Sail into Serenity: Dominican Republic Awaits with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Imagine the gentle hum of a sleek, private yacht slicing through turquoise waters. The Caribbean sun warms your skin as a uniformed attendant offers you a chilled glass of champagne. In the distance, a coastline of emerald-green palms and sugar-white sands beckons. This isn't a dream, nor is it the crowded reality of a conventional cruise. This is the rarefied world of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and your destination is the vibrant, soulful heart of the Caribbean: the Dominican Republic.

For too long, the Dominican Republic has been viewed through the narrow lens of all-inclusive resorts. But its true character lies beyond the gates—in the cobblestone streets of the first city of the Americas, in the untouched majesty of its national parks, and in the secluded coves accessible only to a vessel of discerning size. To truly experience this island nation's depth and diversity, you need more than a vacation; you need a voyage. A voyage that combines the freedom of a private superyacht with the legendary service that only one name can promise.

As a travel journalist who has sailed on everything from mega-ships to expedition vessels, I can tell you with certainty that The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has fundamentally changed the landscape of luxury travel at sea. It’s an experience designed not for tourists, but for travelers. And when paired with a destination as rich and multifaceted as the Dominican Republic, the result is nothing short of transformative. Let’s set sail and discover why.

Beyond Cruising: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Philosophy

First, let us dispel any notion of a traditional cruise. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection operates on a different plane of existence. This is not about rushing from port to port, following rigid schedules, and dining with thousands of strangers. It is about embracing the rhythm of the sea, with the unhurried luxury of time and space.

The philosophy is simple: to bring the bespoke, personalized service of a Ritz-Carlton resort to the open ocean. With a guest capacity of just 298 on its inaugural yacht, Evrima, the nearly one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio ensures your every need is not just met, but anticipated. The ambiance is one of a private club, where fellow guests are kindred spirits who value privacy, elegance, and authentic experiences. The all-inclusive nature of the voyage means you can truly relax—gratuities, fine wines, premium spirits, Wi-Fi, and watersports are all part of the journey. There are no hidden costs, only hidden coves to discover.

Your Sanctuary at Sea: Aboard the Evrima

Your floating home for this Dominican Republic escape is a masterpiece of nautical design. The Evrima, meaning "discovery" in Greek, is more akin to a private superyacht than a cruise ship. Its sleek profile and intimate public spaces create an atmosphere of sophisticated tranquility.

Unrivaled Accommodations: Your Private Terrace Suite

Every single room onboard is a suite, and every suite features a private ocean-view terrace. This is a non-negotiable standard of luxury. Imagine waking to the soft Caribbean light, stepping onto your terrace with a freshly brewed coffee, and watching the Dominican coastline slowly come into view. The suites are residential in feel, with king-size beds adorned with bespoke Frette linens, spacious bathrooms with dual vanities and luxury ESPA bath products, and a complimentary in-suite mini-bar, restocked to your preferences.

For those seeking the pinnacle of space and service, the two-story Loft Suites and expansive Owner's Suites offer sprawling living areas and unmatched views. Have a specific suite in mind? Our travel specialists can review the deck plans with you. Simply click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner to start a conversation.

A Culinary Journey for the Senses

Dining aboard a Ritz-Carlton yacht is an event in itself. Forget buffets and assigned seating. Here, you have a collection of exquisite, reservation-free restaurants to choose from, each offering a distinct culinary narrative.

• The Evrima Room: The main dining venue is an elegant, contemporary space offering a diverse, locally inspired menu. The focus is on fresh, sustainable ingredients, often sourced from the ports you visit.
• Talaat Nam: Journey to Southeast Asia with this stunning restaurant featuring creative small plates and a lively sushi bar. The outdoor seating is perfect for a warm Caribbean evening.
• S.E.A.: The culinary crown jewel, S.E.A. (an acronym for Sven Elverfeld Afloat) is a three-Michelin-starred dining experience conceived by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg. This intimate, reservations-required venue offers a European tasting menu that will be a highlight of your voyage.
• The Pool House: For a more casual, al fresco experience, enjoy freshly prepared lunch, from gourmet burgers to vibrant salads, all with a stunning ocean backdrop.

The best part? It’s all included. The only exception is the exclusive S.E.A., which carries a nominal surcharge well worth the experience. Planning a special celebration? Let us help you coordinate the perfect dining experience. You can specify your interests when you Inquire About This Sailing.

Leisure Redefined: From Spa to Marina

Days at sea are a blissful affair. The aft infinity pool seems to melt into the horizon, surrounded by plush loungers and attentive service. The Ritz-Carlton Spa is a serene sanctuary offering therapeutic treatments from ESPA, a sauna, a steam room, and a quiet relaxation lounge. For the more active, a state-of-the-art Fitness Studio provides panoramic views to accompany your workout.

Perhaps the most unique feature is the yacht’s Marina. When anchored in calm, secluded bays, this platform lowers to sea level, creating your own private watersports playground. Jump in for a swim, or take out a paddleboard, kayak, or sailing dinghy. It’s an unparalleled way to connect with the crystalline waters of the Caribbean.

The Jewel of the Caribbean: A Sample Dominican Republic Itinerary

The true magic happens when this incredible vessel meets an equally incredible destination. The yacht's smaller size allows it to access ports and anchorages that are off-limits to larger ships, offering a more intimate and authentic Dominican experience. While itineraries vary, here is a glimpse of what your serene sailing could entail.

You can explore specific dates and routes right now using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. It's the fastest way to see live availability.

Days 1-2: Santo Domingo – Where History Breathes

Your voyage begins in the vibrant capital, Santo Domingo. Instead of docking in a sterile industrial port, your yacht will anchor where it can, offering stunning views of this historic city. You'll step ashore into the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the New World began. Walk the cobblestone streets of Calle Las Damas, the first paved street in the Americas. Stand in awe of the Catedral Primada de América, the continent's first cathedral. The air is thick with history, music, and the scent of rich Dominican coffee.

Expert Tip: We can arrange a private guide to take you beyond the typical tour, from a behind-the-scenes look at a cigar factory to a private rum tasting with a master blender. These are the details that elevate a trip into a lifelong memory.

Days 3-4: The Samaná Peninsula – Nature's Unspoiled Masterpiece

Leaving the city behind, you’ll sail to the breathtaking Samaná Peninsula. This is where the yacht experience truly shines. You'll anchor in pristine bays, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush rainforest. Explore Los Haitises National Park, a sanctuary of mangrove forests, ancient Taino caves, and soaring rock formations (karsts) jutting from the sea. Depending on the season (typically January to March), this is one of the best places on Earth to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of humpback whales on their annual migration.

Day 5: Isla Saona – A Vision of Paradise

Prepare for a day torn from the pages of a travel magazine. Isla Saona, part of the Cotubanamá National Park, is the platonic ideal of a Caribbean island. The yacht will anchor offshore, and you can spend the day on its palm-fringed, white-sand beaches. The Marina platform will likely be open, allowing you to swim, snorkel, and paddleboard in the impossibly turquoise, bath-warm water. The crew will arrange a sublime beach experience, ensuring you feel like a castaway in the most luxurious sense.

Days 6-7: Casa de Campo & A Leisurely Return

Your final port of call might be near the exclusive enclave of La Romana, home to the famed Casa de Campo resort. Here you can experience Altos de Chavón, a stunningly recreated 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River. Golf enthusiasts can play a round on the legendary "Teeth of the Dog" course. As your voyage concludes, you’ll enjoy a final, leisurely day at sea, savoring the amenities of your yacht, reflecting on the discoveries you’ve made, and promising yourself a swift return.

Crafting Your Perfect Dominican Escape

A journey with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is not an off-the-shelf product; it's the canvas for your perfect vacation. Our role as your travel advisors is to add the masterstrokes. We handle the seamless logistics, from flights and pre-cruise hotel stays in Santo Domingo to arranging the bespoke shore excursions that will define your experience.

Are you celebrating an anniversary? Let us work with the concierge to arrange a private dinner on your terrace. Are you an avid diver? We can coordinate with local experts for a dive in the Dominican Republic's vibrant marine ecosystems. This level of personalization is what we do best.

The first step is a simple conversation. To begin crafting your bespoke journey, we invite you to connect with our specialists. For detailed pricing and to have an expert build a personalized itinerary just for you, the best way to start is to Plan Your Dominican Republic Adventure through our secure online form. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, our dedicated line for yacht voyages is 1 (888) 883‑0460. We are here to answer your questions and turn this dream into a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection voyage?

The experience is virtually all-inclusive. Your fare includes your suite, all dining (except for S.E.A.), beverages including fine wines and spirits, onboard gratuities, Wi-Fi, and access to the Marina for watersports. You only pay for spa treatments, the optional S.E.A. dining experience, and your chosen shore excursions.

What is the dress code onboard?

The dress code is "Yacht Casual." During the day, swimwear, shorts, and casual tops are appropriate. In the evening, shirts with collars, trousers, or stylish jeans are recommended for gentlemen, while ladies often wear elegant sundresses, skirts, or pants. Formal nights are not part of the relaxed onboard culture.

Is this experience suitable for families?

Absolutely. While the ambiance is sophisticated, it is also welcoming. The Ritz-Kids program is available for children ages four to twelve, offering a dedicated space and engaging, educational activities. It allows families to enjoy time both together and apart.

What kind of shore excursions are offered?

The shore excursions, known as "The Shore Collection," are curated to offer unique and immersive experiences. They are categorized for different interests, from iconic sights to active pursuits and cultural connections. You can book group excursions or, for the ultimate in flexibility, our team can help arrange a private car and driver or a specialized guide.

How do I book this specific Dominican Republic sailing?

Booking a voyage of this caliber deserves a personal touch. While you can view dates on the Cruise Booking Toolbar above, we highly recommend a consultation. This allows us to ensure you get the best suite for your needs, secure any special requests, and build a complete, seamless travel package. The best way to begin is by completing our short inquiry form to Get a Custom Quote. A dedicated yacht specialist will then contact you to finalize every perfect detail.