The festivities showcased the talents of more than 500 residents of the Eastern Visayas region, from performers, hospitality professionals and event planners to massage therapists, mixologists and chefs.
Hosted for passengers on the ‘South Side Story’ world cruise, the event which took place on February 10 was two years in the making.
Helping to rebuild infrastructure
‘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 SVP of expeditions, destination and itinerary management. ‘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.’
Highlights
Silver Shadow passengers were welcomed by traditional music and dance, cocktails and a marienda (afternoon tea) featuring Filipino delicacies as they disembarked on Kalanggaman Island, which is nestled between the Cebu and Leyte in the Visayan Sea.
They strolled Kalanggaman’s sandy beaches, swam, relaxed in hammocks and daybeds, and were given complimentary massages on the beach.
In the evening, passengers were served a multi-course dinner featuring local specialities under the stars.
The event concluded with a lively dance performance.
‘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.’
Other events on Silversea’s 2023 South Side Story world cruise have included a bespoke wine-tasting event at the Black Cottage Winery in Picton, New Zealand, an authentic dance performance on Champagne Beach, Vanuatu, a fire dancing display in Rabaul, Papua New Guinea, and fine gastronomy and folklore in the Cave of Descending Dragons, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
Upcoming world cruises
Silversea’s 132-day ‘Far East-West’ world cruise in 2024 will see passengers sail the Pacific to some of the planet’s most extreme destinations. They will depart San Francisco aboard Silver Shadow on January 15, 2024 before calling at 65 destinations across 14 countries.
Silver Dawn’s 136-day ‘Controtempo’ world cruise will leave Tokyo for New York on January 13, 2025 and include iconic and off-the-beaten-path destinations during unconventional seasons. It will comprise immersive experiences with locals, with compelling stories shared, as part of the voyage which will span 59 destinations in 30 countries, across four continents.
‘Utilising our destination expertise, Silversea invests heavily in bespoke events for our guests’ enjoyment, connecting travellers with our planet’s most captivating cultures, communities, and landscapes. This is especially true of our world cruise offering,’ added Combrink. ‘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…’
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