Silversea Cruises will rename its new expedition ship the Prince Albert II, in tribute to Prince Albert of Monaco. The ship was originally acquired as the World Discoverer II.
Silversea called the name "fitting for a ship that will be dedicated to the exploration and conservation of the planet's oceans, wildlife and indigenous cultures." The line noted that Monaco has long been recognized as a leader in marine environment research.
The adventure ship will set sail from London on June 12 for an inaugural season of voyages of 10 to 21 days. The cruises will focus on polar adventures. Sailing first to the Arctic Circle, Iceland and Greenland for the summer, the ship will then reposition to South America and Antarctica for autumn and winter voyages.
From mid-August to November, the Prince Albert II will cruise from the east coast of North America through the Panama Canal to Los Angeles before heading south to Ushuaia, Argentina. Along this repositioning route are opportunities to explore the Sea of Cortez (with an extension to Copper Canyon), the Falklands and South Georgia Island. Pricing starts at $3,867, per person, double, and includes shore excursions.
After the ship's refit, the ice-class vessel will carry 132 guests in 66 oceanview accommodations, many featuring private verandas. Staterooms and suites will range from 180 to over 600 square feet.
The ship is being outfitted with a new fleet of eight Zodiac boats with Yamaha four-stroke engines (for the lowest possible emissions, said Silversea) that will enable guests to experience up-close exploration and to access remote landscapes.
Reservations are being accepted from Feb 29. Visit www.silversea.com/HSHPrinceAlbertII for more details on the ship and its itineraries.