Check-in was seamless, no lines, a very good start to our journey down-under. We were taken to our Suite; The Veranda Suite Accommodations, probably the largest stateroom I have ever sailed in. More than ample storage space, walk-closet with more than enough hangers; a first for me!  Good size bathroom with a soaking tub and walk in shower. The suite was well equipped with complimentary binoculars, bathrobes, slippers, a golf size umbrella, and a stocked mini-bar. Two recessed televisions in the mirrors, one in the bedroom the other in the sitting area, with a wealth of movies to choose from as well as CNN and BBC for keeping passengers up to date on world news. Within the hour, our Butler came and introduced himself and presented a selection of bathroom toiletries. He made us familiar with our Suite and the amenities.

Dining Options onboard

The Restaurant, aptly named, serves Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner. Breakfast was somewhat slow, but room service is always an option.  This is generally true on most luxury ships. Lunch was the same. The waiters seem to be challenged with the new tablets for taking orders. Asking for a dish to be altered was not an easy task. A new learning curve for all.  The Pool Bar and Grill, serves lunch by day and turns into a unique experience at night, with Hot Rocks for grilling your own steaks or seafood. The Bar staff and waiters did a great job at this venue.  La Terrazza serves buffet breakfast and lunch and turns into a bistro at night.  Late night entertainment with shows starting at 10:00PM proved to be a slight challenge for me since I tend to turn in early.  However, I did make it to two shows, a comedian, and a very talented Vietnamese pianist, Van-Anh Nguyen.

Ports of call were excellent, although we did miss Picton because of weather.  The ship is beautiful. Small enough to navigate, with little or no lines for dining, day and evening venues, and shore excursions. Shopping onboard was limited to a gift shop carrying high-end clothing, jewelry, and some Silversea monogrammed goods. There was a trunk show onboard with a cobbler from Capri, Italy, selling his handmade sandals. Forgotten toiletries, generic medicines, and health goods were hidden behind a closed door.

Clearing customs in Melbourne on our arrival day was mandatory.  Unfortunately, standing in line could not be avoided. Although not the fault of Silversea, Australian customs being what they are, could have handled this much better. Disembarking the ship on the second day in Melbourne was again a bit challenging.  Since the Cruise Terminal is so far out, the wait for taxis can be somewhat long. I think it’s because a lot of taxis would rather stay downtown instead of making the drive out.  

My experience on the Silver Spirit was remarkable. This is one sailing that will remain in my memory for years to come. When can I help you plan your Silversea experience?