Silversea Cruises is to convert its vessel Silver Wind to an ice-class, ‘ultra-luxury expedition ship’.

The line said the move “signals continued confidence in the fast-growing popularity of ultra-luxury expedition travel” to Antarctica.

Silver Wind is undergoing refurbishments at the Remontowa shipyard in Gdańsk, Poland, following an upgrade in 2018. It will emerge as the line’s fourth expedition vessel from a fleet of nine.

The re-design includes an ice-strengthened hull for cruising in polar waters and technology upgrades.

Silver Wind will be outfitted with a wastewater treatment plant, food waste treatment facilities, and fuel-saving boilers.

A 22-day journey to Antarctica, with a solar eclipse viewing on 4 December 2021, is to be the ship’s maiden voyage, departing on November 20.

Roberto Martinoli, Silversea’s president and chief executive, said: “We are converting our beloved Silver Wind into one of the most luxurious expedition ships at sea to further expand and diversify our cold-water cruise offering.

“With the backing of the Royal Caribbean Group, we are significantly investing in our ultra-luxury fleet to meet the burgeoning guest demand for voyage options in such breath-taking, remote destinations as Antarctica, and we have more exciting enhancements to come.”

The ship will be fitted with a strengthened hull; ice-detector sonars, designed for use on icebreaker vessels; 24 Zodiacs; and 14 kayaks.

Its guest capacity will be reduced to 274, with room for 28 expedition experts to share their knowledge through onboard lectures, on guided Zodiac tours, and on shore experiences.

A photo studio will be installed in place of the former casino.

Silver Wind’s upper suites will be entirely refurbished, with new furniture and carpets, as well as new walk-in showers in addition to bathtubs.

Many of the ship’s public areas will also be refreshed, with re-painted walls and ceilings in La Dame, La Terrazza, the Observation Lounge, the Panorama Lounge, and the Reception area. The gym and beauty salon will be ‘refreshed’.