Silversea Unveils French Polynesia Sailings

(PRESS RELEASE)_(Miami, FL -- December 5, 2023) Responding to strong guest demand, Silversea™ has announced its first-ever full summer season in French Polynesia, opening an exclusive pre-sale on 17 voyages between April and September 2026 aboard Silver Whisper® — the most luxurious ship to sail in the region. Curated by Silversea’s destination experts following an extensive scouting mission in the region, the leading ultra-luxury travel brand will operate two itineraries in rotation, offering deep immersion into 11 of some of the world’s most remote destinations in three of the region’s five archipelagos — the Society, Tuamotu, and Marquesas Islands.

“Silversea’s rapid increase in capacity has opened opportunities for even deeper immersion into the world’s most enriching regions, such as French Polynesia,” said Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s SVP Expeditions, Destination and Itinerary Management. “There is no better way to experience these idyllic islands and atolls than by ship, and there is no better ship to connect travelers meaningfully with each destination that Silver Whisper, which is set to become the most luxurious ship to sail in the region. In addition to being the most spacious ship deployed to French Polynesia, she will have the most personalized service, with a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.3 and butler service for every suite. Our all-inclusive door-to-door offering, meanwhile, will enable our guests to focus on simply immersing themselves into the destinations and savoring the experience.” 
 
Spread over a region similar in size to continental Europe, French Polynesia comprises 118 islands and atolls, combining world-renowned natural beauty with iconic wildlife experiences and unique cultural encounters. Appealing to curious travelers who are eager to journey beyond the region’s idyllic landscapes, Silver Whisper’s new voyage collection will unlock many of the most enriching experiences available in the South Pacific, enabling travelers to embrace the culture of mana and form authentic connections with local communities. Traveling slowly to immerse guests deep into each destination, Silversea’s 392-guest ship will spend multiple nights in destinations across her seven- and 14-day sailings, offering travelers more time to explorer ashore than the region’s existing cruise offering.
 
TWO IMMERSIVE ITINERARIES, 17 SAILINGS, COUNTLESS EXPERIENCES
 
From April 6, 2026, Silver Whisper will undertake 17 voyages in French Polynesia, homeporting out of Papeete, Tahiti. A mark of the brand’s destination leadership, Silversea’s destination experts spent months scouting the region to identify the very best islands and atolls in which to call, as well as the most engaging experiences for guests. Travelers can choose from seven- or 14-night itineraries – both of which foster meaningful connections with the destination:

• SEVEN DAYS: THE SOCIETY ISLANDS

The shorter of the two itineraries sees Silver Whisper journey among the Society Islands’ most iconic destinations, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems. Formed by volcanoes and fringed by beautiful coral reefs, the islands of the Society Archipelago are characterized by towering mountains and white-sanded atolls, offering the quintessential French Polynesian experience. From Papeete, Tahiti, guests will journey to Moorea, Raiatea on an overnight call, Huahine, and Bora Bora overnight. Three late departures maximize guests’ time in Papeete, Moorea, and Huahine, enabling them to connect with the rich Polynesian culture, captivating local traditions, and the region’s 3,000-year history. Hosted by an expert guide aboard a traditional boat in Bora Bora, guests will learn about the important role of storytelling in local culture and how early navigators used the stars to sail through the Pacific Ocean. In Huahine, travelers can join a cultural nature walk to discover the archaeological sites of the village of Maeva, while admiring tropical plants and stunning treetop views of the coastline. In Moorea, Bora Bora, and Huahine, guests can snorkel in crystal-clear waters for the chance to witness hundreds of fish species and corals. Guests will also have the option of relaxing on a private island or motu, enjoying a traditional barbeque and local music. 

• 14 DAYS: THE SOCIETY, TUAMOTU, AND MARQUESAS ISLANDS

Guests in search of a longer, more encompassing sailing need only look to Silver Whisper’s 14-day voyage, which combines the very best aspects of the great diversity of French Polynesia. The iconic, mountainous terrain of the Society Islands contrasts with the remote atolls and in-water opportunities of the Tuamotus, while the cultural offering and community encounters of the Marquesas Islands, one of the most far-flung archipelagos in the world, offers yet another element of enrichment. Departing from Papeete, Tahiti, guests will explore Moorea, Raiatea on an overnight call, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona, Tahuata, Rangiroa, and Bora Bora, before returning to Papeete. As well as discovering the iconic peaks of the Society Islands and snorkeling to admire the archipelago’s abundant marine life, guests on both itineraries can spot whales (August-November), accompanied by expert guides; learn about local culinary traditions in a test kitchen in Moorea; and discover Raiatea by electric bicycle, among other immersive experiences. As on the seven-day itinerary, guests will also have the chance to relax on a private island, as a highlight experience. 
 
Additionally, a 21-day Easter Island sailing, departing Valparaiso on March 16, and two combination voyages broaden the regional offering for guests.
 
SILVER WHISPER: THE MOST LUXURIOUS SHIP TO SAIL IN FRENCH POLYNESIA
 
Silversea’s Silver Whisper is set to become the most luxurious ship to sail in the region. She will be the most spacious ship in French Polynesia, with a space ratio of 72 GRT-per-guest and will welcome travelers in the largest guest accommodations. She will offer the most personalized service too, with a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.3 and butler service for every suite – the only ship in French Polynesia to provide this benefit to every guest. Four dining options and six bars and lounges enhance the luxury of choice for guests, while Silversea’s comprehensive all-inclusive offering and door-to-door service will provide a uniquely seamless experience for the entirety of the voyage, enabling guests to focus on immersing themselves into the trip of a lifetime.
 
View all voyages in Silversea’s new French Polynesia collection:
https://www.silversea.com/lp-leader-in-luxury-cruising-french-polynesia-and-pacific-1.html
 
Watch a video on Silversea’s new French Polynesia voyage collection:
https://youtu.be/xYGRHL56bIU