cruise Scene

The arrival of Luminara signals an exciting development for Singapore’s tourism and cruise industry. With its modern and lavish offerings, the ship strengthens Singapore’s role as a premier regional cruise hub, complementing its robust tourism infrastructure. The ship’s arrival follows an earlier announcement from Disney Cruise Line, which had initially planned to launch Disney Adventure in December 2025 but has deferred to March 2026. While Luminara enjoys a head start, its luxurious experience is bound to captivate Singapore’s affluent travellers seeking exclusive voyages in the Asia-Pacific.

This deployment is part of a broader trend in Singapore’s tourism sector, which has recently focused on attracting high-value, experience-driven visitors. Singapore’s tourism authorities have welcomed the arrival of Luminara, recognising it as a significant asset in its strategy to build on increasing passenger volumes. By aligning with Ritz-Carlton’s established reputation for luxury and hospitality, the vessel further cements Singapore’s standing as a go-to destination for ultra-luxury travel.

A New Standard of Luxury at Sea

Measuring 794 feet in length, Luminara first set sail in July 2025, but its Asia-Pacific debut in Singapore introduces an entirely new experience for cruise enthusiasts. What sets Luminara apart is its exclusive suite configuration, designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The ship accommodates just 452 guests, offering a highly intimate and personalised experience. The ship features 226 suites, ranging from the 294-square-foot Terrace Suite to the spectacular 1,047-square-foot Owner’s Suite, which boasts its very own private outdoor jacuzzi.

Onboard, guests will find a wealth of luxury amenities, with five exquisite dining venues offering an impressive array of international cuisines. Whether indulging in Italian delicacies, modern Asian flavours, Mediterranean dishes, or Middle Eastern-inspired creations, passengers will savour the finest flavours at sea. Additionally, seven bars and lounges provide the perfect setting for relaxation or socialising, while the chic, art-focused interiors reflect Ritz-Carlton’s signature style.

Another standout feature of Luminara is its floating marina, a watersports platform offering guests direct access to the sea for swimming, kayaking, and other thrilling water activities. This innovation makes it easier for guests to enjoy the ocean in all its glory, creating a seamless connection between the yacht and its surroundings.

Enhancing the Travel Experience with Exclusive Collaborations

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has carefully curated a series of special voyages for Luminara, further elevating its offering in the Asia-Pacific region. Among the most anticipated is a 12-night journey from Hong Kong to Tokyo, set for March 2026, which will feature renowned Michelin-starred chef Paul Lau Ping Lui of Tin Lung Heen. Guests will be treated to exclusive culinary experiences with special workshops and personalised menus, allowing them to indulge in world-class cuisine while sailing across the region.

In May 2026, Luminara will embark on a highly anticipated voyage from Tokyo to Alaska, showcasing the versatility of the ship’s itinerary. After this, the yacht will return to Asia, ensuring that guests have access to the finest luxury cruising experience year-round.

Appealing to Affluent Singaporean Tourists

For travellers based in Singapore, the arrival of Luminara offers an exciting opportunity to experience an unmatched level of luxury right on their doorstep. As one of the most sought-after destinations for luxury tourism, Singapore continues to draw high-net-worth individuals, making it the ideal departure point for an exclusive sailing experience. The new ship’s luxurious features, such as the floating marina, exquisite suites, and Michelin-led culinary events, are expected to attract affluent tourists seeking unparalleled comfort, relaxation, and adventure in one seamless package.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s focus on offering more than just a cruise but a fully immersive experience with curated shore excursions and overnight stays at Ritz-Carlton properties ashore further enhances its appeal. These offerings promise to leave a lasting impression on Singapore’s discerning tourists, who can indulge in a high-touch, personalised service that matches the brand’s iconic hotel experience.

A Growing Fleet for Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Since its debut in 2022, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has steadily expanded its fleet, now boasting three luxury vessels: Evrima, Ilma and Luminara. The introduction of Luminara to the Asia-Pacific market adds another level of sophistication to the brand’s offerings, which mirror the luxe elements of the Ritz-Carlton hotels on land. Guests aboard any of the Ritz-Carlton yachts can expect similar high-end experiences, from art-infused interiors to an emphasis on wellness and curated excursions that connect guests to the local culture.

The Future of Ultra-Luxury Cruise Tourism in Singapore

The deployment of Luminara is a key milestone in Singapore’s continued efforts to lead in the ultra-luxury cruise tourism sector. As the ship embarks on over 40 scheduled voyages across Asia and beyond, its presence promises to set a new benchmark for luxury cruising in the region. With exclusive itineraries, world-class dining, and exciting collaborations with renowned chefs, Luminara is poised to make waves among travellers seeking a refined, extraordinary cruise experience.

Cruise tourism in Singapore is headed for a bright future.

The introduction of Luminara has made a giant stride in the direction of Singapore’s cruise tourism, and it is not only that but also a mixture of luxury, exclusivity, and service that is second to none. It is going to be a tremendous benefit for the local travelers who can now take the trip of luxury without actually leaving home, at the same time it will be a magnet for tourists from abroad who are after the finest in hesitatingly luxurious travel. Luminara is going to be the main passenger amongst the cruise ships in the Asia-Pacific region with the increased number of sailings planned, thereby reinforcing a global leader in the luxury market Singapore’s status.

Image Credit: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection