Silversea Cruises' newest ultra-luxury ship, Silver Spirit, today welcomed guests aboard its maiden voyage, an 11-day "Holiday Spirit" cruise departing from Barcelona tomorrow and concluding in Lisbon after visiting Malaga, Gibraltar, Cadiz, Casablanca and Tangier.

"The delivery of Silver Spirit is an important milestone for our company and represents our commitment to the development of the Silversea brand," said Amerigo Perasso, Silversea's president and chief executive officer.  With her Art Deco touches lending a timeless elegance, this new flagship of our fleet represents an important evolution in the design of our vessels.  As guests step aboard Silver Spirit today, they will find a ship that continues our legacy of innovation, offering all our signature luxury amenities, plus more space, more dining options, and more unique features.  Although Silver Spirit is larger than her sister ships, she has the same intimate feel, relaxed ambiance, and sense of camaraderie so treasured by our international clientele.  I'm sure guests sailing on this maiden voyage, many of whom are repeat guests of Silversea, will feel right at home."
 
Perasso added, "We have heavily invested over the past few years in expanding and upgrading the fleet, a strategic decision that has helped us achieve record bookings this year.  Silversea will close 2009 with more than 70% of next year's revenue plan already in the books."
 
"I wish to express my deep gratitude to the entire team of professionals that contributed to the development of Silver Spirit, including those on Silversea's side, the teams at Fincantieri and V. Ships, and of course, the ship's architect, Giacomo Mortola.  Most of all, I am grateful to our shareholders for their continued support," concluded Perasso.

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 décor 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.