Silver Nova, Silversea’s pioneering Nova-class ship, made its maiden call in Hong Kong on 24 October 2024, marking its debut in Asia. The ship is currently hosting Silversea’s 2024 Venetian Society Reunion voyage, which began in Tokyo on 15 October and will conclude in Singapore on 31 October.
A key highlight of this year’s reunion voyage was an exclusive event at Hong Kong’s Wine & Dine Festival at the Central Harbourfront, offering VIP access to Venetian Society members. This event, achieved through close collaboration between Silversea and the Hong Kong Tourism Board, marks the first such large-scale partnership of its kind.
Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea, who joined the Venetian Society Reunion voyage in Hong Kong, welcomed Silversea’s guests to this special event on the Central Harbourfront.
“I am delighted to host my first Venetian Society Reunion voyage as president of Silversea, celebrating our guests’ loyalty aboard our beautiful Silver Nova,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. “It’s particularly special being back in Asia, where I lived for several years. On behalf of the entire Silversea team, I would like to thank the Hong Kong Tourism Board for its valued collaboration and for providing our guests with exclusive access to the Wine & Dine Festival – a truly special event here in the heart of Hong Kong. Our Venetian Society Reunion voyages bring Silversea’s extended family together, enabling like-minded travellers to enjoy exclusive destination events while journeying in Silversea’s trademark level of comfort.”
“Silversea Cruises is a globally renowned ultra-luxurious cruise brand,” said Mr. Dane Cheng, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) Executive Director. “We are delighted that it has chosen Hong Kong as one of the destinations for Silver Nova, and is organising an exclusive activity for cruise guests at the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, HKTB’s annual signature gastronomic event. This not only marks the biggest collaboration between the HKTB and the cruise sector but also allows visitors to experience the city’s unique wine and dine ambience, contributing to the development of Hong Kong’s cruise tourism.”
During the event, guests enjoyed a performance by an Ensemble of the Chinese Hong Kong Symphony Orchestra and a private tasting of award-winning Chinese wines, curated by celebrated sommelier and winemaker Ian Dai, founder of Xiaopu. Highlights of the tasting included Domaine de la Gyalthang High Altitude Chardonnay 2021 and Gathering Signature red blend, accompanied by Michelin-starred dim sum from Chefs Robin Zavou and Lung of the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong.
Following the tasting and performance, guests received exclusive access to the Harbourview Lounge and explored the festival’s 300 tasting booths, showcasing gourmet experiences from 35 countries and a blend of local and international cuisines.
