From its inception, this voyage has been designed to connect iconic Mediterranean destinations while providing the refined expertise of Sotheby’s alongside The Luxury Group by Marriott International. The winning bidder of this exclusive auction item will embark on a journey that begins in Rome, traversing the Mediterranean to include stops at glamorous ports such as Livorno, Portofino, Saint-Tropez, and Mallorca—each renowned for their vibrant artistic heritage.
Luminara: A Masterpiece in Luxury Travel
At the heart of this unparalleled experience is Luminara, the Ritz-Carlton’s newest superyacht, which redefines luxury travel. Designed with sophistication and comfort in mind, the Owner’s Suite on board features panoramic floor-to-ceiling views and a spacious indoor-outdoor living concept, ensuring that guests can relish the stunning Mediterranean vistas in privacy and style. A dedicated Suite Ambassador provides personalized attention, catering to every whim and need.
Onboard culinary experiences are equally lavish, with gourmet menus served at five distinct restaurants. Each dining venue showcases globally inspired cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. A highlight of this gastronomic journey is the exquisite Italian tasting menu offered at Seta, the yacht’s specialty restaurant led by the acclaimed chef Fabio Trabocchi. Guests will have the opportunity to pair their meals with rare vintages from the yacht’s Wine Vault, turning each dining experience into a sensory feast.
Wellness at Sea
Luxury aboard Luminara extends far beyond its culinary offerings. The Ritz-Carlton Spa® onboard presents bespoke wellness treatments utilizing premium products from renowned brands such as ESPA, 111SKIN, and Pisterzi. Whether indulging in a detoxifying massage or an anti-aging facial, guests can expect a rejuvenating escape amid the tranquil beauty of the Mediterranean.
In addition to sumptuous amenities, guests will enjoy a full-circle VIP travel experience. Round-trip luxury airport services and elite ground transportation are provided in both Florence and Saint-Tropez, ensuring that every aspect of the journey is seamless and indulgent.
An Immersive Cultural Odyssey
What truly sets Masterpieces and the Mediterranean apart is its exclusive partnership with Sotheby’s, granting guests rare access to a series of deeply immersive cultural experiences typically unavailable to the general public. Renowned curators and specialists from Sotheby’s have meticulously crafted the itinerary, bringing guests face-to-face with priceless artworks and private collections housed within some of Europe’s most cherished art institutions.
As Ottilie Windsor, Co-Head of Contemporary Art, London, aptly states, “The Mediterranean has always been a vibrant crossroads of artistic exchange… This initiative sheds light on that legacy, inviting guests to experience art as a living continuum, shaped by place, memory, and dialogue.”
Guests will embark on an unforgettable journey through the art world, starting in Florence, where they will step into the private residence of the founder of FAMM (Femmes Artistes du Musée de Mougins). Here, they will tour an exceptional private collection that highlights powerful works by female artists spanning the modern and contemporary periods. This intimate setting allows for quiet reflection and exploration, guided by expert commentary that enhances the understanding of each piece.
In Saint-Tropez, the journey continues with a personalized tour of the FAMM Museum, which houses the Levett Collection. Under the guidance of Sotheby’s Contemporary Art specialists, guests will encounter masterpieces by celebrated female artists such as Frida Kahlo, Joan Mitchell, and Mary Cassatt, deepening their appreciation for the contributions of women in the art world.
The voyage also includes a curated walk through the famed Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France’s first independent art foundation. Guests will enjoy a special exhibition titled Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life, presented through an exclusive curator-led tour that delves into the life and work of this influential artist.
Culinary Heritage and Artistic Legacy
Each stop on this Mediterranean odyssey is meticulously curated to reflect the theme of artistic legacy and personal enrichment. Guests will dine at the legendary La Colombe d’Or, a Provençal restaurant frequented by luminaries such as Picasso, Matisse, and Calder. Surrounded by original artworks, guests will savor traditional cuisine while becoming part of the rich tapestry of history that defines this celebrated region.
The auction for Masterpieces and the Mediterranean will run from June 20 to 30, 2025, via Sotheby’s Sealed platform, aligning with Sotheby’s Summer Marquee Sales Exhibition in London, scheduled from June 18 to 24. To commemorate this unique collaboration, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will co-host a private celebratory brunch on June 22 at Sotheby’s London, gathering collectors, art patrons, and travel connoisseurs to honor the fusion of fine art and luxury travel.
The Future of Luxury Travel
This collaboration between The Luxury Group and Sotheby’s signifies a shared mission to create elevated experiences through access, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Since their partnership launched in September 2024, the duo has developed four bespoke voyages tailored for art lovers and global explorers. Each journey exemplifies thoughtful curation, intimate access, and cultural resonance, inviting travelers to explore the soul of the Mediterranean through the lens of artistic discovery.
As the world of ultra-luxury travel evolves, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Sotheby’s stand at the forefront, guiding discerning voyagers toward experiences that transcend expectations. With Luminara as its vessel and art as its compass, this extraordinary voyage redefines the essence of traveling beautifully, inspiring and transforming those fortunate enough to embark on this magnificent journey.
