Silversea Cruises and MEYER WERFT celebrated the keel laying of the Silver Ray in a symbolic ceremony at the shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, attended by a representation of travel advisors.
Silversea's pioneering Nova-class second ship, the 728-guest Silver Ray, is scheduled to enter service in the summer of 2024, joining its sister ship, the Silver Nova, as one of the most sustainable ships in its class.
Barbara Muckermann, President and CEO of Silversea, and Jan Meyer, Managing Director of MEYER WERFT, were present when a commemorative coin, featuring the silhouette of the Silver Ray, was placed under a pre-assembled module as a symbol of good luck before toasting with attendees to this important milestone.
“We are delighted to welcome select members of our business community to the MEYER WERFT shipyards in Papenburg to witness this milestone in the construction of the Silver Ray,” said Barbara Muckermann, President and CEO of Silversea Cruises.
“The Nova class will set new standards on the path to net-zero emissions cruises. Therefore, we are delighted to take another symbolic step in the construction of the Silver Ray today with the keel laying. I am confident that this ultra-luxury ship will meet the high expectations of its guests and inspire them with its innovative design,” said Jan Meyer, CEO of MEYER WERFT.
Before the official keel-laying ceremony for the Silver Ray, guests were able to visit the Silver Nova, which is nearing completion at the same MEYER WERFT shipyard and will join the Silversea fleet this summer. For the first time at Silversea, the two Nova-class ships will feature an asymmetrical design and horizontal layout, with public spaces and suites spanning the entire length of each vessel.
