Silversea unveiled more details of the Galapagos-based cruise ship Silver Origin. The newbuild (currently under construction) is the first destination-specific vessel from the luxury cruise company and scheduled to debut in May 2020.
Silver Origin has 50 staterooms (all suites) in 8 cabin grades, with the largest being the Owner’s Suites. All accommodations have a private balcony which is a rarity in Galapagos. Certain suite categories feature the innovative Horizon Balcony, that can easily convert to enclose the balcony via a floor-to-ceiling window for better shelter and added space. A first for Silversea is that selected suite categories incorporate an ocean-view bathtub and an ocean-view shower which is accessible from the balcony for passengers’ convenience.
Silver Origin is the only ship in the Galapagos to offer butler service to all of her suites. The ship boasts the highest crew-to-passenger ratio (1:1.16) as well as the highest ratio of qualified guides per passenger (1:10) in the Galapagos, enabling an unparalleled level of personalized service.
The public spaces on Silver Origin were designed by HBA Miami. GEM - Design for Cruise Ships, which is the team behind the interior design of the line's Silver Muse, oversaw the interior design of ship’s cabins.
Basecamp is one of the most innovative spaces on Silver Origin. It is a stylish lounge in which vacationers can socialize before or after excursions. Connecting with the Zodiac embarkation area, it hosts educational activities, through which passengers can interact with the Expedition Team to learn about the rare wildlife and captivating history of the Galapagos Islands. Basecamp features a large, interactive digital wall for destination-related content, such as scientific presentations, excursion previews, videos, and pictures.
The Explorer Lounge hosts daily briefings and lectures. The elegant venue features floor-to-ceiling windows, a large video wall, and HD screens in various seating areas. It is also the spot to relax, with a piano and bar. Passengers can enjoy complimentary drinks throughout the cruise ship, including champagne, spirits, and a variety of wines.
Situated at the very front of the cruise ship, the Observation Lounge offers a hideaway to guests and incredible views. It is the best place to relax with a book from the library, that is carefully curated by the line’s destination experts and includes the most extensive destination-focused collection Silversea has ever had on one ship.
Silver Origin regularly represents displays of the latest marine technologies with a visit to the engine room. Nearly every day Silversea also provides Marine Reserve activities with a spectacular world to explore. Swimming abilities and a certain degree of preparation are required for snorkelling that is provided by trained guides. Snorkelling gear is offered onboard. Silver Origin offers the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratio in the Galapagos region, at 1:12.5.
MS Silver Origin is operated by Silversea's “Silversea Expeditions” division, with fleetmates Silver Galapagos (1990), Silver Clound (1994), Silver Discoverer (2014) and Silver Explorer (2008).