Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has announced a delay in the launch of its first yacht, Evrima, which will now set sail on 22 April 2021.

In a statement, the company said that it has been because of delays at the Hijos de J. Barreras shipyard.

The vessel’s inaugural sailing will be from Lisbon, Portugal to Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection CEO, Douglas Prothero, said: “We sincerely apologise to all guests who were ready to sail with us.

“We remain deeply committed to ensuring a seamless delivery of the standards of quality and service that The Ritz-Carlton is known for as well as providing a highly customised, state-of-the-art build that will make our inaugural yacht the most distinctive of its kind.”

The majority of shareholders of the Hijos de J. Barreras shipyard have agreed to hand over control to Cruise Yacht Yard Co Ltd, an affiliated entity to Evrima’s owner, Cruise Yacht 1 Ltd, also led by Douglas Prothero. Giving the newly formed entity oversight of the shipyard. The new structure will ensure the timely completion of Evrima.

Guests affected by this shift in timing will be invited to reschedule their voyage.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is extending voyage fare savings when guests reschedule their voyage or full reimbursement for their voyage fare paid to date.

Guests holding independent air and hotel arrangements may also be reimbursed for change or cancellation fees assessed.

In addition, travel agent commissions will be protected in the amount equal to the commission that would have been earned on the cruise-only fare had the cruise not been cancelled.

The company is reaching out to guests who have been booked on voyages between 14 June 2020 and 21 April 2021. Guests and travel agents can also contact The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection via the reservation.