The Monaco-based company Silversea Cruises is cutting one of its ships in half in order to add 15 metres to the overall length of Silver Spirit. The operation is currently underway at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Palermo, Italy, and will involve more than 500 skilled workers and almost half a million man hours.
The prefabricated 15-metre section has already been inserted to stretch Silver Spirit from 195.8 to 210.7 metres.
Silversea said that the project is a first of its kind involving a cruise ship, adding that the purpose is to create more space in public areas and “enhance Silver Spirit’s facilities”.
“Witnessing these breathtaking phases of the Silver Spirit lengthening project has filled us with pride and excitement,” said Barbara Muckermann, Chief Marketing Officer of Silversea.
“The lengthening and refurbishment of Silver Spirit will replicate the modern elegance of our latest vessel to make for a more luxurious travelling experience. We are eager to share the new and improved layout of our cherished ship with our valued guests.”
The transformation will continue until May 1, 2018.