Silversea offers cruisers "freedom of choice"

Silversea Cruises says it is introducing next year an exclusive new style of ultra-luxury cruise travel called "Privileged Passage."

"The company is planning to take things to the next level by offering guests even greater personal freedom and flexibility in customizing their own cruise experience to suit their personal lifestyle, while incorporating an expanded and enhanced array of complimentary amenities and benefits," the cruise company says.

Said Albert Peter, CEO:

"In order to attract more first-time and nontraditional cruisers, we want to completely break the mold of the conventional cruise vacation and change travelers' perceptions about the rigidity and formality often associated with cruising."

What elements will go into the new ships?

. Formal nights and receptions will be abolished.

. There will be extended open hours for fitness center and spa-goers.

. Early and Late Disembarkation at no additional cost will be offered.

. Tours will be shaped to make it easier for travelers to have more intimate contact with places and cultures.

. Entertainment will be more casual with contemporary bands, jazz ensembles and mix shows by disc jockeys from around the world.

The Privileged Passage program will debut next year on a test basis aboard Silver Whisper's Classic Reflections voyage, a 10-day cruise.