Silversea has launched The Cormorant at 55 South, a 150-room accommodation in Puerto Williams, Chile, marking it as the initial destination for travelers on their Antarctica Fly Cruise journey.
A New Gateway to Antarctica
Travelers board direct flights from Santiago’s private terminal to Puerto Williams on Silversea’s exclusive aircraft, staying at the hotel before and after their cruise.
Situated in the world’s southernmost city, the hotel’s grand opening took place on November 5, 2026, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event was graced by Silversea’s leadership, Chilean officials, and local residents.
For Australian advisors selling Antarctica, the overnight stay in Puerto Williams is now a standard part of every itinerary. This removes a traditionally difficult part of the travel process for clients.
Design and Local Culture
The hotel’s 150 rooms were constructed using modular methods in Mendoza, Argentina. They were then transported across the Andes and Patagonia to the site. The architecture and interiors reflect the surrounding environment, local traditions, and regional materials.
Three large-scale works by Chilean artists anchor the interiors. The main lobby features a steel sculpture titled “Navarino” by Paola Vezzani. A bar mural named “Dientes de Navarino” was created by Cata Flano. An installation called “La Memoria de las Piedras” by Javier Canales consists of 70 handcrafted ceramic stones.
The hotel’s dining experience revolves around Latitude 55, a restaurant showcasing the flavors of Chilean Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego, and Puerto Williams. The menu highlights local ingredients and culinary traditions, including asado. Bar Sur offers daytime teas and light snacks, transitioning to Chilean wines, pisco, and calafate cocktails in the evening. The Fireplace lounge provides cozy seating and panoramic views of Patagonia.
Guests can enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking in the Beagle Channel, trekking along Seno Lauta’s coastal paths, and horseback riding through the region. Wildlife sightings may include cormorants, dolphin gulls, and upland geese.
Expedition Operations
Through March 2027, the expedition ships Silver Endeavour, Silver Wind, and Silver Cloud will operate 40 voyages. This includes 29 Antarctica Fly Cruise voyages, each featuring a stay at The Cormorant at 55 South. The season’s itineraries range from six to 21 nights and extend beyond the Antarctic Peninsula to South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.
He added, “Silversea has always been about going further, and this is another example of how we are continuing to invest in the guest experience.” Silversea has made the Antarctica experience easier to sell for advisors by removing logistical variables.