Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has just sweetened the deal for single travellers by reducing the single supplement to a mere 10% (above the per-person, double-occupancy fare) for Vista, Veranda and Midship Veranda Suites on 4 voyages this year. Plus, 9 new sailings have a single supplement of just 25%.

Recognising that a growing number of men and women are travelling alone today, either by choice or necessity, the luxury cruise line is rolling out new Solo Traveller fares that make independent travel a most affordable and enticing option. This is the perfect time for single travellers to treat themselves to a luxurious Silversea cruise, visit fascinating destinations, and make friends along the way.

"These special rates make it easier for our single guests to make vacation plans without having to worry about finding a travel companion to keep the costs down," said Trudy Redfern, Silversea's Managing Director of UK and Ireland. "And what makes our new solo fares most attractive is Silversea's unrivalled all-inclusive value combined with other great incentives such as free roundtrip air packages that include transfers."

With a crew-to-guest ratio that is almost one to one, single guests enjoy highly personalised service, warm hospitality, and an ambiance that makes them feel right at home. Also, on several voyages, Social Ambassadors will be on board, which is a real plus for single female guests looking for a dining companion or a dance partner.

All-inclusive fares include a spacious, ocean-view suite (most suites feature a private veranda), attentive butler service, complimentary wines and spirits, fine dining, sophisticated enrichment and entertainment programmes, and all onboard gratuities.

TOP 4 REASONS TO GO IT ALONE

Following voyages offer a 10% single supplement:

1) Mediterranean Voyage 2027: Silver Wind, 20 – 27 August, Venice to Athens. Solo Traveller fares start at £2,771. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

2) Caribbean Voyage 4030: Silver Whisper, 14 – 24 October, New York City to Barbados. Solo Traveller fares start at £2,399. Social Ambassadors will also be on board.

3) Mediterranean Voyage 5035: Silver Spirit, 16 – 23 October, Barcelona to Lisbon. Solo Traveller fares start at £2,650. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

4) South America Voyage 4034: Silver Whisper, 3 – 19 December, Santiago to Buenos Aires. Solo Traveller fares start at £4,673. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

9 MORE REASONS TO SAIL SOLO

Following new voyages offer a 25% single supplement:

1) Northern Europe Voyage 1026: Silver Cloud, 1 – 11 September, Reykjavik to London. Solo Traveller fares start at £3,448. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

2) Mediterranean Voyage 2032A: Silver Wind, 10 - 20 October, Rome to Nice. Solo Traveller fares start at £3,447. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

3) South America Voyage 4031: Silver Whisper, 24 October – 9 November, Barbados to Rio de Janeiro. Solo Traveller fares start at £4,373. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Social Ambassadors will also be on board.

4) Far East Voyage 3030: Silver Shadow, 29 October - 6 November, Bangkok to Singapore. Solo Traveller fares start at £3,635. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

5) South America Voyage 4032: Silver Whisper, 9 - 17 November, Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires. Solo Traveller fares start at £3,691. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

6) Africa & Indian Ocean 2035: Silver Wind, 9 – 25 November, Athens to Dubai. Solo Traveller fares start at £5,498. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities. Social Ambassadors will also be on board.

7) Arabian Peninsula Voyage 2036: Silver Wind, 25 November - 2 December, Dubai to Dubai. Solo Traveller fares start at £3,148. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

8) Indian Ocean Voyage 2037: Silver Wind, 2 -11 December, Dubai to Mumbai. Solo Traveller fares start at £2,923. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

9) Indian Ocean Voyage 2038: Silver Wind, 11 – 20 December, Mumbai to Dubai. Solo Traveller fares start at £2,923. Plus, *Free Air is available from select gateway cities.

An additional 15 voyages offer a 25% single supplement. For complete list of sailings offering single supplements from 10% to 25%, visit Silversea.com and click on Special Offers.

All fares listed above are per person based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite and include port charges and handling fees. Solo Traveller and Silver Savings are capacity-controlled programmes and subject to availability.

*FREE AIR: A free roundtrip economy air package, that includes transfers between airport and pier on the day of embarkation and disembarkation, is available from select UK gateways. It is a capacity-controlled programme offered for a limited time. Additionally, there are specially priced air programmes available from additional gateways.

About Silversea
Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launched in December 2009, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times), Best Cruise Line by The Guardian and The Observer Travel Awards and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2010). International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).
 

(London – 28 May 2010) Silversea Cruises' Silver Whisper sailed from Rome this week on her first voyage following a successful 14-day dry-dock project in Genoa, where extensive renovations were made to most areas of the ultra-luxury ship.

"The enhancements aboard Silver Whisper represent our ongoing commitment to delivering a luxury travel experience that is unsurpassed," said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's president and CEO. "We made a significant investment in this renovation to ensure our guests continue to enjoy the very finest comforts and amenities in a totally refreshed and updated shipboard environment."

Echoing the sophisticated contemporary design themes and warm colour palettes of Silversea's newest ship, Silver Spirit, some of the highlights of the Silver Whisper makeover include:

New Look for Suites: All carpets, headboards and curtains were completely replaced. The sofas and chairs feature new upholstery. Each suite has a new mattress custom-made exclusively for Silversea. The mattress features an individual spring system with a soft and firm side that can be reversed to suit each guest's preference. There is also a new memory foam pillow top that covers the mattress when configured as a queen-sized bed.

And in the larger suites (Owner's, Grand, Royal and Silver), the veranda furniture was replaced and a new state-of-the-art home audio system added. The Owner's, Grand and Royal Suites are outfitted with Bang & Olufsens' BeoSound 3200 radio and CD player, and the Silver Suites have BeoSound 1,which features a CD and radio integrated into a speaker.

By mid-June, all suites will feature new alarm clocks with iPod docks -- as will all ships in the Silversea fleet.

Refreshed Public Areas: La Terrazza, the Panorama Lounge, Reception area, Spa, Card Room and Conference Room received new upholstery, carpeting, curtains and wall treatments. New carpet was laid in the Observation Lounge and new wood flooring in the Spa. The Restaurant's hardwood floor was completely reconditioned and polished and the chairs dressed in new upholstery. An upgraded sound system was added to the Show Lounge, Panorama Lounge and La Terrazza. New carpet was installed in all corridors, landings and staircases.

Upgraded Outdoor Spaces: The jogging track features all-new artificial turf, and the pool area has been outfitted with new deck furniture, plus a new sound and light system for evening entertainment and outdoor shows. The pool itself has been upgraded inside and out with new tiles. A large awning was installed over the outdoor dining section of La Terrazza. And the Pool Grill, sporting a new awning as well, will become The Grill for evening dining featuring the popular new Black Rock cooking concept that debuted aboard Silver Spirit.

In addition to enjoying a fresh reconditioning and polishing of teak decks and woodwork, the ship underwent thorough maintenance on mechanical and propulsion systems.

About Silversea
Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launched in December, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times), Best Cruise Line by The Guardian and The Observer Travel Awards and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2010). International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008). 
 
For further information or to request a copy of the 2010 Voyage Atlas please contact your local ACE travel agent or Silversea directly on 0844 770 9030 or visit www.silversea.com.

Luxury cruise specialist, Silversea, continues its commitment to the culinary enrichment of its guests with the creation of Flavours of the Mediterranean, a special voyage designed to showcase the talents of Silversea’s exceptional culinary team and the diverse regional produce available at local ports. The programme will be available to all guests joining the seven-day Rome to Nice voyage aboard Silver Whisper on 24 May, 2010.
 

This unique onboard experience has been created to highlight the distinctive flavours of the Mediterranean by bringing together for the first time Silversea's very own culinary stars to tantalise guests with festive dinners and tastings, cooking demonstrations and wine pairings. Guests will also have the opportunity to accompany the chefs on a visit to a local market to learn how to source fresh ingredients, join guided tours to local wineries and restaurants, and attend informative lectures covering a range of topics from terroir to sustainability.

In addition, a number of Silver Shore land-based experiences will be available to guests wishing continue on their path of gastronomic discovery, such as cookery classes in Corsica or St. Tropez, and the opportunity to savour the flavours of Sicily at a Relais & Châteaux member restaurant along the Amalfi Drive, Italy.

"Given Silversea's Italian heritage, it is not surprising that Mediterranean cuisine is very close to our heart," said Trudy Redfern, Silversea Managing Director, UK & Ireland. “This voyage will enable our chefs to demonstrate their artistry using a bounty of fresh ingredients that will be sourced locally at ports throughout the journey.”

The Flavors of the Mediterranean cruise (#4013) aboard the all-suite, 382-guest Silver Whisper, departs on 24 May, 2010, from Rome for Sorrento, Taormina, Palermo, Calvi (Corsica), St. Tropez and Nice. Silver Savings fares for this seven-day, all-inclusive, cruise-only voyage start at £2,527 per person, based on double occupancy of a Vista Suite. The price includes port charges, government fees and taxes.
Also available is a free roundtrip air package which includes flights and luxury transfers, subject to availability, between airport and pier on the day of embarkation and disembarkation. The free air package is available from London and Manchester. UK regional economy class flights are available from just £39 per person from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Birmingham and Jersey. All prices are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.

The onboard lineup of Silversea’s culinary stars for the Flavours of the Mediterranean programme includes:

Rudi Scholdis is the voyage host and Silversea's director of culinary development. Belgium-born Scholdis has catered for an impressive list of royalty including HM Queen Elizabeth II, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and HRH The Prince of Wales, whilst serving heads of state from President Bill Clinton to Saudi Arabia's King Fahd, plus an array of Hollywood superstars.

David Bilsland is Silversea's culinary trainer and programme leader for L'École des Chefs. Educated in classic French cooking, Bilsland's career includes several years as a chef/instructor at Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in London.

Richard Weichbold is the corporate chef for Silversea. This son of a South African restaurateur moved to London where he became sous chef at The Dorchester, and in 2003 he left the urban scene to join Silversea as executive chef aboard Silver Shadow.

Alberto Colombo is Silversea's corporate Italian chef. A native of Turin, graduate of the Culinary Institute in Alessandria and an alumnus of some of Piedmont's top restaurants, Colombo is an expert in the gastronomic traditions of a region known as Italy's culinary highlight.
Alex Hekimov is the corporate pastry chef for Silversea. From Shanghai to London, Hekimov has practiced his craft in a number of major international hotels, and in 2009, he was named "Bacardi Chef of the Year" for his Citrus & Bacardi Indulgence recipe

Lyn Farmer is the wine consultant for Silversea. This widely published wine and food writer and senior editor of The Wine News magazine has been honored with the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Writing on Wine and Spirits.

 

Exclusive educational travel event from Moscow to Istanbul also features William J. Perry, Mikhail Gorbachev, luxurious accommodations, and customised excursions.

Building on the past success of World Leaders Symposium cruises in Asia and the Middle East, ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises today announced its collaboration with San Francisco-based World Leaders Travel to host the 2010 World Leaders Symposium, a Black Sea voyage aboard Silver Wind headlined by former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and other dignitaries.  

This one-of-a-kind travel event from 30 August to 15 September, 2010, includes a 10-night cruise aboard the award-winning, all-suite Silver Wind and a range of specially arranged shore excursions in Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, and Turkey. In addition to former Secretary of State Rice, featured speakers include former Secretary of Defense William Perry, former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev, and leading figures in fields ranging from technology and the U.S.-Russian space race to cultural history and global affairs.

"It's a great honour for us to host this year's World Leaders Symposium aboard our elegant Silver Wind," said Trudy Redfern, Silversea's Managing Director of Sales and Marketing for UK and Ireland.  "Through our collaboration with World Leaders Travel, we're able to offer inquisitive travellers an unmatched educational experience featuring some of the world's most sought-after speakers.  It's such a great programme for our guests that we're already looking at possibly hosting additional Symposium cruises in the future."

Redfern further noted that travel agents will be able to book through World Leaders Travel at their usual Silversea commission level -- just as if the agent booked directly with Silversea -- and the commission level will be applicable to the entire programme starting in Moscow and ending after the hotel stay in Istanbul.

"We're pleased to be able to bring a distinguished array of leaders and experts to the ships of Silversea," said Bill Diebenow, president of World Leaders Travel.  "Their intimate vessels, offering spacious accommodations and exotic itineraries, are the perfect complement to these compelling, leader-driven and customised travel events.  We look forward to developing future educational travel events with Silversea."

Focusing on the cultural, historical, and political highlights of the Black Sea region, the Symposium begins in Moscow with three nights at The Ritz-Carlton. Travellers will experience a Moscow rarely seen by visitors and attend a gala dinner with Gorbachev. Participants then fly by chartered jet to Istanbul, Turkey, to board the luxurious Silver Wind, which serves as the primary venue for presentations by Rice and others. The ship, among the highest-rated small cruise vessels afloat, will circumnavigate the Black Sea with visits to Batumi, Georgia; Sochi, Russia; Baku, Azerbaijan; and Yalta, Sevastopol, and Odessa in Ukraine before returning to Istanbul. After disembarking the Silver Wind, guests will move in to Istanbul's elegant Ciragan Palace Kempinski Hotel for two nights, and enjoy special excursions and lectures during the trip's final days. Optional extensions to Kiev, Chernobyl, and Moscow, and to Istanbul and Ephesus, are also available.

An unparalleled educational programme includes off-the-record discussions with globally significant leaders and valuable context and insight provided by a team of scholars from sponsoring organisations. Featured speakers include Librarian of Congress James Billington; Google's Vinton G. Cerf, widely regarded as one of the "fathers of the Internet"; former diplomatic correspondent Marvin Kalb; EastWest Institute president John Mroz; and astrophysicist Michael Shara, among others.

Aboard Silver Wind, guests will enjoy a generous all-inclusive shipboard policy (all beverages, including a premium assortment of wines, champagne and spirits are complimentary), impeccable service from a courteous and efficient staff, and unparalleled onboard amenities.  

The ship's all-suite accommodations include butler service, ocean views and a wide range of features, from walk-in closets and flat-screen televisions to 24-hour room service and Wi-Fi Internet access. All bathrooms have marble tiles, shower/bathtub combinations, hair dryers, and luxurious robes.  Of the ship's 149 suites, 115 feature private verandas. There are eight suite categories, ranging in size from the 240 square-foot Vista Suites to the 1,314 square-foot Grand Suites.

Silver Wind's public venues include the top-deck Observation Lounge, offering spectacular ocean views, and the two-deck-high Show Lounge. There is a small, well-stocked library, Internet Centre, card room, gym with stair climbers and treadmills, a pool and two whirlpools, jogging track, full-service spa, and beauty salon.  Dining options include The Restaurant, the ship's main dining venue featuring signature dishes by Relais & Châteaux; Le Champagne, the Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux, where some of the world's rarest vintages are paired with a six-course menu; and La Terrazza, specialising in authentic Italian cuisine.

Symposium sponsors include American Museum of Natural History Expeditions, Chautauqua Institution, Foreign Affairs magazine, Harvard Alumni Association Travels, Princeton Journeys, Alumnae Association of Smith College, Smithsonian Journeys, and Yale Educational Travel.

For pricing information, a detailed brochure, or to book today, please contact your professional travel advisor, sponsoring organisation, or World Leaders Travel at (800) 395-3288, or visit WorldLeadersTravel.com/Silversea.

About World Leaders Travel

World Leaders Travel, formerly High Country Passage, specialises in creating extraordinary educational travel events defined by a compelling combination of experts, access, and insight. Under the banner explore the world with the people who shape it, each travel event is built around a prominent leader and a timely theme, with highlights including a comprehensive educational programme, exclusive access, private events, customised excursions, and the highest level of luxury and service.

About Silversea

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launched in December, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance.  With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.  

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times), Best Cruise Line by The Guardian and The Observer Travel Awards and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2010).  International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).

London – 11 January 2010) Through its exclusive partnership with Relais & Châteaux, ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises is introducing L'École des Chefs, a new interactive cooking school that will be featured on 11 voyages in 2010.
 

The Relais & Châteaux L'École des Chefs programme offers guests a special culinary curriculum and entertaining events hosted by Silversea executive chef David Bilsland. Educated in classic French cooking, Bilsland's career includes several years as a chef instructor at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in London. He will present a programme developed in collaboration with Jacques Thorel, the owner of L'Auberge Bretonne and a Grand Chef Relais & Châteaux.

The curriculum for each of these cruises is carefully designed to celebrate the cultural flavour of the ship's itinerary. Highlights include specialised workshops covering a range of topics from basic knife skills and kitchen terminology to sauces and baking; cooking demonstrations with wine pairings and interactive Q&A sessions; lively cooking competitions between Chef Bilsland and the ship's own culinary team; a "Lunch and Learn" event offering small groups of guests a chance to sample a delicious meal of specially prepared dishes; and inspired "Take It Home" recipes that will give guests an edge when entertaining at home.

Also offered on certain voyages, when the itinerary permits, is a "Market to the Plate" experience that provides an escorted tour of a local market followed by a cooking class, and a "Culinary Outing," an instructor-escorted excursion to a local restaurant, hotel or other venue where guests can enjoy a unique culinary exploration.

"Thanks to our partnership with Relais & Châteaux we're able to offer the exclusive L'École des Chefs programme and provide our guests with a top-notch, in-depth cooking class that is also fun and entertaining," said Rudi Scholdis, Silversea's culinary director. "Of course, in addition to this new programme, we'll continue to offer our popular Culinary Arts voyages showcasing the artistry of award-winning chefs of top dining establishments from around the world, including the internationally acclaimed chefs of Relais & Châteaux."

Select L'École des Chefs voyages will also feature Silversea's celebrated wine consultant, Lyn Farmer. The James Beard Foundation Award-winning wine and food writer -- a passionate advocate of experiencing different cultures by sharing wine and food -- will host lectures, conduct tastings and guide guests through wine and food pairings as part of Silversea's Wine Series enrichment programme.

Following below is a list of the L'École des Chefs voyages for 2010. Fares listed are per person based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite that include port charges and handling fees.

AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

Voyage 2035: Silver Wind departs Athens 9 November on a 16-day sailing to Dubai with calls in Rhodes, Alexandria, Sharm-el-Sheikh, Aqaba, Safaga and Muscat. Silver Savings fares start at £4,448. Free return economy air with transfers is offered from select UK gateways.

ALASKA & PACIFIC COAST

Voyage 3012: Silver Shadow departs Los Angeles 13 May on a 12-day sailing to Vancouver with calls in San Francisco, Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Victoria. Guests will also enjoy a Wine Series programme hosted by Lyn Farmer. Silver Savings fares start at £2,293. Reduced return economy air from £299 from select UK gateways.

CARIBBEAN, MEXICO & PANAMA CANAL

Voyage 3005: Silver Shadow departs Los Angeles 5 March on a 17-day sailing to Fort Lauderdale with a crossing of the Panama Canal and calls in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Zihuatanejo, Acapulco, Puerto Quetzal, Cartagena and Santa Marta. Silver Savings fares start at £3,268. Reduced return economy air from £299 from select UK gateways.

Voyage 3011: Silver Shadow departs Fort Lauderdale 28 April on a 15-day sailing to Los Angeles with a crossing of the Panama Canal and calls in Santa Marta, Cartagena, Puntarenas, Acapulco and Cabo San Lucas. Silver Savings fares start at £2,908. Reduced return economy air from £299 from select UK gateways.

Voyage 5039: Silver Spirit departs Fort Lauderdale 22 November on a round-trip, 10-day sailing with calls in Grand Turk, Antigua, St. Bart's, St. Kitt's and Spanish Town (B.V.I.). Guests will also enjoy a Wine Series programme hosted by Lyn Farmer. Silver Savings fares start at £2,457. Reduced return economy air from £499 from select UK gateways.

Voyage 5042: Silver Spirit departs Fort Lauderdale 20 December on a round-trip, 14-day sailing with calls in Grand Turk, Antigua, St. Vincent, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Bart's, Spanish Town (B.V.I.), and Key West. Guests will also enjoy a Wine Series programme hosted by Lyn Farmer. Silver Savings fares start at £3,883.

FAR EAST & SOUTH PACIFIC

Voyage 4002: Silver Whisper departs Sydney 18 January on an 18-day sailing to Singapore with calls in Brisbane, Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, Thursday Island, Komodo Island, Bali, Semarang and Karimunjawa Archipelago. Silver Savings fares start at £3,803

MEDITERRANEAN

Voyage 2033: Silver Wind departs Nice 20 October on a 10-day sailing to Istanbul with calls in Portovenere, Livorno, Sorrento, Taormina, Athens, Santorini and Kusadasi. Guests will also enjoy a Wine Series programme hosted by Lyn Farmer. Silver Savings fares start at £2,788. Free return economy air with transfers is offered from select UK gateways.

NORTHERN EUROPE

Voyage 1017: Silver Cloud departs London 7 June on a 10-day sailing to Stockholm with calls in Rostock, Visby, Tallinn and St. Petersburg (extended three-day, two-night stopover). Guests will also enjoy a Wine Series programme hosted by Lyn Farmer. Silver Savings fares start at £3,347

SOUTH AMERICA

Voyage 4034: Silver Whisper departs Santiago 3 December on a 16-day Chilean Fjord sailing to Buenos Aires with calls in Puerto Montt, Laguna San Rafael, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Puerto Madryn and Montevideo. Guests will also enjoy a Wine Series programme hosted by Lyn Farmer. Silver Savings fares start at £4,273. Free return economy air with transfers is offered from select UK gateways.

TRANSOCEANIC

Voyage 1011: Silver Cloud departs San Juan 14 April on a 15-day transatlantic sailing to Barcelona with calls in St. Maarten, Antigua, Tenerife, Las Palmas, Casablanca and Malaga. Silver Savings fares start at £2,643. Free return economy air with transfers is offered from select UK gateways.

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launching in December, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times), Best Cruise Line by The Guardian and The Observer Travel Awards and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2009). International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).

Highlights Include Exclusive Shoreside Events, $2,000 Onboard Spending Credit,
Free Roundtrip Business Class Air and Private Car Transfers
 

In 2011, for the very first time, Silversea's new Silver Spirit will embark on a full World Cruise traversing both hemispheres.

This grandest of voyages, appropriately themed "Spirit of Discovery," begins in Los Angeles on 19 January, when Silver Spirit is set to welcome no more than 540 privileged guests for a 119-day odyssey exploring 60 destinations in 25 countries -- with 11 overnight port visits -- before concluding in Southampton on 19 May. Along the journey, Silver Spirit will take in the tranquillity of French Polynesia, Australia's untamed landscapes, the unique customs and cultures of Asia, ancient Egyptian wonders and timeless Mediterranean hideaways spanning from Italy and Monaco to Spain and Portugal.

To offer guests aboard this far-reaching voyage an opportunity to gain a closer look at the regions they visit, Silversea is hosting four complimentary World Cruise Events for guests sailing the full 119-day itinerary. These exclusive, custom-designed events include the chance to explore the history and sample some of Australia's premier wines at the original Penfolds winery, Magill Estate, and the National Wine Center in Adelaide; savor a Thai-themed gala dinner, staying overnight in the private Krungthep Wing of the five-star Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok; experience the exuberance of a traditional souk in Dubai, enjoying a festive dinner set amid the dunes of the Arabian desert as the sun sets; and attend a private opening of Barcelona's renowned Picasso Museum, with plenty of time to explore its treasures at a leisurely pace, without the usual crowds.

"A Silversea World Cruise is truly the ultimate travel experience," said Trudy Redfern, Silversea's Managing Director, UK and Ireland. "Not only will our guests have the chance to visit incredible destinations and explore fascinating cultures, but aboard our new Silver Spirit they'll also enjoy an unmatched level of pampering and personalised service set in a stunning 1930s Art Deco-inspired environment."

Guests aboard Inaugural World Cruise 2011 will enjoy spacious, ocean-view accommodations, sumptuous gourmet cuisine served in six dining venues, the personalised service of a butler assigned to every suite, and Silversea's generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, 24-hour room service, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet and all gratuities.

In addition to the four complimentary World Cruise Events ashore and a 5% Extended Voyage Savings, the following complimentary amenities will also be available to guests who book the full 119-day cruise: an overnight stay on January 19 onboard Silver Spirit, including a Bon Voyage Gala cocktail reception and dinner; eight Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment); baggage handling service between guest's home and ship in Los Angeles and Southampton; a $2,000 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite); roundtrip Business Class Air and private car transfers (airport/ship/airport); and special commemorative gift. Fares start at £39,218 per person, based on double occupancy.

Guests may also travel on shorter segments, enjoying the following benefits:

Sail 58 - 117 days:
-- 5% Extended Voyage Savings
-- $1,000 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite)
-- Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment)

Sail 45 - 57 days:
-- 5% Extended Voyage Savings
-- $500 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite)
-- Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment)

Sail 30 - 44 days:
-- 5% Extended Voyage Savings
-- $250 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite)
-- Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment)

New reduced rate business class flights or free economy flights & transfers.

(London – 16 November 2009)  Ultra-luxury Silversea is extending its hugely successful free economy class flights programme for voyages in 2010. It now offers over 100 worldwide itineraries with free flights including 7 new Caribbean sailings. In addition, there are significantly reduced Business Class fares on over 100 voyages in 2010. Guests can now enjoy a travel experience beyond the ordinary at fantastic value – from the start, right to the end of their journey!

Guests wishing to take advantage of these offers will need to book quickly.  Cruise fares rise as the demand for voyages increases and flights are subject to the availability of Silversea’s specially negotiated rates, for bookings made before 31 December 2009.

Voyage highlights offering free flights include the following worldwide itineraries:

Silver Cloud departs 10 March 2010 on a 7 day voyage (#1006) from Bridgetown to San Juan, with calls in Castries, St. George’s, Kingstown (St. Vincent), St. John’s and Spanish Town. All-inclusive cruise-only fares start at £1,928. Free Economy flights and transfers are available or Business Class air from £2,299.

Silver Spirit departs 5 June 2010 on a 7 day voyage (#5016) from Venice (overnight) to Athens (Piraeus), with calls in Trieste, Hvar, Corfu and Nauplia. All-inclusive cruise-only fares start at £2,578. Free Economy flights and transfers are available or Business Class air from £198.

Silver Wind departs 13 January 2010 on a 10 day voyage (#2002) roundtrip Cape Town, with calls in East London, Maputo, Richards Bay (overnight), Durban, Port Elizabeth and Mossel Bay. All-inclusive cruise-only fares start at £3,188. Free Economy flights and transfers are available or Business Class air from £1,699.

Silver Whisper departs 23 February 2010 on a 9 day voyage (#4005) from Singapore (overnight) to Hong Kong, with calls in Muara, Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Manila. All-inclusive cruise-only fares start at £3,567. Free Economy flights and transfers are available or Business Class air from £1,998.

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launching in December, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance.  With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.  

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times), Best Cruise Line by The Guardian and The Observer Travel Awards and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2009).  International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).

Silversea will visit more UK ports in 2010 than ever before in the company’s fifteen year history. Four out of six ships from the luxury fleet will call at British shores, providing more choice and convenience for Silversea guests.
 

The number of people taking a cruise holiday from British ports increased by nearly a quarter in 2008, with 40 per cent of cruises booked last year departing from UK shores. In response to this marked increase, the new Silversea UK programme features fifteen voyages, departing or arriving at a British port, on Prince Albert II, Silver Cloud, Silver Whisper and also Silver Spirit, the newest and largest Silversea ship due to be launched in December.

“Silversea offer exceptional voyages, with the highest standards of personal service, and a number of all-inclusive luxurious extras, adding great value to the overall experience.” said Trudy Redfern, Managing Director, UK & Ireland. She added, “The benefit of travelling to or from an accessible UK port where you can start your holiday immediately adds even greater appeal to today’s traveller.”

Selected Silversea UK voyages are being offered at lower fares for early bookers as prices will rise as the sailing date approaches. Silversea embark or debark from the following four UK ports - Southampton, Portsmouth and London (Tower Bridge and Tilbury).

Listed below are UK voyage highlights for 2010

Silver Spirit departs Southampton 8 May 2010 on a 12-day voyage (#5013) from Southampton to Barcelona, with calls in St Malo, Bordeaux (overnight), Bilbao, Lisbon, Cadiz, Gibraltar, Malaga and Barcelona. All-inclusive, cruise-only fares start at £4,813 per person. Plus free Economy Class air, including free transfers from the ship to airport on day of disembark, is available from select UK gateways.

NEW VOYAGE - Prince Albert II departs 28 April 2010 on a 12-day expedition cruise (#7007) from Lisbon to Portsmouth, with calls in Oporto (Leixoes), La Coruna, Bilbao, Bordeaux (overnight), Nantes, St Malo, Guernsey and Honfleur. All-inclusive, cruise-only fares start at £2,422 per person.

Silver Whisper departs 31 May 2010 on a 12-day voyage (#4014) from Nice to Southampton, with calls in Barcelona, Malaga, Gibraltar, Lisbon, Oporto (Leixoes), Bilbao, St Malo and Honfleur. All-inclusive, cruise-only fares start at £3,453 per person. Plus free Economy Class air, including free transfers from the airport to the ship on day of embarkation, is available from select UK gateways.

Silver Cloud departs 7 June 2010 on a 10-day voyage (#1017) from London (Tilbury) to Stockholm, with calls Cruising Kiel Canal, Warnemunde (Rostock), Visby, Tallinn, St. Petersburg (2 overnights) and Helsinki. All-inclusive, cruise-only fares start at £3,027 per person. Plus free Economy Class air, including free transfers from the ship to airport on day of disembark, is available from select UK gateways.

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper -- and launching in December, Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times) and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2008). International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).
 

Silversea, known for its luxurious ships and exotic destinations, has unveiled 17 specially tailored Grand Voyages for 2010.

Designed exclusively for the traveller who relishes a more leisurely pace, this special collection offers extended voyages from 30 to 91 days. These unique odysseys combine the luxury of sailing aboard intimate, elegant ships with expanded journeys to diverse regions of the world, featuring visits to must-see traditional ports, as well as exotic destinations that are off the beaten path.

"Our Grand Voyages are perfectly suited to the traveller who has the time and passion to indulge in travel on a grand scale," said Trudy Redfern, Managing Director, UK & Ireland. "You can explore the most desirable ports of the Mediterranean for 35 days, sail for 40 days around South America and the Caribbean, or take a diverse 64-day voyage that spans from Capetown to Istanbul -- and unpack only once."

Highlighting the Grand Voyages are generous savings incentives and for voyages of 50 or more consecutive days, complimentary Business Class air upgrades (available with the purchase of the optional Silversea Air Programme).

GRAND INAUGURAL VOYAGE OF SILVER SPIRIT

Of special note is Silver Spirit's Grand Inaugural Voyage, a 91-day extended journey designed to introduce Silversea's newest ship to the Americas. Departing Fort Lauderdale on 21 January, Silver Spirit is set to explore over 20 countries and 45 ports for the very first time. She will set a southward course to Rio (for an unforgettable evening at Carnaval), sail around Cape Horn and through the majestic Chilean Fjords before heading to the Mexican Riviera. Guests have the option to personalise their voyage by disembarking in Los Angeles, or sailing through the Panama Canal to Fort Lauderdale, or continuing up America's colonial coast to New York City.

In addition to complimentary excursions and other exclusive onshore events, the array of special amenities available to guests sailing 70 or more days aboard the Grand Inaugural Voyage includes such complimentary perks as private car transfers, luggage forwarding service, business class air upgrade, a commemorative gift, and Onboard Spending Credits of up to $2,000 per suite. Fares start at £25,838 per person, based on double occupancy.

Listed below is a small sampling of the Grand Voyages for 2010:

-- AFRICA & MEDITERRANEAN: Silver Wind departs 2 February on a 64-day "Reflections of Time" voyage from Capetown to Istanbul, sailing around the southern tip of Africa and northward along the continent's Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean with calls in 16 countries, including exotic Morocco and The Gambia. Guests will also enjoy such marquee cities as Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Rome and Athens. Other highlights include overnight visits in Richards Bay, Walvis Bay and Lisbon. Best-available fares start at £15,405 per person.

-- FAR EAST: Silver Whisper departs 3 January on a 42-day "Exotic Mystique" voyage from Auckland to Hong Kong with calls in New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore and Vietnam. Highlights include overnight stays in Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City. Best-available fares start at £11,267 per person.

-- MEDITERRANEAN: Silver Spirit departs 21 August on a 35-day "Mediterranean Treasures" voyage from Istanbul to Lisbon with calls in Turkey, Ukraine, Greece, Montenegro, Croatia, Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. Highlights include a three-day, two-night stopover in Venice. Best-available fares start at £12,253 per person.

-- SOUTH AMERICA: Silver Cloud departs 20 January on a 40-day "Sambas & Sunsets" voyage from Santiago to Fort Lauderdale with calls in Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, French Guiana, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, and St. Thomas. Highlights include the Chilean fjords, Cape Horn and overnight stays in Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro. Best-available fares start at £10,333 per person.

All cruise fares listed above are the current best-available starting fares for a Vista Suite, which are cruise-only rates (based on double occupancy) that may include Silver Savings, Extended Voyage Savings of 5% and Venetian Society savings of 5%. These fares include port charges and handling fees that can range from £500 to £1,300 per person on these sailings, depending on the itinerary. Silver Savings fares are capacity-controlled, subject to availability and are likely to increase as the sailing date approaches.

(London – 16 July 2009) This holiday season the intimate ships of Silversea are offering travellers the opportunity to celebrate aboard voyages that span the globe, from the warm waters of the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and South Pacific, to the ultimate winter wonderland… the Antarctic.
 

With cruises ranging from eight to seventeen days, the six ships of the Silversea fleet -- Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, new Silver Spirit (set to launch in December), and the expedition ship Prince Albert II -- offer an elegant way to spend the holiday season.

Highlighting the onboard ambiance will be special decorations, parties, menus, entertainment and engaging guest lecturers. With the exception of expedition cruises, clergy are also onboard to conduct religious services, including a rabbi for Hanukkah.

"Our holiday voyages are designed to offer an escape from the pressure of deadlines and having to plan parties and prepare meals," said Trudy Redfern, Silversea's Managing Director, UK & Ireland. "Instead we offer a stress-free retreat where the focus is on authentic pleasures -- discovering new places, making new friends, and spending quality time with loved ones."

The following voyages offer the perfect setting for celebrating both Christmas and the New Year:

-- AFRICA & SEYCHELLES: Silver Wind departs 20 December on a 14-day voyage (#2939) from Mahe to Mauritius with calls in Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette Island, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Madagascar and Reunion Island. Guest Lecturer: Malcolm Ainscough, private guide and Africa expert who grew up in Zimbabwe. He has hosted European royalty and American notables throughout Africa. Silver Sailing fares start at £3,976.

-- ANTARCTICA: Prince Albert II departs Ushuaia 21 December on a 17-day expedition cruise (#7930) exploring the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Elephant Island and Antarctic Peninsula before returning to Ushuaia. Expedition Team: Dr. David Elliot, geologist; Chris Collins, ornithologist; Claudia Holgate, environmental lecturer; and Victoria Salem, historian, to name a few. Silver Sailing fares start at £4,972.

-- CARIBBEAN: Silver Shadow departs 20 December on a 15-day roundtrip voyage (#3933) from Fort Lauderdale with calls in Virgin Gorda, Antigua, Bequia, Barbados, St. Lucia, Guadeloupe, St. Bart's, Grand Turk and Key West. Guest Lecturer: Dr. Roderick A. McDonald, professor of history at Rider University and editor of the Journal of the Early Republic. He is the author of numerous books and articles on Caribbean history. Silver Sailing fares start at £3,971.

-- MEDITERRANEAN & NORTH AFRICA: Silver Spirit departs 23 December on an 11-day maiden voyage (#5901) from Barcelona to Lisbon with calls in Malaga, Gibraltar, Cadiz, Casablanca and Tangier. Guest Lecturer: Andrew Roberts, historian and biographer who appears regularly on British television. He has reported on royalty for NBC and CNN in the U.S. His many articles have appeared in leading newspapers. Early Booking Incentive fares start at £3,570.

-- SOUTH AMERICA: Silver Cloud departs 20 December on a 16-day voyage (#1931) from Santiago to Buenos Aires with calls in Puerto Montt, Laguna San Rafael, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Puerto Madryn and Montevideo. Guest Lecturer: Michael Buerk, one of Britain's leading broadcast journalists. He has worked as a BBC news correspondent in more than sixty countries, covering political, diplomatic and economic developments. Silver Sailing fares start at £3,847.

-- SOUTH PACIFIC: Silver Whisper departs 19 December on a 15-day voyage (#4938) from Sydney to Auckland with calls in Melbourne, Hobart, cruising Milford Sound, Stewart Island, Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Picton and Bay of Islands. Guest Lecturer: Li Cunxin (pronounced "Lee Schwin Sing"), Chinese ballet dancer who defected to the West. His bestselling autobiography, Mao's Last Dancer, has been made into a movie scheduled for release later this year. Silver Sailing fares start at £3,347.

A sampling of itineraries coinciding with Hanukkah this year include:

-- CARIBBEAN: Silver Shadow departs 11 December on a 9-day voyage (#3932) from Barbados to Fort Lauderdale with calls in Bequia, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Antigua, St. Martin and Grand Turk. Guest Lecturer: Dr. Roderick A. McDonald, professor of history at Rider University and editor of the Journal of the Early Republic. He is the author of numerous books and articles on Caribbean history. Silver Sailing fares start at £1,622.

-- SOUTH AMERICA: Silver Cloud departs 4 December on a 16-day voyage (#1930) from Buenos Aires to Santiago with calls in Montevideo, Punta del Este, Puerto Madryn, Falkland Islands, Punta Arenas, Laguna San Rafael, Puerto Chacabuco and Puerto Montt. Guest Lecturer: Richard Cowley, former director-general of the Anglo-Uruguayan Cultural Institute. In 1982, he was decorated by Queen Elizabeth II as a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Silver Sailing fares start at £3,697.

-- SOUTH PACIFIC: Silver Whisper departs 3 December on a 16-day voyage (#4937) from Singapore to Sydney with calls in Semarang, Darwin, Cairns, Townsville, Whitsunday Islands and Brisbane. Silver Sailing fares start at £3,497.

And guests can enjoy a traditional American Thanksgiving feast on 26 November aboard all Silversea voyages, including:

-- CARIBBEAN: Silver Shadow departs 22 November on a 10-day roundtrip voyage (#3930) from Fort Lauderdale with calls in Nassau, Samana, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Bart's and Road Town. Silver Sailing fares start at £1,772.

-- SOUTH AMERICA: Silver Cloud departs 26 November on an 8-day voyage (#1929) from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires with calls in Parati, Sao Paulo, Itaji and Montevideo. Guest Lecturer: Richard Cowley, former director-general of the Anglo-Uruguayan Cultural Institute. In 1982, he was decorated by Queen Elizabeth II as a Member of the Order of the British Empire. Silver Sailing fares start at £1,872.

All fares listed above are per person based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite (Adventurer Class on Prince Albert II) and include port charges and handling fees.

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard five intimate, all-suite vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, - and launching in December, Silver Spirit -, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times) and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2008). International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel & Style Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).

(London – 8 June 2009) Departing Fort Lauderdale on 21 January 2010, Silversea's newest ultra-luxury ship, Silver Spirit, is set to explore over 20 countries and 45 ports on her 91-day Grand Inaugural Voyage, visiting South America, the Mexican Riviera and crossing the Panama Canal before reaching her ultimate destination, New York City. To celebrate such a momentous journey, Silversea is lining up an array of celebrity guest speakers (to host onboard presentations), complimentary excursions and other exclusive onshore events designed to showcase local cultures as well as entertain guests.

Two popular personalities already tapped to highlight the enrichment roster are:

John Cleese - 20 February 2010 (Buenos Aires to Santiago)
Renowned for his TV roles in Monty Python's Flying Circus and Fawlty Towers, the actor, writer and comedic legend will share insights and anecdotes from his long career and entertain guests aboard Voyage 5005.

Dr. Kathryn D. Sullivan - 2 April 2010 (Los Angeles to New York)
Astronaut and first American woman to walk in space, this veteran of three shuttle missions and a 2004 inductee to the Astronaut Hall of Fame will offer guests a look at the achievements of her space career during Voyage 5009.

"Our beautiful new Silver Spirit is set to embark on her maiden journey to some of the most interesting destinations in the Americas," said Trudy Redfern, Silversea's Vice President of Sales & Marketing, UK, Ireland & Middle East. "Whether sailing the full voyage or one of the shorter segments, our guests will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime luxury travel experience wrapped in all the colourful fanfare and excitement befitting a brand new ship."

For guests sailing 70 or more days, Silversea has arranged four complimentary onshore events to kindle the spirit of celebration:

**Naming Ceremony Gala -- In Fort Lauderdale, on 20 January, the evening before departing on the Grand Inaugural Voyage, guests will enjoy a welcoming gala dinner and overnight accommodation aboard Silver Spirit. The following day, guests are invited to attend the Naming Ceremony festivities including a special VIP luncheon.

**Spirit Cup Polo Match -- During the ship's call in Barbados on 30 January, a special polo match has been arranged for Grand Inaugural Voyage guests. Spectators can cheer on two fast-paced chukkas (a seven-minute playing period), have some fun "stomping the divots" (a tradition of smoothing the field) while sipping champagne, and at the end of the match applaud the victorious team as they are awarded the Spirit Cup.

**Carnaval! -- The centrepiece of this Grand Inaugural Voyage is the ship's arrival in Rio de Janeiro on 14 February, at the height of Carnaval. Following an early dinner, guests will have the chance to experience the magic of the Rio Carnaval parade from prime seats reserved for them at the Sambadrome. The atmosphere promises to be electric, the floats and colourful costumes spectacular and the thousands of dancers and drummers passionate as they exert every ounce of energy in competition with rival samba schools.

**Panama Hat Party -- The historic and picturesque city of Montecristi, birthplace of the original Panama hat, is the setting for an event arranged exclusively for Silversea guests during the 16 March visit to Manta, Ecuador. Guests will experience the unique culture of this colonial town as they enjoy local dances and demonstrations of hat-making by master weavers. As a memento, each guest will receive a traditional hat rolled into the customary balsa wood box.

Additionally, all guests aboard the Grand Inaugural Voyage will enjoy three complimentary Silversea Experiences including an innovative children's ballet performance at the grand Teatro José de Alencar in Fortaleza, Brazil; a visit to one of the world's largest Magellanic penguin colonies, home to thousands of penguins, near Camarones, Argentina; and a delightful folkloric presentation of dances that portray the history of Panama, staged at one of the country's most treasured landmarks, the National Theater of Panama, during the ship's call in Fort Amador.

The array of special amenities available to guests sailing 70 or more days aboard the Grand Inaugural Voyage also includes such complimentary perks as private car transfers, luggage forwarding service, business class air upgrade, a commemorative gift, and Onboard Spending Credits of up to $2,000 per suite.

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard five intimate, all-suite vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, - and launching in December, Silver Spirit -, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.
 

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises today announced its support of two organisations dedicated to the preservation of works of art and architecture in Venice: Save Venice and Chorus. One of Italy's -- and the world's -- most romantic and magical cities, Venice is featured on no less than ten Silversea itineraries this summer. On each of these mostly seven-day voyages, guests will enjoy an overnight stay aboard Silver Wind or Silver Whisper docked in Venice.

"We're pleased to be able to help generate awareness and support the worthy efforts of Save Venice and Chorus," said Darius Mehta, Director of Land Programmes for Silversea. "With its fascinating history and mesmerising beauty, Venice has always been one of our most popular destinations and it's only fitting that we play our part to contribute to maintaining the cultural heritage and artistic treasures of this magnificent city."

Mehta continued, "By partnering with leading local tour specialists, like Bassani S.p.A. in Italy, to develop our land programmes, we are able to offer specially tailored destination experiences that are culturally enriching and also provide an opportunity for Silversea and our guests to participate in a greater cause. We appreciate the efforts of Bassani in making it possible for us to lend a hand to organisations like Save Venice and Chorus, and the communities they serve."

Save Venice, an American non-profit group based in New York and Venice, with chapters in Boston and California, is dedicated to preserving the city's artistic heritage and has restored over 350 works of art and architecture in Venice. It publishes a colourful, 24-page book of hunts and puzzles designed to enhance visits to Venice by encouraging the visitor to focus on various architectural details and art objects that might otherwise go unnoticed. Through Silversea's cooperation with Save Venice, the books are available for sale for €25 on all voyages calling in Venice this summer. Proceeds from the sale go to support the various projects of Save Venice.

In addition, when guests purchase one of Silversea's optional pre- or post-cruise land programmes featuring at least a one-night stay in Venice, they automatically receive a copy of the "Save Venice Hunts & Puzzles" book in their hotel room. For more information on Save Venice, visit www.savevenice.org.

The non-profit Chorus (Associazione per le Chiese del Patriarcato di Venezia), based in Venice, is committed to the safeguarding, conservation and restoration of the architectural and artistic heritage of the churches of Venice -- home to more than 1,000 works of art. Embracing the principle of "conserve by use," it promotes visits to 16 Venetian churches through the sale of its Chorus pass. Priced under €10, the pass includes a map and fact sheet, and is an economical option that encourages travellers to visit as many churches as possible -- without having to pay the entry fee at each church. All Silversea guests purchasing an optional pre- or post-cruise land programme with at least a one-night stay in Venice will receive the Chorus pass. Additional information on Chorus is available at www.chorusvenezia.org.

Every day Silversea ships navigate the world's oceans to connect people with distant lands and cultures. As a global corporate citizen, Silversea appreciates the importance of supporting communities and protecting the earth's natural and cultural treasures. Through a variety of joint efforts and fundraising programmes, the company also supports FAI -- Fondo per l'Ambiente Italiano (the National Trust for Italy), whose mission is to conserve, care for and protect the irreplaceable artistic and natural heritage of Italy; the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, dedicated to the protection of the global environment; and the Maruzza Lefebvre D’Ovidio Foundation, which provides extensive palliative care and support for persons affected by life-threatening or life-limiting conditions and their families. To learn more about these organisations, visit www.fondoambiente.it, www.PA2F.org and www.maruzza.org.
 

London – 6 April 2009: Guests aboard Silversea’s Monte Carlo to Rome voyage departing July 2009 will be treated to onboard performances by the renowned London Festival Opera - a must for opera aficionados.

London Festival Opera brings together some of the most established artists from major British opera companies, combined with exceptional new talent. The gifted soprano, mezzo-soprano, tenor, baritone and pianist have performed worldwide at leading venues such as Hampton Court Palace and the Gran Teatro La Fenice in Venice, to discerning audiences such as Her Majesty The Queen and other members of the British royal family.

Silversea’s elegant 10 day Mediterranean voyage departs from Monte Carlo in Monaco on 28 July 2009, with calls at Portofino and Livorno in Italy; Barcelona, Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca in Spain; Calvi in Corsica, and finishes in Rome on 7 August. All inclusive cruise-only fares start from £2,797 per person.

As well as the remarkable onboard performances, opera-lovers will be enthralled by guest speaker and renowned opera connoisseur Fred Plotkin, who will share his passion for opera and Italy with guests. Plotkin has worked for more than 40 opera companies including the Metropolitan, La Scala and the Salzburg Festival and is the author of nine books on opera, classical music and gourmet Italian cuisine.

Continuing the opera theme, baritone Philip Blake-Jones, artistic director of London Festival Opera, will also perform aboard a 7 day Rome to Venice voyage departing 7 August.
 

Following the announcement of the sale of Hebridean Spirit ahead of this season's summer voyages, Silversea are pleased to announce a special agreement with Hebridean International Cruises.

Guests booked on Hebridean Spirit's cancelled voyages will receive an additional and exclusive 10% introductory saving on most 2009 or 2010 Silversea voyages - and this is combinable with existing savings of up to 40%.  The offer also extends to Silversea's luxury expedition ship, Prince Albert II and to the eagerly anticipated Silver Spirit, launching this December.

 

Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's President and C.E.O, said “Silversea and Hebridean have always had a close relationship and we are pleased to be able to help their most loyal guests.  There is a very strong synergy with the two brands - uncompromising service levels, exquisite dining, intimate explorations and uniquely enriching cultural experiences.  Furthermore the guest profile is almost identical - discerning, well travelled and international”.

Mike Deegan, Managing Director at Hebridean International Cruises added “We know our Guests are extremely disappointed about the sale of Hebridean Spirit however with the option of either transferring to the Hebridean Princess or joining a Silversea cruise we hope they will be able to find an alternative holiday.We sincerely thank Silversea for their generous offer to our guests.  We are sure they will have an equally enjoyable holiday aboard Silversea's fine ships”.

Guests booked on Hebridean Spirit should call Hebridean on 01756 704704 or their Travel Agent (if the booking was made through a travel agent) in the first instance, or Silversea directly on 020 7920 7064.

Silversea Cruises is recognised as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard five intimate, all-suite vessels, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper, - and launching in December, Silver Spirit -, all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance.  With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.  

In the U.K., Silversea has been voted "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (eight times) and Best Luxury Cruise Line according to UK’s Travel Weekly Globe Awards (2008).  International awards include "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and by the readers of Travel & Leisure in the US (seven times); "World's Leading Luxury Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2007); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Spain's Cruceros & Destinos magazine (2008); "Best Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel Magazine (2009); and Best Luxury Cruise Operator according to Asia's Travel Weekly (2008).
 

(London – 18 March 2009) Luxury travel innovator Silversea Cruises is raising the bar in personalised service with plans to feature butlers for all guest accommodation aboard its award-winning fleet. The enhanced service will be phased in gradually over the coming months.  The line's newest all-suite ship, Silver Spirit, will feature butler service in all accommodation when launched in December.

"By expanding the butler service, we're essentially elevating the qualifications and calibre of our hospitality staff to ensure we continue to deliver a guest experience of unsurpassed quality," said Christian Sauleau, Executive Vice President of Fleet Operations for Silversea. "Our butlers come to us from some of the world's finest hotels and grandest homes, already highly trained in the art of recognising guest preferences and anticipating their needs, ever attentive yet in the most unobtrusive manner."

Sauleau added, "Each butler, assisted by a suite attendant, is empowered to troubleshoot problems and provide special service touches, if desired by the guest -- for example unpacking and packing clothing, facilitating a dry cleaning request or preparing a scented Jacuzzi bath -- ultimately creating a suite environment where one can relax and feel totally cared for."

As the complimentary butler service rolls out to all accommodation, it will join an already expansive array of all-inclusive amenities available to Silversea guests, including a premium assortment of wines, champagne and spirits served throughout the ship, all gratuities, and on select sailings, the Silversea Experience®, an exclusive shoreside event. All accommodations are ocean-view (most are suites) and feature Pommery Champagne upon arrival; fresh fruit and flower arrangements; selection of European bath amenities; fine bed linens; premium mattresses; choice of pillow; plush robes and slippers; personalised stationery; 24-hour room service; in-suite beverage cabinet stocked daily on request with guest's selection of wines, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks; and twice daily suite service with turndown nightly.

Currently, complimentary butler service is available in the top-category accommodation -- Royal, Grand and Owner's Suites. In the coming months, it will be rolled out to Silver and Medallion Suites as follows:

-- 7 May: Silver Wind
-- 17 May: Prince Albert II
-- 19 May: Silver Whisper
-- 30 May: Silver Cloud
-- 7 June: Silver Shadow

Butler service will then be extended to all accommodation on all ships as follows:

-- 21 September: Prince Albert II
-- 9 October: Silver Cloud
-- 24 October: Silver Whisper
-- 9 November: Silver Wind
-- 2 December: Silver Shadow