With a long-standing reputation for exceptional service, commitment to high standards and over 800 destinations to explore on all seven continents, you may be surprised to know that Silversea remains a family-run company, still owned and operated in Rome as it always has been. The company was founded in 1994 to provide small, luxury all-suite ships large enough to be comfortable for ocean crossings yet small enough to reach small islands and ports. Its Italian background makes for stylish ships – some of the most sophisticated on the seas.

Sail with Silversea and you’ll travel to intriguing ports in extraordinary style, whether you choose a Mediterranean voyage or an expedition to the far reaches of the globe; perhaps the volcanic Kuril Islands in eastern Russia, often isolated from the rest of the world by winter ice, or the mist-shrouded ports of South East Asia, docking alongside crowded sampans and rice drying in the sun. With a rich and varied choice of shore excursions you can design your holiday around your travel personality, making your cruise as action-packed or laid-back as you please.

Personalisation comes down to an art form in your cabin, too, with dinner served in your suite by your butler, your choice of pillow from a thoughtfully curated menu, personalised stationery for your correspondence and a bar stocked with all your favourite beverages. With surroundings this sumptuous and service that means you won’t have to lift a finger (unless you want to), you’ll find it very hard to leave your new home at sea.