The luxury cruise line, part of Royal Caribbean Group, has revealed the name as construction of Silver Nova started at Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany.

The ship, which is set for delivery in summer 2023, is being billed as the first “hybrid, luxury cruise ship free of local emissions at port”.

Roberto Martinoli, chief executive of Silversea Cruises, said: “Our Nova-class ships represent a significant investment in unprecedented technological solutions.

“They support our mission to preserve the planet without compromising on comfort or luxury. Silver Nova is the manifestation of Silversea and Royal Caribbean Group’s long-term commitment to sustainability.”   

The line’s Nova-class ships will be powered by three energy sources: a fuel-cell system to supplement the main power supply, battery technology and dual fuel engines, which use liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The hybrid system will allow the new ships not to create any local emissions in port, with fuel cells providing the ship’s power, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% per double occupancy, compared with Silversea’s previous class of ships.

Barbara Muckermann, chief commercial officer, added: “Sustainability is the future of luxury travel, and the name Silver Nova is representative of the incredible innovation of Silversea’s luxury.

“Silversea is already a leader in environmentally conscious travel and now, with Silver Nova, we will go even further to meet the expectations of both today’s and tomorrow’s luxury traveller.”