Silversea has officially started construction of Silver Ray, the second ship in the Nova class, following a steel cutting ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.

Silver Ray, to launch in summer 2024, is set to join sister ship Silver Nova “as one of the most environmentally conscious ships ever built”, according to the line.

The cruise line has also revealed a new launch date for Silver Nova.

The ship is now expected to join the fleet on 14 August 2023, sailing from Fusina (Venice) on its maiden voyage.

Silversea ‘pushing boundaries’

Silversea president and CEO Roberto Martinoli said: “We are proud to have started constructing Silver Ray in collaboration with Meyer Werft, as we continue to push boundaries in sustainable cruise travel.

“As part of Royal Caribbean Group, Silversea has long stood at the forefront of innovation when it comes to environmentally conscious cruising.

“The launch of the Nova class represents a giant leap forward in this regard and we are introducing pioneering technologies.

“Given the worldwide issues that have affected the construction of Silver Nova, it has been decided to amend her launch date by approximately one month, in order to uphold the signature level of experience that our discerning guests have come to expect when travelling with Silversea.”

Nova-class ships will feature advanced hybrid technology, including fuel cells, batteries, and dual-fuel engines that use liquefied natural gas.

Silversea has notified guests regarding Silver Nova’s revised launch date, offering a saving of 10 per cent when booking an alternative voyage before 30 November 2022, a future cruise credit, valued at 100 per cent of the total booking amount paid, or a cash refund option.