Aside from Alaska cruises and maybe some exotic trips to Iceland, Greenland and other cold-weather locations, most cruises involve sun, beaches and warm temperatures.
Sliversea, Royal Caribbean's luxury cruise brand, however, specializes in expedition cruise experiences. Its ships are smaller than the behemoths sailing the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe, which enables the luxury line to offer unique itineraries.
Related: Royal Caribbean's Silversea holding its own world cruise
The cruise line plans to one-up itself by building something that will serve its cruise passengers in a different way. Silversea plans to build a hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile – the southernmost city on Earth – "to create an unrivaled experience for guests to explore the rugged landscape of Antarctica," the cruise line said on its website.
"The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to the ‘White Continent,’ allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their voyage," it added.
"Guests embarking on the cruise line’s innovative Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise program – the fastest and most direct route to Antarctica – will fly directly to Puerto Williams from Santiago, Chile’s capital city, for a superior experience."
Image source: Royal Caribbean
Silversea is working with local investors
The 150-room hotel, to be built in partnership with a consortium of Chilean investors, is set for completion at the end of 2025. Silversea is the only cruise line that homeports from Puerto Williams during the Antarctica season.
"Located in the sub-Antarctic zone of the Patagonia region of Chile at the southern tip of South America, Puerto Williams is an ideal gateway for travelers seeking to explore the world’s least-visited continent," Silversea wrote.
"From there, Silversea guests can immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Antarctica, where they can discover uninhabited islands, snow-covered mountains, magnificent icescapes, and a vast array of diverse wildlife."
ALSO READ: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your cruise
Overlooking the Beagle Channel and surrounded by pristine forest, the hotel will feature views of the water and snow-capped Patagonian mountains.
Amenities will include an expansive restaurant ideal for group gatherings, a bar and lounge, fitness center and gift shop showcasing handicrafts and art by local artisans.
“We’re thrilled to enhance the Antarctic travel experience by offering seamless journeys that remove traditional barriers for guests to this region,” said Silversea President Bert Hernandez.
“This development not only differentiates us from other polar expeditions but also reaffirms our commitment to innovation and excellence as Silversea continues to set the standard in experiential luxury travel.”
Are you taking a cruise or thinking about taking one? Visit our Come Cruise With Me website to have all your questions answered.
