Ilma Makes Historic First Call at Portsmouth Port, UK

Portsmouth International Port welcomed its first-ever visit from a Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection vessel as the Ilma arrived in UK waters this week.

Andrew Williamson, head of cruise and ferry operations at the port, remarked: “It’s been fantastic to host Ritz Carlton at the port and celebrate their first visit to UK shores, on a beautiful sunny day in Portsmouth. Ilma sailed with 386 guests, who we are proud to have welcomed today. The captain also informed us that many of the guests spent a couple of days in the city.”

Marking a milestone for sustainability as well, the Ilma became the first LNG-powered cruise ship to dock in Portsmouth. The vessel is also equipped for shore power connectivity and will be able to utilize the port’s upcoming shore power system once it is commissioned later this year, Williamson noted.

Having entered service in October 2024, the Ilma began a nine-night British Isles voyage with her Portsmouth call, making stops in Holyhead, Liverpool, Greenock (Glasgow), Dublin, and Cork before ending the cruise in Amsterdam.

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection is expected to make a return call to Portsmouth in 2026.