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Sponsored by Silversea
When we imagine the Mediterranean Sea, we think of glittering water, rocky coves with sunworshippers stretched out under striped umbrellas, colourful hillside villages, fascinating historic sites, and chic little waterfront bars where a Spritz is obligatory in the afternoons.
One of the best ways to avoid the crowds, savour the beauty of the coastline, and feast on the famed local cuisine, is to explore the Mediterranean with ultra-luxury cruise line Silversea. Silversea operates a fleet of stylish, small ships that can navigate the tiny ports that give the region its unforgettable charm. Founded by Italians and sailing with a distinctly Italian flavour, Silversea’s heritage is Mediterranean, which means it has a unique understanding of the region, its landscapes and rich culture.
Reflecting its commitment to the destination, Silversea has introduced new ports, new itineraries, and a program of impressive culinary adventures through its highly regarded S.A.L.T (Sea and Land Taste) program.
Recognising the eternal appeal of this fabled part of the world, in 2024 Silversea is visiting an impressive 111 Mediterranean destinations, across 20 countries, offering several iconic itineraries, including the Greek Isles and Turkey, six voyages to the Holy Land and, in September 2024, a much-awaited return to Ibiza and the gorgeous Balearic Islands.
In the summer of 2025, Silversea will further increase its presence in the Mediterranean with 84 voyages on six ships, including the fleet’s newest addition, Silver Ray, which launches in summer 2024. Silver Ray, like the ground-breaking Silver Nova, is a new class of ship that is designed to be more immersive in its surroundings, with increased outdoor space for warm-weather sailing. Expect expanded and diversified experiences with brand new itineraries for Silver Spirit and Silver Whisper that take guests off the beaten track in the Greek Islands, adding ports Silversea hasn’t visited before and other cruise lines often ignore, such as the rarely visited Milos.
Silversea believes the soul of a destination can be discovered through its food and culinary traditions. In 2020 it launched its lauded S.A.L.T culinary program on Silver Moon, rolling it out since on Silver Dawn, Silver Nova and the forthcoming Silver Ray. S.A.L.T is not merely the occasional cooking class or chef’s market tour, but a dive into the flavours, tastes and traditions of the destinations the Silversea ships visit. Overseen by former Saveur Editor-in-Chief Adam Sachs, it’s unique in luxury cruising for taking a holistic approach, bringing together different elements of food culture, from workshops and tastings to collaborations and with famous chefs and excursions to local restaurants, wineries and farms.
Guests can take part in cooking classes at the lavishly equipped S.A.L.T Lab and join an extensive programme of chef’s tours on each voyage, tailored to each location, which prioritise intimate conversations with local food experts, home cooks and renowned chefs. S.A.L.T Lab also offers an immersive culinary experience for 20 guests, who dine in the open kitchen on a choreographed menu of small plates, reflecting the chef’s creative expression. The restaurant S.A.L.T Kitchen serves an ever-changing menu according to the destination, devoted to the flavours of the region and to regional wines, spirits and brews. The fabulous S.A.L.T Bar is mixology heaven, with the clever bar tenders drawing on local plants and herbs to concoct their cocktails.
Inspired by the traditional baths of ancient Rome, Silversea’s elegant Otium spa creates a haven of sensory pleasure aboard Silver Moon, Silver Dawn, Silver Nova and Silver Ray, with customised body treatments and supercharged facials, as well as the complimentary use of the steam room, whirlpool, sauna and a quiet sundeck for relaxation. There’s a well-equipped Fitness Centre with a daily program of exercise classes plus personal training options. All this is complimented by in-room experiences, such as bathing rituals, sleep programmes, healthy menus and enhanced sunbathing on individual suite verandas, boosting vitality in a true Mediterranean fashion.
Is the Mediterranean calling your name? Take a look at the luxury Silversea cruises we have on offer now.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
