Ritz-Carlton Naples Reopens This July after Significant Damage from Hurricane Ian

• Posted on 3 August 2023
• By Lux
• 0

Whether you’re a Naples native or a regular visitor, you have probably been to the Ritz-Carlton of Naples a time or two. Sadly, the Ritz suffered extensive damage as the result of Hurricane Ian, which rolled through Naples in September 2022. Fortunately, after nearly a year of work, the Ritz-Carlton Naples is reopening in July.

Whether you’re a Naples native or a regular visitor, you have probably been to the Ritz-Carlton of Naples a time or two. Sadly, the Ritz suffered extensive damage as the result of Hurricane Ian, which rolled through Naples in September 2022. Fortunately, after nearly a year of work, the Ritz-Carlton Naples is reopening in July. 

Renovations

Renovations on the Ritz-Carlton Naples started way back in 2021. At the time, the company planned some grand changes for its guests, including a new tower, night clubs, and guest rooms. As the renovations were ongoing, the unimaginable occurred. Naples, Florida found itself in the path of Hurricane Ian, one of the worst storms in the region for decades. Though Naples was less severely impacted by the hurricane, numerous hotels and businesses – including Ritz-Carlton Naples – were seriously damaged. According to surveys, more than 1,580 rooms in the Naples area were closed as a direct result of Ian, which represents about 20% of the rooms available in the city. 

Damage

The damage at the Ritz in Naples was extensive enough that the company laid off more than 600 employees.  An article published in Naples Daily News estimated that the property damage and remediation cost would come to more than $200 million. Because the hurricane occurred in the midst of a $51 million renovation project, additional funds were needed to clean up and rebuild alongside the originally planned renovation. 

Grand Reopening

The Ritz reopened on July 6, 2023 with plenty of new amenities to wow its guests. The luxury hotel and resort added quite a bit to its already extensive lineup, including a completely reimagined series of outdoor spaces include pools, bungalows, and cabanas. The real star of the show is the Vanderbilt Tower, which offers a beautiful view of the Gulf. IT also includes the new Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, which is a luxurious facility featuring a media room, full-service bar, exceptional programming, and five new menus presented every single day. The Ritz said that about 80% of its hourly employees and 95% of its management staff returned to work for the reopening, and more may be called back later. 

The Future of the Ritz

The Ritz features 474 guestrooms and suites that have been upgraded in the name of elegance and style. They’ve added an additional 60 suites, including guest rooms in the Vanderbuilt Tower. So far, the reception of the new Ritz has been phenomenal, and the award-winning beach resort continues to wow visitors from all around the world. 

If you’re planning a luxury vacation in Naples, the Ritz-Carlton is one of the hottest and most coveted spots in the country. From curated champagne tastings to some of the highest-rated food experiences in the world, the Ritz has it all. Enjoy quiet days in your bungalow, exciting nights in the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, and much more.