SILVERSEA Expeditions, the leading authority in expedition cruising, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the introduction of its first crossing of the Northeast Passage – a remote and spectacular cruising route above the Arctic Circle. Few cruise ships have transited the passage, which follows the extreme coastlines of Asia and Europe and has long enjoyed a fabled reputation among seafarers.
The intimate, all-suite Silver Explorer will become the most luxurious cruise ship to sail the route, as it passes 5,019 nautical miles of dramatic seascapes and untamed wilderness on a 25-day voyage. On 10 August 2019, the ice-class expedition ship will sail from Nome, Alaska, to Tromsø, Norway, on a 25 day, once-in-a-lifetime explorative journey through this challenging region.
“In this special anniversary year, which marks Silversea’s decade of ultra-luxury expedition cruising, we’re particularly thrilled 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 the top of Asia and Europe to discover extraordinary landscapes, unique cultures and rare animal species, while enjoying the comfort of Silversea’s ultra-luxury Silver Explorer.”
One of Silversea’s most ambitious expeditions to date, the journey will encompass the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wrangel Island, where polar bears and walruses roam and migratory birds nest; Champ Island, known for the large, mysterious stone spheres that dot its otherworldly landscape; Tikhaya Bay’s Rubini Rock, with its stunning basalt columns; and the archipelago of Severnaya Zemlya, famous for its impressive fjords and majestic glaciers.
The ship will also spend a day navigating as far north as possible, in the direction of the Ice Edge, in search of seals, walruses and polar bears on ice floes. History buffs will be intrigued by a visit to Murmansk, the last city founded by the Russian Empire. Quaint coastal villages like Chukotka’s Uelen, populated by the Chukchi and Yupik people, will offer immersion in rare cultural experiences.
The intimate Silver Explorer accommodates just 144 guests and her fleet of 12 Zodiac® crafts will provide the unprecedented opportunity for up-close exploration. Silversea’s dedicated Expedition Team of qualified specialists will be at hand to share expert knowledge and topical insights. They will provide lectures, run workshops, lead Zodiac® trips, and guide shore excursions – all of which is complimentary for guests.
Aboard the ship, guests will enjoy ocean-view suites, sumptuous cuisine, and the personalized service of a butler. Enriching the experience are such all-inclusive amenities as 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; in-suite 24-hour dining; and unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi. Double-occupancy fares start from AUD$50,490 per person, including Early Booking Bonus*. Find out more information about the Northeast Passage Crossing: https://www.silversea.com/destinations/cruises-arctic-greenland/nome-to-tromso-7916.html
*Early Booking Bonus available to guests booking and paying in full before 31 July 2018. Voyages and special offers are subject to change and may be withdrawn at any time. Terms and conditions apply. For more information on Silversea, contact your travel professional or Silversea Cruises on +61 2 9255 0600 or 1300 306 872 or visit www.silversea.com
SOURCE: Silversea Expeditions