By V. Sivaji

The ultra-luxury cruise ship Luminara, the latest superyacht from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, made its maiden call at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal yesterday, marking a prestigious milestone for Penang’s cruise tourism sector.

The brand-new vessel was delivered in June 2025 by the world-renowned Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. Registered in Malta, Luminara is classified as an ultra-luxury superyacht, measuring 242 metres in length and designed to deliver an intimate yet refined yachting experience.

Luminara has a guest capacity of 452 passengers, served by a highly personalised crew of 374, reflecting the brand’s commitment to exceptional service standards. The vessel is under the command of Captain Magnus Bengtsson, an experienced master mariner overseeing the yacht’s inaugural voyages.

Onboard, Luminara features 226 spacious all-suite accommodations, each with a private terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows offering uninterrupted ocean views. Guests enjoy an array of world-class facilities, including multiple fine-dining restaurants and lounges, curated by acclaimed chefs, as well as seven bars designed for both elegant evenings and relaxed social gatherings.

Wellness and leisure offerings include The Ritz-Carlton Spa®, a serene sanctuary providing bespoke treatments, a panoramic pool deck with jacuzzis, and an expansive Marina and Marina Terrace that allows direct access to the sea for swimming and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Additional highlights include a wine vault, luxury retail boutiques, and carefully curated art and interior design that embody contemporary sophistication.

The ship’s arrival was welcomed by Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Chairman of the Penang Port Commission and Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, together with members of his team. The maiden call of Luminara underscores Penang’s growing appeal as a premium cruise destination and reinforces Malaysia’s position on the global luxury cruise map.