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Monday, February 4, 2013

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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Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Silver Explorer Encounters Rough Seas and Damage on Antarctic Voyage

Silversea Cruise Silver Explorer Encountered Rough Seas in Antarctic - She is seen here sailing in calmer waters.

On 1/16 Silversea Cruises announced that thier Expedition ship, Silver Explorer encountered rough seas while sailing to South Georgia and Antarctic.

The ship did suffer damage, but the cruise line was not forthcoming with the extent of the damage. The ship is reportedly sailing under her own power. Her propulsion and steering system is functioning as well as the generators for lights and heat. The ship is heading back to Ushuaia. Argentina and an exact arrival time has not been disclosed.

All of the 133 passengers and 113 crew are safe but 4 crew members were injured.Silversea has given passengers access to the internet to let family at home know they are safe.

The Silversea has stated that the next voyage for the Silver Explorer (scheduled to sail on 1/21) has been cancelled.

Unfortunately this part of the South Atlantic is know for its rough seas and numerous ships have sustained damage during the short season in these most southern waters.

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Thursday, December 13, 2012

Silversea Cruise Silver Galapagos Now Accepting Bookings

Silversea Cruises Silver Galapagos Now Open for Bookings

Luxury expedition cruise specialist Silversea has opened the books for its 2013 and 2014 Galápagos programs.

Its year-round schedule of 7-day expedition voyages aboard the 100-guest, all-suite Silver Galapagos will begin operating in late September 2013 featuring the following options:

Western Itinerary: Sailing Saturday to Saturday roundtrip from Baltra Island, Silver Galapagos will trace a path across the western, southern and eastern islands, including Santiago, Bartolomé, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, San Cristóbal, and Santa Cruz.

North Central Itinerary: Sailing Saturday to Saturday roundtrip from Baltra Island, this itinerary encompasses the northeast, central and southeast islands of Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Seymour Norte, San Cristóbal, Española, and Plazas Sur.

Fares start at $5,450 per person based on double occupancy.

The Galápagos schedule offers adventurous travelers the life-enriching chance to discover a wild, pristine paradise that has long been regarded as a natural laboratory of evolution. On complimentary expeditions ashore guided by an experienced expedition team (certified by the Galápagos National Park Service), Silversea's guests may experience up-close encounters with an abundance of wildlife that includes sun-basking land iguanas, giant tortoises, blue- and red-footed boobies, colorful marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins and Darwin's famous finches.

The program also offers opportunities to swim and snorkel in tranquil clear waters, witness unique highland ecosystems, hike through lush mangrove forests and across volcanic fields, explore natural lava tunnels, watch for wild flamingos (in season), read cave inscriptions from the 1800s, and learn about conservation efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

In true Silversea Expeditions style, the guests of Silver Galapagos will enjoy full-scale exploring from an enclave of luxury at sea that includes 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, and stocked in-suite beverage cabinet.

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Wednesday, November 14, 2012

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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Monday, November 5, 2012

Silversea Cruises' Silver Cloud to Undergo Refit at Italy's Fincantieri Shipyard

Silversea Cruises Silver Cloud

Starting this November, ultra-luxury Silver Cloud will welcome guests to a stylishly renovated shipboard environment brimming with a host of new enhancements.

A major stem-to-stern refurbishment will take place this month, with most of the work being completed during a three-week dry dock at Fincantieri's shipyard in Palermo, Italy. Overseeing the design and construction elements of the project is renowned Italian architect Giacomo Mortola.

The goal is to completely renovate Silver Cloud's interior decoration, including the suites, public spaces and dining venues, in order to introduce a fresh and contemporary classic atmosphere. Silversea is making a significant financial investment in this refurbishment to ensure its guests experience a renewed sense of luxury and comfort when sailing aboard Silver Cloud.

Highlights of Silver Cloud's makeover will include:

Refreshed Public Spaces: As soon as guests step aboard Silver Cloud, they will notice a totally renewed lobby displaying a color palette of warm earth tones that will be carried throughout most areas of the ship with the installation of stylish new carpets, wall treatments and artwork in the corridors, staircases and public spaces. Providing contrast to the main color scheme of the ship will be The Bar, which will be decorated in cooler shades of teal mixed with neutral tones of brown and beige. All new furniture, carpet, curtains and reconditioned wood flooring will give the Panorama Lounge a refreshed contemporary look, while The Spa and Beauty Salon will also get a makeover.

Dining Enhancements:

-- Le Champagne, the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea, will be completely transformed with an upgraded entrance design, the addition of gleaming, backlit wine displays, a redesigned seating layout, and new wood flooring, fabrics and window treatments.

--La Terrazza's updated interior will include a remodeled buffet area and handsome new banquettes along the walls, offering greater seating flexibility, including more tables for two.

--The Restaurant will be refreshed with chairs dressed in bright new fabrics, new window treatments and reconditioned hardwood flooring.

--The Grill, with its unique interactive dining concept, will now be featured aboard Silver Cloud as the existing Pool Bar and Grill area is expanded with additional seating, a large overhead awning, and the removal of the central stair unit, which will be replaced with a curving corner staircase. At this new outdoor restaurant, guests will enjoy an innovative dining experience that lets them cook prime meats and fresh seafood on heated volcanic rocks at their table.

Sophisticated New Decor for Suites: The sofas and chairs will be updated with new fabrics. All carpets, headboards, curtains and outside veranda furniture will be replaced. Each suite will have a new mattress custom-made exclusively for Silversea. The mattress will feature an individual spring system with a soft and firm side that can be reversed to suit each guest's preference. The new beds will be outfitted with plush new Pratesi sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers. All bathrooms will be enhanced with new flooring, marble appointments and either a new bath-and-shower combination or a new walk-in, glass-enclosed rainforest shower with sitting area, offering a soothing, spa-like experience. (This will replace the existing bath-and-shower combination in nearly 90% of the Veranda and Vista Suites). The Owner's and Grand Suites will be outfitted with a modern wet room bath configuration featuring a new rainforest shower that will be separate from the bathtub.

Upgraded Outdoor Spaces: The jogging track will feature all-new synthetic turf and the pool area will be outfitted with new deck furniture.

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

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Monday, October 29, 2012

Silversea Acquires Galapagos Tourism Company and Expedition Ship

The Silversea Group announced today that it has purchased Canodros SA, the premier Ecuadorian tourism company that operates in the Galapagos Islands, and their upmarket expedition ship, Galapagos Explorer II.

Silversea plans to add Galapagos Explorer II to its ultra-luxury fleet of six ships next year, after the all-suite, 100-guest vessel undergoes a major refurbishment in September 2013 and is given a new name, steps that will ensure consistency with the standards of the Silversea fleet.

Until that time, Galapagos Explorer II will continue on its planned schedule of cruises and will continue to be operated by Canodros, which is based in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Canodros will also continue handling reservations for Galapagos Explorer II, as well as sales and marketing through its established network of travel companies and tour operators.

The acquisition will enable the award-winning cruise company chaired by Manfredi Lefebvre to expand the Silversea Expeditions brand. Its existing expedition ship, Silver Explorer, is regularly deployed in the polar regions, and the addition of a second vessel, offering year-round unique luxury expedition cruises in the Galapagos archipelago, means Silversea will have the opportunity to offer the adventure traveller a broader portfolio of itineraries, encompassing some of the world's most desired and least explored regions.

The 4077-ton Galapagos Explorer II offers the stylish elegance of a mega-yacht, attentive onboard service and an enriching naturalist education program. All of its 50 spacious suites feature ocean views and 24 include private balconies. Public spaces include a restaurant, piano bar, library and Internet station, main lounge, outdoor bar, two outdoor whirlpools, and a marine observation deck.

Silversea Acquires Exploration Ship Galapagos Explorer II

Guests sailing aboard Galapagos Explorer II will continue to enjoy the same exciting itineraries, luxury accommodation, shipboard amenities, informative lectures and sustainable tourism for which Canodros is known.

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Monday, October 22, 2012

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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Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Luxury Cruise Operator Silversea Unveils 2014 World Cruise

Silversea Cruises 2014 World Cruise Onboard the Silver Whisper

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has taken the wraps off its World Cruise 2014, an incomparable 113-day odyssey from Los Angeles to Barcelona aboard Silver Whisper, January 6 to April 30, 2014.

Silversea celebrates its 20th anniversary next year and will launch the festivities with this far-reaching and stimulating exploration of the world -- now available for reservation.

Guests aboard World Cruise 2014 will journey in unrivaled luxury as they visit 54 destinations in 29 countries, enjoying 12 overnight stays along the way. Silver Whisper will follow a westward path across the Pacific to call on lush Polynesia and lands Down Under, including Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Australia and New Zealand. From there, the ship will sail up to the remote island of Koror and then head west to spend a month exploring fascinating Asian cultures -- from China, Japan, and Vietnam to Thailand, Singapore, and India -- including three days in Yangon, Myanmar. Silver Whisper will conclude her global tour calling on modern capitals and ancient cities in the Mediterranean.

"We designed the itinerary for next year's World Cruise based on input from our past guests," said Ellen Bettridge, Silversea's president of the Americas. "It's a world voyage crafted for connoisseurs. With several overnight visits and late-night departures, our guests will have plenty of time for in-depth cultural exploration in places that most travelers only dream about."

Since extended visits in port offer travelers the chance to truly immerse themselves in local culture, World Cruise 2014 will not only feature two-night stays in Yangon and Hong Kong, but overnight calls in Sydney, Cairns, Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, Singapore, Istanbul and Barcelona.

Silversea is offering guests the option to extend their World Cruise by adding a pre-cruise Panama Canal voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles (17 days), or extend from Barcelona to Lisbon (7 days) or Southampton (16 days).

A Host of Added-Value Amenities

Full World Cruise guests will enjoy a variety of special amenities, including a gala Bon Voyage evening at a luxury Beverly Hills hotel, baggage valet service, complimentary Business Class air and transfers (or air credit), a generous onboard spending credit, complimentary laundry service and commemorative gifts.

There will also be exclusive complimentary shoreside events:

--The Rising Dragon: This elegant evening event in Hong Kong will be hosted at the spectacularly situated Four Seasons Hotel, where guests will savor fine cuisine in a richly decorated setting that reflects both traditional and contemporary elements of this vibrant metropolis.

--Sunset Over Angkor Wat: From Bangkok guests will fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia, to explore the magnificent temple complex at Angkor Wat, enjoying overnight accommodations at a 5-star hotel, and dinner surrounded by colossal statues in the spectacular Bayon Temple.

--Supper in a Sultan's Palace: Highlighting this immersive experience in Istanbul is a panoramic cruise along the Bosphorus, bordering Asia and Europe, followed by an atmospheric dinner in the glorious Ciragan Palace, once home to powerful sultans of the Ottoman Empire.

Plus two complimentary Silversea Experiences will showcase the fascinating cultures of Fanning Island, Kiribati, and Alotau, Papua New Guinea.

Guests will also have the chance to meet and mingle with distinguished destination experts, academics, journalists, diplomats and other specialists. Local entertainment, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and regional specialties will provide further immersion in each global destination.

At Home Upon the Oceans of the World

The intimate Silver Whisper is the perfect escort to the far corners of the globe. She can sail along secluded waterways or into small harbors for authentic, life-changing encounters with nature, wildlife and the seldom-seen.

All-Inclusive Silversea distinctions include:

--Intimate, ultra-luxury ship for just 382 guests

--All-suite accommodations, over 80% with verandas

--Butler service for every suite

--Complimentary wines and spirits

--Included onboard gratuities

--Complimentary transportation to town (most ports)

Fares for World Cruise 2014 start at $54,550 per person, based on double occupancy. Click here to view the complete itinerary or visit Silversea.com/worldcruise2014.

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.

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 awarded "Best Cruise Line for Luxury Small Ships" by Luxury Travel Advisor (2011). International awards include "World's Leading Small Ships Cruise Line" from World Travel Awards (2010); "Five Star Diamond Award" from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (2011); "Number One" small-ship line in the Readers' Choice survey conducted by Britain's Condé Nast Traveller magazine (2010); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" Excellence Award by Spain's Cruise News Media Group (2009); "Best Luxury Cruise Line" by Australia's Luxury Travel & Style Magazine (2011); and "Best Small Luxury Cruise Line" according to China's Travel & Leisure magazine (2011).

Monday, May 21, 2012

SilverSea Cruises Announces 2013 - 115 Day World Cruise

SilverSea Cruises Silver Whisper - 2013 World Cruise

Bestselling novelists Mary Higgins Clark and Lynne Truss are set to join an eclectic array of prominent guest speakers sailing aboard Silver Whisper's World Cruise in 2013, an epic 115-day journey from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, departing 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 a realm 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.

"We're delighted to offer our World Cruise guests an onboard enrichment program that is as extraordinary as the exotic destinations and ancient cultures they will visit," said Ellen Bettridge, Silversea's president of the Americas. "We're lining up professors and celebrated personalities from around the globe to share insights on a diverse range of topics that will both entertain and enlighten our guests."

To complement what is arguably the ultimate globetrotting experience, Silversea has already tapped the following guest lecturers:

Mary Higgins Clark: Known as America's Queen of Suspense, this worldwide bestselling author -- whose books have sold over one hundred million copies in the U.S. alone -- will sail Voyage 4304, February 25 - March 8, Hong Kong - Singapore.

Lynne Truss: This humorist and author, whose bestselling book Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation has sold over three million copies, is slated to sail Voyage 4303, February 4 - 25, Sydney - Hong Kong.

Nigel West: Renowned military historian specializing in intelligence, counterintelligence and security issues, whose many books include At Her Majesty's Secret Service, will sail Voyage 4307, April 5 - May 1, Cape Town - Fort Lauderdale.

Terry Waite: In 1987, negotiating the release of hostages in Beirut as special envoy for the Archbishop of Canterbury, Waite was himself taken hostage and held in captivity for 1,763 days. He is slated to sail Voyages 4301 - 4302, January 5 - February 4, Los Angeles to Sydney.

Michael Buerk: One of Britain's leading broadcast journalists, BBC news correspondent and anchor for more than thirty years. His coverage of the Ethiopian famine alerted the world to the tragedy. He will sail Voyages 4301 - 4302, January 5 - February 4, Los Angeles to Sydney.

Tony Leon: A former member and leader of the opposition in South Africa's parliament, in 2009 he was appointed the country’s ambassador to Argentina. He will sail Voyage 4306, March 24 - April 5, Mauritius - Cape Town.

Philip Hurst: Historian and world affairs expert, this former deputy director of The Australian Institute of International Affairs will sail Voyage 4307, April 5 - May 1, Cape Town - Fort Lauderdale.

Thomson Smillie: This opera impresario, who has produced over one hundred operas and stage directed over thirty productions with companies in Europe and North America, will sail Voyages 4301 - 4302, January 5 - February 4, Los Angeles to Sydney.

Dr. Mark H. Elovitz: The internationally acclaimed world affairs commentator and lecturer, who served as a professor of law, a litigator, government advisor, historian and U.S. Air Force officer, will sail Voyage 4306, March 24 - April 5, Mauritius - Cape Town.

Click here for more information on World Cruise 2013 or visit Silversea.com/worldcruise2013.

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Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Silversea Offers Discounts on Select 2012 Cruises

Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises has announced new lower fares on select voyages sailing March to November 2012, including a few expedition voyages.

The new fares are available on dozens of sailings spanning the globe from Africa, Asia and the Americas to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. And sweetening the deal are Onboard Spending Credits from $500 to $1,000 per suite available on these same voyages (with the exception of expedition cruises). The credits may be applied toward a host of onboard purchases, including shore excursions, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, Internet packages, personal fitness training, and more.

Renowned for its luxurious small ships, personalized service and exotic destinations, Silversea is regularly lauded by travel magazines and guidebooks from around the world. Just last month the company was honored with two major awards: "Best Cruise Line for Luxury Small Ships" by the travel agent readers of Luxury Travel Advisor in the U.S., and "Best Luxury Cruise Company" by the travel agent readers of Travel Weekly in the U.K.

"With these new lower fares, we're offering travelers an irresistible opportunity to experience a luxury cruise vacation this year," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "We're combining an award-winning cruise experience with exceptional savings and generous Onboard Spending Credits, making this the perfect time to reserve a Silversea cruise."

Following is a small sampling of the several dozen 2012 voyages now offering new lower fares:

ALASKA

Voyage 3215: Silver Shadow departs Vancouver June 7 on a 7-day sailing to Seward with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka. Fares start at $3,199 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $500 per suite.

ASIA

Voyage 3211: Silver Shadow departs Tokyo April 25 on an 11-day sailing to Shanghai with calls in Hiroshima, Busan, Jeju, Dalian and Tianjin (Beijing). Fares start at $3,899 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

CARIBBEAN

Voyage 5209: Silver Spirit departs Fort Lauderdale April 3 on a 9-day sailing to Barbados with calls in Tortola, St. Barts, Grenada, St. Lucia and Kingstown. Fares start at $2,499 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 7209: Silver Explorer departs Colón, Panama April 4 on a 10-day expedition cruise to Barbados with calls in San Blas Island, Cartagena, Santa Marta, Los Roques, Port of Spain and Bequia. Fares start at $2,999 per person.

MEDITERRANEAN

Voyage 5211A: Silver Spirit departs May 5 on a 12-day voyage sailing roundtrip from Monte Carlo with calls in Malta, Crete, Rhodes, Bodrum, Santorini, Sicily, Sorrento and Elba. Fares start at $3,899 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 1213: Silver Cloud departs Monte Carlo May 8 on a 12-day sailing to Rouen (Paris) with calls in Cartagena, Málaga, Portimão, Lisbon, Santander, Bordeaux and Guernsey. Fares start at $3,499 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 2230: Silver Wind departs Athens September 24 on a 7-day sailing to Venice with calls in Monemvasia, Corfu, Kotor and Split. Fares start at $1,999 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $500 per suite.

NORTHERN EUROPE

Voyage 1214: Silver Cloud departs Rouen (Paris) May 20 on a 10-day sailing to Copenhagen with calls in Oostende, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Travemünde (Lübeck), Warnemünde (Rostock) and Rønne (Bornholm). Fares start at $3,199 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $1,000 per suite.

Voyage 4222: Silver Whisper departs Stockholm August 23 on a 7-day sailing to Copenhagen with calls in Tallinn, St. Petersburg (3-day/2-night stopover) and Helsinki. Fares start at $2,999 per person, and include an Onboard Spending Credit of $500 per suite.

Fares listed above are cruise-only, per-person rates, based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite. New reduced fares that include economy class airfare and transfers are also available from select gateways in the U.S. and Canada. The fares are capacity controlled and subject to availability.

For more information and a complete list of voyages offering the new lower fares, go to http://www.silversea.com/specialoffers/?specialoffer=12803.

About Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises 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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Friday, January 27, 2012

Silversea Cruises Offers Wine Series Enrichment Program on Select Voyages

Silversea Cruises has tapped renowned wine experts Lyn Farmer and Richard Nurick to host a Wine Series enrichment program on six voyages this year.

Farmer is a widely published wine and food writer and senior editor of The Wine News magazine, and has been honored with the James Beard Foundation Award for best writing on wine and spirits. He has judged international wine competitions and led tastings and tours to food and wine regions throughout the world.

Richard Nurick, a retired London wine merchant, is a distinguished wine judge and lecturer who has taught wine appreciation courses at Newbury and Henley colleges in the U.K. He is currently a full judge with the International Wine Challenge, a prestigious global competition open to all wines sold in Britain.

"Our Wine Series voyages are a great way for guests to broaden their understanding and appreciation for fine wines," said Steve Tucker, Silversea's vice president of field sales for North America. "We're delighted to have such acclaimed wine lecturers as Lyn Farmer and Richard Nurick on hand this year to conduct the wine presentations on these special voyages."

On each wine-themed cruise, discerning travelers with a passion for fine wines will enjoy sampling great vintages and learning about the tradition and art of winemaking in special tastings and lectures. Depending on the itinerary, guests may also have the chance to explore some of the world's most celebrated wine regions on optional guided shore excursions.

The following Wine Series voyages will be hosted by Lyn Farmer:

Voyage 3203: Silver Shadow departs Auckland February 4 on a 19-day sailing to Fremantle (Perth) with calls in Napier, Wellington, Picton, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Port Lincoln, and Albany. Silver Savings fares start at $10,599.

Voyage 4210: Silver Whisper departs Monte Carlo May 1 on a 12-day sailing to Southampton with calls in Palma de Mallorca, Cadiz, Portimao, La Coruña, Bilbao, Bordeaux and Le Verdon. Silver Savings fares start at $6,099.

Voyage 1220: Silver Cloud departs London August 13 on a 14-day sailing to Monte Carlo with calls in Saint-Malo, Bordeaux, Bilbao, Lisbon, Cadiz, Malaga and Sete. Silver Savings fares start at $8,099.

Voyage 1232: Silver Cloud departs Buenos Aires December 22 on a 16-day sailing to Valparaiso (Santiago) with calls in Montevideo, Punta del Este, Puerto Madryn, Stanley (Falkland Islands), Punta Arenas, Laguna San Rafael, Puerto Chacabuco and Puerto Montt. Silver Savings fares start at $9,999.

And Richard Nurick will host the following:

Voyage 4220A: Silver Whisper departs Southampton July 26 on a 9-day sailing to Lisbon with calls in Bordeaux, St. Jean de Luz, Bilbao, Gijon, La Coruña and Vigo. Silver Savings fares start at $6,299.

Voyage 4220B: Silver Whisper departs Lisbon August 4 on a 9-day sailing to Southampton with calls in Oporto (Leixoes), Bilbao, Bordeaux, Saint-Malo and Honfleur. Silver Savings fares start at $6,299.

Fares listed above are per person, based on double occupancy for a Vista Suite. Silver Savings is a capacity-controlled program and subject to availability.

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Monday, January 9, 2012

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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