Luxury Operator Silversea Offers Shorter Cruises

In its continuing mission to provide guests with more choices, ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has just announced a new collection of eight shorter cruises for 2013. These convenient four- to seven-day voyages to Northern Europe and the Mediterranean are designed for time-strapped working professionals, travelers who like to combine a cruise with a land program, and individuals who may be new to luxury cruising and would like a taste of Silversea's award-winning, all-inclusive experience.

"Many travelers today have busy schedules that make it difficult to fit in time for an extended luxury cruise vacation," said Ellen Bettridge, Silversea's president of the Americas. "It's important for us to offer options that cater to these consumers as well as those who have time for longer voyages."

Silversea's new shorter voyages for 2013 include:

FOUR DAYS

• Northern Europe Voyage 1318B: Silver Cloud, June 15 - 19, Hamburg to Copenhagen, with calls in Warnemünde (Rostock) and Helsingborg. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,830.
• Mediterranean Voyage 2307C: Silver Wind, March 16 - 20, Barcelona to Rome, with calls in Monte Carlo and Livorno. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,360.
• Mediterranean Voyage 2314A: Silver Wind, May 14 - 18, Rome to Monte Carlo, with calls in Bonifacio, Calvi, and Livorno. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,590.

FIVE DAYS

• Mediterranean Voyage 2307B: Silver Wind, March 11 - 16, Lisbon to Barcelona, with calls in Málaga, Cartagena, and Valencia. Silver Privilege fares start at $1,560.
• Mediterranean Voyage 2314B: Silver Wind, May 18 - 23, Monte Carlo to Barcelona, with calls in Sóller de Mallorca, Ibiza, and Valencia. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,170.

SIX DAYS

• Northern Europe Voyage 1318A: Silver Cloud, June 9 - 15, Southampton to Hamburg, with calls in Honfleur, Oostende, Antwerp, and Amsterdam. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,610.

SEVEN DAYS

• Mediterranean Voyage 5309B: Silver Spirit, April 16 - 23, Lisbon to Barcelona, with calls in Portimão, Cádiz, Málaga, Ibiza, and Valencia. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,730.
•  Mediterranean Voyage 5314B: Silver Spirit, May 25 - June 1, Athens to Rome, with calls in Katakolon, Corfu, Kotor, Dubrovnik, and Sorrento. Silver Privilege fares start at $2,810.

Aboard Silversea's intimate, all-suite ships, guests enjoy spacious ocean-view accommodations, sumptuous gourmet cuisine, the personalized service of a butler, and a generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet, and all gratuities.

Silver Privilege fares listed above are cruise-only rates per guest, based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite. Silver Privilege is a capacity-controlled program and subject to change.

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Silversea Enhances Sleep Experience With Pratesi Bed Linens

Silversea Cruises Adds Pratesi Bed Linens - Pictured the Silver Whisper

Silversea guests will soon find their sleep experience elevated to a new level of comfort and luxury with the debut of Pratesi custom-made bed linens.

Founded in 1860 and renowned for creating masterpieces in linens for the Italian and European aristocracy, the legendary Italian linens firm is bringing its high-quality and stylish creations to the beds in every Silversea suite beginning with the September 3 voyage of Silver Spirit, followed by Silver Cloud in November. Pratesi bedding will then be rolled out to the rest of the Silversea fleet in 2013.

The plush new bedding collection, which features 240 thread count, 100% Egyptian cotton satin sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers, will complement an already lavish collection of sleep amenities enjoyed by Silversea guests. These include a memory pillow top and dual-side mattress that can be flipped to provide either soft or firm support, a down duvet, and a pillow menu offering nine different pillow options, from soft down to memory foam, and chamomile or lavender aromatherapy pillow covers.

"Getting a great night's sleep is a priority for luxury travelers," said Ellen Bettridge, Silversea's president of the Americas. "We know many of our guests have luxurious bedding in their own homes, and if they have not yet discovered Pratesi, we're happy to introduce them to this revered Italian brand."

About Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises, which is chaired by Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, is recognized as an innovator in the luxury cruise line industry, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Spirit – all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the expedition ship Silver Explorer, Silversea Cruises' itineraries encompass all seven continents and feature worldwide luxury cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, both polar regions and over 450 fascinating destinations in between.

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Historic First For Silversea Cruises

Silver Cloud, Silver Wind and Silver Spirit Rendezvous in Corfu

On September 27, 2012, for the first time in the 18-year history of Silversea Cruises, three of the ultra-luxury line's ships -- Silver Cloud, Silver Wind and Silver Spirit -- called in the same port on the same day. The historic convergence of the three ships took place today in beautiful Corfu, a Greek island renowned for its lush green hills and pure white beaches.

 

Surrounded by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind and Silver Spirit greeted each other by sounding their whistles as they sailed into this charming and sophisticated port.

 

Corfu (or Kérkyra in Greek) is the second largest of the Ionian islands, and a land rich in history and myth. It was likely the last stop for Homer's Odysseus on his fabled journey back to his homeland of Ithaca. For Silversea, Corfu will always carry special significance as the port that hosted an important milestone in the company's own unfolding story.

 

Silver Wind and Silver Spirit are on 7-day sailings in the Greek Isles. Both itineraries include stops in Croatia and Italy, as well as Montenegro for Silver Wind. Silver Cloud is sailing from Venice to Barcelona on a 12-day Mediterranean voyage.

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SilverSea Unveils 2013 Cruise Collection and Promotions

Silversea Cruises, known for its luxurious ships and exotic destinations, has unveiled an extensive line-up of worldwide voyages for 2013 -- all on sale now. And complementing what is arguably the most expansive schedule of any cruise line, are attractive savings incentives in 2013 that include almost double the number of Free Air gateways available (on select sailings) to travelers departing from the U.S and Canada, and Onboard Spending Credits of up to $1,500 per suite on all voyages (with the exception of Silversea Expeditions).

In 2013, the company's six elite ships will offer over 200 voyages, visiting more than 450 destinations on seven continents. Highlighting the program is Silver Whisper's 115-day World Cruise, Silver Spirit's inaugural calls in Hawaii (last visited by Silversea in 2010), and Silver Explorer's new expedition cruises to Canada's beautiful Hudson Bay.

Also noteworthy are Silversea's 32 new ports of call, which include 21 just for Silver Explorer alone. Collectively, the line's other ships will offer 11 new destinations: Soller de Majorca, Spain; Sabang (Pulau Weh), Indonesia; Port Arthur, Australia; Liverpool, U.K.; Klaipeda, Lithuania; Saaremaa, Estonia; Baie-Comeau (Quebec), Canada; Chios, Greece; Portsmouth, Dominica; Fanning Island, Kiribati; and Fukuoka, Japan.

"For the discerning luxury traveler, our 2013 schedule, with over 30 new ports of call, offers unparalleled opportunities for unique and life-enriching journeys to all corners of the globe," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "With almost double the number of Free Air gateways and generous Onboard Spending Credits now available, this is the perfect time to finalize your travel plans for next year -- and enjoy an affordable luxury vacation exploring the world with Silversea."

Here's a snapshot of Silversea's 2013 schedule:

WORLD CRUISE 2013

An epic 115-day journey from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale awaits guests when they board Silver Whisper on January 5. Crossing the equator four times, the World Cruise itinerary will follow the tropical belt to 52 destinations in 28 countries with overnight stays in several key ports. The warm-weather journey will explore an array of far-flung cultures and scenic wonders including New Zealand and Australia's remote west coast; the idyllic isles of French Polynesia; fascinating Asian cities of Hong Kong, Bangkok and Singapore; and Africa's rarely seen western coast. Guests may choose to extend their voyage an additional three days to disembark in New York, or 15 days to disembark in Southampton.

SILVER CLOUD

Silver Cloud begins her 2013 season exploring South America and then crosses the Panama Canal to the Caribbean to offer a series of convenient roundtrip voyages from San Juan. After spending May in the Mediterranean, she'll venture to Northern Europe for a summer season that includes calls in the British Isles, Iceland, the North Cape and remote Russian ports in the White Sea. Silver Cloud heads south to the warmer Mediterranean in the fall and come November, crosses the Atlantic to South America where the highlights include a 17-day Amazon adventure and cruising the majestic Chilean Fjords at year's end.

SILVER WIND

For Silver Wind, the New Year begins in South Africa with three 10-day roundtrip sailings from Cape Town, followed by an 18-day cruise along the exotic west coast of Africa and two voyages in the Canary Islands. Silver Wind then repositions to the Mediterranean for an extended summer program filled with mostly seven- and nine-day voyages exploring the Mediterranean. Highlights include a three-day extended visit in Monte Carlo for the Grand Prix during the May 23 cruise from Barcelona to Rome, as well as calls in Egypt and the Holy Land. Silver Wind then heads south along Africa's west coast to conclude the year back in Cape Town.

SILVER SHADOW

Silver Shadow opens the year voyaging around Australia and New Zealand. Then in late February and March, she'll offer a series of itineraries focused on Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand before journeying north to China and Japan for the spring. Summer finds Silver Shadow in Alaska for a series of mostly seven-day cruises between Seward and Vancouver. During October and November, she'll offer cruises focusing on China and Vietnam, before heading south to celebrate the holidays with a 15-day voyage between Sydney and Auckland.

SILVER WHISPER

Silver Whisper begins 2013 in grand style with a World Cruise. Over the course of four months, she'll journey west from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, visiting 52 far-flung destinations across Oceania, Asia and Africa. From mid-May through August, she'll explore Northern Europe offering primarily seven-day Baltic cruises with extended stays in St. Petersburg. A grand transatlantic crossing from Southampton to Montreal will reposition Silver Whisper to offer a collection of fall foliage cruises through Canada and New England before heading south to the Caribbean in November. Following a 16-day holiday cruise through the Panama Canal, she'll wrap up the year where she started, in Los Angeles.

SILVER SPIRIT

For Silver Spirit, 2013 arrives in the sunny waters of the Caribbean. Then in February, after a crossing of the Panama Canal to Los Angeles, she repositions for a 31-day grand voyage through the glistening Pacific Ocean, highlighted by calls in French Polynesia, Kiribati and the major islands of Hawaii. Throughout summer, seven- and nine-day sailings focus on the eastern Mediterranean and Greek Isles. Other highlights include three seven-day Black Sea cruises. In late November, Silver Spirit arrives in Fort Lauderdale for a series of roundtrip Caribbean cruises culminating with a 14-day holiday cruise.

SILVER EXPLORER

The luxury expedition ship Silver Explorer sails into 2013 at the bottom of the Earth, offering a series of cruises to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia. Spring and summer are highlighted by adventures along the west coast of Africa, western Europe, the British Isles, and Svalbard's frozen Arctic landscapes. First-ever expedition voyages in Canada's Hudson Bay highlight August. In September, Silver Explorer heads south to offer a series of Caribbean and Central America explorations before arriving in Ushuaia in November to conclude the year with Antarctic expeditions.

Please visit www.silversea.com for complete itineraries plus details on the Free Air program and Onboard Spending Credit offer.

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Luxury Operator Silversea, Opens 2012 Bookings

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises is pleased to announce all voyages for 2012 are now open for sale, with complete day-by-day itineraries available at www.silversea.com.

In 2012, Silversea's six celebrated ships will offer over 200 voyages, visiting nearly 450 destinations in more than 100 countries and seven continents. From the majestic Chilean fjords and the Great Barrier Reef of Australia to the gilded palaces of St. Petersburg and the glamour of the Riviera, Silversea will present a diverse collection of the world's most sought-after destinations. Among the highlights are Silver Whisper's 115-day World Cruise and eight new Silversea destinations: Santander, Spain; Porto Novo, Cape Verde; Larnaca, Cyprus; Kuwait City, Kuwait; Sihanoukville (also known as Kampong Som), Cambodia; Christiansted, St. Croix; and Ireland's Foynes and Killybegs.

"The world is an amazing place, and it's our goal to create opportunities for travelers to explore its marvels in exceptional style and comfort," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "Our 2012 schedule has been carefully designed to offer a broad range of travel choices, including multiple-day calls and overnight stays showcasing traditional must-see destinations, as well as journeys to remote regions that are inaccessible to mega-ships."

WORLD CRUISE 2012
Silver Whisper will embark January 6 from Fort Lauderdale on a remarkable 115-day World Cruise that concludes in glamorous Monte Carlo. On this magnificent odyssey, her guests will visit 45 ports in 27 countries stretching from the Caribbean and South America to Africa, the Far East, Arabia and Europe. Along the way, they will enjoy 13 overnight visits and exclusive insider access to seldom seen global treasures.

SILVER CLOUD — 296 guests
2012 begins with Silver Cloud soaking up the eastern Caribbean sun with seven-, nine- and ten-day voyages. Then it's a full day in Bermuda en route to a season in Northern Europe that extends from May through August, including exotic adventures through the cool Arctic waters of the North Cape and Russia's remote Archangel region. Silver Cloud heads south to the warmer Mediterranean to offer a series of mostly 9-day voyages in autumn and come November, crosses the Atlantic to explore the Amazon and trace the eastern coast of South America, arriving at the end of the year at the "end of the world" in Chile.

SILVER WIND — 296 guests
Silver Wind greets the New Year with a voyage spanning from Mauritius to South Africa. After a series of ten-day roundtrip sailings from Cape Town, she'll venture north on an exotic exploration of the vast landscapes and colorful tribal cultures of Africa's west coast. Silver Wind's summer calendar is filled with mostly seven- and nine-day, in-depth itineraries that span the Mediterranean from Barcelona to the Black Sea. Egypt, the Holy Land and Arabia beckon in the fall. Then following a crossing to India, Silver Wind concludes the year bound for such jewels of the Indian Ocean as Madagascar and Reunion Island.

SILVER SHADOW — 382 guests
Silver Shadow's 2012 is a study in contrasts -- summer in Alaska, winter in Australia and New Zealand, and spring and fall in the Far East. Highlights include a special 19-day voyage from Auckland to Fremantle. In Asia you can sail to China, South Korea and Japan or explore Vietnam in depth. The beauty of Alaska is explored with mostly 7-day voyages between Seward and Vancouver. A special holiday sailing visits magical Bali and spends the year's 365th day in the crystal blue waters of the magnificent Great Barrier Reef.

SILVER WHISPER — 382 guests
Silver Whisper opens 2012 in grand style with a World Cruise. On this epic journey, she'll visit Brazil then explore South Africa and the fantastic Indian Ocean landscape -- then head east to the marvels of the South China Sea, and west to the storied Arabian Sea and Egypt. Summer reveals Northern Europe at its best -- including a series of seven-night voyages highlighting St. Petersburg -- before the ship arrives in Canada for autumn's vibrant fall foliage. Silver Whisper’s globetrotting pace slows with a Panama Canal crossing and soothing Caribbean sailings through year's end.

SILVER SPIRIT — 540 guests
Silver Spirit sails into 2012 with a 64-day grand circumnavigation of South America, featuring a Panama Canal crossing and three days in Rio de Janeiro at the height of Carnaval. Yachting havens in the deep Caribbean and a leisurely transatlantic crossing are followed by an overnight visit to Monte Carlo in May for the Grand Prix and a summer season of classic Mediterranean sojourns with a special focus on the sun-drenched isles of Greece. Silver Spirit returns to the Caribbean’s tranquil warmth for the holiday season.

PRINCE ALBERT II -- Expeditions in luxury
The 132-guest Prince Albert II expedition ship invites adventure-seeking travelers to embark on a voyage that is just as exhilarating as it is luxurious. After opening the year with a series of cruises to Antarctica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, March and April find the Prince Albert II exploring the tropical beauty of Central America. Spring and summer are highlighted by adventures along the western coast of Africa, Britains' northern isles, Svalbard's frozen Arctic landscapes and Russia's remote Franz Joseph Land. Three West Africa voyages are scheduled before the ship heads back to Antarctica in mid-November.

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Silver Spirit 2011 World Cruise Guest Speakers

(March 22, 2010) The world's newest ultra-luxury, all-suite cruise ship, Silver Spirit, will take to the seas next January on a 119-day eastbound World Cruise traversing both hemispheres from Los Angeles to Southampton. To complement such an extraordinary odyssey, Silversea is lining up an impressive array of distinguished speakers.

Among those already tapped to host enriching presentations are:

Dan Rather: The Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist who anchored the CBS Evening News for 24 years, and contributed to CBS' 60 Minutes and other prime-time news programs, will host Voyage 5107, March 22 - April 3, Hong Kong - Singapore.

Robert Lacey: The British historian and biographer, whose numerous international bestsellers include Majesty, considered the definitive study of British monarchy, is slated to host Voyage 5110, May 3 - 19, Athens - Southampton.

Zahi Hawass: The world-famous Egyptologist and secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Cairo will host Voyage 5109, April 18 - May 3, Dubai - Athens.

Bruce Riedel: A senior fellow in foreign policy at the Saban Center for Middle East Policy of the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C., former C.I.A. analyst, counter-terrorism expert and author is slated to host Voyage 5110, May 3 - 10, Athens - Southampton.

Geoffrey Blainey: The eminent Australian historian, commentator and author of numerous books, including his highly acclaimed A Short History of the World, will host Voyage 5105, February 12 - March 1, Auckland - Sydney.

Lawrence Blair: The writer, host and co-producer of the Emmy Award-nominated BBC/PBS adventure series Ring of Fire, tracing a ten-year epic journey across the Indonesian archipelago, will host Voyage 5106, March 1 - 22, Sydney - Hong Kong.

Caroline Boyle-Turner: The world-renowned art historian, author of several books and founder of the Pont-Aven School of Contemporary Art will host Voyage 5103, January 20 - February 1, Los Angeles - Papeete.

George Losey: A professor of zoology and marine biology at the University of Hawaii, who has studied the behavior and ecology of marine animals throughout the world, will host Voyage 5103, January 20 - February 1, Los Angeles - Papeete.

Mark Eddowes: The New Zealand archaeologist who has lived in the Society Islands for over 20 years, doing field work throughout Polynesia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Easter Island and the Cook Islands, will host Voyages 5103 - 5104, January 20 - February 12, Los Angeles to Auckland.

John Hartley: The retired Australian major general, a graduate of Duntroon's Royal Military College, the University of Queensland and the U.S. Army War College, will host Voyage 5106, March 1 - 22, Sydney - Hong Kong.

Denise Heywood: The author, journalist, photographer, fellow with the Royal Geographical Society, and lecturer for the British Museum on their Asian Art course, will host Voyages 5106 - 5107, March 1 - April 3, Sydney - Singapore.

Scott Pearson: The recipient of a Ph.D. in economics from Harvard University, who taught economic development and international trade at Stanford University, winning several awards for his research and teaching, will host Voyages 5108 - 5109, April 3 - May 3, Singapore - Athens.

Lyn Farmer: The widely published wine and food writer and senior editor of The Wine News magazine, who has been honored with the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Writing on Wine and Spirits, will host Voyage 5105, February 12 - March 1, Auckland - Sydney.

Rosanne Martorella: The professor of sociology at William Paterson University and author of several books on art and society will host Voyage 5110, May 3 - 10, Athens - Southampton.

"The enrichment program is an integral part of our World Cruise experience and is designed to appeal to luxury travel's most discerning clientele," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "We scoured the globe to find fascinating personalities and some of the most distinguished and stimulating speakers. Engaging experts from an array of fields will be on hand to share their talents and perspectives."

This grandest of voyages, appropriately themed "Spirit of Discovery," begins in Los Angeles on January 19, 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 May 19. 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.

Silversea Cruises is recognized 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 Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

Silver Spirit Arrives in Fort Lauderdale.

February 8, 2010 - On January 19, 2010 Silversea Cruises' brand new flagship, Silver Spirit, arrived this morning at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, completing her maiden crossing of the Atlantic, a 16-day voyage which began in Lisbon on January 3.

As the first new cruise ship in 2010 to arrive in Port Everglades, Silver Spirit's arrival was celebrated in grand style with escorting fireboats providing a glistening water salute, while a plane circled overhead towing a large banner that read "WELCOME SILVER SPIRIT."

The elegant, all-suite Silver Spirit will host several days of inaugural activities while in Fort Lauderdale, including an exclusive evening event on January 20 for guests sailing on the 91-day Grand Inaugural Voyage that will feature acclaimed singer and pianist Michael Feinstein.

In a first for the cruise company, the invitation-only Christening Ceremony taking place on January 21 will be broadcast live on the Silver Spirit Blog on the company's Internet site, Silversea.com, starting at 10:00 a.m. East Coast time. Following the event, a replay of the webcast will also be available on the line's website.

"It's a great honor for us to welcome our beautiful new Silver Spirit to the Americas," said Kenneth W. Watson, Silversea's chief operating officer. "This ship is the perfect expression of the graceful elegance and comfortable ambiance found aboard our ships fleetwide, plus her 1930s Art Deco-inspired features recall the glamour of ocean travel's grandest era. With exciting new dining options and the most spacious accommodations in our fleet -- all enhanced by the attentiveness of a butler offering guests new services and amenities to personalize their suite experience -- Silver Spirit is the new standard bearer for ultra-luxury cruising."

Among the highlights of the inaugural events is a gala fundraising dinner to be hosted this evening aboard ship by Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. and Silversea to benefit The Wolfsonian–Florida International University. Guests include Mitchell Mart, ocean liner collector and cruise expert, and Laurence A. Miller, ocean liner archivist and historian. Located in the historic Art Deco district of Miami Beach, The Wolfsonian–FIU is a museum that uses objects to illustrate the persuasive power of art and design. Whether drawn from The Wolfsonian collection or on loan from prominent institutions worldwide, the exhibition program explores the active role design plays in motivating actions, expressing ideas, creating desires, and shaping identities. The 120,000 artifacts that comprise The Wolfsonian's collections range from fine art, graphic design and political propaganda to furniture, rare books and ephemeral materials such as postcards and travel brochures. The holdings are primarily of North American and European origin, dating from 1885 to 1945.

On the evening of January 21, following the Christening Ceremony festivities, Silver Spirit will set sail on a 91-day Grand Inaugural Voyage aptly themed "The Spirit of South America." During this expansive journey, Silver Spirit is set to explore over 20 countries and 45 ports. The ship will follow 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 personalize 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.

Following the Grand Inaugural Voyage, Silver Spirit will spend the summer in the Mediterranean and then reposition to the Caribbean for fall and winter cruises.

At 36,000 tons, and accommodating just 540 guests, this intimate ship has the largest suites in the Silversea fleet -- with 95% featuring a private veranda -- and one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea today. The onboard decor lends a sophisticated 1930s Art Deco ambiance to the public spaces, highlights of which include an indoor/outdoor spa measuring over 8,300 square feet (770 square meters), a resort-style pool, four whirlpools, and a choice of six dining venues including Seishin, showcasing Asian-fusion cuisine, and the innovative Stars Supper Club, offering trendsetting menus and all-night entertainment.

Silversea Cruises is recognized 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 Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.S., Silversea has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and rated Number-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI). International awards include "Best Innovation in Products and Services" from the Italian Innovazione Marketing Oggi Awards (2009); "World's Leading Small Ships Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2009); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2007); "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).

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New Silver Spirit Christened

Published February 6, 2010 - On January 21, 2010 Silversea Cruises' elegant new Silver Spirit was christened in a formal ceremony held dockside this morning at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. In a first for the company, the event was broadcast live on the Internet and a replay of the webcast will soon be available for viewing on the Silver Spirit Blog at Silversea.com.

Echoing the Art Deco interior design elements of Silver Spirit, a completely transformed pier greeted more than 450 invited visitors, who included local dignitaries, members of the trade and media, as well as members of the Venetian Society (Silversea's past-guest loyalty club) and guests sailing on the Grand Inaugural Voyage. Guests entered Pier 25 terminal through a specially designed gold-framed entranceway recalling the style and glamour of the 1930s -- a motif also serving as the inspiration for the decorations and images that adorned the terminal within and which took guests on a stunning visual journey as they proceeded to the event's red-carpeted staging area alongside Silver Spirit.

The lilting classical music of a brass and strings ensemble serenaded guests as they took their seats. The ship's godmother, Silvia Lefebvre, sister of Silversea chairman Manfredi Lefebvre, presided over the festivities. Besides gracious, heartfelt speeches and the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle against Silver Spirit's hull, the ceremony included a blessing of the ship by Father Thomas W. Falkenthal, director of the Apostleship of the Sea for the Archdiocese of Miami.

"Today is a proud day for Silversea as we celebrate the christening of our new ship and what is the culmination of much effort and planning," said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's president and chief executive officer. "From her sophisticated Art Deco interior design and extra-spacious suites to a host of new amenities and services, Silver Spirit embodies the innovative spirit of our company and is a dramatic step forward for our award-winning concept of ultra-luxury cruising."

In a brief departure from an otherwise celebratory tone, Silversea's chief operating officer, Kenneth W. Watson, acknowledged the recent tragedy in Haiti, and announced that the company had made a charitable donation to the American Red Cross on behalf of Grand Inaugural Voyage guests. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Haitian people during this very difficult time," he said.

Godmother Silvia Lefebvre christened the ship with a bottle of Moët & Chandon champagne. A replica of the champagne bottle will be auctioned off as a memento during Silver Spirit's Grand Inaugural Voyage to benefit the Maruzza Lefebvre d'Ovidio Foundation, a non-profit organization spearheaded by Silvia Lefebvre. A major part of its energy and resources is dedicated to the diffusion of palliative care for children, babies and adolescents affected by incurable disease.

Leading up to the champagne christening was a special duet performance of "The Prayer" by vocalists from the Florida Grand Opera's Young Artists Program. Julia Ebner has performed in various roles as soprano with numerous ensembles throughout the country including the Syracuse Opera, Opera North and the Tri-Cities Opera. The featured tenor, David Bailey, recently received his masters degree from the Manhattan School of Music and has performed with such renowned ensembles as the Skylight Opera, Charlemagne Orchestra in Belgium, and the Utah Festival Orchestra.

Silver Spirit will set sail this evening on a 91-day Grand Inaugural Voyage exploring over 20 countries and 45 ports throughout the Americas, then spend the summer in the Mediterranean before repositioning to the Caribbean for fall and winter cruises.

At 36,000 tons, and accommodating just 540 guests, this intimate ship has the largest suites in the Silversea fleet -- with 95% featuring a private veranda -- and one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea today. The onboard decor lends a sophisticated 1930s Art Deco ambiance to the public spaces, highlights of which include an indoor/outdoor spa measuring over 8,300 square feet (770 square meters), a resort-style pool, four whirlpools, and a choice of six dining venues including Seishin, showcasing Asian-fusion cuisine, and the innovative Stars Supper Club, offering trendsetting menus and all-night entertainment.

Silversea Cruises is recognized 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 Silver Spirit -- all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the inclusion of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company's itineraries encompass all seven continents.

In the U.S., Silversea has been voted "World's Best" by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler (nine times) and Travel + Leisure (seven times), and rated Number-One luxury cruise line by high-net-worth consumers in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI). International awards include "Best Innovation in Products and Services" from the Italian Innovazione Marketing Oggi Awards (2009); "World's Leading Small Ships Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2009); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2009); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice" survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2007); "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).

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NOTE:

For Information on Cruises From New York Check out www.NYCruiseInfo.com.

For Information on Cruises From Baltimore, Norfolk, Philadelphia, Boston, Quebec, Montreal and the Great Lakes - Check out www.NortheastCruiseGuide.com.

SilverSea Publishes 2010 Cruise Atlas

July 23, 2009) Silversea Cruises has published its new 2010 Voyage Atlas. The 188-page brochure details over 190 itineraries visiting 7 continents, over 80 countries, and more than 400 destinations.

In addition to a voyage-by-voyage summary of cruise itineraries (including many that can be combined back-to-back into one extended sailing without repeating a port), the new Voyage Atlas features comprehensive information on Silversea's signature amenities, special programs, deck plans and new simplified Silver Savings pricing structure. Voyages currently offering free roundtrip airfare from 22 gateway cities are also highlighted. The balance of the brochure is dedicated to optional Silver Shore land programs and services.

"We're very pleased to launch our new Voyage Atlas for 2010," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "It has been carefully designed to reveal the luxurious, all-inclusive Silversea lifestyle. Within its pages, readers will discover award-winning ships that offer an exclusive passport to exotic destinations, countless indulgences and uncompromising service."


GRAND INAUGURAL VOYAGE OF SILVER SPIRIT

The 2010 Voyage Atlas also includes the new Silver Spirit, and highlights her inaugural season. Departing Fort Lauderdale on January 21, Silversea's newest ultra-luxury ship 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. The centerpiece of this aptly themed "Spirit of South America" voyage is the ship's arrival in Rio de Janeiro on February 14, 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.

EXPANDED BUTLER SERVICE

Silversea is raising the bar in personalized service with plans to feature butlers for all guest accommodations. The enhanced service is being phased in gradually over the coming months and will be in place for all voyages in 2010. As the complimentary butler service rolls out, it will join an already expansive array of all-inclusive amenities available to Silversea guests. Highlights include complimentary beverages served throughout the ship -- including fine wines, spirits and champagnes, in-suite bar and refrigerator stocked with each guest's preferred beverage selections, open-seating dining, 24-hour complimentary room service, and fares that include all onboard gratuities.

SILVER SHORE LAND PROGRAMS

Catering to a clientele that seeks travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary, Silversea offers a unique collection of Silver Shore land adventures, hotel packages and services, enabling guests to delve deeper into local cultures, learn more about historic sites and have closer encounters with remarkable wildlife. Guests can even choose to have the Silver Shore Concierge design a special activity, private excursion or exclusive event tailored to their personal interests.

EXPEDITIONS IN LUXURY -- PRINCE ALBERT II

Expedition voyages continue to grow in popularity with luxury travelers and a special 26-page section of the Atlas is devoted entirely to the Prince Albert II. Next year 25 expedition itineraries will explore the Arctic, Antarctica, Central and South America. On every journey, guests will be escorted in unsurpassed luxury. With the largest average accommodations size of any expedition ship, guests enjoy spacious, ocean-view suites and staterooms (select suites have French balconies or large private verandas), sumptuous gourmet cuisine, warm hospitality and personalized service.

In keeping with the company's commitment to promote the use of environmentally responsible products, the Atlas is printed on paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). The brochure displays the FSC's "Mixed Sources" label, certifying the paper comes from well-managed forests, controlled sources and/or recycled material.

Silversea Cruises is recognized 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.

Luxury SilverSea World Cruise Features Guest Speakers

(June 4, 2009) Departing Fort Lauderdale on January 21, 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 - February 20, 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 - April 2, 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 Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "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 colorful fanfare and excitement befitting a brand new ship."

Luxury Operator SilverSea Offers Music Theme Cruises.

May 7, 2009 From fans of jazz and the Beatles to opera enthusiasts, virtually all music lovers will find Silversea is offering the perfect blend of culture and travel with its lineup of music theme sailings this year. During seven voyages exploring the British Isles and the Mediterranean, guests will have the chance to enjoy a vibrant onboard enrichment program that brings to life a sampling of the world's finest musical genres.

"We're delighted to be able to offer such a diverse array of music-focused enrichment programs," said Cliff Perry, director of entertainment for Silversea.

"These voyages are a great opportunity for guests to indulge both their love of music and passion for travel, and in the process discover the uniquely enriching lifestyle experience of Silversea."

Following below is a list of the music theme cruises by region: ]

MEDITERRANEAN

The London Festival Opera brings together some of the most established artists from major British opera companies and exceptional new singers. Its 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. Audiences have included the Queen of England and other members of the British royal family. Silversea guests will enjoy Italian and other opera favorites in performances and events that include a gala opera evening, a show entitled "A Night at the Opera," and a gourmet Italian dinner presented with serenading opera singers in the ship's main dining venue, The Restaurant, and La Terrazza, a specialty restaurant.

The London Festival Opera will be on board: --

VOYAGE 2917: Silver Wind, May 28 - June 6, Monte Carlo to Athens, 9 days. Destinations include Livorno, Sorrento, Crete, Rhodes, Marmaris, Kusadasi and Santorini. Early Booking Incentive fares start at $7,305. --

VOYAGE 2923: Silver Wind, July 28 - August 7, Monte Carlo to Rome, 10 days. Destinations include Portofino, Livorno, Barcelona, Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca and Corsica. Silver Sailing fares start at $5,147. Fans of Cole Porter and Noel Coward will be transported back to the early 20th century when singer/pianist Bobby Nesbitt and lecturer/social historian David Garrard Lowe team up to present original musical theater programs exploring the works of these music masters. Written and narrated by Lowe and featuring songs performed by Nesbitt, the special enrichment programs will be featured as follows: "Cole Porter -- He's the Top" Musical Theater --

VOYAGE 4922: Silver Whisper, August 1- 8, Venice to Rome, 7 days. Destinations include Zadar, Kotor, Sicily and Lipari. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,197. "An Evening with Noel Coward" Musical Theater --

VOYAGE 4923: Silver Whisper, August 8 - 15, Rome to Monte Carlo, 7 days. Destinations include Sorrento, Livorno, Menton and Cassis. Silver Sailing fares start at $3,497. A rising star on the American music scene, Loston Harris blends traditional jazz riffs, gospel and blues with his own unique stylings. He performed as a member of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, led by multiple-Grammy winner Wynton Marsalis. Harris also appeared on public television in the U.S. on the PBS special "Portraits in Blue" with fellow pianist and bandleader Marcus Roberts. The exceptional talents of this gifted singer/pianist will be showcased aboard: --

VOYAGE 4925: Silver Whisper, August 22 - 29, Barcelona to Rome, 7 days. Destinations include Alicante, Malaga, Monte Carlo and Portofino. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,197. Place a flower in your hair and journey back to the Southern California pop music scene and carefree spirit of the 1960s with an original member of the legendary singing group the Mamas and the Papas as your host. Singer, songwriter and actress Michelle Phillips will tell the story of the Mamas and the Papas musical saga with film and music clips and her intimate knowledge of the group when she presents a special enrichment program aboard: --

VOYAGE 2934: Silver Wind, October 30 - November 9, Rome to Athens, 10 days. Destinations include Naples, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Crete, Rhodes, Kusadasi and Mykonos. Silver Sailing fares start at $4,897. BRITISH ISLES An exciting "Tribute to the Beatles" program will be presented by Joe Johnson, host of the popular "Beatles Brunch" radio show, broadcast in over 100 markets across the U.S. and Canada. The Bootleg Beatles, one of the world's most acclaimed Beatles tribute bands, is slated to perform a full-length Beatles show as part of the festivities. And Tony Bramwell, author of "Magical Mystery Tours: My Life with the Beatles," will also join the program to share tales from his days as the Beatles' personal assistant. Other highlights will include a name-that-tune contest, a trivia game, a "Hard Day's Night" dance party, and Beatle Brunch Feast, a gala breakfast/luncheon featuring the music of the Fab Four and prizes. Johnson will also interview guests for a special edition of his radio program set to air later in the year. The Tribute to the Beatles will take place on: --

VOYAGE 1921: Silver Cloud, August 26 - September 5, London to London, 10 days. Destinations include Edinburgh, Invergordon, Oban, Dublin, Cork and Fowey. Silver Sailing fares start at $7,486. All fares listed above are per person based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite and do not include port charges and handling fees that can range from $175 to $275 per person on these sailings, depending on the itinerary.

Silversea Cruises Silver Spirit Floated Out

(27 February 2009) Silversea Cruises' newest ultra-luxury ship, Silver Spirit, reached an important milestone on Friday, 27 February when she was transferred ("floated out" in shipbuilding parlance) from dry dock to wet dock at the Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy.

Silver Spirit's first connection with the sea was marked by an official ceremony at the shipyard attended by senior management from Silversea and Fincantieri. Over the coming months, the new build will undergo her final outfitting works and be ready for delivery in December.
“This is the dawn of a new era of luxury cruising for Silversea and the industry at large”, declared Manfredi Lefebvre, Silversea chairman. “Much planning and collaboration has gone into the design of our newborn, and it is exciting both as a company, and personally, to see Silver Spirit evolve through the final phases of her construction."

On 23 December, the all-suite luxury ship will embark on an 11-day "Holiday Spirit" maiden voyage, sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon, followed on 3 January by a 16-day "Maiden Crossing" from Lisbon to Fort Lauderdale, where a formal naming ceremony will be held on 21 January.
After the event, Silver Spirit will set a course for New York on a fascinating Grand Inaugural Voyage. During this magnificent 91-day "Spirit of South America" journey, guests will visit more than 45 ports in over 20 different countries and island destinations across two continents. Highlights include a visit to Rio de Janeiro in time for Carnival, a journey around the end of the earth at Cape Horn, an in-depth exploration of the Mexican Riviera and a crossing of the Panama Canal.

After completing her inaugural season, Silver Spirit will spend the summer in the Mediterranean and then reposition to the Caribbean for fall and winter cruises.

The 36,000-ton vessel will welcome 540 guests who shall indulge not only in the spaciousness of their suites, the largest in the fleet, 95% of which feature a private veranda but also in one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea (namely 6,700 cubic feet of personal space per guest). The décor designed by Italian architect Giacomo Mortola will lend a sophisticated 1930s Art Deco ambience to the public areas, and new wellness and dining venues further enhance the shipboard experience: a new 8,300 square feet (770 square metres) indoor/outdoor spa with a whirlpool (and another three by the pool), and a choice of no less than six restaurants, including an alternative venue for Asian-inspired fusion cuisine and an innovative supper club offering contemporary foods and all-night entertainment