Bethesda, MD, United States, February 4, 2022 / TRAVELINDEX / The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company announced the Shore Collection for the Caribbean itineraries on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, offering a first look at the signature shore excursions in five distinct categories which include Iconic Sights; Stirring the Senses; Cultural Connections; Active Explorations; and Epicurean Experiences. For those guests looking to extend their time in destination, the brand is also introducing a selection of Overland Programs.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Caribbean Shore Collection,” said Doug Prothero, CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “While developing the Shore Collection, our goal was to offer guests extraordinary itineraries that provide an intimate look at each destination and its culture, as well as enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences at hotels and resorts within Marriott International’s luxury portfolio.”
The Shore Collection tours are offered in intimate group sizes and most can be personalized into private experiences, and a dedicated Concierge Ashore is available to create bespoke experiences for guests. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection stands apart through extensive research and choosing experts by port, ensuring insider knowledge in the destination and a truly local, authentic perspective. Highlights of the Caribbean Shore Collection include an exclusive tour of Aruba Aloe in Oranjestad, Aruba paired with an aloe-based treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Aruba; an overland adventure to Bogotá, Colombia; and exploring Belize’s marine and mountain wonders from the skies.
Stirring the Senses: Aruba Aloe Tour and Aloe Spa Experience
Unearth the powers of the aloe’s healing properties and restorative powers on a visit to an island aloe facility and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Aruba. The wellness-focused trip begins with a tour of Aruba Aloe, one of the world’s first companies to formulate and manufacture skin and hair products with the succulent plant. Following the tour, guests will experience the healing benefits firsthand at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Aruba where they will first create a customized sugar scrub, then choose from a selection of aloe-based treatments to indulge in.
Cultural Connections: Overland Adventure to Bogotá, Colombia
Go beyond the tropical coast to explore history, heritage, and culture in Colombia’s vibrant mountaintop capital. Experience Colombia’s diverse regions on an overnight tour that takes guests from the Caribbean coast to the capital of Bogotá. Highlights of the overnight excursion include a guided tour of Bogotá’s colonial district featuring the presidential mansion and museums dedicated to gold and Botero; an evening outing to Monserrate, a hilltop church that affords unparalleled views; and authentic dining experiences such as a cooking class with a local chef in a private home following a trip to the Plaza de Paloquemaofruit and flower market.
Active Explorations: Flightseeing over Blue Hole and Mayan Ruins
Discover Belize’s marine and mountain wonders from the skies, followed by a Maya wine and food pairing at an exclusive resort. A chartered aircraft will take off from Belize City, traveling due east over the shifting blue hues of the coastal waters. At Long Caye, the plane banks northward toward the Lighthouse Reef and the Great Blue Hole at its center. After circling the Blue Hole, the plane will soar over rolling landscapes, waterfalls, and the granite hillsides of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Touching down deep in the tropical jungle, guests will arrive at an exclusive resort for a wine and food pairing four-course lunch.
“The Caribbean Shore Collection demonstrates the type of innovative and personalized programming that will make The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection unique,” Prothero continued. “Our experiences are about taking people into the destination and bringing a new or different perspective to ‘must-do’ tours in addition to offering our own off-the-beaten path adventures. We aim to stimulate our guests’ cultural curiosity and offer a truly memorable and authentic way to experience a destination.”
The specially designed yacht will measure 190-meters, accommodate up to 298 passengers and feature 149 suites, each with its own private terrace. The yacht will also feature two 158 square-meter lavish Owner’s suites, each with its own private whirlpool, modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed by The Ritz-Carlton and leading design firm Tillberg Design of Sweden. The onboard experience will reflect the sublime comfort and unparalleled level of individualized guest service for which the iconic Ritz-Carlton brand is recognized.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection guests will enjoy an all-inclusive luxury experience including spacious accommodations, onboard activities and entertainment, beverages, multiple dining venues, onboard gratuities, WiFi and water-sports from the yacht’s marina. Signature experiences available for an additional fee include a culinary experience at Aqua, the yacht’s signature restaurant designed by Michelin-starred chef Sven Elverfeld, spa treatments, and immersive excursions offered through The Shore Collection. Voyage prices vary based upon the itinerary and season.
The yachts of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter.