Silversea Cruises is enhancing its global expedition fleet with the conversion of Silver Wind to an ice-class, ultra-luxury expedition ship.
The move signals continued confidence in the fast-growing popularity of ultra-luxury expedition travel to the pristine glaciers and wildlife-rich regions of Antarctica, says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s president and CEO. “With the backing of the Royal Caribbean Group, we are significantly investing in our ultra-luxury fleet to meet the burgeoning guest demand for voyage options in such breath-taking, remote destinations as Antarctica, and we have more exciting enhancements to come.”
Silver Wind is presently undergoing refurbishments in Gdańsk, Poland, to give it an ice-strengthened hull for cruising in polar waters and state-of-the-art technology upgrades. Adding to her sustainability credentials, Silver Wind will be outfitted with a new advanced waste water treatment plant, new food waste treatment facilities, and new fuel-saving boilers.
Silver Wind will emerge as the cruise line’s fourth expedition vessel in its fleet of nine ultra-luxury ships. On her maiden voyage on Nov. 20, Silver Wind is slated to set sail on a 22-day journey to Antarctica, providing guests with a prime viewing position on the White Continent for a solar eclipse on Dec. 4.
Silver Wind is getting enhancements that will enable immersive expedition cruising in both Polar regions, as well as in the world’s most remote tropical waters. The ship will be fitted with a strengthened hull; ice-detector sonars, designed for use on icebreaker vessels; 24 Zodiacs; and 14 kayaks.
With a reduced guest capacity of just 274, Silver Wind will deliver one of the most personalized expedition experiences at sea, carrying up to 28 expedition experts who will share their knowledge during onboard lectures, on guided Zodiac tours, and on experiences ashore. Further enhancing the expedition experience for guests, a photo studio (formerly the Casino) with state-of-the-art equipment, a mudroom, and a special water-heating system in the ship’s swimming pool will highlight Silver Wind’s new amenities.
Following the ship’s comprehensive refurbishment in 2018, which saw the enhancement of most public spaces, the ship’s suites and public areas are getting refreshments. Silver Wind’s upper suites will be entirely refurbished, with new furniture and carpets, as well as new walk-in showers to complement the bathtubs.
Silver Wind’s Vista and Veranda suites will also be updated, including the installation of new walk-in showers. Many of the ship’s public areas will also be refreshed, with re-painted walls and ceilings in La Dame, La Terrazza, the Observation Lounge, the Panorama Lounge, and the reception area. The Gym & Beauty Salon will also be refreshed.
Guests on all-inclusive expedition voyages will enjoy inclusive international round-trip flights or air credit and business class upgrades at reduced rates. Pre -and post-cruise hotel nights transfers and luggage handling. On-board, a qualified expedition team will offer lectures, guided tours and shore-side activities. Complimentary expedition gear including parka, backpack and water bottle are also offered on select polar voyages.
