<p>Leading luxury operator Silversea Cruises is currently in the middle of a major company restructuring which is aimed at raising quality aboard its ships as well as exerting closer control over rising costs.&nbsp;</p><p>Industry veteran Christian Sauleau is returning to the company as Executive&nbsp; Vice President, Fleet Operations, V.Ships has been appointed as ship managers, responsible for all technical management, marine operations and crew management, while there is to be a major shake-up in hotel operations, with this department moving from Monaco to Fort Lauderdale.&nbsp;</p><p>Silversea is facing difficulties due to soaring fuel prices, softening US economy (50% of its passengers come from the US), weakening US $ and difficulties recruiting and retaining quality staff.</p><p>The company is currently in the middle of a $500m investment programme which involves the building of the 36,000grt Silver Spirit in Italy, major refits to Silver Wind and Silver Cloud, and the purchase and conversion of the company&rsquo;s first expedition cruise vessel, Prince Albert II (ex World Discoverer). No decision has yet been taken on Silversea&rsquo;s options for a second newbuilding at Fincantieri.&nbsp; </p><p>One of V.Ships first tasks is to carry out an in-depth technical analysis of the Silversea fleet aimed at reducing costs and optimising ship performance.&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Senior Vice President, Fleet Operations, Rocco Auteri and Vice President, Hotel Operations, Silvio Rossi, have left the company.</p>