Silversea has revealed plans to add three new ships to its fleet, including one expedition ship for the Galapagos.

The luxury cruise line, which earlier this year became part of Royal Caribbean Cruises, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Meyer Werft to build two vessels as part of a new Evolution Class.

The first ship is expected to be delivered in 2022.

Silversea has also signed a contract with Dutch shipbuilder Shipyard De Hoop to construct a new expedition vessel, named Silver Origin, that will serve the Galapagos Islands itinerary currently sailed by Silver Galapagos.

The ship is scheduled for delivery in March 2020.

Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Silversea’s executive chairman, said: “We are delighted to have entered into an agreement with Meyer Werft on the Silver Evolution series and De Hoop for Silver Origin.

“With our guests in mind, we are pushing the boundaries of ultra-luxury cruising, as well as expedition cruising in the Galapagos Islands and beyond, redefining the concept of immersive travel.”

Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises, added there was “tremendous potential in the ultra-luxury and expedition markets of the cruise industry”.

Tim Meyer, managing director of Meyer Werft, said: “Together with Silversea, we will create a new generation of environmentally friendly ships in the ultra-luxury cruise market.”

The agreements are subject to certain contingencies which are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2019.