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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Silversea Leverages Booming Demand for Ultra-Luxury Polar Travel with Ice-Class Conversion of Silver Wind

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The renovation of the 274-guest, ultra-luxury liner expands Silversea’s Antarctic expedition options, which will include a solar eclipse voyage in 2021

 (Monaco – July 6, 2021)  Silversea Cruises, the global leader in ultra-luxury and expedition travel, is set to enhance its global 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.

Silver Wind is presently undergoing refurbishments at the Remontowa shipyard in Gdańsk, Poland, following a major upgrade in 2018. The re-design includes 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. Marking her maiden voyage on November 20, 2021, 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 December 4, 2021.

“We are converting our beloved Silver Wind into one of the most luxurious expedition ships at sea to further expand and diversify our cold-water cruise offering,” 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.”

NEW EXPEDITION ENHANCEMENTS

Silver Wind will benefit from a set of enhancements that will enable immersive expedition cruising in both Polar Regions, as well as in the world’s most remote tropical waters. Taking guests closer to the action with on-water discovery, 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 personalised 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.

REFRESHED INTERIOR SPACES

Following the ship’s comprehensive refurbishment in 2018, which saw the enhancement of most public spaces, an array of refreshments will enrich guests’ comfort in the ship’s suites and public areas. 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 be refreshed too.

SOLAR ECLIPSE VOYAGE TO ANTARCTICA

Her maiden voyage as an expedition ship, Silver Wind is scheduled to depart on a 22-day sailing to Antarctica on November 20, 2021, spending her inaugural season exploring the White Continent. Not only will guests marvel at the remarkable landscapes and breathtaking wildlife of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica, but they will be perfectly placed to experience the solar eclipse on December 4 on what promises to be an unforgettable journey.

Silversea’s guests benefit from the most comprehensive all-inclusive Polar offering in expedition cruising. As well as Silversea’s iconic hallmarks of luxury, guests on expedition voyages enjoy the following inclusions in their cruise fare:

  • International roundtrip flights (or air credit)*

  • Business Class upgrades at reduced rates*

  • In-country flights**

  • Pre- and post-cruise hotel night/s, or day-use hotel***

  • Transfers and luggage handling

  • Highly-qualified Expedition Team

  • Enrichment lectures, guided Zodiac, land and sea tours, and shore-side activities

  • Complimentary expedition gear including parka**, backpack and water bottle

  • Multiple restaurants serving diverse cuisine and an in-suite 24-hour dining service including caviar

  • Premium beverages in-suite and throughout the ship

  • Butler service and onboard gratuities

  • Unlimited Wi-Fi

View Silver Wind’s upcoming voyages:

https://www.silversea.com/ships/silver-wind.html

Learn more about Silversea’s ultra-luxury expedition offering:

https://www.silversea.com/luxury-expeditions-cruises.html

Please note: All itineraries are subject to change based on a variety of external factors. Please refer to https://www.silversea.com/health-and-travel-notice.html for the latest health and travel advisories pertaining to cruise travel.

*Air is not available in all countries and to all destinations. Should guests book their air independently or should the desired air not be available, a non-use credit will be offered, which guests can apply to their cruise fare for extra savings. Business Class upgrades are available in selected destinations.

**on selected expedition voyages

***depending on Silversea’s air program flight schedule

About Silversea
Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit, Silver Muse and Silver Moon – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, Silver Cloud, and Silver Wind, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of three new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Dawn and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.


Coming to CruiseReport.com in July 2021

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

SILVERSEA ANNOUNCES ITS RETURN TO SERVICE IN THE GALÁPAGOS WITH ENHANCED ITINERARIES ABOARD NEW SHIP SILVER ORIGIN

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

The two newest ships in Silversea’s fleet—Silver Origin and Silver Moon—will lead the cruise line’s healthy return to service from June 2021.

(Monaco – May 11, 2021) Silversea Cruises today announced its long-awaited return to service in the Galápagos Islands aboard new ship Silver Origin, which arrived in San Cristóbal on April 30. With Silver Origin departing on her inaugural season from June 19, the leading ultra-luxury cruise line will welcome guests on all-new itineraries, which have been enriched to take guests deeper into the archipelago, and to increase the quality and frequency of experiences on offer.

Full vaccinations will be mandatory for guests and crew embarking Silver Origin from June 19, forming part of a comprehensive, multi-layered set of science-backed protocols that will help to safeguard the health and safety of guests, crew, and visited communities.

“Having worked exceptionally hard on our healthy return to service plan, we are delighted to be nearing the moment in which our extended family is reunited aboard our two new ships, Silver Origin and Silver Moon,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President and CEO. “We extend our sincerest gratitude to the Ecuadorian Government and the Galápagos Government Council for their ongoing cooperation and their willingness to welcome cruising back to this remarkable archipelago. The first ship to join our fleet since Silversea Cruises joined the Royal Caribbean Group and our cruise line’s first destination-specific ship, Silver Origin is unique in her elegance. Following an extended period at home, our guests are eager to continue their discovery of our planet, and there are few destinations that inspire travelers with such unique natural beauty as the Galápagos Islands.”

“Our two new itineraries have been thoughtfully crafted by our destination experts to optimize the cruise experience in this extraordinary part of the world, providing more opportunities for guests to admire the archipelago’s iconic wildlife species, including the Galápagos Penguin, green sea turtles, endemic land and marine iguanas, whitetip reef sharks, Galápagos sea lions, and many remarkable bird species,” says Fernando Delgado, Vice President and General Manager of Silversea Cruises Ecuador. “And with Silver Origin offering the highest expert guide-to-guest ratio (1:10) and the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratio (1:12.5) in the region, travelers will enjoy the most iconic experiences on offer with unprecedented insight and access. We thank the Ecuadorian Government and the Galápagos Government Council for their continued support and we look forward to inspiring our guests to safeguard this magical destination for generations to come.”

ENRICHED ITINERARIES

Silver Origin will sail on two alternating itineraries that incorporate five maiden calls, including the beautiful island of Santa Fe. Each itinerary will include calls in the iconic islands of Fernandina and Isabela—regularly described as the region’s must-visit destinations—and will each include enriched programs ashore. Sample itineraries include:

  • WESTERN ITINERARY – San Cristóbal to Baltra

On the Western itinerary, Silver Origin will depart from San Cristóbal, calling at Kicker Rock, Isla Bartolomé, Buccaneer Cove (Santiago), Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela), Punta Espinoza (Fernandina), Tagus Cove (Isabela), Elizabeth Bay (Isabela), Post Office Bay (Floreana), Champion Islet (Floreana), Punta Cormorant (Floreana), Santa Cruz Highlands, Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz), Cerro Dragon (Santa Cruz), Isla Guy Fawkes, and Bahía Borrero(Santa Cruz), before arriving in Baltra. This varied itinerary showcases the geographical diversity of the Galápagos Islands, including a first-hand experience of the multiple ecosystems that exist within this small archipelago. Throughout these lands, and in their surrounding waters, guests will admire the Galápagos’ rich variety of wildlife, as well as its volcanic landscapes, while learning about the region’s history of whalers and pirates. Each experience will nurture a connection with the destination, fostering a deep appreciation for the majesty of nature here.

  • NORTH-CENTRAL ITINERARY – Baltra to San Cristóbal

On the North-Central itinerary, Silver Origin will depart from Baltra, before calling in Daphne Major, Prince Philip’s Steps (Genovesa), Darwin Bay (Genovesa), North Seymour, Sullivan Bay (Santiago), Punta Mangle (Fernandina), Punta Moreno (Isabela), Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz), Isla Santa Fé, Gardner Bay (Española), Punta Suarez (Española), Rodriguez Breeding Centre (San Cristóbal), and Cerro Brujo (San Cristóbal), ahead of arriving in San Cristóbal. Preserving the main highlights of the original route, the enhanced North-Central itinerary will introduce experiences that will appeal particularly to bird and nature lovers. Guests will snorkel with sea turtles in Fernandina and meet the iconic Galápagos Penguins in Isabela, but will also have the opportunity to discover the ‘bird islands’ of Genovesa and Espanola, as well as the brand-new destination of Santa Fé island—home to an endemic iguana that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Another highlight is Punta Mangle, with its mangroves, lava fields, and Flightless Cormorants.

SILVER ORIGIN

Integrating the latest state-of-the-art technology and designed with a focus on the pillars of sustainability, destination on board, expedition experience, authentic local culture, and comfort and service, the all-suite, all-balcony, 100-guest Silver Origin will welcome travelers year-round in the unique Galápagos Archipelago. The ship will provide guests with the ultimate destination experience, inspired by Silversea’s accrued expertise and founded on a deep respect for the fragility of the natural environment, while maintaining the cruise line’s trademark quality of service.

THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE ALL-INCLUSIVE OFFERING IN THE GALÁPAGOS

Silversea’s all-inclusive offering is the most comprehensive in the Galápagos Archipelago. Included as standard are 

  • International roundtrip flights*

  • Roundtrip flight between Ecuador and the Galápagos

  • Two pre-cruise hotel nights in Quito and one post-cruise day-use hotel** in Guayaquil

  • Quito by night tour

  • Transfers and luggage handling

  • National Park and immigration fees

  • Highly-qualified Expedition Team, comprising experts in their field

  • Guided Zodiac, land and sea tours, and shore-side activities

  • Enrichment lectures by our Expedition Team

  • Complimentary backpack, water bottle, snorkeling mask, and snorkel

  • Complimentary use of wetsuits and snorkeling fins

  • Butler service in every suite category

  • Onboard gratuities

  • Multiple open-seated restaurants, serving diverse cuisine and an in-suite 24-hour dining service

  • Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, including sparkling and selected wines, premium spirits, soft drinks, and more

  • Unlimited Wi-Fi

Silversea will continue to work closely with relevant governing bodies and health authorities to evolve its health and safety procedures, as new health recommendations are issued and as the fluid situation advances.

View all Silversea voyages in the Galápagos:

https://www.silversea.com/destinations/galapagos-islands-cruise.html 

Read related content on Silversea’s travel blog, Discover:

https://discover.silversea.com/category/destinations/galapagos/

Find out more information about Silversea’s health and safety protocols:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-silversea-hrts-consumer.html

Silversea’s ‘Cruise with Confidence’ policy and its COVID-19 protections enable guests to book with full peace of mind. Find out more information:
https://www.silversea.com/temporary-amendment-to-cancellation-policy.html

Please note: All itineraries are subject to change based on a variety of external factors. Please refer to https://www.silversea.com/health-and-travel-notice.html for the latest health and travel advisories pertaining to cruise travel.

* Except in some countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America. A non-use credit will be offered, should guests book their air independently.

** Depending on the flight schedule of Silversea’s air program.

About Silversea
Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit, Silver Muse and Silver Moon – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of three new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Dawn and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

SILVERSEA CRUISES ANNOUNCES PUERTO WILLIAMS AS NEW DEPARTURE PORT FOR SELECTED ANTARCTICA EXPEDITIONS

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(Miami, FL -- April 29, 2021) Starting in November 2021, ultra-luxury cruise innovator Silversea will debut Puerto Williams, Chile, as its new departure port for Silver Explorer’s expedition cruises to Antarctica.1 Expanding the most diverse Antarctica offering in ultra-luxury travel, the addition of Puerto Williams will see guests travel seamlessly between Santiago and Antarctica, with private flights enhancing their comfort. Nestled on Isla Navarino in the Beagle Channel at the southern tip of South America, Puerto Williams is a sparsely populated frontier town, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Accessible only to smaller ships, it is a scenic gateway to the natural wonders of Antarctica.

"The addition of Puerto Williams as a new departure port, combined with our exclusive private flight service between the city and Santiago, highlights our commitment to unlocking seamless expedition experiences to the White Continent in unparalleled comfort," says Conrad Combrink, Silversea's Senior Vice President of Expeditions, Turnaround Operations and Destination Management. “With an Antarctica voyage to suit the interests and needs of every discerning traveler, Silversea’s collection of voyages to the White Continent is the most diverse offering in the ultra-luxury segment. Aboard our intimate ships, guests enjoy the most inclusive cruise experience available, while benefiting from our team’s destination expertise, which is unrivaled.”

PRIVATE FLIGHTS INCLUDED BETWEEN SANTIAGO AND PUERTO WILLIAMS

As part of Silversea's all-inclusive Antarctica package, guests will depart from a private terminal in Santiago, Chile, on an exclusive lunchtime flight reserved only for Silversea guests to Puerto Williams -- with extra legroom and additional baggage allowance enhancing the journey. Escorted by a Silversea representative during this personalized and enriched in-flight experience, guests will enjoy a set of gourmet experiences inspired by S.A.L.T., Silversea's immersive new culinary program. Upon arrival in Puerto Williams, guests will not need to clear customs; instead, they will enjoy a quick transfer that will whisk them directly to the pier to embark Silver Explorer

Following their thrilling expedition cruise to the White Continent, guests will once again board a private aircraft for the return flight from Puerto Williams to Santiago. The round-trip, private flight service complements an array of all-inclusive Antarctica package benefits, such as round-trip transoceanic flights in economy class (or reduced business class airfares) to Santiago; a welcome dinner reception and one-night, pre-cruise hotel stay in Santiago; transfers and luggage handling between airport, hotel and ship; and a post-cruise overnight hotel stay (with transfers) for guests who do not have a return international flight on the day of disembarkation. 

The private flight benefit is facilitated by Silversea's exclusive partnership with DAP Antarctic Airways -- the carrier selected to provide the flight component of Antarctica Bridge, Silversea’s pioneering fly-cruise program that will provide the fastest, most direct route to Antarctica, starting with Silver Explorer voyages in December 2021.

SETTING THE BENCHMARK FOR ADVENTURE IN ANTARCTICA

With three luxury expedition ships -- Silver ExplorerSilver Cloud, and Silver Wind -- deployed to Antarctica during the region's summer season, opportunities abound for travelers to voyage in Silversea's signature comfort and elegance as they discover the enchanting wildlife and icescapes of this icy wonderland. Each all-suite, butler-serviced ship features specialist experts who lead immersive shore excursions for guests. These passionate and knowledgeable professionals offer informative lectures, discussions and recaps on board, in addition to Zodiac and kayak tours, hikes, and nature walks ashore -- all of which are included in the fare.

The most diverse Antarctica expedition program in ultra-luxury cruising, Silversea's varied Antarctica collection includes a series of 10-day (or 12-day) explorations of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands, as well as shorter sailings of just five, six, or nine days as part of the Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise program. Longer journeys encompass the Antarctic Peninsula, the South Shetland Islands, the Falkland Islands, Elephant Island, and South Georgia. Two ‘deep Antarctica’ itineraries will spend 20 days tracing a path beyond the Antarctic Circle, as they attempt to reach a latitude of 69 degrees south. Plus, two unique sailings will offer the chance to witness the solar eclipse on December 4, 2021, from Antarctica -- the only place on Earth where it can be viewed in totality.

THE MOST INCLUSIVE EXPEDITION OFFERING IN ANTARCTICA

As part of the most inclusive expedition offering to Antarctica, guests traveling on Silversea’s expeditions to Antarctica enjoy the following benefits:

  • International roundtrip flights*

  • In-country flights

  • Pre- and post-cruise hotel night/s, or day-use hotel, depending on Silversea’s air program flight schedule

  • Transfers and luggage handling

  • Highly-qualified Expedition Team, comprising experts in their field

  • Guided Zodiac, land and sea tours, and shore-side activities

  • Enrichment lectures by our Expedition Team

  • Complimentary expedition parka

  • Complimentary backpack and water bottle

  • Butler service in every suite category

  • Onboard gratuities

  • Multiple open-seated restaurants, serving diverse cuisine and an in-suite 24-hour dining service

  • Sustainable caviar on demand 24 hours per day

  • Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, including champagne and selected wines, premium spirits, soft drinks, and more

  • Unlimited Wi-Fi

Silversea will continue to work closely with relevant governing bodies and health authorities to evolve its health and safety procedures, as new health recommendations are issued and as the fluid situation advances.

Discover more about Silversea's all-inclusive Antarctica cruises: https://www.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica-cruise.html

Read a related article on Silversea’s blog -- ‘How to Choose Your Cruise: Antarctica’:https://discover.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica/choose-your-cruise-to-antarctica/

Please note: All itineraries are subject to change based on a variety of external factors. Please refer to https://www.silversea.com/health-and-travel-notice.html for the latest health and travel advisories pertaining to cruise travel.

1 Applicable to all scheduled Silver Explorer expeditions to Antarctica, with the exception of Antarctica Bridge voyages.

*Except in some countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America where an Air Credit will be applied to the booking. Business Class upgrades are available in selected destinations.

About Silversea
Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit, Silver Muse and Silver Moon – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of three new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Dawn and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Silversea Reveals Details of Silver Origin's 195-piece Immersive Art Collection

Silver Origin’s 195 art pieces will enrich guests’ travels, comprising 122 framed artworks, 69 sculptures, and four installations.

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  • Silver Origin’s 195 art pieces will enrich guests’ travels, comprising 122 framed artworks, 69 sculptures, and four installations.

  • A stimulating exhibition of elegance and wonder, Silver Origin’s diverse art collection will strengthen guests’ connections with the Galapagos Archipelago.

  • The ship's thought-provoking exhibits include framed artwork, sculptures, rare books, original artefacts, and unusual objects.

  • Basecamp, the heart of #SilverOrigin, will be the centerpiece of the art collection, housing ‘cabinets of curiosities’ which display a curated menagerie of sculptures, artefacts, and rare books.

(Miami, FL -- September 9, 2020) Silver Origin has now arrived in Manta, Ecuador, ready to welcome Silversea’s guests. When the all-suite, all-balcony, 100-guest Silver Origin begins year-round voyages in the Galapagos archipelago later this year, a regionally-inspired collection of 195 art pieces will enrich guests’ travels, comprising 122 framed artworks, 69 sculptures, and four installations.

Amplifying Silver Origin’s feel of whispered luxury, the meaningful art collection will combine contemporary and historical pieces to communicate the rich history of travel in the Galapagos Archipelago, as well as the region’s scientific significance and its distinctive natural beauty. In some instances, the art pieces will provide context to the legendary second voyage of Charles Darwin aboard the HMS Beagle; in others, they will inspire deeper thoughts on the islands’ unique wildlife; while other pieces might explore the theme of botany, for example.

The result is a ship brimming with curiosities, which tell many stories about the Galapagos. As guests explore the collection, including the works of art that adorn the walls of their own suites, they have the opportunity to marvel at natural wonders, delve into the history of the islands, and feel the excitement of great explorers and naturalists.

With its focus on the untouched beauty and amazing wildlife of the Galapagos, Silversea's new destination-specific expedition ship will strengthen guests’ connections with the islands through its onboard art collection. The ship's thought-provoking exhibits, displayed throughout the public spaces and suites, include elegantly framed artwork, sculptures, rare books, original and replica artefacts, and unusual objects gathered from both local sources and from around the world.

To source, commission and organize the works, Silversea turned to Peter Millard and Partners Ltd., a London-based art consultancy firm. Ally Millard, the firm's Creative Director, reached out to a variety of international artists to create original works.

"We wanted to ensure that this collection displayed not only historical and traditional artworks, but also incorporated pieces such as watercolors, photographs and paintings of the Galapagos experience, cast from the eyes of contemporary artists and travelers—offering guests new artistic discoveries to enrich their journeys," says Millard.

At the same time, Millard scoured major universities and libraries for collections related to historical expeditions, and tapped the expertise and resources of Silversea's long-time partner, the UK's Royal Geographical Society with IBG.

“The Royal Geographical Society is home to rare and unique items linked to early European documenting, mapping and scientific understanding of the Galapagos,” says Alasdair MacLeod, Head of Enterprise and Resources at the Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers). We are delighted that so many are featured, in beautiful facsimile form as part of Silver Origin’s art collection: as inspiring today as they were when first created, some over 200 years ago.”

Basecamp: Cabinets of Curiosities

Basecamp

Basecamp

One of Silver Origin's most innovative spaces, Basecamp, is designed especially to bring the destination on board. It is the heart of the ship, where educational activities are hosted and where guests can interact with Silversea's team of expert guides to learn more about the rare wildlife, remarkable landscapes and captivating history of the Galapagos, before and after excursions. It is also the centerpiece of the art collection, with walls that showcase elegantly framed maps and illustrations, and display cases that house a carefully curated menagerie of contemporary sculptures, artefacts, and rare books.

"Cabinets of curiosities, the forerunners of today's museums, recall an earlier time when explorers and scientists, like Charles Darwin himself, were driven by wanderlust and a quest for knowledge. It's in this spirit that we have created an art collection that pays tribute to the beauty, history and curiosities of the Galapagos, while entertaining and enlightening our guests," says Fernando Delgado, Vice President of Silversea Cruises Ecuador. "We look forward to welcoming guests into the grand 'wonder room' that is our beautiful, new Silver Origin."

A sampling of Basecamp's art collection includes:

  • Antiquarian Books: Rare editions of Darwin's ‘The Origin of Species’ and ‘The Zoology of the Voyage of HMS Beagle,’ containing beautiful, full-color wildlife illustrations, and ‘Galapagos: World's End,’ by William Beebe, distinguished American biologist and explorer.

  • Pre-Columbian Sculptures: A Chimu pottery vessel with figural face, from nearby Peru, c. AD 1000, and a Vicús painted terracotta whistling jar in the shape of a dog, from Peru, c. AD 200.

  • Explorer Artefacts: An armillary sphere, globe, sextant and compass from the 19th century.

  • ‘Outlines of Botanical Geography’: a seminal map by Alexander von Humboldt, the famed German naturalist and explorer who lived during the 18th and 19th centuries. (Work reproduced with the permission of The Royal Geographical Society with IBG.)

  • Contemporary Sculptures: Brass bird sculptures with gemstone eyes by Ecuadorian artist Joaquin Tinta; ‘Efflorescence,’ a porcelain sculpture by Kenya-born Briton Vanessa Hogge; a large, bronze Galapagos saddleback turtle by American sculptor Scott Shaffer; and a hand-folded vintage book by paper artist Anna Bonino of CRIZU.

Suites

Superior Veranda Suite

Superior Veranda Suite

A focus on the natural wonders of the Galapagos extends throughout the guest suites. For all three categories of Veranda Suites, American artist Paula Mattson was commissioned to create limited-edition watercolor prints of wildlife, such as marine iguanas and butterflies. The ship’s Deluxe Veranda Suites also boast an original collage by British artist Julian Bray. For the Owner's, Grand, Royal and Medallion Suites, watercolors by Conrad Martens, the artist aboard HMS Beagle when Charles Darwin traveled to the Galapagos, are complemented by contemporary works by such artists as Humphrey Bangham, Simon Bingle, Karenina Fabrizzi, and Julian Bray.

The Restaurant

Not only will guests enjoy an abundance of natural light and far-reaching views as they dine in The Restaurant, but nature-inspired original works by artists Gregor Törzs, Frank Faulkner, and Alan Bur Johnson will enhance the experience. These include an original installation entitled ‘Murmuration 2020,’ which is wrapped around the banquette seating area. The concept for the work, a magnifying glass, was conceived by the ship's interior architects, Hirsch-Bedner Associates, and then developed by Peter Millard and Partners Ltd. in collaboration with artist Alan Bur Johnson. When viewed, the installation evokes a sense of looking through a magnifying lens, as early naturalists would have done when gathering specimens and studying the wildlife of the Galapagos.

Explorer Lounge

With floor-to-ceiling windows for sweeping views of the Galapagos, Silver Origin's Explorer Lounge is the setting for daily briefings and lectures from the ship's Naturalist Guides. Here, the artwork presents the Galapagos through the eyes of the contemporary traveler, featuring an array of sketchbooks, watercolors, drawings and other works from contemporary amateur and professional artists. The collection includes an abstract bronze resin sculpture by Briton Lynn Warren, as well as a watercolor of Galapagos Storm Petrels by American painter Karen Rose.

Observation Lounge

In the Observation Lounge, where guests can enjoy expansive views of the Galapagos or relax with a book, the artistic works include wildlife photographs by Ecuadorian photographer Fernando Espinosa, porcelain abstract sculptures by French artist Pascal Morin and British artist Katharine Morling, ceramics by Ecuadorian artist Eduardo Vega and Brazilian artist Selma Calheira, and brass bird sculptures by Joaquin Tinta. There are also bronze sculptures by Brits Anthony Smith and Jemma Pearson, who was so inspired on a family trip to the Galapagos that when she returned home, she set about developing a series of sculptures, including marine iguanas, Galapagos Penguins, boobies and sea lions.

Steve McCurry

Silver Origin's art collection would not be complete without the works of Silversea's own "eye on the world," the internationally renowned photographer, Steve McCurry. Included among his far-reaching travels is Ecuador, where he traveled extensively to photograph Ecuadorian culture and people. Silversea is honored to display several of his Ecuadorian portraits in select circulation areas of the ship. McCurry has also journeyed to the Galapagos, and two of his wildlife photographs from his visit to the islands grace the walls outside The Restaurant.

Read an article on Silversea’s blog, Discover, to learn more about life on-board Silver Origin:
https://discover.silversea.com/destinations/galapagos/whats-it-like-aboard-silverseas-silver-origin-join-us/

Find out more information about Silver Origin:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-silver-origin.html

About Silversea

Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises—in which Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio serves as Chairman—is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit and Silver Muse – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of four new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Revised and Enriched: Silversea Unveils an Innovative New Collection of Expedition Voyages for 2021/2022

Silversea’s revised collection of 157 expedition voyages has been expertly designed to bring even greater innovation to the cruise line’s expedition offering.

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Silversea’s revised collection of 157 expedition voyages has been expertly designed to bring even greater innovation to the cruise line’s expedition offering.

(Monaco – August 11, 2020) Silversea Cruises today affirms its destination leadership by unveiling a revised collection of 157 new expedition voyages. Departing from January 2021 to July 2022, the revised voyages have been designed by the cruise line’s destination experts to preserve and enhance the characteristically diverse array of experiences on offer to guests, pushing boundaries in ultra-luxury expedition travel.

The enhanced expedition offering includes pioneering itineraries in the Galapagos aboard new ship Silver Origin, the unprecedented Deep Antarctica expedition and the first-ever ultra-luxury fly-cruise to Antarctica, a 51-port Arctic grand voyage, and the world’s first-ever expedition world cruise, among other immersive experiences.

Enjoying 12 maiden calls while journeying aboard Silversea’s four expedition ships, guests will travel deeper through the following expedition experiences as part of the new voyage collection:

  • BRAND NEW ITINERARIES IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS ABOARD SILVER ORIGIN
    To further enhance guests’ destination experience in the Galapagos Islands, 68 new voyages aboard Silver Origin will incorporate five maiden calls, including the beautiful island of Santa Fe. The iconic islands of Fernandina and Isabela now feature on both itineraries, and each will include improved programs ashore. Guests will have more opportunities to admire the iconic wildlife species of the archipelago, including the Galapagos Penguin, green sea turtles, endemic iguanas, and many remarkable bird species. Silver Origin will build on Silversea’s multi-award-winning cruise experience in this unique region, forming meaningful connections between travelers and the destination. Aboard Silver Origin, guests will enjoy the highest expert guide-to-guest ratio (1:10) and the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratio (1:12.5) in the region.

  • JOURNEYING TO EXTREME LATITUDES ON THE DEEP ANTARCTICA EXPEDITION
    Silversea’s longest-ever voyage to Antarctica, travelers will embark on the cruise line’s first-ever voyage dedicated to attempting to cross the Antarctic Polar Circle on a 20-day exploration of the White Continent, departing January 27th, 2022. Part of an enriched 35-voyage Antarctica season, the Deep Antarctica expedition will take guests to unprecedented latitudes in the history of Silversea, with Silver Explorer proposing to reach an impressive 69°S. Guests aboard Silver Explorer will venture to Marguerite Bay and potentially even as far south as the Bellingshausen Sea, a spectacular and seldom visit area of the Antarctic Peninsula. Following Silver Explorer’s dry dock period, guests will enjoy the highest expert-to-guest and Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the region with 14 Zodiacs and a dedicated team of 14 world-class expedition staff.

  • THE FIRST EXPEDITION WORLD CRUISE IN HISTORY: THE UNCHARTED WORLD TOUR
    Now setting sail on January 25th, 2022, Silversea’s 167-day Uncharted World Tour will be the first Expedition World Cruise in history. The pioneering voyage will take adventurous travelers across 21 oceans and seas, calling in 107 remarkable destinations in 20 countries. Enriching the experience for guests, 70 leading experts and 20 guest speakers will join the voyage, sharing their insight as Silver Cloud travels to some of the most remote locations on earth.

  • ANTARCTICA BRIDGE: THE WORLD’S FIRST ULTRA-LUXURY FLY-CRUISE TO ANTARCTICA
    Silversea’s guests will enjoy even greater diversity in the cruise line’s Antarctica offering, with the launch of Antarctica Bridge, the world’s first ultra-luxury fly-cruise to the White Continent. With the option of an all-inclusive nine-night fly-cruise option aboard Silver Explorer, travelers now have greater choice in the duration of their Antarctic expedition, as well as the destinations they visit, with immersive experiences in the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, the Ross Sea, and the Subantarctic Islands included in the cruise line’s enriched Antarctica collection.

  • SILVERSEA’S FIRST-EVER ARCTIC GRAND VOYAGE
    Departing 16 July 2021, Silver Cloud will embark on Silversea’s first Arctic Grand Voyage, unlocking unforgettable experiences for guests in 51 destinations across seven countries. Journeying on through some of the world’s remotest waters over 63 days, while enjoying exclusive events and an impressive line-up of guest speakers, Silversea’s guests will discover many once-in-a-lifetime experiences on the all-inclusive Arctic Grand Voyage. As part of an enriched Arctic season, guests will also retrace the route taken by famous explorers of yesteryear during an intrepid Northwest Passage crossing, as well as embarking upon incredible new sailings in Svalbard aboard Silver Cloud.

Also included in Silversea’s new collection of expedition voyages for 2021/2022 are 10 voyages in Northern Europe, with five sailings departing from various ports in the British Isles and two voyages to the Norwegian Fjords; a wide selection of in-depth expeditions in Australia’s Kimberley Region, as well as Southeast Asia and Melanesia; seven exceptional voyages to the South Pacific Islands; a variety of options in South America, including two spectacular itineraries to the Chilean Fjords; and the chance to discover Alaska and the American West Coast; and more.

“Our industry-leading destination experts have worked hard to enhance our expedition offering for 2021 and 2022, providing our guests with an unprecedented choice of immersive experiences, from the Arctic to Antarctica and the most incredible places in between,” says Conrad Combrink, Silversea Cruises’ SVP of Expeditions, Turnaround Operations and Destination Management. “Highlighted by the launch of our new ship Silver Origin, which will be the most elegant ship to welcome guests in the Galapagos Islands, our new itineraries push boundaries and underpin our leadership in the ultra-luxury and expedition travel segments.”

Silversea’s guests will embark upon these enriched voyages aboard the cruise line’s fleet of ultra-luxury expedition ships—two of which will see further enhancements in 2021. Silver Explorer will offer an even more immersive and personalized expedition experience with an increased number of Zodiacs and expedition members on-board. Silver Wind, meanwhile, will be converted into an ice-class ship; her maiden voyages in polar waters will strengthen Silversea’s expedition activity with even greater variety.

Find out more information on Silversea’s revised expedition itineraries for 2021/2022:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-expedition-itineraries-2021-2022.html

Read related content on Silversea’s travel blog, Discover:
https://discover.silversea.com/

About Silversea

Part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea Cruises—in which Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio serves as Chairman—is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit and Silver Muse – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, the Galapagos, both Polar Regions, and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of four new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Exclusive Interview: Pico Iyer Shares Insight on His First-ever Antarctica Cruise

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(Monaco – June 30, 2020) Described as ‘arguably the greatest living travel-writer,’ Pico Iyer has written more than a dozen books and his work has been translated into more than 20 languages. Yet, until January 2020, one continent eluded him: Antarctica. Traveling aboard Silversea’s Silver Cloud on a 10-night itinerary, Iyer journeyed to Antarctica for the first time. In this exclusive Q&A with Silversea Cruises, the celebrated writer shares his insight on his unforgettable trip to the Final Continent.

You once wrote: “We travel, initially, to lose ourselves; and we travel, next, to find ourselves.” How did you both lose and find yourself in Antarctica?

I really felt I lost myself by being transported into views of such silence and purity and calm that I forgot all my worries and distractions and chatter, and was returned to my better, most quiet self. I’ve been traveling, almost constantly, for 45 years now, since I was in my teens, and I can remember very few places, if any, as humbling and serene as Antarctica.

Antarctica was bigger, in that sense, than any landscape I’ve seen, including Alaska and Namibia and Mongolia, and it was impossible not to lose oneself in both the grandeur and the hush. Which meant, I think, that I found myself, too, in the sense of finding that better, deeper, more spacious self.

What struck both me and my wife on this trip—even though I’ve taken five cruises before—is how attentive and quiet every one of our fellow travelers seemed to be: so often there were quite a few of us in the Observation Lounge, just holding our breath as a member of the Expedition team pointed out whales or penguins or even dolphins by the side of the ship.

As a travel writer, being a cultural outsider is often a key element. How did it feel to encounter a place where humans are the ultimate outsiders?

I loved that sense, because, at some level, we always felt like insiders in Antarctica—right in the heart of everything around us. For many of us, I think, one of the wonders of the trip to the southernmost continent is seeing how one can walk amidst colonies of 20,000 penguins, and the endearing birds just go about their business as if no human were there—walking past us, busily on their way to the ocean, fluffing their wings and guiding their chicks and just standing beside us as if we were part of their community.

And when we rode around Pléneau Island and other places in a Zodiac, we were encircled by beauty: on every side of us were scenes as uplifting and beautiful as I have seen anywhere on this planet, so we never had the sense of being outsiders, or alien to the world around us.

The third element that really made us feel at home in this majestic setting was that, for example, the man who took us out on our very first Zodiac tour, Federico, had actually lived in Antarctica once and had been spending much of his life there since 2008. So we really felt as if we were witnessing even the human element from within, as it looks to one of the lucky handful who spend all four seasons there. And when Federico gave lectures on board Silver Cloud, we learned (and saw) all the details of what it is to be a resident of this sublime continent.

Why should people visit Antarctica?

First, because it puts one in place, reminds one of how much larger the elements are than we puny humans, and expands our sense of wonder. I’ve never felt myself so small and so awestruck as when surrounded by miles and miles of snowy mountains and emerald icebergs and penguin rookeries and gleaming sapphire-jade water.

The second reason to go there is that it’s impossible to be there and not to be reminded how precious our planet is and how essential it is that we look up from our screens and protect an environment without which there’d be no us. Nature, over thousands of millennia, has established a balance and an order—more apparent in Antarctica (a kind of trans-human landscape) than anywhere I’ve been.

What is one piece of advice you would give to anyone dreaming of cruising to Antarctica?

Throw out every expectation. Both my wife and I had certain ideas of Antarctica before we arrived, fashioned out of images from polar expeditions and notions of endless deserts of snow. So we were stunned to find how varied it was, how much grander than our conception of it, and how much warmer.
It’s good to come prepared with lots of warm clothing and scarves and gloves, and it’s good to know that the 36-hour trip across Drake Passage isn’t always smooth (though now you can fly over even that stretch of water if you like).

How did traveling with Silversea enhance your Antarctica experience?

I hardly need to say how remarkable the Silversea experience is. I had taken four cruises with a different company before I boarded my first Silversea vessel, and even on very large ships I had found the service to be excellent, the food tasty and the whole cruise-experience remarkably comfortable and friction-free.

But Silversea sets a whole new standard when it comes to impeccable service (right up to breakfast-in-bed and glasses of fine wine and canapés and staff members ready to serve you, as they did us, with non-alcoholic Singapore Slings and exquisite roast duck); and of course the fact of being on a very small ship means one never feels crowded. Often my wife and I had the whole of Deck 9 to ourselves.

What’s special about the Antarctic trip, though, is a captain who knows just how to steer through choppy waters so as to avoid most turbulence (and how to change course for thirty minutes so we can watch pods of 50 orcas gliding past). And, most of all, an Expedition staff that will do everything, from guiding you by the hand across a penguin colony to taking fifteen pictures of you in every kind of light, to ensure your experience is as rich as possible. When we took a Zodiac around one harbor, the person steering the craft was a botanist, pointing out lichen and nests made out of fishing lines from the 1930s.

Being on an expedition cruise, what struck you as the most interesting moment onboard?

Again and again there’d be an announcement over the public address system in our cabin that a pod of whales or something remarkable was on view at the prow of the ship. We could often watch all these surprise visitations from the huge terrace outside our suite; but sometimes we’d go to Deck 5, where the crew had opened up a special door so passengers could stand in the best possible positions and get astonishing views of the animals, while sipping the prosecco that waiters handed out.

On this cruise I tried to attend every lecture available because the historians and scientists who were part of the Expedition Crew had such specialized knowledge to impart, in ways that any layman could follow. To take one example, we had a Ph. D. ornithologist on our cruise who gave a fascinating lecture on the birds of the area soon after we boarded. At every stop, we would find him on shore all day, ready to point out things of interest and to answer every question.

You were accompanied by your wife on this voyage. Does a cruise of this magnitude allow for bits of connecting vacation experiences with a loved one? What were they for you?

If my wife were answering these questions she would say that Antarctica was one of the best shared experiences we’ve had in our 32 years together. When we were at sea, and the winds came up, we just stayed in our suite and watched wonderful movies together and ordered in some of Silversea’s rightly famous filet mignon, to go with the bottle of champagne we’d been given.

Every evening we received a table for two by the window—and we hadn’t quite worked out before we arrived that, in the southern summer, the sun doesn’t set till long after 10:00 p.m. (and rises before 4:00 a.m.), so we could look out at the silver light and take walks together for 18 hours a day.

Sometimes, we’d read side by side on the couch; often one of us would see a whale next to the ship and call the other out to the terrace; we could tramp across snowy slopes next to one another in the afternoon and then dress up for dinner and share what we’d experienced over celestial desserts and lobster salad.

Antarctica is wilder than I’d expected, and much less rough; much vaster, but also more intimate; and more inspiring and surprising than anything I’ve seen on cruises. I know the two of us will be sharing memories, images and stories of it till our final breath.

ANTARCTICA BRIDGE: THE WORLD’S FIRST ULTRA-LUXURY FLY-CRUISE TO ANTARCTICA

In December 2019, Silversea Cruises opened sales on Antarctica Bridge—the world’s first ultra-luxury fly-cruise service to Antarctica. Antarctica Bridge will provide discerning travelers with the fastest, most direct route to the White Continent, as they will fly over the Drake Passage in business-class comfort in approximately two hours each way. Departing from December 2021, the collection of fly-cruise voyages aboard Silver Explorer will further enhance Silversea’s industry-leading, all-inclusive Polar offering. Fares for Antarctica Bridge voyages start from USD 17,500 per person, based on two sharing.

This is an abridged version of Pico Iyer’s interview with Silversea Cruises. To read the full version of the interview, visit Silversea’s travel blog, Discover:

https://discover.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica/throw-out-every-expectation-novelist-pico-iyer-on-the-marvels-of-a-cruise-to-antarctica/

View Silversea’s voyages to Antarctica:

https://www.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica-cruise.html

Find out more information about Antarctica Bridge:

https://www.silversea.com/lp-antarctica-bridge.html

About Silversea

Silversea Cruises, in which Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio serves as Chairman, is recognized as an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, Silver Spirit and Silver Muse – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ships Silver Origin, Silver Explorer, and Silver Cloud, Silversea's itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, both Polar Regions and hundreds of fascinating destinations in between. Silversea is also looking forward to the launch of four new ultra-luxury ships: Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, and two Evolution-class ships. Browse Silversea's blog, Discover, and subscribe to receive the latest content directly into your inbox.

For more information on Silversea Cruises, please call toll-free (888) 978-4070, or contact a travel agent.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Silversea Welcomes Silver Origin to Its Fleet With the First in-person Cruise Ship Delivery Since the Lockdown

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(Monaco -- June 5, 2020) Silversea Cruises, the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has taken delivery of its first-ever destination-specific ship, Silver Origin, from Dutch shipyard De Hoop. An intimate ceremony, held on Wednesday June 3, 2020, marked the first in-person cruise ship delivery since the pandemic prompted a global lockdown.

Select Silversea top executives—including Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Chairman; Roberto Martinoli, President and CEO; Damien O’Connor, SVP Hotel Operations & Onboard Revenue; and Barbara Muckermann, Chief Marketing Officer—attended the ceremony in Rotterdam. Joined by representatives from De Hoop Shipyard, Silversea’s executives took a tour of the completed ship for the first time and were present for the official flag ceremony.

“It was a very proud moment for me to attend Silver Origin’s official delivery ceremony in person, and to welcome Silversea’s first-ever destination-specific ship to our fleet. I am very grateful to all involved in the build, especially the professionals at De Hoop Shipyard,” says Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio. “In September 2013, Silversea became the first cruise line to launch an ultra-luxury ship in the Galapagos Archipelago. We have invested our accrued know-how into the design of Silver Origin. Every element of the ship has been designed with the destination in mind and tailored to enhance the experience for travelers, while fostering a deep sense of respect for this magnificent ecosystem and everything that inhabits it.”

“We welcome the beautiful Silver Origin to our fleet as the first ship since the start of our collaboration with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President & CEO. “The ship demonstrates how fruitful our collaboration has been, while providing an indication of the great success to come. With Silversea’s destination expertise and the invaluable support of the RCL group, we have pushed the boundaries of ultra-luxury travel in the Galapagos with Silver Origin. I want to extend my gratitude to all those involved, including my colleagues at both Silversea and RCL, but especially to the De Hoop Shipyard who overcame many challenges to complete the ship.”

“It has been extremely rewarding to work on this project, and we are proud for having been able to deliver the ship in spite of the external challenges,” says Patrick Janssens, CEO of De Hoop Shipyard. “The delivery ceremony marked a momentous moment for both parties, and delivering Silver Origin to Silversea’s Executives here in Rotterdam was a great pleasure. We wish the cruise line every success for the future and we look forward to seeing this beautiful ship in the Galapagos Islands where she belongs.”

Integrating the latest state-of-the-art technology and designed with a focus on the pillars of sustainability, destination on board, expedition experience, authentic local culture, and comfort and service, the all-suite, all-balcony, 100-guest Silver Origin will welcome travelers year-round in the unique Galapagos Archipelago. The ship will provide guests with the ultimate destination experience, inspired by Silversea’s accrued expertise and founded on a deep respect for the fragility of the natural environment, while maintaining the cruise line’s trademark quality of service.

Innovative, enriching, elegant, each of Silver Origin's spaces has been designed specifically with the Galapagos in mind by Hirsch Bedner Associates Miami. Silversea’s executives visited each to experience first-hand how they will create unique synergies between the destination and the ship.

THE MARINA: AN EXCEPTIONAL ARRIVAL EXPERIENCE

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As a key point of entry to the ship/destination, the Marina has been designed with great attention-to-detail to offer guests an unprecedented arrival/disembarkation experience. Connected to the Basecamp, the Zodiac embarkation area features large comfortable couches, as well as showers for guests to rinse their gear, racks to conveniently store wetsuits and other equipment, and an innovative fold-out stern with special boarding facilities that can accommodate two Zodiacs at the same time. As Silver Origin will have the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratio in the Galapagos at 1:12.5, a large garage with hydraulic doors, hatches and cranes has been created between decks 2 and 3 to store six of the ship’s eight Zodiacs, while two will be stored on the bow.

BASECAMP: IMMERSIVE DISCOVERY ON BOARD

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Basecamp is one of Silver Origin's most innovative spaces, designed especially to bring the destination on board. The heart of the ship, the 551m2 Basecamp will host educational activities in which guests will interact with Silversea’s team of expert guides—all permanent residents of the Galapagos and certified by the Galapagos National Park—to learn more about the rare wildlife, remarkable landscapes and captivating history of the Galapagos Islands, before and after excursions.

With bespoke software created exclusively for Silversea by strategic-design studio Sketchin and with input from Silversea’s Expedition Team, the centrepiece of Basecamp is a 624x162cm interactive digital wall—the largest interactive screen in the Galapagos—and control podium. Through this interactive program, which will change according to the itinerary, guests will be able to access extraordinary destination-related content, including historical pictures provided by the Royal Geographical Society of London, videos with exclusive aerial and underwater shots, excursion previews and scientific presentations. The Expedition Team will use the LED wall to introduce guests to the wonders of the Galapagos before they embark on Zodiac and kayak adventures to experience them first-hand.

THE EXPLORER LOUNGE: AN ELEGANT SPACE TO UNWIND

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Offering an inviting space in which guests can relax of an evening, while enjoying a cocktail and a book from Silver Origin’s curated library, the 479m2 Explorer Lounge exudes the same elegance that characterizes the other ships in Silversea’s ultra-luxury fleet. The space doubles as a state-of-the-art lecture room and will host daily lectures and briefings, as well as live piano performances. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the destination inside, while a large video wall with state-of-the-art AV technology and wide HD screens in different seating areas will optimize guests’ expedition experience. Outside, a beautiful terrace with comfortable sofas and armchairs, including a round central sofa with a fire pit, will offer guests the perfect spot in which to unwind with a drink before and after lectures.

THE RESTAURANT & THE GRILL: AN IMMERSIVE CULINARY PHILOSOPHY

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In-line with Silversea’s new S.A.L.T. program, Silver Origin’s guests will benefit from a uniquely immersive culinary philosophy, centered upon regionally-grown ingredients, Ecuadorian cuisine, and a farm-to-table approach. Locally-inspired culinary experiences—both on board and ashore—will strengthen travelers’ connections with the unique culture, landscapes and people of the Galapagos, as well as those of Ecuador. The Restaurant on Deck 4 (capacity: 120) and the Grill on Deck 7 (capacity: 100) will each be able to accommodate all guests at once, offering diners the luxury of choice. Silversea’s Hot Rocks concept will be tailored with an Ecuadorian twist at the Grill, where an advanced sheltering system will protect diners from the wind and low temperatures for maximum comfort.

SPA & FITNESS CENTRE: STATE-OF-THE-ART RELAXATION

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Silver Origin’s Fitness Centre features state-of-the-art Technogym equipment and offers guests outstanding views on the destination with floor-to-ceiling windows. The Spa, with a dedicated treatment room for therapies and massages, is the ideal place in which to relax after a day of exploration on the islands. The Beauty Salon will offer a wide array of services, including hairdressing and manicure/pedicure.

OBSERVATION LOUNGE: A COZY HIDEAWAY

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Located at the very front of the ship, the 75m2 Observation Lounge is one of the coziest venues on board, offering an elegant hideaway with incredible views on the destination thanks to 180-degree floor-to-ceiling glass windows. After a long day spent exploring the Galapagos Archipelago, guests will find ultimate relaxation in the Observation Lounge, perhaps reading a book from the carefully selected library or just enjoying a vivid sunset.

GUEST SUITES: AMONG THE MOST SPACIOUS IN THE GALAPAGOS

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Recognizing that days spent exploring the islands can be intense, Silver Origin’s suites are among the most spacious and comfortable in the Galapagos: the Owner's Suite, for example, measures a total of 160m2 (1,722ft2) and provides sweeping views of the destination with a vast veranda. Silver Origin whispers luxury as the only ship in the archipelago to offer butler service for all suites. Guests will enjoy the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the region (1:1.11) for unparalleled levels of personalized comfort. All suites benefit from full room automation, which allows guests to control room conditions with the touch of a button.

Spectacular destination-focused views are among the hallmarks of Silver Origin's suites, whose design and amenities were inspired by the acclaimed suites of Silversea's larger ships. Outfitted in neutral tones and natural materials that complement the Galapagos’ environment, and designed by GEM, all suites have floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony, while select suites feature the innovate Horizon Balcony, which converts to a floor-to-ceiling window at the touch of a button. Most upper suites incorporate an ocean-view bathtub and shower, some of which are accessible from the balcony.

ADDRESSING SUSTAINABILITY

Built with the environment in mind as one of the most energy-efficient ships in its class, Silver Origin incorporates environmentally low-impact features to comply with future rules and regulations, in addition to the Galapagos National Park Directorate regulations. The latest technological innovations mean a 15% reduction in fuel consumption and fewer exhaust emissions. The ship’s dynamic positioning system will be used when positioned over delicate seabed ecosystems to prevent the anchor from causing damage; suites incorporate freshwater purification systems that convert seawater into drinking water, thus drastically reducing the use of plastic on board; and a wastewater treatment system will meet or exceed the strictest regulations in the market. Moreover, all waste will undergo a rigid segregation procedure on board and will be delivered to a local waste management enterprise for it to be recycled or shipped out of the islands.

Silversea Cruises has launched the Silversea Fund for the Galapagos—a dedicated fund that will support educational projects to safeguard the wellbeing of the Galapagos Islands for future generations. By supporting a diverse selection of projects each year, the Silversea Fund will strengthen the balance between humans and nature in the Galapagos, as part of a long-term conservation strategy. The fund’s donors will enjoy savings on Silversea’s voyages, as the cruise line will match guests’ contributions in the form of a Future Cruise Credit to underpin its commitment to the cause.

Watch a video of the delivery of Silver Origin:
https://youtu.be/5aqin2YHSrM

Silver Origin is scheduled to welcome guests from August 2020. Discover more about Silver Origin:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-silver-origin.html

Find out more information about Silversea’s new winter 2021/2022 itineraries:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-new-itineraries-2021-2022.html

Read an article on Silver Origin’s delivery on Silversea’s blog:
https://discover.silversea.com/on-board/silversea-welcomes-silver-origin-to-the-fleet/

For more information on Silversea Cruises, please call toll-free (888) 978-4070,

or contact a travel agent.

For a complimentary brochure, please visit www.silversea.com.

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

De Hoop Defies the Odds: Silversea Prepares to Take Deliveryof New Ship Silver Origin

Demonstrating great resilience and ingenuity, the De Hoop Shipyard overcame unprecedented challenges during the construction of Silver Origin.

Demonstrating great resilience and ingenuity, the De Hoop Shipyard overcame unprecedented challenges during the construction of Silver Origin.

 
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(Monaco – May 19, 2020) Silversea Cruises prepares to take delivery of new ship Silver Origin, following a great display of resilience, determination and fine European craftsmanship from Dutch shipyard De Hoop. Despite of the global lockdown, De Hoop implemented rigid safety procedures, reduced its workforce, and devised ingenious ways to overcome posed challenges, including a world-first during the ship’s sea trial.

200 SKILLED PROFESSIONALS GIVING 100% EFFORT

On March 15, 2020—four days after coronavirus was declared as a global pandemic—the Netherlands implemented a national lockdown, and the country ground to a halt to safeguard the health of its people. Relatively isolated in Lobith, a remote corner of the Netherlands, De Hoop shipyard offered its approximately 250 employees the option to cease working.

While many were forced to return to their families or to their country of origin before borders closed, approximately 200 employees—mainly skilled carpenters—opted to continue, working tirelessly to apply their craftsmanship to the ship’s guest suites. Many employees were accommodated in an on-site residential facility, Barge Rossini, which had a reduced capacity from 200 to 100 for safety purposes.

In addition to the rigorous protocol imposed by the Dutch health authority, RIVM, De Hoop’s professionals were protected by sanitary procedures developed by the shipyard itself: they underwent daily temperature checks; enhanced cleaning procedures were established in the living quarters, the crew mess, and throughout Silver Origin; and strict social distancing measures were implemented, including a 1.5m separation rule and a one-way system throughout the ship.

As a result, contact circles were reduced, meetings were cancelled, and fewer people were allowed in each area of the ship. Video calls replaced face-to-face conversations, as flights were cancelled and contractors could no longer reach the yard. Necessary supplies were cut off: carpeting, loose furniture and the onboard art collection were delayed in arriving, while the closure of Italy disrupted the installation of the ship’s windows and galley. The stringent lockdown threatened the project’s progress.

Small hurdles became giant obstacles, but still the team persevered and as the world around it came to a stop, De Hoop pushed on. The shipyard fundamentally changed the way it operated to continue the project. None of the employees caught the virus and the team maintained an unwaveringly strong spirit as Silver Origin took its magnificent shape, symbolizing the resilience and craftsmanship of European industry.

REMOTELY OPERATED SEA TRIALS

While shallow waters on the Waal River delayed Silver Origin's float out from November to December 30, 2019, the months of January and February brought heavy rain to Western Europe in 2020, leading to unusually high water levels. This prevented Silver Origin and Barge Rossini from passing beneath the 12 bridges that separate De Hoop Shipyard from the sea. Only on March 26 was a safe passage to Rotterdam accessible—more than a month later than originally planned. This left just four weeks between arrival in Rotterdam and the sea trial.

Held from April 27th–29th off the coast of Goeree-Overflakkee, Silver Origin’s sea trials were a great success, offering the Captain the chance to put the ship through its paces and enabling the shipyard to demonstrate proper operation of the machinery systems.

Necessitated by the travel ban, which prevented sub-contractors from reaching the ship, Silver Origin’s sea trials included a historic world-first: during the dynamic positioning acceptance test - which tests the ship’s ability to remain within 10cm of a fixed point without dropping anchor - the ship’s dynamic positioning system was remotely tuned and calibrated by a third party in St. Petersburg, Russia—over 1,800km away. A fast internet connection was set up on board to enable near-instant communication between both parties and, using a headset and a camera, an operative from St. Petersburg completed maneuvering tests. The ship’s Captain, meanwhile, acted as his lookout from on board.

“This was the first time such an operation has been completed remotely during a sea trial,” says Fre Drenth, the Director of De Hoop Shipyard. “The tuning was successful and took no longer than usual. It demonstrates that it is possible to tune dynamic positioning systems remotely. It could potentially save a lot of travelling time for engineers in the future. I am enormously proud of my team for their work.”

“We usually have a large team that participates in the sea trials, but this year was different because of the extraordinary situation,” says Vesa Uuttu, Director of Newbuilds & Site Office NL, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “Hence, a limited team participated—enough to comply with regulations. It was a proud moment to see the ship perform as it did—for all involved, especially the team at the De Hoop Shipyard who have worked tirelessly to complete the project in these tough circumstances.”

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

“We are so grateful to the professionals at the De Hoop shipyard,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s President and CEO. “In the face of such adversity, their efforts were extraordinary and represent the resilience of European industry. Silver Origin looks magnificent. Our pioneering new ship represents the dawning of a new age of travel in the Galapagos Islands and we look forward to welcoming guests aboard when the time is right.”

The finishing touches are now being applied to Silver Origin, ahead of the ship’s delivery in the coming weeks. And the De Hoop team is still finding innovative ways to progress, in spite of the challenging circumstances. Currently docked in Pernis in the Netherlands, Silver Origin will set sail for the Galapagos Islands after being delivered to Silversea Cruises. 45 members of De Hoop’s workforce remain on Barge Rossini, and the shipyard intends on maintaining their strict new sanitary protocols for the long-term.

Silversea Cruises is using this time of pause, as well as the information that has become available, to improve its already exceptional sanitary standards further still, with the health and safety of guests and crew as the top priority. The cruise line is currently working on enhanced sanitary protocols across its fleet to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place to resume safe and healthy cruising when the time is right.

Read a first-person account from the Director of De Hoop Shipyard, Fre Drenth, and watch a video of Silver Origin underway:
https://discover.silversea.com/on-board/building-silver-origin

Find out more information on Silver Origin and view the ship’s scheduled voyages:
https://www.silversea.com/ships/silver-origin.html

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Silversea Showcases the Best of Antarctica, Photographed by Steve Mccurry for the Very First Time

The iconic photographer travelled deep into the White Continent aboard Silversea’s Silver Cloud

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The iconic photographer travelled deep into the White Continent aboard Silversea’s Silver Cloud

(Monaco – February 26, 2020) Legendary photographer Steve McCurry has photographed Antarctica for the first time in his career, travelling to the White Continent on a 10-day sailing from December 10, 2019, aboard Silversea’s Silver Cloud.

McCurry crossed the Drake Passage to capture inspiring images of the Antarctic Sound, the Antarctic Peninsula, and the South Shetland Islands. His spectacular images reflect Antarctica’s unique natural beauty, the captivating wildlife that inhabits the region, the unforgettable experiences on offer here, and the unique talents of one of the world’s foremost visual storytellers.

“Antarctica is unlike any other destination in the world. It felt like I was on another planet,” says McCurry. “I left Ushuaia excited to see huge icebergs and alien landscapes, but Antarctica’s diverse ecosystem greeted me with so much more—whales, seabirds, penguins, and seals, plus vast glaciers and relics of history, frozen in time. Being able to experience the continent so authentically, while accompanied by experts in their field, was an experience that will live with me forever.”

Among the highlights of his expedition, McCurry quotes up-close encounters with whales and elephant seals as his most memorable—the animals willingly approached the photographer, yet McCurry maintained a safe and respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.

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"We had some incredible encounters with elephant seals, which were fascinating,” continues McCurry. “They are such enormous creatures with big beautiful eyes and wonderful expressions—so full of emotion."

Another of McCurry’s highlights was the opportunity to travel with Silversea’s Expedition Experts, who enriched his experience with their extensive and broad-ranging knowledge. The photographer attended topical lectures in Silver Cloud’s Explorer Lounge, delivered by Silversea’s Expedition Team, before journeying ashore on one of the ship’s 18 Zodiacs to discover the natural beauty of Antarctica first-hand.

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“Being accompanied by experts in their field taught me a lot about what I was experiencing, which enriched the experience,” says McCurry. “I always looked forward to all the lectures and learning about this unique part of the world. I spent many enjoyable meals talking to these experts and scientists, learning about the region."

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"The abandoned whaling station we visited on the South Shetland Islands was very interesting. The region has numerous whaling stations, scientific bases, and way stations that have been abandoned. They are now covered in snow and ice, but still serve as remarkable time capsules. I saw an airplane hangar, dormitory, cemetery and huge oil storage tanks."

“A master of his art, Steve McCurry is the perfect storyteller to capture the authentic beauty of Antarctica for our guests,” says Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Antarctica is a unique destination, but Steve was certainly up to the challenge. His curiosity reflects that of our guests, as does his yearning to travel deeper to discover rare and authentic moments. Aboard Silver Cloud, Steve did exactly this and his inspiring images perfectly capture the range of unique experiences that our industry-leading Expedition Team unlocks for guests.”

SILVER CLOUD: IMMERSIVE EXPEDITION TRAVEL IN SUPERLATIVE COMFORT

Steve McCurry travelled to Antarctica aboard Silver Cloud in superlative comfort, enjoying a spacious, ocean-view suite and all-inclusive amenities, including sumptuous cuisine in four fine restaurants; an in-suite 24-hour dining service; the personalized service of a butler; complimentary premium wines and spirits, speciality coffees, bottled water, juices and soft drinks served throughout the ship; an in-suite bar, stocked with guests' preferred beverages; and complimentary Wi-Fi. As well as a fleet of 18 Zodiacs, Silver Cloud carries 10 kayaks to enable travelers to explore a destination from the water at their own pace.

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ANTARCTICA BRIDGE: THE MOST DIRECT ROUTE TO THE LAST CONTINENT

Silversea recently brought innovation to Polar travel by launching Antarctica Bridge, the world’s first ultra-luxury fly-cruise to the White Continent. Enjoying direct flights from Chile’s Punta Arenas to King George Island in Antarctica from December 2021, travelers will fly 670 nm (1,240 km) over the Drake Passage on a private plane – reserved exclusively for Silversea’s guests – that has been specially adapted to land on King George Island. Hosted by Silversea representatives and offering travelers the comfort of a business-class configuration, the flight will take just two hours each way, meaning guests will avoid approximately four days at sea on the return journey. A bespoke in-flight entertainment program, which will include Zodiac and IAATO briefings, will be tailored entirely for Antarctic expeditions to prepare guests for the unique adventure ahead. Travelers will then spend five full days—the same amount of time as on Silversea’s traditional Antarctica voyages—travelling deep into the destination, accompanied by Silversea’s team of Expedition Experts.

In the next Antarctica season, three Silversea ships will unlock immersive experiences in Antarctica for guests from October 28, 2020, including the then newly converted ice-classed Silver Wind; Silver Explorer, which will journey to the Ross Sea on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage; and Silver Cloud.

View Silversea’s voyages to Antarctica and for more information on Antarctica Bridge:

https://www.silversea.com/destinations/antarctica-cruise.html

Watch a video of Steve McCurry’s trip to Antarctica with Silversea:

https://youtu.be/0-HYlX7AcNQ

Read an exclusive interview with Steve McCurry on his trip to Antarctica:

https://discover.silversea.com/steve-mccurry/steve-mccurry-interview-first-trip-to-antarctica/?utm_campaign=McCurryAntarctica&utm_medium=press_release&utm_source=silversea

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Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson Chris Dikmen & Rickee Richardson

Silversea Opens Sales on New 51-port Grand Voyage Arctic 2021

Appealing to those with a passion for discovery, the remarkable itinerary connects many once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

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Appealing to those with a passion for discovery, the remarkable itinerary connects many once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

(Monaco -- February 11, 2020) The industry-leading ultra-luxury cruise line, Silversea Cruises, today opens sales on the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021—a remarkable 51-port itinerary that connects a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Between July 16 and September 17, 2021, Silver Cloud will journey between Tromsø and Nome (Alaska), unlocking unique experiences for guests over 63 nights. The cruise line’s guests will travel deep into seven countries to witness untouched glaciers, captivating wildlife, and remote communities, while also crossing the fabled Northwest Passage and enjoying two maiden calls—Nordfjordholmen (Melfjord, Norway) and Lysebotn (Norway). Silversea’s team of Expedition Experts will enhance the experience with informative lectures, immersive Zodiac tours, and activities ashore, while esteemed guest speakers, bespoke events, and many onboard enrichments complete the offering. Fares for the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021 begin from USD 71,100 per person—based on two sharing and including an Early Booking Bonus.

51 PORTS, SEVEN COUNTRIES, AND TWO MAIDEN CALLS

On this remarkable itinerary that will unlock many unique experiences, travelers will follow in the footsteps of Amundsen, Franklin & Ross by traversing the famous Northwest Passage. This iconic route has long intrigued the most intrepid of travelers and remains a life-defining adventure for many. Historically significant destinations, such as Beechey Island and Gjoa Haven, will enable guests to learn more about the passage’s discovery, as they develop a deep appreciation for this pristine region and all that inhabits it.

For guests participating in the full Grand Voyage, Silversea has curated a selection of once-in-a-lifetime events:

  • Take private charter flights to the Eureka Research Station and cross the 80th parallel
    From Resolute, one of Canada’s northernmost communities, Silversea's guests will embark upon a bespoke day trip to the seldom visited Eureka Research Station—one of the coldest inhabited place on the planet—located near the legendary 80th parallel in the High Arctic. Joined by celebrated Polar Explorer and lecturer, Tobias Thorleifsson, travelers will fly by private charter flight, crossing into the Arctic Circle. They will fly over the incredible island of Axel Heiberg, with its unique lunar valley landscape and petrified forests, as you visit the northernmost weather station in North America.

  • Soar above the Greenland Ice Cap in a helicopter, before landing on a glacier with a Glaciologist
    Exclusive to guests embarking on the full Grand Voyage, a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits travelers during a call in Nuuk. Silversea’s guests will soar high above the breathtaking Greenland Ice Cap in a helicopter, before landing on a glacier in the company of an experienced Glaciologist. Enjoying remarkable panoramic views and expert insight, travelers will learn about these spectacular ice formations from an expert speaker, discovering how the melting of glaciers can impact our planet’s natural environment.

  • Take a scenic helicopter ride to embark on a traditional husky sled ride atop a glacier
    After taking an awe-inspiring helicopter flight to a mountain-top glacier in Qeqertarsuaq, guests will experience a fascinating tradition that endures as a means of transport in just a few places around the world: husky sledding. Reserved only for those completing the full Grand Voyage Arctic 2021 itinerary, this husky sledding experience showcases a historical local custom at its most authentic and promises to live long in the memory.

INTERNATIONALLY-ACCLAIMED GUEST SPEAKERS

Enhancing the experience for guests, many internationally-acclaimed guest speakers will join the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021, inspiring travelers with enriching lectures and sharing their passion for this magical region.

In addition to Silversea’s multinational, renowned Expedition Staff, Silver Cloud’s epic Grand Voyage will feature the following guest speakers:

  • Lewis Pugh: A record-breaking swimmer who has pioneered distance swims around the world, an environmentalist, and a United Nations Patron of the Oceans, Pugh has negotiated Marine Protected Area status for over two million square kilometers of ocean.

  • Ann Daniels: The leader of the first all-female team to ski to both Poles, Daniels has now undertaken a project to measure the thickness of the North Pole Ice Cap, leading her team over 1,000 miles of frozen Arctic Ocean.

  • Tobias Thorleifsson: An esteemed Polar explorer and lecturer, Thorleifsson holds a Master’s Degree in Polar history and has worked extensively on climate literacy projects with the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and the Environment. He has conducted many expeditions in Greenland, Franz Josef Land, Antarctica, and the Canadian Arctic.

  • Dr. Chadden Hunter: A celebrated Director and Producer, Hunter has worked on some of the best-known natural history series ever made. He has dodged armed bandits, survived brain-parasites, and filmed everything from indigenous tribes in Africa to being chased by polar bears in the Arctic.

  • Thomas Nilsen: Thomas Nilsen is Editor of the Barents Observer, the northernmost English language newspaper in the world. Nilsen reports on stories from northern Scandinavia and the Arctic, covering topics such as security, business development, climate change, geopolitics and cross-border cooperation.

  • Mike Stevens: An experienced musician with a humanitarian focus, Mike Stevens has long used his musical talents to engage the Indigenous youth in remote Canadian communities. Stevens founded the ArtsCan Circle charity to teach children new skills, promote self-esteem and creative self-expression.

  • Margaret Bertulli: With 30 years of experience of working in the Canadian Arctic, Margaret Bertulli is the former Arctic Archeologist with the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre and a Senior Archeologist with Parks Canada.

“Benefitting from the knowledge and experience of our industry-leading Expedition Team, while enjoying once-in-a-lifetime experiences that showcase the very best of the region’s unique wildlife and incredible landscapes, our guests will undertake the journey of a lifetime on the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021,” says Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s Senior Vice President of Expeditions, Tour Operating and Destination Management. “Our guests will travel in unparalleled comfort aboard Silver Cloud, enjoying fine cuisine, Silversea’s trademark level of service, and other luxurious amenities, as they embark upon a unique journey of self-enrichment.”

SILVER CLOUD: THE MOST LUXURIOUS SHIP IN EXPEDITION CRUISING

As the most luxurious ship in expedition cruising, Silver Cloud welcomes guests in superlative comfort, offering ocean-view suites, sumptuous cuisine that adapts according to the sailed region, and the personalized service of butlers. Enhancing the experience are such all-inclusive amenities as complimentary premium wines and spirits, speciality coffees, bottled water, juices and soft drinks served throughout the ship; an in-suite bar, stocked with guests' preferences; a complimentary in-suite 24-hour dining service; and complimentary Wi-Fi. With 18 Zodiacs and 10 kayaks, Silver Cloud also offers guests a range of opportunities for on-water discovery.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE FARE?

Guests travelling aboard Silver Cloud for the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021 will benefit from the following inclusions:

  • Roundtrip economy-class air*

  • $1,000 onboard credit (per guest)

  • Exclusive shoreside events

  • Overnight accommodation (pre-voyage)

  • All Zodiac excursions & activities ashore

  • Transfers (between airport/hotel and ship)

  • Luggage service

  • Complimentary laundry service

  • Visa package**

  • Special commemorative expedition gear

  • Medical service***

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Find out more information about Silversea’s Grand Voyage Arctic 2021:
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/grand-voyages-cruise/grand-voyage-2021-arctic.html

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