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Antarctica | Expedition Cruise

8th Dec 2024 | 10 nights | Silversea | Silver Wind

Drake Passage
Antarctic Sound
Antarctic Peninsula
South Shetland Islands
Puerto Williams
Day
Date
 
Arrival
Departure
 
1
8th Dec 2024 Sunday
Puerto Williams
21:00
2
9th Dec 2024 Monday
Drake Passage
3
10th Dec 2024 Tuesday
Drake Passage
4
11th Dec 2024 Wednesday
Antarctic Sound
05:30
5
12th Dec 2024 Thursday
Antarctic Peninsula
6
13th Dec 2024 Friday
Antarctic Peninsula
7
14th Dec 2024 Saturday
Antarctic Peninsula
8
15th Dec 2024 Sunday
South Shetland Islands
9
16th Dec 2024 Monday
Drake Passage
10
17th Dec 2024 Tuesday
Puerto Williams
22:00
11
18th Dec 2024 Wednesday
Puerto Williams

Silver Wind is one of the cosiest and most intimate ships afloat, with beautifully designed suites and inviting cabins and public rooms.

Silver Wind is a small ship -- it took about five minutes to work out where everything was! For me, that was one of its big selling points, as it offered a very friendly atmosphere. The all-inclusive drinks policy also does a lot to promote that friendliness, especially if you are cruising alone.

If you like to do more than sunbathe, read books or eat -- and if your perfect holiday includes a huge casino, schedules packed tight with enrichment activities, and silly pool games -- this is not the cruise for you.

Silversea has a mixture of formal, informal and smart-casual dress codes. For formal nights, women should wear cocktail dresses, evening gowns or trouser suits, men should have tuxedos or dark suits. Informal means dresses or trouser suits for the ladies, jackets for the men (ties optional).

There were many enjoyable aspects of this cruise experience that stood out. While cruise ship shows may not appeal to everyone, the talent showcased can still be appreciated even if it isn't quite to one's taste.

Each evening, performances took place in the Parisian Lounge, a cosy and intimate theatre. While most of the shows didn't resonate with everyone, there was one standout performance that truly impressed.

The Silversea singers put on a nightly show, and though the small stage limited their choreography, their enthusiasm was evident. The sound and lighting could have enhanced their performance, but it was still a spirited effort.

The entertainment variety also included a male vocalist performing songs from popular shows, and a delightful song-and-chat show by the cruise director, David Lawton. The highlight for many was violinist Beverley Davison, whose exceptional talent and humour made her performance unforgettable. Her rendition of a train was particularly amazing.

During the day, enriching lectures by Alan Nazareth, a former Indian ambassador, were available. His well-attended talks covered fascinating topics about India, including Mahatma Gandhi, the Moghuls, and Indian religion and politics.

One of the most notable updates on Silver Wind is the relocated spa, now on Deck 9. Although it's small with just four treatment rooms, it offers a full range of therapies, from massages to detox programmes. Despite the high prices, the massages were reported to be excellent and well worth it.

The gym, adjacent to the spa, is compact yet functional, equipped with treadmills, cycles, cross-trainers, and weights. The complimentary water in the fridge was appreciated, and the area was adequately used without feeling crowded. There's also a daily fitness schedule offering free yoga and Pilates classes.

The pool area was a popular daytime spot, while The Bar became the evening hub. It was lively before and after dinner, although it did quieten down by 11:30 p.m., just as karaoke was starting. The Panorama Lounge offered comfortable seating with scenic views, and the intimate observation lounge at the front of the ship was perfect for quiet reflection, even if the telescopes seemed more decorative.

The library provided a cosy retreat with a good selection of books, newspapers, and DVDs for a quiet night in. The small Internet café was convenient, and Wi-Fi access throughout the ship made staying connected easy. The pricing options for internet use were reasonable, especially with package deals.

There was also a small, rarely used casino and a couple of high-end boutiques offering designer goods. On Deck 6, the card room and various service desks, including reception, concierge, and tour desks, were conveniently located.

Overall, despite a few elements that might not suit everyone's taste, there were many aspects of the cruise that were thoroughly enjoyable.

The food on Silver Wind was, almost without exception, very good—tasty (although the curries were a little mild) and served hot, which is a big plus. Even the burgers and hot dogs served on deck were a bit tastier than expected.

There is one dining room on Silver Wind, rather unimaginatively called The Restaurant, open for breakfast (8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.), lunch (12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.), and dinner (7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.).

Meals, including dinner, are all open-seating, allowing diners to eat when they want and sit with whom they want. Ladies are escorted to their tables by waiters or the maître d', which adds a nice touch.

Other options for breakfast include an early-risers buffet from 6:30 a.m. in the Panorama Lounge and coffee from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the Observation Lounge. A continental breakfast is served at the pool grill from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

A breakfast buffet is available in La Terrazza between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., and lunch is served there between noon and 2 p.m. There's indoor and outdoor seating, with an awning over the outdoor area, making it pleasant to breakfast outside on sunny mornings.

On one sea day, there was a Galley Lunch, a common feature on Silversea ships. The galley was set up like a self-service area, with diners helping themselves and eating in The Restaurant. The galley was decorated in Italian colours, offering a feast of salads, cold meats, stir fries, sushi, curry, fish, and roast beef—brilliantly done.

The pool grill serves lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, fish dishes, and salads.

Afternoon tea, with dainty sandwiches, cookies, cakes, and an array of normal and spiced teas, is served in the Panorama Lounge from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In The Restaurant, dinner favourites included chicken breast with spinach and foie gras stuffing, spicy grilled chicken, and bacon-wrapped pork medallions. Fellow diners reported favourably on other dishes, including fish, beef, and veal.

Favourite starters included foie gras with leek terrine and assiette de canard—a duck fest with smoked duck, duck pate, and foie gras terrine.

In the evenings, La Terrazza transforms into a speciality Italian restaurant. Booking a table is required to maintain an intimate ambience, but there is no extra charge. The menu features delicious dishes like penne pasta with artichokes, black olives and tomato; fusilli pasta with spicy tomato sauce; and hearty lamb stew and meatballs in tomato sauce, with plenty of fish, veal, steak, and lobster options.

For something really special, book a table at Le Champagne (formerly La Saletta). Though it comes at an additional cost, it offers extra-special food and personal service. The degustation menu includes food paired with a different glass of wine for each course, selected by the sommelier, making it a worthwhile experience.

There were five different degustation menus available: Spanish, North American, Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Italian. The Burgundy menu, for example, featured bite-size tasters, snails with herb butter and tomato fondue, roasted Bresse chicken, Burgundy cheese brioche, and a chocolate Eiffel Tower.

If a degustation menu isn't preferred, dining at Le Champagne is still an option, with the food included but wine at an additional cost.

Room service is free and available 24 hours. The room service menu includes sandwiches, burgers, and pasta, and diners can order from the main menu during restaurant hours.

After the refit, Silver Wind maintains 143 suites, a mix of oceanview, balcony, and "super" suites, with no inside cabins. These all-suite accommodations include spacious rooms with extra amenities.

Cabin sizes range from 240 square feet (22 square metres) for the oceanview Vista Suites to 587 square feet (89 square metres) for the two Owner's Suites. Verandah Suites are the same size as Vista Suites but feature 50-square-foot (4.5-square-metre) balconies. New Medallion Suites on Deck 8 measure 490 square feet (45 square metres), including 125-square-foot (12-square-metre) balconies, while the original Medallion Suite on Deck 7 is 667 square feet (62 square metres) without a balcony. Silver Suites are 541 square feet (50 square metres), including 92-square-foot (eight-square-metre) balconies.

Deck 6 houses two Royal Suites, each 736 square feet (69 square metres) with 126-square-foot (12-square-metre) balconies. Additionally, two Grand Suites are 1,019 square feet (95 square metres) and include 145-square-foot (14-square-metre) balconies.

All suites are equipped with fully stocked mini-bars (drinks included), flat-screen TVs, DVD players, hair dryers, marble bathrooms with showers and full-size baths, a choice of Bulgari or Acqua di Parma toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, personalised stationery, and a selection of pillows. A welcome bottle of Pommery Champagne, fresh fruit, and flowers greet passengers upon arrival.

Top suite passengers enjoy additional perks such as free butler service, complimentary laundry (excluding dry cleaning and press-only), an espresso machine, and a complimentary international newspaper delivered each morning. Canapés are served each evening around 5 p.m.

Top-level suites feature separate sitting and dining areas, second TVs, and bathrooms with separate baths and showers. Owner's Suites also include guest toilets.

The Grand and Royal Suites have connecting doors to neighbouring Verandah Suites for two-bedroom configurations. Owner's Suites connect to Vista Suites, providing two-bedroom options without balconies.

While the new Owner's Suite was superb overall, a few minor irritations were noted, such as a lack of towel hooks and insufficient electrical plugs in the sitting/dining room. Some passengers also mentioned the absence of a news channel on the TV.

Best for...

Sophisticated international travellers who enjoy unusual destinations yet want a hint of traditional formality, complete with butler service

Not the best for...

Young families and American-centric cruisers who like to be casual all the time

Who goes on Silversea cruise ships?

Silversea caters to Baby Boomers, affluent and often retired, with the leisure and the resources to make Silversea their cruise line of choice. Silversea Expeditions also appeals to that demographic, as well as younger professionals with a desire for active cruising that includes posh cabins and stellar service alongside Zodiac expeditions, snorkelling excursions and in-port hikes. Shorter classic voyages also tend to draw younger passengers. About 60 percent of passengers onboard come from the Americas, the rest from international markets.


Do I have to dress up on a Silversea cruise?

Yes, if you are going on a classic cruise ship; no if you're sailing on a luxury expedition cruise. The classic ships divide evenings among casual resort wear, informal attire (for men, this means a jacket, tie optional, and women wear dresses or pantsuits) and formal nights when eveningwear for women is an evening gown or cocktail dress and men wear tuxedos, dinner jackets or dark suits, and a tie is required. The dress code is more casual on the expedition vessels, and there are no formal nights.


Is everything included on Silversea cruises?

Silversea cruises are fairly inclusive, with the only extras being shore excursions (except on Silversea's expedition cruises on which they're included in the cruise price), shop purchases, spa and beauty treatments, and send-out laundry. Some speciality restaurants also cost extra (and caviar on the room service menu). Cruise fares include gratuities, unlimited beverages (soft and alcoholic), internet access and round trip transportation into town in most ports. Most itineraries also include transfers to/from the ship, and some even include complimentary round trip economy airfare.


What are Silversea's most popular activities?

Onboard, each Silversea cruise ship has a pool and hot tubs that see a lot of action, and the spa gets a lot of use, as well. Silversea cruisers also enjoy attending lectures on the culture and history of the destinations they visit, and like to spend time in the library. Evening shows, which range from opera-themed to swing-era classics, also draw a crowd. When in port, most Silversea cruisers opt for one of the line's many shore excursion offerings. Expedition cruises bring cruisers together with experts to lead hiking, Zodiac, snorkelling, diving and other small group excursions.


  • Butler service in every suite
  • Complimentary beverages everywhere
  • Gourmet dining
  • Gratuities and personalised service onboard
  • Shore excursions and onboard lectures

What's included in the Silversea Drinks Package?

What's included in the Silversea Drinks Package?

Complimentary beverages everywhere

Enjoy a glass or bottle of champagne, wine, beer, or premium spirits on the house. They’ll also ensure you’re well stocked with water, juices and soft drinks in the public bars and your suite. The Silversea promise is to keep your mini-bar full of your favourite drinks – alcoholic beverages (including wine, spirits and mixers) or cold bottles of water for hot, sunny days! Your butler will replenish daily, but if you want a little extra, ask, and they’ll ensure you get exactly what you want. No wish is too big or too small. Yes, really!

Prices based on:

Vista Suite
Vista Suite

A quiet sanctuary to escape to on your cruise. The sitting area has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views. The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed. Silver Wind Vista Suites accommodate three guests.

  • Sitting area, standard vanity, separate shower, some with full-size bath, walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
  • Queen size bed, writing desk, luxury bed mattresses
  • Unlimited standard Wi-Fi, 1 large flat screen TV with Interactive Media Library, direct dial telephone, wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers, dual voltage 110/220 outlets
  • Butler service, champagne on arrival
  • Pillow menu, refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences, plush bathrobe, luxury bath amenities, umbrella, hair dryer, slippers
  • Located on Deck 4 & 7

Classic Veranda Suite
Classic Veranda Suite

A Silversea signature, the Classic Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Veranda suites offer floor-to-ceiling glass doors which open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. Some Classic Veranda Suites accommodate three guests. A must for the world’s best cruise line.

  • Sitting area, standard vanity, separate shower, some with full-size bath, walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
  • Queen size bed, writing desk, luxury bed mattresses
  • Unlimited standard Wi-Fi, 1 large flat screen TV with Interactive Media Library, direct dial telephone, wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers, dual voltage 110/220 outlets
  • Butler service, champagne on arrival
  • Pillow menu, refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences, plush bathrobe, luxury bath amenities, umbrella, hair dryer, slippers
  • Located on Deck 5, 6 & 7

Deluxe Veranda Suite
Deluxe Veranda Suite

The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers unbeatable views. A Silversea signature. Spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone. The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a preferred central location with identical accommodation to a Veranda Suite. No top cruise line would be complete without such a luxury.

  • Sitting area, standard vanity, separate shower, some with full-size bath, walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
  • Queen size bed, writing desk, luxury bed mattresses
  • Unlimited standard Wi-Fi, 1 large flat screen TV with Interactive Media Library, direct dial telephone, wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers, dual voltage 110/220 outlets
  • Butler service, champagne on arrival
  • Pillow menu, refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences, plush bathrobe, luxury bath amenities, umbrella, hair dryer, slippers
  • Located on Deck 5, 6 & 7

Medallion Suite
Medallion Suite

A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury. The perfect summary of The Medallion Suite offered by the world’s best cruise line.

  • Veranda
  • Separate dining area
  • Living room with sitting area
  • Standard vanity and separate shower
  • Queen size bed with writing desk
  • Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi, 2 flat screen TVs with media library, sound system, direct dial phone, USB-C chargers
  • Butler service, complimentary laundry, champagne on arrival
  • Espresso machine, pillow menu, stocked refrigerator and bar, luxury bath amenities, umbrella, hair dryer, slippers
  • Located on Deck 7 & 8

Royal Suite
Royal Suite

Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. The Royal suite lives up to its name. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.

  • Standard vanity, separate shower, and whirlpool bath
  • Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
  • King size bed with luxury mattresses, writing desk, and vanity table
  • Butler service, complimentary laundry, pressing & wet cleaning, dinner for two in La Dame, champagne on arrival
  • Located on Deck 6

Grand Suite
Grand Suite

Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. The Grand Suite on the Silver Wind ideal for entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.

  • King size bed, writing desk, vanity table, luxury bed mattresses
  • Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi, 2 large flat screen TVs with Interactive Media Library, sound system with Bluetooth connectivity, direct dial telephone, wall mounted USB-C mobile device chargers, dual voltage 110/220 outlets
  • Butler service, complimentary laundry, pressing & wet cleaning, dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage, two hours of worldwide phone use per voyage segment, champagne on arrival
  • Espresso machine, pillow menu, refrigerator and bar setup stocked with preferences, plush bathrobe, luxury bath amenities, umbrella, hair dryer, slippers.
  • Located on Deck 7

Owner's Suite
Owner's Suite

The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. The Owner’s Suite is available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedrooms by adjoining with a Vista Suite so you can enjoy your luxury cruise in style.

  • Champagne on arrival, espresso machine, pillow menu
  • Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
  • Butler service, complimentary laundry, pressing & wet cleaning
  • Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi, 2 large flat screen TVs, sound system with Bluetooth
  • King size bed, walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
  • Whirlpool bath, separate shower, and standard vanity
  • Located on Deck 7

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