Silversea’s Newest Ship to Sail the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands, may be the ultimate bucket list destination for many travelers. However, to lessen environmental stress to the islands, the government highly regulates tourism and boats. Enter Silver Origin, Silversea’s first ever destination-specific ship that will unleash meaningful travel experiences for guests in the Galapagos Islands starting in summer 2020. “Silver Origin will elevate our industry-leading offering in the Galapagos Islands, unlocking meaningful experiences for guests, as they travel in ultimate luxury,” says Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s CEO.

Silver Origin will be one of the most environmentally-friendly cruise ships ever built, thanks to state-of-the-art technology and solutions designed specifically for sailing the Galapagos Islands.

Silver Origin will see the highest crew-to-guest ratio (1:1.16) and the highest ratio of qualified guides per guest (1:10) in the Galapagos Islands. This will extend to the in-suite experience, as Silver Origin will be the only ship in the Galapagos Islands to offer butler service to all suites.

The same level of understated elegance evident throughout the Silversea fleet carries over to this intimate ship. But it’s the unique regional materials and bright, colorful motifs, borrowed from the Galapagos’ natural environment, that sets Silver Origin apart from its sister ships. Here’s an inside look into Silversea’s newest build.

Basecamp

The perfect space for socializing and the site of educational activities on board, Basecamp just may be one of Silver Origin’s most innovative areas. Basecamp features a large, interactive digital wall — through which guests will be able to access destination-related content, including pictures, videos, excursion previews, and scientific presentations.

Explore Lounge

An elegant hideaway for guests showcasing incredible views of the destination, Explore Lounge is the ideal place for guests to relax with a book from the library’s destination-focused collection.

Suites

Silver Origin will feature eight different suite categories — the largest of which, the Owner’s Suite, will feature panoramic views. Guests in every suite will enjoy the use of a private balcony, while specific suite categories even feature an innovative Horizon Balcony, which easily converts to enclose the terrace with a floor-to-ceiling window. Plus, a first for Silversea, selected suite categories will incorporate an ocean-view bathtub, as well as an ocean-view shower that is accessible from the balcony.

Dining

Expert local chefs will take guests on a journey of culinary discovery with fresh local ingredients and regional wines in Silver Origin’s two dining venues. Plus, there will be a focus on authentic Ecuadorian flavors.

With so many firsts, Silver Origin is leading the way on the exploration of the Galapagos. There’s no better time to set off for an idyllic adventure than with the launch of this innovative new ship.

June 26, 2022October 31, 2022

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection, there is no substitute

A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

The highly anticipated, 298-passenger Evrima just set sail the week of October 22nd. (updated) The 298-passenger Evrima aspires to bring Ritz-Carlton hotel comfort and service to sea.

The 298-passenger Evrima aspires to bring Ritz-Carlton hotel comfort and service to sea. With sleek modern design, rich materials, plenty of lounge space, personalized service, and a restaurant with menus designed by a Michelin three-star chef—and after a nearly three-year delay—the first ship of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is ready for its debut. The 298-passenger Evrima will sail seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Nice in October.

Innovative two-story loft suites, with the bedroom downstairs and a light-filled living room upstairs, are among accommodations choices.

Photographer: Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

In an open-air space at the ship’s Marina, catch views of the sea while enjoying cocktails and light bites.

Photographer: Christopher Cypert

The concept

The well-regarded maritime architecture and design firm Tillberg of Sweden worked with a team from the hotel company to create a floating Ritz-Carlton hotel. relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

Suites were designed with a residential feel inspired by the contemporary look of the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Sunny Isles, Miami Beach, and Los Angeles. Photographer: Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez

Room to spread out

Guests stay in suites with ceilings that are higher than the cruise ship norm, with king-size beds, double-vanity bathrooms, and private outdoor “terraces” overlooking the sea. Also on offer are resort like features such as a supervised Ritz Kids program with its own playroom ($45 per three-hour session) and a Ritz-Carlton-operated spa with indoor and outdoor treatment rooms—as well as indulgences such as a $395 non-surgical lift facial. The 623-foot ship has more space per passenger than any other luxury cruise ship.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos — The ship’s Marina Terrace is both a lounging spot at water’s edge and a place to borrow water toys such as kayaks and paddleboards.

Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Water, water, everywhere

Guests may take in ocean views while sipping complimentary champagne on loungers around the infinity pool or get even closer to water’s edge on the Marina Terrace, where handcrafted cocktails and light bites will be served when the ship is at anchor. From the marina, there are paddleboards, windsurf boards, kayaks, sailboats, and snorkeling equipment to borrow. Four plunge pools scattered around Evrima afford more intimate opportunities to take a dip with views.

First-class dining

The large Evrima Room, the yacht’s main restaurant, features dishes inspired by the line’s destinations. A five-course tasting menu with wine and champagne pairings at S.E.A. (Sven Elverfeld Aboard) was created by Chef Sven Elverfeld of the three-Michelin-starred Aqua at the Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany . At the Talaat Nam restaurant, dine indoors or out on Southeast Asian dishes—or head to the sushi bar. Room service is available 24/7. relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

The top-deck Observation Room is a socializing and cocktail spot that morphs into a nightclub in the late hours.

Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Nightlife

The ship’s Deck 10 indoor and outdoor Observation Terrace is a social hub—a place to take in views by day and to sip cocktails and enjoy live entertainment by evening. Late at night, the space morphs into a nightclub, with an opportunity to dance under the stars. Evrima has its own resident jazz and classical musicians, and local entertainers will come aboard to perform at select ports of call.

Ritz-Carlton service

Every suite on Evrima comes with access to a personal concierge for requests from a cup of coffee to help organizing your shore excursions, as well as a separate concierge ashore to handle requests for private experiences and reservations on land. The goal is the kind of personalized service you expect to find at a Ritz-Carlton hotel: The ship has nearly as many crew members as guests.

Destination focus

In its first year, Evrima sails the Mediterranean and Caribbean on 7- to 10-night itineraries—following the yachting crowd to such hotspots as Ibiza, St. Tropez, Bequia, and St. Barts. Overnights afford time to play on land, and there’s a focus on beyond-the-norm shore excursions. For example, a tour of the Aruba Aloe facility is followed by an aloe-based treatment at the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, while an evening excursion in Tenerife focuses on cocktail culture. Cruise fares are from $1,000 per person, per night—though you can find some sailings for less.

The competition

Leading luxury cruise bands such as Seabourn (Carnival Corp.) and Silversea (Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd) won’t be the only competition. Late last month, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced Four Seasons Yachts, three 190-passenger ships to be built by Italy’s Fincantieri, in partnership with Nadim Ashi, owner of Miami-based Fort Partners (Four Seasons Surf Club in Sunrise, Fla.), and Philip Levine, a former Miami Beach mayor. The first is due in late 2025.

Bonvoy points

Members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can redeem 180,000 points for $1,000 in savings on the cruise fare, with increments of 90,000 points for $500 after that, It’s possible to pay for a 10-day cruise with about 2 million points See participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels booked through the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection for more information. There are elite credits, too, those with Elite status will receive perks such as an invite to a special cocktail party and, depending on your member status, free laundry.

June 25, 2022August 31, 2022

MSC Cruises 2022/23 Deals

After 300 years at sea, we understand its influence, positive impact and ability to guide you to treasures that lie off the beaten path. Our cruises are designed to enrich, delight and create unforgettable emotions that only the sea can create. Our experienced crew members are ready to help you uncover the best-kept secrets in each new destination. We have a passion and respect for the sea and a commitment to excellence in hospitality; combining all the details that will make each MSC cruise a unique experience.

Embark on a world of discovery with MSC Cruises

Dates are available in 2022-23. Most qualifying cruises embark out of Miami, while some select qualifying cruises embark out of New York. January 12, 2023; January 20, 2023; February 17, 2023; March 9, 2023; and April 25, 2023.

The unlimited drinks package that is included in this promotion is the Easy Drink package. You can enjoy as many drinks as you’d like from the following beverage choices: House wines by the glass, draft Heineken and bottled Miller Lite beers, non-alcoholic cocktails, soft drinks and juices by the glass, bottled water, energy drinks, classic hot drinks, and coffee and hot chocolate.

You’ll also get to enjoy free standard internet wi-fi, which varies by ship. This way, you can keep connected while away without worrying about extra charges.

If you’re overdue for a vacation and are a cruise lover, this is the perfect way for you to save. Why pay to book an alcohol or drink package when you can get one for free just by planning a cruise? Check out the available Caribbean cruises and start planning your vacation today!

June 22, 2022August 12, 2022

Cruise Ships With Lifeguards

Considering cruising is extremely water-centric, you would think that lifeguards aboard ships would be standard practice. Surprisingly, that’s not the case. If you want to put your mind at ease, especially when traveling with small children, consider sailing these cruise lines, all of which have lifeguards onboard.

Disney Cruise Lines

Disney cruise lines added lifeguards fleetwide in 2013. Lifeguards are on duty at the family pools during regular operating hours. During busy hours multiple lifeguards are stationed throughout the pool area for safety and to minimize risks to swimmers by enforcing rules. In addition to lifeguards, life jackets are also available.

Norweigan Cruise Line

In 2018, Norwegian Cruise Line added lifeguards to family pools across their fleet stating that while parents are always the first line of supervision when it comes to water safety, it’s essential to provided added measures. Norweigan also offers swim vests for both adults and children near towel stations on the ships pool deck.

Royal Caribbean

It’s safety first on Royal Caribbean where lifeguards, enhanced signage, and swim vests add levels of protection to every pool on board. The fleet’s lifeguards are trained and certified by StarGuard Elite, an industry leader in water risk prevention. Swim vests are also available at towel stations on every ship, in every class. To educate children and adults on water safety, fun programs are offered, as well as swim lessons provided by trained lifeguards onboard select ships.

If you choose a cruise line that does not have lifeguards onboard, here are a few tips to keep your children safe while at sea.

Water Safety Tips While Cruising

Follow the American Red Cross’ Circle of Drowning Prevention: Have adults designate a “watcher” who does nothing but monitor the kids in the water for a set amount of time.

Teach your children to swim before going on a water vacation.

Have inexperienced swimmers wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

Always swim with a buddy.

Parents, learn CPR. The amount of time you administer CPR before medics arriving could save a life.

Download the Swim by American Red Cross App. This app teaches water safety through fun games and videos.

June 14, 2022August 12, 2022

Best Cruises to Take if You’re a History Buff

Travel is the perfect activity for history lovers. They can experience new destinations while learning all about the history and culture that made a place the way it is. If you’re a history buff, you should consider taking an exciting cruise for your next vacation. There are some excellent cruises with guest lecturers and unique educational opportunities for those who wish to learn about the places they’re visiting. Are you ready to begin planning your cruise adventure? Here are the best cruises to take if you’re a history buff:

Discover Historic Destinations Aboard the National Geographic Explorer

Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic offer some incredible cruises that set sail on the impressive National Geographic Explorer. This ship heads to some amazing destinations full of history. One example tour that you may want to book is the Ancient Isles: England, Ireland, and Scotland. On this journey, travelers will learn all about each country’s history. Historians and naturalists board these cruises to offer knowledge.

Azamara Takes Travelers to Top Historical Wonders

Azamara is a great cruise line for those who like more intimate sailings with more in-depth exploration. Their smaller ships head to some fantastic destinations. The 17-Night Ancient Civilizations Voyage is perfect for those who adore history. Hop aboard the Azamara Quest and explore a mix of modern and ancient life. Immersive lectures and unique experiences like archaeological walks and visits to local markets make for the perfect opportunity to learn more about each destination.

Viking Cruise Line Features Resident Historians

Yet another excellent choice for cruises filled with history is Viking Cruise Line. This cruise line features Resident Historians who educate and offer fun cultural activities that fit in well with each cruise journey. Lectures, dinner discussions, and daily office hour chats are some other offerings that they provide. The Empires of the Mediterranean is one history and culture-packed cruise that you may want to book!

Windstar Cruises Offers Experts for Added Insight and Knowledge

Windstar Cruises also offers cruises with great learning experiences for history buffs. Their Signature Expeditions program helps travelers learn more about the destinations they visit. Experts are available on each journey to educate and give more insight. We recommend the Alaskan Splendors cruise. Your guides and expedition experts will help you better understand the culture and history of Alaska.

If you’re into learning as much as you can about the destinations that you travel to, a cruise that features historical destinations and amazing immersive experiences is the best kind of cruise. Which of these cruises will you book first?

June 8, 2022August 12, 2022

We Dare You to Book These Incredible Secret Cruise Experiences

Vacationing on a cruise is exciting in itself, but you can take your cruise adventure to the next level by booking unique experiences. We have a feeling there are some extra extraordinary experiences that you don’t know exist! These incredible adventures can make your cruise more memorable. Keep reading to see what secret cruise experiences you may want to book on your next cruise:

Take an Underwater Walk in the South Pacific

You’ve probably heard of regular snorkeling and scuba diving—but what underwater walking? When you head to the South Pacific with Paul Gauguin Cruises, you can do just that. While at Moorea Island, you will be outfitted with an air-supplied helmet and head into the waters to explore. For 30-minutes, you can walk around and explore the local sea animals, including groupers, butterflyfish, and coral. You won’t forget this unique travel experience!

Celebrate in Style with a Champagne and Caviar Splash Party

This experience promises exciting memories! Seadream’s Champagne and Caviar Splash Party is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or treat yourself to a little extra fun while on vacation. Available on Caribbean cruises, travelers can enjoy a delicious poolside barbeque with caviar and bubbles, too! We have a feeling you won’t forget this incredible adventure.

Fly Over Juneau and Go Dog Sledding

When you cruise with Silversea to incredible Juneau, Alaska, you’re going to be amazed at the gorgeous scenery. Did you know that you can go on a helicopter ride to take in the best views and also go dog sledding? After an awe-inspiring helicopter ride, you’ll learn all about dog mushing and get to experience sledding with Alaskan huskies! You can book these unique experiences together with Silversea.

See Sharks and Stingrays on a Glass-Bottom Boat Ride

While exploring amazing Bora Bora with Oceania, be sure to book their Sharks and Rays By Glass-Bottom Boat excursion. If you want to see beautiful sea life without snorkeling, this is a great option! If conditions permit it, you’ll see black-tipped sharks, lemon sharks, and stingrays from your glass-bottom boat.

Fall Asleep Under the Stars While Glamping on a Mega Yacht

When you board the Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Flora mega yacht, you’ll experience luxury everywhere you go. As you make your way to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands, you can sleep under the stars! This glamorous camping experience gives you the best views of the skies. You’ll get to enjoy two cabanas—one with a double bed for sleeping and another for an alfresco meal. How amazing is that?

All of these incredible secret cruise experiences offer a unique travel experience. Which excursion will you book first?

June 5, 2022October 28, 2022

Antarctica Cruises, 2023

Penguin Editorial credit Shutterstock.com

Trade in your sunscreen and sandals for icebergs and adventures when you head for the untouched beauty of the White Continent. With less crowded ports, unprecedented expeditions, and the natural beauty of icy waters and wildlife, Antarctica is quickly becoming a top cruise destination. Check out the top three luxury liners that will sail you to the South Pole.

Silversea Cruises: Silver Cloud

silversea butler use — Credit: Silversea

With the highest space-to-guest and crew-to-guest ratios in expedition cruising, Silver Cloud offers unprecedented comfort to travelers looking to explore Antarctica and beyond. Upon arrival, guests are met by Silversea’s attentive staff and a flute of champagne as they are escorted to their suite by their butler. Onboard, guests enjoy four world-class restaurants. At The Grill, guests dine under the moonlit sky and have the opportunity to cook their food on sourced volcanic rock right at the table. Aside from adventure and aperitifs, the ship boasts the serene Zagara Spa, industry-leading service (be met with a towel as you emerge from the pool), and – unique to Silver Cloud – a state-of-the-art photo studio where budding photographers can transform prints from their cameras.

Abercrombie & Kent’s Le Lyrial

Antarctica, Le Lyrial Cruise Ship — Credit: Ambercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent’s newest charter ship from Ponant is an expeditioner’s dream. Aside from the sleek style and sophistication of the ship itself, and of course the balcony staterooms and suites, the real distinction of traveling on an A&K charter of Le Lyrial is the award-winning team of experts. Akin to an education at sea, A&K’s expeditions are led by the most experienced marine biologists, ornithologists and geologists, along with a shipboard historian who shares tales from Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. When you’re done exploring, your private butler will tend to your every need, from cocktails on your balcony to arranging for your personal hairstylist.

Quark Expeditions

Antarctica for Quark — Credit: Quark Expeditions

Set for sail in 2023 Quark Expeditions unveiled its newest ship in polar explorations. Cutting edge technology, advanced safety measures and a vastly experienced expedition team are just a few reasons to set your sights on this ship. Think of it as a 5-star hotel on the sea. Leaving no stone unturned, guests will have access to dual helicopters, indoor / outdoor dining, spa and fitness, and a rapid Zodiac.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an ice-strengthened ship and an icebreaker ship?

An ice-strengthened ship is a ship made of steel. These ships are made to get through the ice at Antarctica and the Arctic. Nowadays, most of the ships that cruise to Antarctica and the Arctic are ice-strengthened ships. Ortelius and Plancius Read more »

What kind of clothing should I take during my expedition cruise?

We require you to bring a waterproof jacket and pants (minimum 15,000mm rating) for Zodiac cruises to shore. You will also need high rubber boots for trips on Rembrandt van Rijn. Apart from that, our advice is to take warm, windproof, waterproof Read more »

You must be in good general health, and you should be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible on shore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship i

Read more »

21 photos of Oceanwide Expeditions
About Oceanwide Expeditions

Passionate

Taking you closer to the heart of the polar regions has been our driving passion at Oceanwide Expeditions for over twenty years. Our knowledgeable cruise leaders, committed staff, and thoroughly outfitted vessels are our way of expressing what we care about most: making your cruise to the Arctic and Antarctic truly unforgettable. When you sail with us, you experience a part of the world that is unlike any other. Mountainous glaciers, snow-swept shores, whales and polar bears and vast colonies of penguins make up this world, and they are all part of the surreal ecosystem you can watch unfold before you on your future Oceanwide expedition.

Adventurous

Providing you a travel experience that inspires (and is inspired by) you, that’s what taking you closer to the heart of the polar regions means to us. We get you away from the vessel and into the action as fast as possible: up to two landings per day in the morning and afternoon, with a fleet of inflatable Zodiacs ready to shuttle you past the ice floes and onto the shore. We keep our programs flexible so that you get the most out of whatever surprises nature has in mind. When you sail with us, the cruise is just the tip of the iceberg.

Pioneering

So what exactly is beneath the tip of that iceberg? The pioneering spirit, which all travelers to the polar regions (regardless of age and background) have in common. Guiding our expeditions with passion, tapping into the desire for inspiration and beauty, and always taking you closer to the heart of the Arctic and Antarctic – at Oceanwide Expeditions, that is our promise to you.

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