VS MEMBER SPOTLIGHT –
DENISE DUMAS & NORMAND DAMOURS
Fun Facts:
First of all, let’s start with a fun fact. When it was time to choose a photo of us for this article, we noticed something very special on this photo. If we look closely, reflecting in our sunglasses, we can see the President of Silversea, Mr. Bert Hernandez, as we were taking a selfie in Oia, Santorini, during the last Venetian Society Reunion Cruise in October 2025. Pure coincidence that we only noticed recently.
1. What first inspired you to start traveling with Silversea, and what keeps you coming back?
a. We started traveling with Silversea in August 2019 because of the itinirary. It was a 12 day cruise from London to Reykjavik on the Silver Wind before it became an expedition ship. The moment we boarded on the Wind through the HMS Belfast, an historic Town-class cruiser moored on the River Thames in London, we saw and felt the difference compared with all the other Cruise Lines we’ve been before, including other luxury brands. And after only a few days, we knew that all our future cruises would be with Silversea. The crew members, the service, the ambiance make us feel like home and even after many cruises, we are still amazed that one or two days later, the crew members call us by our name and remember our favorite drinks. Silversea makes us feel very special. This is one of many reasons why we always come back.
2. Can you share a favorite memory or moment from one of your Silversea voyages?
a. We have many favorite memories or special moments, so it is very hard to choose only one. Every Silversea cruise brings us special moments but 3 are quite unique for us. The first one, who still gives us goosebumps when we talk about this moment was our first cruise in 2019 from London to Reykjavik on the Silver Wind. We started our cruise on the Thame River and passing under the London Bridge to the sound of the « British National Anthem », and seeing all the people everywhere waving us goodbye, is something that we will never forget. Our 2nd other memorable moment was on the Silver Spirit on September 28, 2024 when we left Bordeaux the day of the 1,000 lift of the Jacques Chaban-Delmas Bridge allowing the passage of the Silver Spirit.
Nautical parade, fireworks and thousands of people along the river waving to us as we left Bordeaux, it was really special. And our 3rd memorable moment was in Antarctica in January 2024. We were the first human beings in 2024 to set foot on the Antarctica continent on January 1st. Captain Giovanni Mazzela was our Captain on the Wind and he is also very proud of this.
3. What does being a member of the Venetian Society mean to you personally?
a. Being a member of the Venetian Society represents far more than simply accumulating cruise days or status—it reflects a lasting relationship with Silversea and the exceptional experiences that define luxury travel. It gives us a sense of belonging to a brand that consistently delivers excellence, personalized service and makes us feel valued, not just as a guest, but as part of an exclusive community of seasoned travelers. For us, Venetian Society membership is not just a rewards program it becomes a symbol of identity, passion for exploration, and appreciation for a travel experience that feels like home.
4. How has your connection with other loyalty members enriched your travel experiences?
a. Listening and exchanging our travel experiences with other travelers can help us to book some destinations and excursions. It is so interesting to hear about other experiences.
5. What’s one destination you’ve visited with Silversea that truly took your breath away and why?
a. Arriving in Montenegro is spectacular. The scenery is amazing.
6. How do you describe the Silversea experience to someone who’s never sailed with us?
a. Butlers for every guest and a personalized service, that’s what makes Silversea so special. Nearly every detail is tailored to us, with attentive crew who quickly learns our preferences. The size of the ships also creates an uncrowded and intimate atmosphere.
7. Is there a particular crew member or onboard experience that stands out to you?
a. Impossible to answer this question. They are all exceptional and amazing. That’s the « Silversea Way ».
8. What advice would you give to new Venetian Society members just beginning their journey with Silversea?
a. Enjoy each moment. You will be pampered and no matter what the ship you’ll be on or the destination you choose, it will be a memorable experience.
9. What are you most looking forward to on your next Silversea voyage?
a. Our next Silversea voyage is on the Silver Spirit at the end of May. It will be our 4th cruise on the Spirit and we look forward to see the newly refurbished Spirit. After debarking in Copenhagen 23 days later, we will spend two days in Copenhagen before embarking on the Silver Dawn to continue our voyage for another 17 days, mostly in Scandinavia. As usual, we know that Silversea will exceed our expectations.