February 2009 – The summer cruise from Longyearbyen to Tromsø on Silversea’s luxury ship, the M/V Prince Albert II, focuses on the world’s fragile biodiversity…
This summer environmentally minded and eco-friendly travelers have a unique opportunity to embark on an exciting 12-day polar exploration to the Svalbard archipelago and islands of the Arctic Ocean aboard the M/V Prince Albert II, Silversea’s luxury expedition ship. While they are experiencing the adventure of a lifetime, searching the seldom visited pack ice north of Spitsbergen for walrus and polar bears while witnessing a multitude of seabirds, from puffins and cormorants to a Guillemot colony of 600,000, and trekking with an expedition team on informative nature hikes, a portion of their fare up to 30 per cent will directly benefit the important international work of The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation for the environment. Additional highlights of voyage 7919 will include visits to charming coastal towns, learning Viking legends and toasting the midnight sun.
Renowned Scottish author, environmentalist and academic, Professor David M. Munro, OBE, Ph.D., of the University of Edinburgh’s School of Geosciences, and a member of the Technical and Scientific Committee of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, will be the guest speaker on the cruise. Professor Munro, who will address the topic of biodiversity, is an Honorary Fellow at the Edinburgh Earth Observatory and has authored several books including Scotland: An Encyclopedia of Places and Landscape, (2006, Harper Collins) and Loch Leven and the River Leven landscape transformed, (1994, The River Leven Trustees). He compiled and edited, amongst other books, the Cambridge World Gazetteer (1988) and the Oxford Dictionary of the World (1995). In addition to being an Honorary Professor of the University of Dundee, he is currently a geographical consultant to the publishers of the Times Atlas of the World and Chairman of an independent interdepartmental committee advising the British Government on geographical names.
The voyage begins on July 24 from the settlement of Longyearbyen and will visit Svalbard, and other Norwegian territories including Bear Island, Magaroya Island as well as Hornsund, (the Polish research station with a population of just eight). The final days are spent discovering Tromso, Norway. Fares start from $3,697* per person, double occupancy, and includes shore excursions as well as Silversea’s all inclusive amenities. (Port charges, government fees and taxes of $225 per guest are additional). Up to 30 per cent of the cruise fare will directly benefit The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and may be tax deductible*.
The partnership between The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and Silversea:
Silversea is dedicated to ensuring the M/V Prince Albert II will reflect the values and philosophy promoted by Prince Albert and his Foundation in the areas of sustainable development and conservation. In collaboration with the Foundation, a “green policy” is being developed, which may eventually be adopted by all the ships in Silversea’s fleet. Features include: Carbon emission offsets to limit the ship’s carbon footprint, in accordance with the Foundation’s “Monaco Carbon Offsetting” (MCO2) program which funds projects that cut GHG emissions, promote renewable energies and sequestrate CO2; Observance of international environmental and safety regulations; Adherence to navigation regulations within the Arctic and Antarctic regions; Onboard educational and scientific programs featuring knowledgeable guest speakers; Fundraising in support of the mission and activities undertaken by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.
The Lloyd’s Register A1A ice-rated vessel is purpose-built for expedition cruising and prior to its renaming and refitting in 2008, underwent an extensive multi-million-dollar renovation at the Fincantieri shipyard in Trieste, Italy. The refurbishment included exterior design modifications, technological enhancements and a comprehensive upgrade of guest accommodations and public spaces. The ship was also outfitted with a new fleet of eight Zodiac boats with low-emission engines. The M/V Prince Albert II is equipped with satellite communication systems for bow-to-stern wireless Internet access and cellular phone service with guests’ own cell phones.
All suites and staterooms feature flat screen monitors offering interactive TV and video options. In the ship’s lounges, the latest audiovisual equipment, complete with high definition video screens, display lectures by the expedition and lecture staff as well as visiting experts. The ice class vessel can carry 132 guests in 66 ocean view accommodations, many featuring private verandas. Staterooms and suites range in size from 180 to more than 600 square feet. Eighteen suites will each be more than 400 square feet. Other features include a single seating main dining room, a library with computers and Internet access, a boutique, a beauty salon, a fitness center, a full service spa and two Jacuzzi pools. The ship will also have several lounges, including a cigar lounge like the Humidor on the line’s other ships.
Prince Albert I of Monaco, a pioneer in oceanographic science and exploration, first explored the Arctic’s Svalbard archipelago early last century and founded the Principality’s world renowned Oceanographic Institute. In 2006, Prince Albert II plotted a similar course on part of his journey to the North Pole, in an effort to add to the scientific body of work started by his ancestor and to draw attention to the effects of climate change on the Arctic regions. As a result, the Prince is the first incumbent head of state to have reached the northernmost point on Earth.
For more information or to make a reservation, call 877-215-9986 or visit http://www.silversea.com/silversea.aspx?id=999&page_id=princealbertII.
About The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation
In 2006, Prince Albert created the eponymous Foundation which focuses on three main challenges: climate change and developing renewable energies; combating the loss of biodiversity; and promoting sustainable water management. By 2008, the Foundation extended its international outreach by opening chapters in Switzerland, France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States. Since its inception, 80+ projects have benefited from Foundation grants totaling more than $US17 million specifically in the Poles, Mediterranean Basin and in some of the world’s least developed nations. Learn more at www.pa2f.org and www.visitmonaco.com/pa2f
*Fare shown is cruise only, per guest, in U.S. dollars based on double occupancy in Adventurer Class. Port charges and handling fees of $225pp are additional. Fare includes all savings, including Advance Payment Bonus (APB) — applicable when payment is made in full six months prior to sailing. Fares are capacity controlled and may be modified or withdrawn at any time without notice. Up to 30 per cent of the cruise fare may be tax deductible. Other restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions contact Pisa Brothers Travel. Ship’s Registry: Bahamas.