Silver Wind is converting for ice-class expedition cruising

The work is taking place at Poland's Remontowa shipyard in Gdańsk, and follows a major upgrade in 2018. The redesign includes an ice-strengthened hull and technology upgrades as well as environmental improvements like an advanced wastewwater treatment plant, new food waste treatment technology and fuel-saving boilers.

Silversea's fourth expedition vessel

The 17,400gt Silver Wind will emerge as Silversea's fourth expedition vessel with a maiden voyage from Buenos Aires to Antarctica scheduled for Nov. 20. This 22-day journey will provide travelers with a prime viewing position on the White Continent for the Dec. 4 solar eclipse.

'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 breathtaking, remote destinations as Antarctica, and we have more exciting enhancements to come,' Silversea President and CEO Roberto Martinoli said.

Expedition enhancements

The 1995-built Silver Wind will be fitted with a strengthened hull, ice-detector sonars designed for use on icebreaker vessels, 24 Zodiacs, 14 kayaks and a mudroom. The casino will be converted into a photo studio with the latest equipment. The swimming pool will be heated.

Reduced capacity

Passenger capacity will be reduced from 296 to 274, and Silver Wind will carry up to 28 expedition experts who will share their knowledge in lectures, on guided Zodiac tours and shore experiences.

Following the update of most public spaces in 2018, Silver Wind will get entirely refurbished upper suites with new furniture and carpets, and new walk-in showers to complement the bathtubs. Vista and Veranda suites will also be updated, including the installation of new walk-in showers. Many public areas will be refreshed, with repainted 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.

Inaugural Antarctica season

Following the 22-day solar eclipse cruise, Silver Wind will sail mostly 10-day Antarctica voyages round-trip Ushuaia, with an 18-day holiday cruise on Dec. 22, a 12-day journey Feb. 8 and a 29-day odyssey that also visits South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands and ends at Buenos Aires.