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Elegant Traveller

The Story Behind The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club's Newest Yacht

schedule7 Minute Read

03-Sep-2025 Laura Holt

The Story Behind The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club's Newest Yacht

An Exclusive Look at Luminara with CHAPI Design...

As one of the most recognised and respected names in the luxury hotel world, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection takes their prowess in sophistication to the seas, with intimate and enthralling yachting experiences.
Over the past few years we have seen the transformation of cruising holidays, going from a taboo travel option to offering some of the finest spaces and experiences available.
Having already been boarded by celebrities such as Sting, Naomi Campbell, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Tom Brady; and recognised as Best New Luxury Cruise in The Most Exciting Cruise Ship Launches of 2025 by Forbes Vetted, Luminara takes this one step further. She is here, and bringing a new age of cruising with her.
Every icon is first a work in progress, and giving us an inside look at that of Luminara is Tatiana Sheveleva, Owner of CHAPI Design.
Luminara is the latest addition to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, built in 2025. Its inaugural season sees it set sail for the sun-dappled Mediterranean, and CHAPI Design ensures it does so in style.

Firstly, congratulations on such a beautiful project! Seeing the success and attention Luminara is already receiving must be exciting. What part of the project are you most proud of?

TS

Thank you so much! I think what excites me most is seeing the way the public areas come alive with a sense of calm sophistication, and how much the design forms part of the narrative of what Luminara is to guests aboard. Every detail - from the materials to the lighting - was chosen to create a welcoming environment that feels effortlessly luxurious. The way these spaces invite interaction while also offering privacy is something I'm particularly proud of.

You can really feel the attention to detail in the project. What was the vision that you had in mind for this yacht?

TS

The vision was to celebrate its name. Luminara, the Latin word for 'light'. Every curve, texture and material was selected for its beauty and how it interacts with sunlight, moonlight and the shifting reflections of the sea.

The other vision, just as strong, was to create something that exceeded the expectations for guests who were already familiar with the Ritz-Carlton brand.

Considering Ritz-Carlton is such a heritage brand, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection in particular being all about evoking the relaxed freedom of yachting whilst still having a refined feel, was this a challenge to portray? How are these incorporated into Luminara?

TS

It was indeed a careful balance. We wanted guests to feel the openness and ease of a yacht while retaining the sophistication of a Ritz-Carlton property. This is achieved through flexible public spaces that flow naturally, soft textures paired with elegant materials, and furniture that combines comfort with a curated, luxurious aesthetic.

Each space is thoughtfully composed to feel inviting, elegant, and entirely tailored to the guest experience, offering moments of discovery around every corner.

It's this tailored experience that really resonates with Elegant Resorts travellers, could you tell us more about this?

TS

Luminara is designed for intimate experiences. From thoughtfully curated seating arrangements and secluded lounge areas to bespoke materials and finishes that feel personal and inviting, every element is about offering privacy and comfort. We also incorporated subtle details that surprise and delight guests, especially in the lighting, making each moment on board feel unique.

What spaces are you excited for guests to experience?

TS

I am particularly excited for the lounges and observation areas where guests can relax and soak in the views. These spaces are designed to feel both exclusive and welcoming, offering opportunities for reflection, socialising, or simply enjoying the serenity of the ocean.

I am sure our guests will be keen to try Luminara's restaurants too. What can you tell us about the design inspiration behind these dining spaces?

TS

The dining spaces were designed to reflect the rhythm of the sea and the natural elegance of the surroundings. Materials are tactile and luxurious, lighting is carefully curated to complement the culinary experience, and the layout encourages both shared and intimate dining moments.
The goal was to create spaces that feel as special as the cuisine itself.

Across all the yachts in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, there is a sense of timelessness and tradition. But Luminara feels like it's more than that, driving the future of cruising. Were there any key trends or innovations that influenced your approach?

TS

Wellness and connectivity were key influences. We integrated sustainable materials where possible, designed spaces that support wellness through natural light and views, and created adaptable social zones to meet the evolving expectations of modern travellers. Technology is also subtly incorporated to enhance comfort without compromising design.

A cosy bar interior with a lounge style, featuring white sofas and herringbone floor
Luminara Art Bar Interior

What do you hope guests will feel or experience when they step aboard Luminara for the first time?

TS

I hope they feel a sense of calm, elegance and genuine delight. The intention is for guests to instantly feel connected, at ease, enveloped in a thoughtful, luxurious environment that sparks curiosity and anticipation for the journey ahead.

As Partner at Chapi Chapo Design, and now as Owner of CHAPI Design, Tatiana has also worked on a host of luxury hotels, including The St. Regis San Francisco, The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya, and Amanyara.
For further travel inspiration, our luxury online travel blog is filled with first-hand travel tales, expert destination guides and more. To book your luxury holiday beyond expectations, talk to our team.
Laura Holt

Laura Holt

Editorial & Campaign Manager

Whether it's a weekend away or an exciting international adventure, I'm always eager for my next trip. I've been lucky to travel in abundance, and each time I come home, I bring back stories that I love to share.

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