Silversea Cruises rented an entire island in the Philippines to hold an event for about 300 cruise guests traveling aboard the Silver Shadow, according to a press release.

“This once-in-a-lifetime experience took two years of planning and preparation, and we are grateful to the local community for their invaluable support,” said Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s senior vice president of Expeditions, Destination and Itinerary Management.

“Utilizing our destination expertise, Silversea invests heavily in bespoke events for our guests’ enjoyment, connecting travelers with our planet’s most captivating cultures, communities, and landscapes. This is especially true of our World Cruise offering. Unlocking some of the most enriching experiences in the world for guests, these extended voyages include experiences that best showcase the most authentic aspects of each destination. Not only did our guests gain a deep insight into the local culture here on Kalanggaman Island, but we were able to benefit the local economy, helping to rebuild the island’s pontoon jetty and make other structural renovations that will improve the destination’s tourism infrastructure.” 

The special event was held at Kalanggaman Island on February 10 with travelers sailing on Silversea’s South Side Story World Cruise 2023 as guests. 

Two years in the making, this event featured the talent of over 500 residents of the Eastern Visayas region including performers, massage therapists, event planners, mixologists, chefs and hospitality professionals.

“The added value of special World Cruise events like these is truly what sets Silversea apart,” said Barbara Muckermann, Silversea’s president and CEO.

“And we have more in store for our guests on this amazing 139-day voyage, from a bespoke Freddie Mercury tribute show staged at a historic palace in Zanzibar to an exclusive evening performance at the Manaus Opera House in the Amazon, complete with champagne and canapés, among other experiences. There is simply no better way to explore the world.”

At the event, guests were greeted by traditional music and dance along with cocktails and a marienda (afternoon tea) featuring local delicacies. Guests had the opportunity to walk Kalanggaman’s sanded beaches, go swimming, relax and enjoy complimentary massages. In the evening, a multi-course dinner was served followed by a lively dance performance.

The South Side Story World Cruise 2023 included other special events such as wine-tasting at the Black Cottage Winery in Picton, New Zealand; a dance performance on Champagne Beach, Vanuatu; a fire dancing display in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea; and gastronomy and folklore in the Cave of Descending Dragons, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.