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Silver Wind
Silver Wind Overview
Breathtaking in every respect. Excellence in every detail. Aboard the ships of Silversea, you will discover a journey beyond your expectations. A world of easygoing elegance without an ounce of pretension.
Perhaps that is why Silversea has received the highest awards from authoritative guidebooks and prestigious publications: "Number One" three consecutive years in Condé Nast Traveler's Reader's Choice Awards; "World's Best Small Ship Cruise Line" for two years in Travel and Leisure's World's Best Awards; and a coveted "Six Stars" from Fielding's Guide to Worldwide Cruises for four years in a row.
And yet the greatest reward of all comes from our guests, who return to us again and again. Discover for yourself why Silversea is the best vacation experience in the world...
Dining
The Restaurant
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served with an open-seating arrangement. You may dine when, where and with whom you wish. On select nights, an orchestra provides music for dancing. The menu features classical and modern French cuisine with international flair, complemented by La Collection du Monde, signature dishes created exclusively for Silversea in partnership with Relais & Châteaux Relais Gourmands. On designated Culinary Arts Voyages, internationally recognised guest chefs, including Relais & Châteaux member chefs, will be aboard to share their culinary artistry. A CruiseLite and low carb menu is also available from The Restaurant.
Saletta
Relish an incomparable new dining experience at Saletta. Guests will dine in an intimate atmosphere while delighting in internationally renowned selections. A hallmark is the thoughtful pairing of select wines with each creation. Our Head Sommelier will be pleased to recommend many outstanding vintages. To make your dining experience both a memorable and exclusive culinary exploration, only for-purchase selections from the Epicurian List will be offered. Advance reservations may be made on board ship. The exceptional ambience of Saletta may also be reserved for private dinner parties at an additional charge. Private arrangements include welcome aperitif and hors doeuvres, plus a special six-course menu with paired wines. Advance booking is required as space is limited. Please consult your travel agent for all details.
La Terrazza
This indoor/outdoor restaurant offers casual surroundings for breakfast or lunch. On most evenings during your cruise, the will offer alternative dining, featuring cuisines of the world. Special evenings will be listed in the Silversea Chronicles, the ships daily newsletter. Advance reservations may be made on board ship.
Entertainment
Aboard the Silver Wind, guests will find a wide selection of stellar entertainment ranging from energetic production shows to classical music concerts in The Show Lounge; intimate piano recitals, jazz and cabaret in The Bar; and local performers and folkloric shows that truly complement the wines, cuisine and cultures experienced on your voyage. Every evening, The Bar and The Panorama Lounge offer dancing to a range of live musical styles for every taste, from ballroom and dinner dancing to rock and roll favourites and club mixes. The Champagne Room offers the perfect venue to enjoy a selection of cigars, exceptional cognacs, fine armagnac, exquisite grappa, rare vintage ports and more. Moonlight Movies on deck are also offered on select evenings.
Casino
Roulette, blackjack and slot machines are available in The Casino for guests 18 years or older. Cash advances on your credit card may be arranged in The Casino. The Casino may be closed on occasion due to local government regulations.
Library and Movie Centre
Our onboard library features an extensive selection of books and movies which can be viewed on your in-suite DVD player.
Other Areas of the Ship
Onboard choice reigns the freedom to do everything or nothing. Pamper yourself at our beauty salon. Find the perfect bauble in our boutique. Test your luck in our casino. Enjoy an invigorating workout. Curl up with a good book in our library. Or simply soak up the sun on the pool deck. At Silversea, the choice is always yours.
Fitness Centre
Diversified and comprehensive programmes to maintain your daily exercise regime and complement your voyage. The Fitness Centre offers circuit weights, aerobics room, treadmills and stationary bikes, as well as mens and womens steam rooms and sauna. Our Wellness Programme combines daily activities including yoga, Pilates and meditation classes with suggestions from our light and low carb lunch and dinner menus.
Boutiques
The Boutiques on all ships in the fleet feature a selection of designer jewellery, fashions, perfumes and Silversea logo items. Shops are closed while in port and on occasion due to local government regulations. Toiletries and convenience items are also available for purchase.
Pool Deck
Soak up the suns warmth while lounging poolside. Bask in whirlpools with a refreshing drink. Do laps or join a spirited game of water volleyball in the heated pool.
Spa
Rejuvenate. Luxuriate. Exfoliate. Relax your body and mind with a wide range of invigorating therapies.
| Ship Statistics | |
|---|---|
| Year Built | 1994 |
| Year Refurbished | 2002 |
| Year Entered Present Fleet | 1994 |
| Previous Name | N/A |
| Country of Registry | Bahamas |
| Tonnage (GRT) | 17400 |
| Passengers | 298 |
| Max Passengers | 337 |
| Passenger Decks | 6 |
| Number of Crew | 212 |
| Officers Nationality | Italian |
| Cruise Staff Nationality | International |
| Staterooms | |
|---|---|
| Total Staterooms | 149 |
| Suites with balcony | 0 |
| Suites without a balcony | 0 |
| Oceanview without a balcony | 0 |
| Oceanview with balcony | 0 |
| Accommodations inside | 2 |
Select a deck to view the deckplan.
Deck 9
Stateroom Key
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
Deck 8
Stateroom Key
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
Deck 7
Stateroom Key
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
Deck 6
Stateroom Key
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
Deck 5
Stateroom Key
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
Deck 4
Stateroom Key
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
- Grand Suite - One Bedroom - G1
Activities & Services
Onboard choice reigns the freedom to do everything or nothing. Pamper yourself at our beauty salon. Find the perfect bauble in our boutique. Test your luck in our casino. Enjoy an invigorating workout. Curl up with a good book in our library. Or simply soak up the sun on the pool deck. At Silversea, the choice is always yours.
| Tipping Policy | Shipboard Gratuities included |
| Onboard Ambiance |
G1 - Grand Suite - One Bedroom
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Whatever you wish.
- Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
- Living room with sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub
- Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
- Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
- Writing desk(s)
- Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephones
R1 - Royal Suite - One Bedroom
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.
- Large veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
- Living room with sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub
- Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
- Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
- Writing desk(s)
- Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephone(s)
O1 - Owner's Suite - One Bedroom
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those whose standards are higher than most.
- Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
- Living room with sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub
- Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
- Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
- Writing desk(s)
- Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephone(s)
DV - Midship Veranda Suite
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Twin beds or queen-sized bed. Sitting area. Remote-controlled television with DVD and satellite reception. Direct-dial telephone. Pommery champagne upon arrival and replenished as you desire. Beverage cabinet stocked daily on request with your selection of wines, spirits and beverages. Fresh fruit and flower arrangements. Acqua di Parma bath amenities. Fine bed linens, plush robes and slippers. Choice of pillow. Spacious wardrobe and full-length mirror. Writing desk with personalised stationery. Dressing table and hair dryer. Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath. Twice-daily suite service with turndown every evening. Daily news summary.
ME - Medallion Suite
A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury.
- Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors (Suites 801804 only)
- Large picture windows providing panoramic ocean views (Suite 741 only)
- Living room with sitting area
- Separate dining area (Suite 741 only)
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub and shower (Suite 741 has full-sized bath and shower)
- Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
- Vanity table with hair dryer
- Writing desk
- Flat screen television with DVD and satellite reception
- CD player
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephone
VI - Vista Suite
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views. Twin beds or queen-sized bed. Sitting area. Remote-controlled television with DVD and satellite reception. Direct-dial telephone. Pommery champagne upon arrival and replenished as you desire. Beverage cabinet stocked daily on request with your selection of wines, spirits and beverages. Fresh fruit and flower arrangements. Acqua di Parma bath amenities. Fine bed linens, plush robes and slippers. Choice of pillow. Spacious wardrobe and full-length mirror. Writing desk with personalised stationery. Dressing table and hair dryer. Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath. Twice-daily suite service with turndown every evening. Daily news summary.
VR - Veranda Suite
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Twin beds or queen-sized bed. Sitting area. Remote-controlled television with DVD and satellite reception. Direct-dial telephone. Pommery champagne upon arrival and replenished as you desire. Beverage cabinet stocked daily on request with your selection of wines, spirits and beverages. Fresh fruit and flower arrangements. Acqua di Parma bath amenities. Fine bed linens, plush robes and slippers. Choice of pillow. Spacious wardrobe and full-length mirror. Writing desk with personalised stationery. Dressing table and hair dryer. Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath. Twice-daily suite service with turndown every evening. Daily news summary.
SL - Silver Suite
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest). Sitting area and dining table. Twin beds or queen-sized bed. Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath. Special chocolate welcome. Valet service with complimentary laundry service throughout voyage. Afternoon canapés daily. Lavazza Espresso Maker. Dinner at Officers Table. Multiple remote controlled TV/DVD with complimentary in-suite movie channels and DVDs. Bang & Olufsen or Nakamichi 3-CD stereo. Direct-dial telephones. Pommery champagne upon arrival and replenished as you desire. Beverage cabinet stocked daily on request with your selection of wines, spirits and beverages. Fresh fruit and flower arrangements. Acqua di Parma bath amenities. Fine bed linens, plush robes and slippers. Choice of pillow. Spacious wardrobe and full-length mirror. Writing desk with personalised stationery. Dressing table and hair dryer. Twice-daily suite service with turndown every evening. Daily news summary.
R2 - Royal Suite - Two Bedroom
Available as a two-bedroom configuration by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living.
- Large veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; two-bedroom has additional veranda.
- Living room with sitting area; two-bedroom has additional sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed; two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
- Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
- Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
- Writing desk(s)
- Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephone(s)
G2 - Grand Suite - Two Bedroom
Available as a two-bedroom configuration by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Whatever you wish.
- Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; two-bedroom has additional veranda
- Living room with sitting area; two-bedroom has additional sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed; two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
- Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
- Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
- Writing desk(s)
- Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephones
O2 - Owner's Suite - Two Bedroom
Available as a two-bedroom configuration by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those whose standards are higher than most.
- Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; two bedroom has additional large picture window
- Living room with sitting area; two-bedroom has additional sitting area
- Separate dining area
- Twin beds or queen-sized bed; two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
- Marbled bathroom with full-sized whirlpool tub; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with shower
- Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
- Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
- Writing desk(s)
- Flat screen television(s) with DVD and satellite reception
- Bang & Olufsen audio system
- Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station
- Direct-dial telephone(s)
Reviewer Ratings
5/5Reviewer Scorecard
StaffDining Entertainment 
Activities 
Cabins/Staterooms Itinerary/Ports Value Silversea-Silver Shadow Review
Alaska - 8/2011
I have sailed on the Silver Shadow before and like the size and number of passengers (380). The food was superb and the wait staff were the best I've encountered. The only downside was the entertainment which wasn't great but the lounges had cabaret type entertainment.
This year Silversea has added butlers to every category stateroom. They still have cabin stewards but the butlers are very helpful in that they pick up and deliver your laundry and dry cleaning and deliver your room service. They restock your private bar and make your dinner reservations at the alternative restaurants. They often bring you cookies and tea in the afternoon.
On Silversea ships there is a lounge on Deck 5 which is the meeting place for everyone for cocktails and appetizers before dinner in the restaurant on Deck 4. There is also an observation lounge where coffee and tea are available in the mornings and tea and refreshments are served in the afternoons.. This is where most lecturers speak during the day.
It is easy to meet fellow passengers on the ship because of the size and number of passengers on the ship.
Pros: The quality food and complimentary wine and spirits is valued by luxury travelers
Cons: This type of food and service costs more than a premium or mass market cruise
Reviewer Recommended? y
Reviewer Ratings
5/5Reviewer Scorecard
StaffDining Entertainment 
Activities Cabins/Staterooms Itinerary/Ports Value The Small Ship Experience
Mediterranean - 5/2011
Silver Cloud - Lisbon to Rome
I had the privilege of sailing on Silver Cloud, Silversea's smallest ship holding 296 passengers. This is the smallest ship on which I have sailed and it was a delight. On a small ship, you really feel at one with the sea and fortunately, I don't get seasick. It's so relaxing to sit on your balcony and be so close to the ocean.
One would not know Silver Cloud is Silversea's oldest ship. She is in immaculate shape in every way. My veranda stateroom was spacious with plenty of storage space, plus the large walk in closet. Rosie, my butler was extremely attentive - polishing shoes without being asked, bringing afternoon snacks after a long day in port without ordering them and restocking the refrigerator to my specifications - including a bottle of rose wine from La Terrazza that we had sampled at lunch. Each night's dinner was a sumptuous feastl alternating between The Restaurant and La Terrazza, always able to get the desired time and table, even though the ship was almost full. I dined poolside in Cadiz after a long but wonderful day in Seville, enjoying the view of the port and a spectacular sail away at 11 pm. The service was always gracious and friendly, the sommeliers eager to share their extensive knowledge about the different complimentary wines served each night. This was a 9 day cruise with only one sea day, but there were plenty of activities on the sea day for those that wanted to participate.
In Palma de Mallorca, I took a bicycling shore excursion offered by Silversea which was excellent. The guide, Jean, met our small group of 14 at the ship and we walked a short distance to our bicycles equipped with helmets. We rode along the harbor, marvelling at the enormous yachts, and then headed into the old town. Jean occasionally stopped to give us insights about the cathedral and the town's history, and there was even time to shop for Mallorca pearls. I returned to the ship in time to have a quick bite in La Terrazza and then headed back to town on Silver Cloud's complimentary shuttle.
Each port was better than the last and I was dismayed to realize it was Portofino and the last day of the cruise. The seas were rough but the Cloud's crew did an excellent job of getting the guests safely on and off the tender to ensure they could experience this exquisite port. It was with great sadness that I bid goodbye to my wonderful, luxurious home away from home in Rome and we look forward to returning to Silver Cloud soon.
Pros: Service, staff, food, intimate atmosphere
Cons: Miniature golf on deck 5 lobby
Reviewer Recommended? y
Reviewer Ratings
5/5Reviewer Scorecard
StaffDining Entertainment Activities Cabins/Staterooms Itinerary/Ports Value Our Best Cruise Ever
Europe - 5/2010
We cannot give enough praise for Silversea. The gourmet food, gracious service, luxurious accommodations, variety of dining and entertainment were above and beyond the best.
Starting in London, we stayed at the Lanesborough. When you walk into your luxurious suite, you feel you are in someone’s gracious home. Our butler offered to help us unpack, but unnecessary since we were staying only one night. He brought some much needed coffee to help the jet lag and we headed out to see the sights. The concierge was most helpful in recommending an excellent seafood restaurant within walking distance, One on One. The suite was excellently appointed with a huge bath and luxurious bedding. We didn’t want to leave, but Silver Spirit beckoned.
The Ship
We arrived at the ship and embarked immediately with no waiting. Escorts were waiting to take us to our suite. By the time we took a quick tour of the ship, our luggage arrived. The welcome bottle of champagne was most appreciated.
Silver Spirit is large enough to provide multiple dining and entertainment venues and small enough to be intimate. It is understated elegance with rich dark woods, red and gold carpeting and tasteful artwork and sculptures.
Silver Spirit is all suites. Our suite was very roomy with a veranda, living area and walk in closet. The bathroom was large with separate tub and shower. There is a choice of Bulgari, Acqua di Parma or Neutrogena bath amenities. Bedding was luxurious and the walk in closet had plenty of room for the contents of our six suitcases. Personalised stationery is included.
Our butler, Royden, was a delight. He kept our suite stocked with coffee, milk and our choice of wine. You can also order afternoon tapas to be delivered to the room. He made our dining reservations for each evening.
Dining
With seven dining venues, there is plenty of choice. Open seating dining allows you to eat when you want and with whom you want. We had no problem obtaining reservations and a table for two on any night.
La Terrazza provides buffet service for breakfast and lunch, with outdoor seating when weather permits. At night, the buffet disappears and La Terrazza is transformed into an intimate, romantic Italian restaurant. This was our favorite venue.
The Restaurant is sophisticated and elegant. We had lunch once and dinner three times in The Restaurant, all excellent meals. Our favorite wine steward, Jeremy, was passionate and knowledgeable. He introduced us to many new, excellent wines. If you do not like the house wine that is being served, you can ask for something different and Silversea will graciously provide it.
Le Champagne, the Relais and Chateaux Specialty Restaurant, offers a special six-course food and wine pairing dinner for $200 per person. It is worth every penny. Our sommelier, Sylvain, was very knowledgeable, and gave us wine pairing notes for the future. One of our top dining experiences ever.
Stars Supper Club offers live music and dancing in a night-club style environment. The menu is a succession of tapas, with 5 different wines. The jazz duo was excellent and we only regret we forgot to come back another evening. Unique touches include Himalayan pink salt and black salt from Hawaii, plus a unique selection of olive oils and balsamic vinegar in test tubes.
Seishin is Asian fusion cuisine. You can have the three-course or five-course dinner. In the middle of the room is the sushi master where you can watch him making his creations.
Hot Rocks is not to be missed. Located on deck 10 overlooking the pool, it is an innovative, unique dining experience exclusive to Silversea. You make your salad selection and then choose your entrée ranging from fish to steak. After the salad course, the waiter brings a hot lava rock and you cook your entrée at the table. You can slice off bites as they get done and continue cooking the rest. A welcome change of simple fare after the sumptuous dining in the other venues.
The Pool Grill serves light fare at breakfast and lunch from the menu, a relaxing alternative to the buffet in La Terrazza.
Additionally, coffee and soft drinks are available through the day in Observation Lounge on Deck 11 and the Bar on Deck 5.
Evening Activities
Not being production show people, we attended only one show – a tribute to Elton John. It was well done.
Panorama Lounge offers music and dancing in the evenings, or weather permitting you can sit outside – our preference. There are sofas and chairs in several groupings, or very comfortable round deck chairs for two.
The Bar on Deck 5 also has music, but sadly, we kept forgetting to stop by.
You don’t need a dinner reservation for Stars Supper Club to enjoy listening and dancing to the jazz duo.
Connoisseur’s Corner has an excellent assortment of Davidoff and Cuban cigars.
Observation Lounge is a quiet, relaxing night and day spot. A nice serene place to read up on destinations during the day, watch sailaway or just unwind after dinner.
A highlight of the trip was a dinner buffet Poolside with music and dancing. There was a wide variety of salads, vegetables and meat dishes. At the end, the Cruise Director assembled the entire ship’s staff to be presented to a standing ovation from the guests. You don’t realize how many people seamlessly and graciously make your cruise a dream come true until you see them assembled all at once.
Ports
St. Malo – Sadly, we missed Mont St. Michel as a marathon prevented access that day. St. Malo is a charming walled village, and we enjoyed walking around. Being a Sunday, most of the shops were closed.
Bordeaux – Our favorite port and fortunately, there was an overnight. The ship travels 100 km up the Garonne River to dock right in town. We spent one day exploring the town, having lunch in an outdoor cafe with a view of Cathedrale St-Andre. The next morning, we did Silversea’s Bicycling through the Vineyards, another trip highlight. We bicycled through vineyards hundreds of years old, past chateaux and stopped at Chateau Carbonnieux, dating back to the 12th century for a tour of the winery and wine tasting. Then we boarded buses back for the half hour drive to the ship.
Lisbon – We arranged a private car and driver tour through Portugal Deluxe which is highly recommended. We were met at the gangway by our delightful English-speaking guide, Telma, who introduced us to Fernando, our driver. We were whisked away in a roomy sedan to St. George’s Castle, the 16th century Jeronimo’s Monastery and Belem Tower, followed by the monument to the great explorers. We continued along the coastline to Cascais and stopped for a wonderful lunch of sea bass baked in salt, ending in Sintra with a port tasting at Loja do Vinho. It was a magical day.
Cadiz – The ship docked right in town, and we walked all over the city, including out to Castillo de San Sebastian, a 17th century fort. Also a Sunday, all shops were closed. The old town is full of narrow winding streets, many of them pedestrian streets, and it’s easy to lose your bearings. After hours of walking, we went back to our suite and ordered tapas from our butler. We sat on our veranda and enjoyed the view of beautiful Cadiz.
Gibraltar – It’s about a 15-minute walk to Main Street lined with hundreds of shops, a tax-free haven. However, we bought nothing and hired a taxi from the Tourist Office to take us to the top of The Rock for spectacular views, especially looking down on our beautiful ship docked. The cost was about $100, and we could have waited for another couple to join us to bring the cost down to $70, but we didn’t want to be tied to anyone else’s schedule. We stopped at St. Michael’s Cave, The Great Siege tunnels and the World War II tunnels. Our driver was very knowledgeable and spoke excellent English. The Barbary apes were cute, but we were warned they would bite and steal handbags so we kept our distance. The story goes that Gibraltar would always be part of the United Kingdom as long as there were apes there. The ape population was almost decimated in the early 1900’s and Prime Minister Churchill, being superstitious, ensured the ape population was restored after being down to four apes. The airport runway is curiously cut in half by the only road leading into Gibraltar from Spain. When an airplane lands, the road is closed.
Malaga – We hired a private car and driver through Made for Spain, also highly recommended. We were met by Paul, a charming Welshman, and driven in style in a Mercedes 500 to Granada. At the Alhambra, we met Maria, our delightful guide who took us through the 11th century Alhambra, another trip highlight.
Barcelona – We spent an extra two days soaking up the lovely architecture and Gaudi creations. We arranged a private car and driver through Plus Travel, which receives high marks. Our driver, Carlo, spoke excellent English and took us to Parc Guell, the Sagrada Familia – two famous Gaudi creations – and to Parc Montjuic for spectacular views of the city and port, followed by the Olympic Stadium and Port Olympic. The next day, we walked all over the city and went to the top of La Pedrera, another Gaudi creation with the curious statues on the roof. We dined our last night at Barca de Salamanca, a recommendation of our driver, Carlo, on traditional paella and flan.
Pros: Everything
Cons: None
Reviewer Recommended? y
Reviewer Ratings
4/5Reviewer Scorecard
StaffDining Entertainment Activities Cabins/Staterooms Itinerary/Ports Value PA II West coast of South America
Ecuador, Peru Chile - 10/2009
An intimate ship with all the standard luxuries of the larger ships.
The ship is more casual. There were no tuxes or suits on board. The rooms even on Deck 3 were very gracious in size and decor. One problem-temperature control on Deck 3 is an issue. Rooms cannot be cooled down sufficiently.
The staff was great and the expedition staff enthusiastic
Pros: Size, itineraries, staff
Cons: No pool, no secondary dining room, not much exterior space.
Reviewer Recommended? y
