“PRINCE ALBERT II, those who mourned the loss earlier this year of the M/S Explorer, the beloved ship that pioneered wildlife cruises to the Antarctic, will be heartened by the news that Silversea’s Prince Albert II will begin “expedition” cruises to the most far-flung regions of the world in summer 2008. The 6,072-ton vessel, with an ice-strengthened hull, will contain oceanview accommodations for 132 passengers. Travel in polar regions should be anything but arduous, thanks to gourmet cuisine, 24-hour room service, a spa and fitness center, whirlpool tubs, a library and an Internet café. Expert naturalists and distinguished guest lecturers will accompany every voyage.”