Royal Caribbean has officially completed its previously announced acquisition of Silversea Cruises.

The deal, which brings the total number of ships in RCL’s fleet to 59, was signed off after regulators approved Royal Caribbean’s purchase of a 66.7% equity stake, based on an enterprise value of approximately $2 billion.

“We are proud to officially welcome Silversea’s industry-leading team to the RCL family,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

“This is a dynamite combination and we can’t wait to work with Manfredi, Roberto and the entire team as together we take Silversea to the next level.”

Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, who will remain as executive chairman of Silversea and retain a 33.3% stake, added: “We’re excited to join the Royal Caribbean family and ready to begin this next chapter as part of an industry leader that is uniquely qualified to support Silversea’s future growth.

“This partnership enables us to realise our vision of being the uncontested leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition, taking our guests to more than 1,000 destinations aboard some of the world’s most luxurious vessels.”

The companies have also announced Project Invictus, a multi-year initiative to take Silversea’s ultra-luxury offerings to the next level.

Enhancements will range from product upgrades to improved ship revitalisation programmes.

“Our intent is to solidify our already strong leadership position with an exciting array of upgrades that thrill our guests,” explained Roberto Martinoli, Silversea CEO.

The first Invictus enhancements will begin rolling out on the Silver Muse in August, where an upgraded champagne and caviar offering will be introduced.

Other improvements will be implemented fleet-wide across a variety of onboard features .

In addition, the planned renovation of Silver Whisper in December 2018 will be much more comprehensive than initially anticipated and will include a partial refit of all guest cabins, while Silver Wind will enter an enhanced dry dock in December 2018.

Both vessels will join the overarching plan for a fleet-wide ‘Musification’, which will take inspiration from the design of the Silver Muse. The plan will be completed with an enhanced dry dock of the Silver Shadow.