MS Silver Nova, the first of Silversea's two NOVA-class vessels, has successfully completed her inaugural season in Alaska. This innovative vessel, part of the brand's focus on luxury and expedition travel, sailed Alaskan waters from May to September, offering guests a range of immersive experiences.
A key highlight of the season was the presence of renowned photographer and long-time Silversea collaborator, Steve McCurry. In August, McCurry sailed aboard Silver Nova, capturing both the vessel and the Alaskan landscape in his distinct photographic style. To commemorate Silversea’s 30th anniversary, an exhibition of McCurry’s works was installed aboard the ship.
Having completed 19 voyages in Alaska, Silver Nova now charts a relocation course for the Asia-Pacific region for the first time (RepositionCruises.com).
During the Alaskan deployment, tourists encountered diverse wildlife, including bears, bald eagles, sea otters, whales, and salmon. Each 7-day itinerary included at least four key ports of call, along with scenic cruising through the Hubbard Glacier and Inside Passage.
Based on homeporting in Vancouver BC and Seward AK, the season offered 100+ shore excursions, with a variety of experiences available in ports like Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and Ketchikan.
Notable facts include:
- Silver Nova covered 32,000+ NM/nautical miles during the 133-day season.
- Guests enjoyed 16 performances by the Juneau Alaska String Band, which highlighted Alaska’s history and folklore.
- ~10,000 bottles of champagne were consumed in the ship’s restaurants and bars.
- 120+ destination lectures enriched passengers with insights on Alaskan culture and geography.
- Almost 200 S.A.L.T. Lab culinary classes connected guests with local cuisine.
- 30 of Steve McCurry’s photographs were installed on board to mark the cruise line’s anniversary.
Looking ahead, Silver Nova will return to Alaska in 2025, offering varied itineraries from May to September. These voyages will visit popular ports such as Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and Ketchikan, along with lesser-visited destinations like Valdez, Icy Bay, Icy Strait Point, Wrangell, and Haines. Additionally, Silver Moon will cruise Alaska during the same period, offering seven-day voyages that feature scenic cruising in Hubbard Bay and the Inside Passage, with stops at iconic Alaskan ports.