Silversea Cruises’ bosses believe growth in the expedition market is inevitable and that demand will outstrip supply despite many new ships on order.
Competitors including Ponant, Scenic and Quark Expedition all have expedition ships on order, and Silversea chairman Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio hinted that his line would also add to the order books soon.
The brand currently has two ‘classic ships’ (and an option for a third) on order but nothing for expedition.
Speaking onboard Silver Cloud during an event to celebrate 10 years of expedition cruising for the brand, he said the line was working on several projects around “new builds of different sizes”.
He said: “I want to build lots of new ships.
“We’re also looking at the destinations. Some destinations deserve a ship full time so we are looking at whether we base some ships in different regions permanently, just like Silver Galapagos. The Galapagos isn’t the only place in the world that deserves a dedicated ship.”
He wouldn’t reveal further details, keen not to tip off his competitors before plans are firmly in place.
Currently 30% of the line’s revenues come from Silversea’s expedition fleet, with the rest coming from the ‘classic’ ships.
Roberto Martinoli, chief executive of the brand, said he didn’t believe the added capacity across the expedition market would have an effect on pricing.
“Experts tell us increasing capacity is offset by demand,” he said. “The success of expedition is evident but we believe demand is there to support growth. Demand is strong so we aren’t concerned about pricing.”
Citing the move among baby boomers to spend their money on experiences rather than material items, the line’s marketing director Barbara Muckermann added: “We are really bullish about knowing the demand is there for expedition.”