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Silversea charts its first full summer season in Polynesia

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Silversea's Conrad Combrink asserted the 392-passenger Silver Whisper will be the most luxurious cruise ship in French Polynesia
In 2026 Silversea Cruises will offer its first full summer season in French Polynesia.

Seventeen voyages will sail round-trip Papeete, Tahiti on the 392-passenger Silver Whisper between April and September.

Two itineraries, crafted following an extensive scouting mission, visit 11 destinations in three of the region’s five archipelagos — the Society, Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands.

Multiple nights in destinations

Silver Whisper will spend multiple nights in port across seven- and 14-day cruises and offer a traditional barbecue at a private motu (islet) on each itinerary.

Conrad Combrink, SVP expeditions, destination and itinerary management, said Silversea’s rapid increase in capacity opened opportunities for deeper immersion into regions such as French Polynesia.

'There is no better way to experience these idyllic islands and atolls than by ship,' he continued, asserting 'there is no better ship to connect travelers meaningfully with each destination than Silver Whisper, which is set to become the most luxurious ship to sail in the region.'

A week in the Society Islands

The shorter of the two itineraries delves into the Society Islands, offering the quintessential French Polynesian experience. Silver Whisper calls at Moorea, Raiatea (overnight), Huahine and Bora Bora (overnight). Three late departures maximize time in Papeete, Moorea and Huahine.

Destination immersion includes going aboard a traditional boat in Bora Bora to learn about the important role of storytelling in local culture and how early navigators used the stars to sail the Pacific Ocean. In Huahine, travelers can join a cultural nature walk to discover archaeological sites. In Huahine, as well as Moorea and Bora Bora, there will be opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters to see abundant species of fish and corals.

Society, Tuamoto and Marquesas Islands in 14 days

Silver Whisper's two-week cruise contrasts the iconic, mountainous terrain of the Society Islands with the remote atolls and in-water opportunities of the Tuamotus, adding the cultural offering and community encounters of the Marquesas Islands.

Passengers will visit Moorea, Raiatea (overnight), Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona, Tahuata, Rangiroa and Bora Bora.

Whales, culinary traditions, biking

Travelers on both itineraries can spot whales (August-November), accompanied by expert guides; learn about local culinary traditions in a test kitchen in Moorea; and discover Raiatea by electric bicycle, among other experiences.

21-day Easter Island cruise

Additionally, a 21-day Easter Island sailing departing Valparaíso, Chile on March 16, 2026 and two combination voyages broaden the travel options.