Silversea Names Second Expedition Ship Silver Galapagos

Source Travel Pulse

Silversea Cruises has named its second small expedition ship Silver Galapagos. The vessel currently sails as the Galapagos Explorer II. The 2013 Galápagos program will open for sale in mid-November.

Silversea said the new name signals its intent to maintain “a consistent level of elegance throughout its fleet,” which will take effect after the all-suite, 100-guest vessel undergoes a major refurbishment in September 2013. In a related move, the hull of the Galapagos Explorer II has already been painted the same dark blue as Silver Explorer, the company’s other expedition ship.

Silversea said the Silver Galapagos will be the only luxury expedition ship exploring the Galápagos archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Silver Galapagos is offering two new seven-day itineraries, both departing Baltra Island on Saturdays, beginning in late September 2013. One option explores the western, southern and eastern islands, including Santiago, Bartolomé, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, San Cristóbal, and Santa Cruz. The other option visits the northeast, central and southeast islands of Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Seymour Norte, San Cristóbal, Española, and Plazas Sur.

The cruises will offer complimentary expeditions ashore guided by an expedition team certified by the Galápagos National Park Service. Guests can expect to view iguanas, giant tortoises, blue- and red-footed boobies, colorful marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and Darwin’s famous finches. The program also offers opportunities to swim and snorkel, hike through mangrove forests and across volcanic fields, explore natural lava tunnels, watch for wild flamingos (in season), read cave inscriptions from the 1800s, and learn about conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

The Silver Galapagos will feature butler service, complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet, and all gratuities.