As the maritime world gathered to witness a momentous occasion, Silversea Cruises christened its newest marvel, Silver Ray, the second vessel in the groundbreaking Nova Class. This event heralded the arrival of a new era in ultra-luxury and expedition cruising and marked a milestone in Silversea’s illustrious 30-year history—a testament to its pioneering spirit and leadership in the industry.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, and Bert Hernandez, who celebrated his inaugural naming as Silversea’s President. The honour of christening Silver Ray was bestowed upon Dr Josefina Olascoaga, an esteemed ocean scientist, who, alongside Captain Alessandro Zanello, performed the traditional champagne bottle break against the ship’s hull—a ritual steeped in maritime heritage.
The festivities were imbued with Royal Caribbean Group’s signature flair. They featured a bagpipe performance, live dance acts, and the stirring anthems of the U.S. and Portugal, encapsulating the brand’s global spirit.
“Silver Ray’s addition to our fleet signifies our unwavering commitment to enhancing the Silversea brand and offering the pinnacle of ultra-luxury and expedition travel,” proclaimed Jason Liberty.
Bert Hernandez echoed this sentiment, linking the ship’s naming to Silversea’s 30th-anniversary celebrations. “It’s a fusion of our storied past and a bold future as we continue to lead in luxury travel and innovation,” he stated, expressing gratitude to Captain Zanello and his crew and welcoming Dr. Olascoaga as Silver Ray’s Godmother.
Dr. María Josefina Olascoaga: A Godmother of Discovery
Dr. Olascoaga’s appointment as Godmother is a tribute to her profound connection with the ocean. Her role as a Professor of Ocean Science at the University of Miami and co-leader of OceanScope underscores her commitment to understanding the sea’s mysteries. Her insights into ocean currents and their impact are invaluable, making her an exemplary figurehead for Silver Ray.
Silver Ray: A Vision of Sustainable Luxury
Silver Ray, alongside her sister ship Silver Nova, epitomises Silversea’s vision of sustainable luxury. With an asymmetrical design and vast expanses of glass, these Nova Class ships offer guests an intimate connection with the sea. Silver Ray is a beacon of energy efficiency and a significant step towards Royal Caribbean Group’s net-zero emissions goal.
Embarking on her maiden voyage from Lisbon on June 15, Silver Ray will grace the Mediterranean with her presence before setting sail for the Americas in December 2024.
Three Decades of Unrivalled Experiences
As Silversea Cruises sails into its 30th year, it does so with a legacy as deep and vast as the oceans it traverses. Nearly 800,000 guests have been cradled in the lap of luxury aboard its vessels, accumulating an astounding 13 million Venetian Society cruise days. The launch of Silver Cloud in 1994 marked the dawn of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive cruise concept—a vision that has since been meticulously cultivated and expanded by Silversea.
The brand’s pioneering spirit has not only endured but flourished, continually redefining the essence of exclusive travel. Silversea’s ships are sanctuaries of seclusion and sophistication, offering an intimate atmosphere within all-suite accommodations. The presence of balconies in almost every suite and some of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea ensure that each voyage is as boundless as the horizon.
Service aboard Silversea is not just a standard; it’s a statement. With butler service available in every suite, guests’ needs are anticipated and met with a personal touch that is both rare and remarkable. The all-inclusive promise extends beyond mere amenities, enveloping guests in a world where complimentary drinks flow as freely as the conversations and where culinary adventures await in a variety of restaurants, each more tantalising than the last.
Yet, the true essence of Silversea’s voyages lies in the immersive experiences offered. Each destination is not just a stop but a chapter in a traveller’s story, rich with cultural depth and natural splendour. From the icy sculptures of Antarctica to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean, Silversea’s journeys are woven with the threads of discovery and wonder.
As Silver Ray sets sail, she carries with her the indelible spirit of Silversea—a spirit of exploration, of luxury without limits, and of moments that become memories etched in the hearts of those who journey with her. Here’s to the next 30 years and beyond as Silversea continues to chart a course through the uncharted, always with the promise of the extraordinary.