Luxury expedition travel provider Silversea has announced plans to develop a new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, aiming to enhance the travel experience for guests venturing to Antarctica.

Scheduled for completion by the end of next year, the hotel is set to offer a seamless journey to the 'White Continent', complementing Silversea's personalised service and warm hospitality.

Guests participating in Silversea's Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise programme will benefit from direct flights from Santiago to Puerto Williams.

The ground-breaking ceremony for the hotel, which will be built in partnership with a consortium of Chilean investors, was attended by government representatives and key stakeholders.

Silversea claims the distinction of being the only cruise line that homeports from Puerto Williams during the Antarctica season.

The city, located in the sub-Antarctic zone of Chile's Patagonia region, serves as a gateway to the world's least visited continent.

Guests can explore untouched islands, snow-covered mountains, and diverse wildlife while enjoying the amenities of Silversea's expedition ships, including Silver Endeavour, Silver Wind, and Silver Cloud.

Silversea president Bert Hernandez said: "We're thrilled to enhance the Antarctic travel experience by offering seamless journeys that remove traditional barriers for guests to this region.

"This development not only differentiates us from other polar expeditions but also reaffirms our commitment to innovation and excellence as Silversea continues to set the standard in experiential luxury travel."

The hotel's design will reflect the natural beauty of its surroundings, with views of the Beagle Channel and Patagonian mountains.

Facilities will include a restaurant, bar, lounge, fitness centre, and a gift shop featuring local artisans' work.

Silversea's commitment to the community is evident as it seeks to foster economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and minimise environmental impact in Puerto Williams.

With more than 15 years of leading luxury expeditions to Polar regions, Silversea said that the new hotel will further solidify its position in the luxury expedition segment, offering a range of Antarctic voyages that cater to various traveller preferences.

Silversea is one of five brands of cruise company Royal Caribbean Group.