Prince Albert II, the ruler of Monaco, recently christened a new cruise ship named after himself, which will be the newest addition to the Silversea line and said to be the most luxurious expedition ship ever to sail.

A gutted expedition ship now completely redecorated and outfitted to suit the most wealthy of customers it is ready for the most rugged of adventures with the most luxurious of accommodations.

The 132-passenger Prince Albert II, which formerly sailed as the World Discoverer before Silversea bought it in September, sets sail on June 12 from London on an inaugural season of 10- to 22-day adventure cruises focusing on the polar regions.

Silversea has spent millions gutting the ice-rated vessel’s interior and rebuilding it from the ground up.

The line, known for $1,000-a-day luxury cruises, hopes to develop a new market for wealthy cruisers who want to take adventurous trips to rugged places like Antarctica without sacrificing comfort.

Among the highlights of the ship are six spacious luxury suites that fill the entire top floor of the vessel and can be booked together to form giant, multi-room mega-suites.

The Prince Albert II also now has an elegant theater and an outdoor deck with whirlpools which is unusual features for expedition ships. Other amenities not often found on expedition ships include a spiffy library and Internet center.

The ship will spend its maiden season sailing to Svalbard, Iceland, Groenland, Belize, Costa Rica, the Sea of Cortez, South America and Antarctica. Prices for voyages start at $3,867 per person, based on double occupancy and including shore excursions. Souce : usatoday