SILVER WIND
The hybrid icon. A classic luxury vessel completely rebuilt in 2021 with an ice-strengthened hull to bridge the gap between extreme adventure and ultra-luxury.
- Guests
- 274
- Tonnage
- 17,400
- Launch
- 1995
- Crew
- 239
The Prodigy Verdict
The Gentleman Explorer.
Silver Wind is a unique proposition in the industry. Originally built as a classic luxury ship, she underwent a massive overhaul in 2021 to become an ice-class expedition vessel. This means you get the rugged capability needed for Polar regions without sacrificing the wide corridors, large pool deck, and multiple dining venues of a traditional ship. With a 1:1.2 crew-to-guest ratio and butler service in every suite, the service levels are impeccable. It is less "rugged" than a purpose-built expedition ship like the Endeavour, which many travelers find to be a comforting advantage.
- Transition Travelers: Guests who want to see Antarctica but are afraid of "roughing it" on smaller research vessels.
- Luxury Loyalists: Those who expect caviar on demand, even when visiting penguins.
- Privacy Seekers: The ship is small enough to feel private but large enough to offer anonymity.
- Hull Age: Despite the refurb, the 1995 bones mean lower ceilings and smaller bathrooms in non-suite categories.
- Zodiac Boarding: Operations take slightly longer than on smaller 100-passenger ships.
- Motion: As a smaller vessel, she will move significantly in the Drake Passage or rough Atlantic crossings.
The Setup
The conversion added a reinforced hull and expedition equipment while maintaining the classic Silversea layout.
The Mudroom
The expedition staging area. Guests store boots and gear here before boarding Zodiacs. It features heated lockers to dry your parka between excursions.
Observation Library
Located on Deck 9 forward. This lounge offers 270-degree views and powerful spotting scopes. It is the prime spot for whale watching while indoors.
Photo Studio
A dedicated workspace where professional photographers help guests edit their wildlife photos. Apple and PC workstations are available.
Show Lounge
The venue for daily briefings and lectures. Silversea's expedition team (biologists, historians) is world-class and presentations are high-level.
Otium Spa
Features the Roman-inspired Otium wellness concept. Treatments include champagne and chocolates. A rare luxury on an expedition ship.
Pool Deck
Unlike most expedition ships, Silver Wind retains a full-sized heated pool and whirlpools, perfect for a "polar plunge" recovery.
Dining & Provisions
Silversea is nearly all-inclusive. You can dine in almost any venue without a surcharge, and fine wines/spirits are included throughout the ship.
The Restaurant
Main Dining
Open seating dining with no reservations required. The menu changes daily and includes regional specialties based on the port.
La Terrazza
Italian
A buffet by day and an elegant Italian trattoria by night. The pasta is made fresh daily on board. Reservations recommended for dinner.
The Grill
Hot Rocks
An al fresco experience where guests cook their own steaks and seafood on heated volcanic rocks at the table.
La Dame
French Fine Dining
The only venue with a cover charge (~$60pp). An intimate, high-end French experience with white-glove service and premium wine pairings.
Where It Sails
Silver Wind is a true globetrotter, following the sun (or the ice) depending on the season.
- Antarctica (Winter)
- Arctic / Svalbard (Summer)
- British Isles & Tower Bridge
The ship's shallow draft and small size allow it to navigate up the Thames River to dock right next to Tower Bridge in London—a bucket list arrival experience.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Silver Wind sailings.
Check DatesAffiliate disclosure: outbound booking links may earn CruiseProdigy a commission.
Cost Reality
Silversea fares appear high initially, but they include nearly everything that would be an "add-on" on other lines.
- Private Executive Transfers
- Shore Excursions (1 per day)
- Premium Beverages & Wines
- Butler Service & Gratuities
- La Dame Dining
- Spa Treatments
- Premium "Select" Excursions
- Casino Gaming
Book the "Port-to-Port" fare if you prefer to handle your own flights and transfers. It can save you 20-30% off the standard "Door-to-Door" price.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is quiet, refined, and educational.
Country club casual. Evenings are elegant but not stuffy. The focus is always on the destination and the lectures from the expedition team.
Well-traveled, affluent, and typically 55+. However, polar expeditions attract a slightly younger, more active demographic than the classic fleet.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Silver Wind is an all-suite ship. Every room features a walk-in closet and the services of a butler.
Vista Suite
The most affordable way to get on board. Spacious (240 sq ft) with a large picture window. Ideal for polar regions where it's too cold to sit outside anyway.
Veranda Suite
The standard for luxury. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to a teak veranda. Essential for quick access when the captain announces wildlife nearby.
Owner's Suite
Apartment-style living at sea. Can be connected to a second bedroom. Features a separate dining area and premium Illy espresso machine.