What was it that rocketed Silversea to be named Cruise Line of the Year by our judges? There was a whole ocean of factors.
Part of the draw was the almost one-to-one crew ratio, which helps every Silversea journey feel utterly effortless, and gives each guest the sense that every need is met without hesitation – sometimes before they even know what they require.
The judges were also impressed with Silversea’s personalisation: the way every restaurant manager remembers your name, every bartender knows how you like your Martini, and every pool attendant is ready with an extra towel the moment you step out of the jacuzzi.
The door-to-door service was also noted; a booking with Silversea means your entire journey, from shore to ship, is planned with concierge-level precision, so your only concern is remembering to pack your sunhat or beanie.
Then there are the staterooms, although “room” is a misnomer. Every accommodation on a Silversea ship is a spacious, oceanfront suite, and comes with attentive butler service (a daily caviar or canapé delivery is a must). Almost all ships – except selected expedition ships – have their own private balcony, which are perfect for sunset Champagne sessions or late-night, rugged-up hot chocolate.
The food is another huge drawcard. Each ship boasts multiple dining areas from the alfresco Mediterranean-style elegance of The Marquee, to the refined grace of French fine dining found at La Dame, or the most glamorous dinner and a show with live jazz at Silver Note.
Additionally, there’s Silversea’s unmatched destination-focused culinary program, S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Tastes) which introduces adventurous travellers on Silver Ray, Silver Nova, Silver Moon and Silver Dawn to the cuisines of the destinations they’re travelling to, both on and off ship. You might join a renowned Japanese sushi master for a cooking demonstration and unique sake-matched lunch in Osaka, or eat a Nordic tasting menu of mackerel and juniper-infused lamb at the S.A.L.T. Chef’s Table while sailing the Norwegian fjords.
But the real reason for Silversea’s win perhaps comes down to something a little more intangible. It’s an element regular Silversea devotees agree on when discussing their current and previous voyages with new and old friends over Margaritas in the open-air Dusk Bar or late-night amari in the Dolce Vita piano bar. Silversea has an atmosphere like no other cruise line. Luxury without stuffiness. Elegance without ennui. The shared sense that everyone who steps on board is curious and approachable and ready for adventure. That’s a feeling that money can’t buy.
All winners in the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards have been determined via an esteemed panel of industry experts, including Goumet Traveller editor Joanna Hunkin and seasoned travel contributors Michael Harden, Lee Tulloch, Alexandra Carlton and more.
How we pick the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards winners
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