The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) welcomed the inaugural arrival of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara, marking the luxury yacht’s deployment from Hong Kong as a turnaround port.
Over the coming months, the yacht will operate Asia-Pacific itineraries with Hong Kong as the embarkation and disembarkation point. The deployment highlights Hong Kong’s appeal for cruise tourism and its ability to attract high-end international visitors.
Luminara entered Victoria Harbour and docked at Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui on the morning of January 13, following the launch of its Asia-Pacific itineraries from Singapore in December. HKTB marked the occasion with a water salute, dragon and lion dances, and a welcoming ceremony and luncheon on board attended by secretary for culture, sports and tourism Rosanna Law, commissioner for tourism Angelina Cheung, HKTB executive director Anthony Lau, and representatives from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
Luminara, the third and newest superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, will operate turnaround trips between Hong Kong and Singapore or Tokyo from January through mid-April 2026, with port calls including Osaka, Bangkok, Incheon, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Launched in July 2025, the yacht spans 242 metres with a gross tonnage of 46,750 and accommodates up to 452 guests across 226 suites with private terraces. Luminara features five dining venues, seven bars, and an expansive marina providing direct access to the water, supporting an intimate and unhurried way of exploring the region.
Law commented: “I am delighted to welcome the maiden call of a luxury cruise vessel from a leading international brand to Hong Kong as the new year begins. This demonstrates that Hong Kong not only attracts large and well-known cruises but has also drawn super-luxury vessels targeting high-end international visitors, testifying to Hong Kong’s diversity in cruise tourism.
“Looking ahead, the Tourism Commission and HKTB will continue to fortify Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s Cruise Hub and work closely with industry partners to drive the development of cruise tourism in Hong Kong.”
Ernesto Fara, president and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, said: “Our Asia-Pacific itineraries invite guests to experience the region in a more intimate and unhurried way, pairing marquee cities with more secluded islands and offering opportunities for overnights that allow for deeper exploration ashore and by water.
“Expanding into Asia-Pacific marks an important step in how we continue to thoughtfully grow in the region and around the world.”
