Refitted Silver Explorer Enters Service for New Cruise Line

The recently rebranded Exploris One, formerly known as the Silver Explorer, embarked on its inaugural voyage under the banner of Exploris Expeditions & Cruises on December 23, 2023.

After undergoing extensive refurbishments in Chile, the ship set off from Valparaiso for an 18-night journey exploring South America and the Antarctic Circle.

Catering to French-speaking passengers, the 132-guest Exploris One is slated to undertake 29 more voyages in its debut season. The ship’s itinerary includes 26 distinct routes covering various global destinations such as Antarctica, the Amazon, the Atlantic Islands, Western Europe, and Arctic.

Built-in the late 1980s with a design focused on navigating remote and polar regions, Exploris One features an ice-strengthened hull. The recent overhaul included minimal modifications to its engine room and bridge, along with the installation of a new satellite antenna for navigation.

The vessel now sports a distinctive white and light red exterior, a departure from the conventional blue hues typical of expedition ships. Its interior décor, including the carpets, has also been updated to reflect its new identity.

Exploris Expeditions & Cruises, established in late 2022, specializes in expedition cruises for the French market. The company, led by Philippe Videau, co-founder of Ponant, acquired the former Silver Explorer from Silversea Cruises in early 2022. In line with its expansion plans, Exploris Expeditions & Cruises intends to construct a series of new expedition vessels in the coming years.