Previously my only experience of Silversea was a visit to Prince Albert, but I wanted to see what one of their newer ships was like.
Silver Spirit looked impressive in the sunshine as I arrived at berth 101 in Southampton, and after registration in the terminal we eventually got onboard. Our first stop was the Panorama Lounge for a refreshing drink. A great choice of drinks was on offer and I opted for a Sea Breeze. This lounge is very popular with guests and is a great place to relax with a drink or two. After chatting for a while we were split into three groups, and taken on a tour of the ship. I was with Jon Schofield, the senior sales manager at Silversea, who was lucky enough to be staying onboard for the next 7 nights.
To start with we went and had a look at some of the suites, which were very good I must say. It is an all suite ship, starting with a Vista Suite which has a large picture window, going up to the Owners Suite. We were able to see the following grades: -
Grand Suite – there are 4 of these and they are right at the front of the ship on decks 8 and 9, and measure 1,292 sq ft including the 190 sq ft veranda, which runs along the side of the suite, and half way along the front of the ship. If you want to have the Grand Suite for 4 people, you can add another bedroom by booking the Vista Suite next door. Then the total floor space is 1,668 sq ft, including the 190 sq ft veranda.
Silver Suite – there are 26 of these, situated on deck 10 and 11, and they are 742 sq ft in size, including a 118 sq ft veranda.
Midship Veranda Suite – there are a lot more of these, and they measure 376 sq ft, including a 65 sq ft veranda.
All of the suites were finished to a very high standard, and all come with a mini bar, which can be stocked with the guest’s choice of favourite drinks. No miniatures on this ship, with one litre bottles being provided in the suites.
We then moved around the ship and visited the Show Lounge, Boutiques, Casino, the Library and Internet Café, Spa, and Thermal Suite, Beauty Salon and Fitness Centre.
When it comes to dining there are a lot of choices, ranging from The Restaurant, La Terrazza and Stars. You can also dine in your suite, with the meal served course by course. There are also two Speciality Restaurants with a cover charge, which are called ‘Le Champagne by Relais & Chateaux’ and ‘Seishin’, or you could always opt for the ‘Pool Grill and Black Rock Dining under the Stars’.
Some of the main points to remember with Silversea Cruises are: -
- Intimate elegant ships which take from 296 – 540 guests
- An all suite ship, over 85% with private verandas, and butler service in all suites
- Choice of 9 pillow types in the suites
- Choice of Bulgari, Ferragamo or hypoallergenic bath amenities in the suites
- Complimentary wines, champagne and spirits throughout the ship, including in the suites
- Open seating restaurants with gourmet menus by Relais & Chateaux
- All onboard gratuities included
- Free flights and onboard credit included on many departures
