Sweet images of seals, polar bears and penguins, cruises onboard Silversea's Prince Albert II that cover both the Arctic and Antarctic region, fill the giant screens behind him. He speaks wistfully of schedules being swept aside for spontaneity: a mid-night sighting of northern lights; dropping into a zodiac to get closer to polar bears. This adventure is all done with the back-up comfort of six star service. In the images there seems much cause for champagne toastings - at dinner, on deck, in the zodiac amidst awe-inducing nature. I think I could get used to this kind of adventure.

Whizzing around decks it's easy to see that there is much to do on board. The casino. A golf cage. All for just 382 guests max. The pool proves to be a size that is dip-worthy, but not lap inducing. A beauty salon and spa is stocked with products by Elenis and the gym next door offers banks of equipment and big windows. Normally adverse to gyms I might consider a spin on the treadmill with a view of all that blue. There are also quiet nooks to lose yourself in, including a hushed, wood-lined library and internet café. But the seclusion I'm particularly interested in finding out about is in-room.

On board all the suites have large views out to the ocean. I decide that sailing solo I could happily float in one of the smallest vista suites that offer 284 square feet (28 square metres) of floor space. There is a bathroom with bathtub, walk-in robe and a lounge area with built-in desk that can be curtained off. I am already envisioning this as a cosy writing space. With my partner I would probably skip up to at least a verandah suite that offers 345 square feet (32 square metres) of floor space in a similar layout and a 60 square feet (6 square metres) of veranda. However,It is in the Royal, Grand and Owner Suites where service is truly ramped up to 6 star hotel. The Luxury Travel Bible loves the vastness of suites which range up to 1435 square feet (133 square metres) with verandas ranging to 280 square feet (28 square metres). While all suites have complimentary in-suite dining, these suites deliver a complimentary dedicated personal butler to your door.

I graze through the plethora of voyages that are on offer throughout most corners of the world. Starting short with the seven-day cruises, something finally dawns - being onboard has little to do with being sea-locked. There is usually only one day spent at sea, with some none at all - just a luxe night shift from one exotic port to another without having to repack, drive or fly. Could I take on the 119 days cruise onboard Silversea's newest boat Silver Spirit Sailing from Los Angeles to Southampton and armed with a laptop and time to write, I think I could become a convert.

Check in: The port is your call.Ultimate Luxury: The dedicated butler service. On some voyages it is extended to all suites. Beyond onboard service they can coordinate the best experiences for you in each city port stop.Most Indulgent Moment: It's a toss between spa facial and private champagne dinner in a Royal, Grand or Owner Suite. Balcony doors open to the sea air of course.Insider Secrets: It seems silly to have to point out a bar, but it's amazing how many people miss out on the pocket handkerchief size Grappa bar next door to the casino. Low-lit, late-night intimacy.The Little Things: You can have your mini-bar stocked according to your desire. Complimentary in-suite dining. No tips required service. A daily call sheet of activities and information.Junior Luxies: Nothing especially here for them, other cruise lines are more kid-centric. If they're the kind of kids that squeal - 'are we there yet?', don't take them onboard. Infact don't anyway, this is couples paradise.Dress code: Wide-legged Palazzo pants and cocktail dresses.Perfect luggage: Break out the LV trunk - once onboard you'll never have to carry it again.Dent in the platinum: 

Luxury Links: www.silversea.com