11 and Greenland during the summer season provide the chance for guests to see musk ox, reindeer, seals, walrus, Arctic foxes and other wildlife, visit Inuit communities and learn about Viking history in Southern Greenland. Silversea also operates voyages to the Galapagos Islands, sailing from San Cristóbal Island onboard Silver Origin, the brand’s only ship designed specifically for a destination. Guests can research the Galapagos in Silver Origin’s Basecamp lounge before they step onboard one of its eight Zodiacs to explore the islands, led by a team of Ecuadorian national expert guides. “There is real intrigue and fascination about the Galapagos Islands and the renowned region is highly favoured among guests,” he says. “The 19-island archipelago is one of the strangest, most surreal and truly breathtaking places to visit on Earth. Here, the wildlife is unafraid of humankind, which means there are always unparalleled sighting opportunities for every guest.” Silversea continues to expand its itinerary programme and, alongside its expedition voyages, has several new ocean cruises planned for 2025. Silver Nova is set to complete a 47-day circumnavigation of Australia, while Silver Ray will undertake a 71-day journey around South America. In April, Silver Wind will sail along the West Coast of Africa, taking guests to rarely visited destinations such as Takoradi, Abidjan and the Bijagos Archipelago. When asked to define the experience offered by a Silversea itinerary, Combrink highlights the appeal of its remote destinations to a particular kind of traveller. “A Silversea expedition itinerary always resonates with those looking for off-the-beaten-track travel and selfenrichment,” he says. “Guests want once-in-a-lifetime experiences that can only be delivered through years of expertise, solid partnerships and collaborations with communities around the world, and the means to get there – and to do so in true luxury! He also points to the opportunities Silversea provides to learn more about these outstanding destinations as another favourite feature for guests. “On each Silversea expedition voyage, we have a brilliant team of handpicked expedition experts – including marine biologists, geologists, scientists, historians, and cultural specialists – who share their passion and in-depth knowledge of the destinations with our guests,” he says. “This, for many, is a highlight of their trip.” Combrink has been at Silversea for a total of 17 years, having started as head of expedition planning when the cruise line first launched its luxury expedition cruise concept. He says the brand has evolved during that time but has maintained an unwavering commitment to exploration and innovation. “There is still so much of the world to discover!” he says. “In 2023, 15 of our most seasoned expedition leaders and explorers spent two weeks on a deep-dive scouting mission in Antarctica, which resulted in us identifying 12 new landing sites. We’ve welcomed advanced ships too, such as Silver Endeavour and Silver Origin, both of which deliver unequalled experiences in unique comfort. “Due to developments like these, our offering has evolved over the years, with more destinations and stronger expertise in each region. We go to exceptional lengths to curate incredible experiences for our guests, ensuring that each traveller disembarks feeling deeply enriched by the places they visit, the moments they enjoy and the people they meet.” KEYNOTE The Galapagos Islands offer unparalleled opportunities for sightseeing, says Conrad Combrink Photo: Silversea
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