MONACO — Silversea Cruises has officially begun construction on Silver Ray, the second ship in its Nova class.

A traditional steel cutting ceremony was held on Nov. 23 at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, where Silversea President and CEO Roberto Martinoli kicked off the countdown to the ship’s official debut. Silver Ray is set to join sister ship Silver Nova as one of the most environmentally conscious ships ever built when it launches in summer 2024.

Martinoli also took the opportunity to set a new launch date for Silver Nova, which, due to the global situation, is now expected to join Silversea’s fleet on Aug. 14, 2023, sailing roundtrip from Venice on its maiden voyage. Silversea has informed affected guests and travel advisors of Silver Nova’s revised launch date, offering travellers a savings of 10% when booking an alternative voyage before Nov. 30, 2022; a Future Cruise Credit, valued at 100% of the total booking amount paid; or a cash refund option.

“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,” said Martinoli.

Silversea’s Nova-class ships are set to become the world’s first low-emissions cruise ships with advanced hybrid technology that utilize fuel cells, batteries, and dual-fuel engines that use liquefied natural gas, emitting zero local emissions while in port. A first for Silversea, each will incorporate a horizontal layout and an innovative asymmetrical design, with public spaces and suites spanning the entire length of each ship.