The Ritz-Carlton, a luxury hotel brand known for impeccable service and accommodations, is bravely diving into the world of cruising. But unlike traditional cruise ships, which hold thousands of passengers, Ritz-Carlton is aiming smaller by building three high-end yachts that hold less than 300 passengers. The ships are currently being built in Spain, the first of which is set to debut in 2020.

The company is targeting the luxury cruiser by capitalizing on the small ship cruising market. These smaller yachts will have a more intimate feel and offer the industry's highest guest to service ratio with roughly one crew member per guest. Another bonus? The yachts can reach remote ports that the larger ships cannot, allowing the company to create unique itineraries.

In addition, the yachts will boast specially crafted excursions, a signature spa, a restaurant by three Michelin-starred chef Sven Elverfeld, and a marina style platform that allows direct ocean access. The luxurious amenities on board call to those consumers seeking an extraordinary level of service and personalization.

Forbes interviewed Douglas Prothero, Managing Director of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and according to him, pricing should be in line with the current all-inclusive luxury cruise market.

If the idea of cruising around on an upscale, intimate yacht sounds appealing, you can visit the Ritz-Carlton website to learn more.

Image By NoRud [CC BY-SA 4.0  (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], from Wikimedia Commons