Silversea Expeditions, the leading authority on expedition cruising, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the launch of its first crossing of the Northeast Passage, a spectacular route above the Arctic Circle. Few cruise ships have ever sailed through this passage, which follows the extreme coastlines of Asia and Europe and has long enjoyed a superb reputation among seafarers.
The Silver Explorer will thus become the most luxurious cruise ship to sail the route, covering 5,019 nautical miles of spectacular seascapes and wilderness on a 25-day voyage. On August 10, 2019, the ice-class expedition ship will sail from Nome, Alaska, to Tromsø, Norway, on a once-in-a-lifetime exploratory journey through this challenging region.
“In this special anniversary year, marking a decade of Silversea’s ultra-luxury expedition cruising, we are particularly excited to announce our inaugural crossing of the Northeast Passage,” says Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s senior vice president of strategic development for Expeditions and Experiences. “Continuing our legacy of exploration, this epic Arctic passage will take guests across Asia and Europe to discover extraordinary landscapes, unique cultures, and previously unknown animal species, all while enjoying the comfort of the Silver Explorer and Silversea’s signature luxury.”
This is one of Silversea's most ambitious expeditions to date, the journey encompassing Wrangel Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to polar bears and walruses and nesting migratory birds; Champ Island, known for the large and mysterious stone spheres that dot its otherworldly landscape; Tikhaya Bay's Rubini Rock, with its impressive basalt columns; and the Severnaya Zemlya archipelago, famous for its stunning fjords and majestic glaciers.
The ship will also spend a day sailing as far north as possible, toward the ice, in search of seals, walruses, and polar bears. History buffs will be intrigued by a visit to Murmansk, the last city founded by the Russian Empire. Picturesque coastal villages like the Uelen of Chukotka, inhabited by the Chukchi and Yupik peoples, will offer an immersion in unique cultural experiences.
The intimate Silver Explorer accommodates 144 guests, and its fleet of 12 Zodiac® boats will provide opportunities for close-up exploration. Silversea's dedicated Expedition Team of qualified specialists will share their expertise and up-to-date knowledge. They will offer lectures, conduct workshops, lead Zodiac® expeditions, and guide shore excursions—all complimentary for guests.
Onboard the ship, guests will enjoy ocean-view suites, sumptuous cuisine, and personalized butler service. Enhanced experiences include complimentary premium wines and spirits, specialty coffees, bottled water, juices, and soft drinks served throughout the ship; an in-suite bar stocked with guests' preferences; and unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi. Double occupancy rates start from €33,480 per person.
