Silversea Cruises has confirmed details for its 2021/22 Antarctica season, with three ships departing from Chilean ports.

The line has reached an agreement with Chilean authorities for both Silver Cloud and Silver Wind to set sail from Punta Arenas, with Silver Explorer departing from Puerto Williams in November 2021.

Silversea will offer a series of five, six, nine or 10-day explorations. Longer journeys will visit the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Falkland Islands, Elephant Island and South Georgia.

In addition, itineraries will give guests the opportunity to see the wildlife and icescapes of Antarctica. The line will have experts offering lectures, discussions, hikes and nature walks, all of which are included in the fare.

Silversea president and CEO Roberto Martinoli said: “Leading the return of cruising in Antarctica, as facilitated by our agreement with the Chilean government, represents our commitment to delivering unforgettable travel experiences for our guests.

“I commend the Chilean government for its unwavering dedication to restarting cruising to the White Continent in a safe and enriching manner.”

Guests on Silver Cloud and Silver Wind will fly into Santiago, Chile, for an overnight hotel stay before flying into Punta Arenas the following day to embark. Silver Explorer guests will do the same in Puerto Williams, Chile.

Silversea senior VP of expeditions, turnaround operations and destination management Conrad Combrink added: “Thanks to our unique destination expertise, we are able to lead the return to cruising in Antarctica with the precious addition of Punta Arenas as a departure port.

“We commend the Chilean authorities for their collaborative approach and we look forward to building a long-term partnership for an enhanced guest experience.

“Chile is a fantastic gateway with a stable infrastructure and excellent services. From here, our guests can discover the unique allure of the Final Continent in luxurious comfort.

“With four ships already sailing in other regions of the world, we have demonstrated our commitment to delivering unforgettable travel experiences for our guests in the safest possible manner.”

In August, Silversea opened bookings for its 2023/24 programme, featuring more than 280 voyages.