In a global world of continually merging, multi-national conglomerates, Silversea Cruises is owned and operated by one family — the Lefebvres of Rome. That means genuine pride in ownership and a true Italian passion for embracing the best of life. And that also means a deep commitment to maintaining the high standards of cruise excellence that have been the cornerstone of Silversea from the very beginning.

Silversea is recognised as the defining luxury cruise experience. In the early 1990s, the Lefebvre family conceived and organised this unique, luxury cruise line, pledging to build and operate the highest quality ships in the ultra-luxury segment and to offer a product unlike any other. Silversea launched its first ship in 1994, thus creating a new niche for the ultra-luxury travel market with a class of smaller, purpose-built vessels that could slip into more exotic ports off the beaten path.

These elite and intimate ships are specifically designed for fewer guests, featuring more space and the highest levels of personalised service. Accommodations are amongst the largest at sea; all have ocean views and butler service and most feature private verandas.

Dining is an exquisite affair with open-seating options so guests dine when, where and with whom they desire. But what is also unique is that although the ships are intimate, they incorporate amenities usually found only on larger ships, such as an elaborate show lounge featuring nightly entertainment, casino, and state-of-the-art spa and fitness facilities. As an innovator in the ultra-luxury cruise segment with all-inclusive pricing and an unmatched onboard lifestyle, Silversea is the preferred luxury cruise line among modern affluent travellers from across the globe - providing for a convivial cosmopolitan ambience and yet another unique Silversea distinction.

Following the launch of Silver Cloud in 1994, Silver Wind in 1995, Silver Shadow in 2000 and Silver Whisper in 2001, Silversea introduced Silversea Expeditions aboard the Silver Explorer in 2008, offering the uncommon experience of authentic adventure combined with signature Silversea luxury. In late 2009, Silver Spirit debuted as Silversea's beautiful new flagship. In 2011, the expedition ship name was changed to Silver Explorer to better reflect the fleetwide luxury and more clearly describe the adventurous style of cruising unique to this vessel. Together, these magnificent Silversea cruise ships offer an expansive schedule of worldwide voyages that encompass all seven continents.

Silversea caters to the cosmopolitan world traveller and maintains branch offices in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Singapore. The company's headquarters are based in Monaco.