Silversea Floats Out All-New Galapagos Cruise Ship

(10:57 a.m. EST) -- Silversea's first-ever destination specific cruise ship, Silver Origin, touched water for the first time at the De Hoop shipyard in Lobith, the Netherlands at the very end of last year. The ship is scheduled to begin sailing in the Galapagos on July 18, 2020.

"This is an important milestone for our cruise line," said Roberto Martinoli, Silversea's president and CEO. "It takes us one step closer to strengthening our industry-leading offering in the Galapagos further still… While completing the final stages of Silver Origin's construction, ensuring that the ship surpasses Silversea's trademark level of comfort, we are also readying our Expedition Team, who will deliver an enriching and memorable expedition experience for our guests."

Among the mostly Ecuadorian expedition team will be several biologists and an expert photographer, all of whom will offer onboard lectures and discussions, and lead immersive shore experiences including guided Zodiac trips, hikes and nature walks ashore.

The all-suite, 100-passenger ship will feature all ocean-view rooms, personalized butler service. The all-inclusive fares include house wines, premium spirits and soft drinks; in-suite minibar stocked with local snacks and 24-hour room service; Wi-Fi; and complimentary take-home expedition gear that includes a waterproof backpack, raincoat and water bottle. Also included in the fare are roundtrip flights between Ecuador and the Galapagos; a two-night, pre-cruise hotel stay in Quito; transfers between airport, hotel and ship; and a Quito by night tour.

Silver Origin will alternate two Saturday-to-Saturday, one-week itineraries between Baltra and San Cristobal.