Silver Wind is getting updated to an ice-class, ultra-luxury expedition ship. The move signals continued popularity of ultra-luxury expedition travel to the glaciers and wildlife-rich regions of Antarctica.
Silver Wind is currently undergoing refurbishments at the Remontowa shipyard in Gdansk, Poland, following a major upgrade in 2018. The re-design includes an ice-strengthened hull for cruising in polar waters and technology upgrades. In addition, 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 Nov. 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 Dec. 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, in a press statement. “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 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 will be 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.
Updated Interiors
Following the ship’s comprehensive refurbishment in 2018, which saw the enhancement of most public spaces, an array of updates will be made 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 is scheduled to depart on a 22-day sailing to Antarctica on Nov. 20, 2021, spending her inaugural season exploring the White Continent. Guests will be able to take in the landscapes and wildlife of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica, plus get to experience the solar eclipse on Dec. 4.
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
For more information, visit silversea.com/ships/silver-wind.
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