In 2011, for the very first time, Silversea’s new Silver Spirit will embark on a full World Cruise traversing both hemispheres.

This grandest of voyages, appropriately themed “Spirit of Discovery,” begins in Los Angeles on January 19, when Silver Spirit is set to welcome no more than 540 privileged guests for a 119-day odyssey exploring 60 destinations in 25 countries — with 11 overnight port visits — before concluding in Southampton on May 19. Along the journey, Silver Spirit will take in the tranquillity of French Polynesia, Australia’s untamed landscapes, the unique customs and cultures of Asia, ancient Egyptian wonders and timeless Mediterranean hideaways spanning from Italy and Monaco to Spain and Portugal.

To offer guests aboard this far-reaching voyage an opportunity to gain a closer look at the regions they visit, Silversea is hosting four complimentary World Cruise Events for guests sailing the full 119-day itinerary. These exclusive, custom-designed events include the chance to explore the history and sample some of Australia’s premier wines at the original Penfolds winery, Magill Estate, and the National Wine Center in Adelaide; savor a Thai-themed gala dinner, staying overnight in the private Krungthep Wing of the five-star Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok; experience the exuberance of a traditional souk in Dubai, enjoying a festive dinner set amid the dunes of the Arabian desert as the sun sets; and attend a private opening of Barcelona’s renowned Picasso Museum, with plenty of time to explore its treasures at a leisurely pace, without the usual crowds.

“A Silversea World Cruise is truly the ultimate travel experience,” said Kenneth Watson, Silversea’s chief operating officer. “Not only will our guests have the chance to visit incredible destinations and explore fascinating cultures, but aboard our new Silver Spirit they’ll also enjoy an unmatched level of pampering and personalized service set in a stunning 1930s Art Deco-inspired environment.”

Guests aboard Inaugural World Cruise 2011 will enjoy spacious, ocean-view accommodations, sumptuous gourmet cuisine served in six dining venues, the personalized service of a butler assigned to every suite, and Silversea’s generous selection of all-inclusive shipboard amenities, including complimentary beverages, wines and spirits served throughout the ship, 24-hour room service, stocked in-suite beverage cabinet and all gratuities.

In addition to the four complimentary World Cruise Events ashore and a 5% Extended Voyage Savings, the following complimentary amenities will also be available to guests who book the full 119-day cruise: an overnight stay on January 19 on board Silver Spirit, including a Bon Voyage Gala cocktail reception and dinner; eight Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment); baggage handling service between guest’s home and ship in Los Angeles and Southampton; a $2,000 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite); roundtrip Business Class Air and private car transfers (airport/ship/airport); and special commemorative gift. Fares start at $61,924 per person, based on double occupancy.

Guests may also travel on shorter segments, enjoying the following benefits:

Sail 58 – 117 days:
— 5% Extended Voyage Savings
— $1,000 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite)
— Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment)

Sail 45 – 57 days:
— 5% Extended Voyage Savings
— $500 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite)
— Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment)

Sail 30 – 44 days:
— 5% Extended Voyage Savings
— $250 Onboard Spending Credit (per double-occupancy suite)
— Silversea Experiences ashore (one per voyage segment)