Silversea Cruises continues to set the gold standard for ultra-luxury expedition and expedition-style cruising among Irish travellers for the ninth year in a row at the Irish Travel Industry Awards.
As a multiple-time winner and perennial finalist in the Ultra Luxury Cruise Line of the Year category at the Irish Travel Industry Awards, organised by the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA), Silversea claimed the title in 2026 against finalists in the category Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea’s repeated recognition reflects its unmatched blend of intimacy, all-inclusive opulence, and access to the world’s most remote destinations.
Represented in Ireland by Amanda Middler and Lynda McCorry, Silversea’s presence in the Irish market centres on bespoke, small-ship voyages that appeal to affluent passengers seeking personalised adventure and refinement. Its fleet of nine ultra-luxury vessels, including expedition ships Silver Endeavour, Silver Wind, and Silver Cloud, carries between 100 and 596 guests, ensuring an exclusive atmosphere. Irish clients favour Northern Europe itineraries, which frequently feature Dublin, Cork, or Belfast as embarkation, transit, or call ports. These voyages explore Norway’s fjords, Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, Greenland’s icy wilderness, the Scottish islands, and the Faroe Islands, combining dramatic scenery with cultural depth through expert-led excursions and onboard enrichment.
For 2026, Silversea offers compelling programmes for Irish passengers. Highlights include multi-day voyages departing from or visiting Irish ports, such as the 11-day Dublin to Edinburgh itinerary on Silver Endeavour in spring 2026, which showcases enigmatic coastlines before venturing north. Pre- and post-cruise extensions in Dublin allow guests to savour the city’s literary heritage, historic sites, and vibrant pub culture. The line’s broader Northern Europe collection for 2025-2027 features dozens of sailings across more than 50 destinations, with emphasis on rare landings, wildlife observation, and sustainable exploration.
The ultra-luxury experience is all-inclusive by design. Every suite, nearly all with private verandas, comes with dedicated butler service, premium beverages, gourmet dining across multiple venues, gratuities, and select shore excursions. Speciality programmes such as S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) celebrate regional cuisines through local ingredients and chef-curated experiences, while expedition voyages include zodiac outings, kayaking, and lectures from naturalists, historians, and polar experts. This level of personalisation and immersion appeals to Irish travellers who value meaningful journeys over mass-market cruising.
Trade relationships underpin Silversea’s success in Ireland. The company collaborates closely with agents through dedicated support, familiarisation trips, and tailored marketing resources. Agents promote Silversea’s voyages as the pinnacle of luxury travel, leveraging the line’s reputation for excellence to attract high-net-worth clients. Financial protection under ITAA regulations and seamless booking processes further build confidence.
Sustainability remains a cornerstone of Silversea’s ethos. The fleet employs advanced environmental technologies, including low-emission propulsion and sophisticated waste management, while expeditions adhere to strict low-impact protocols in fragile ecosystems. These practices align with Ireland’s environmental commitments and resonate with passengers who prioritise responsible tourism.
Ireland’s ultra-luxury cruise segment continues to expand as affluent travellers seek unique, enriching holidays post-pandemic. Silversea’s small-ship intimacy, expert guiding, and comprehensive inclusions meet this demand precisely, drawing clients from Dublin, Cork, Galway, and beyond. Challenges such as weather variability in northern regions and high expectations for service are met with meticulous planning and unwavering attention to detail.
2026 awards
Previous winners
