Oceania Cruises will launch one of the spiffiest ships at sea with suites at sea in the winter of 2011 with high-style designs  by Tocar and upscale furnishings from Ralph Lauren Home Collection that gives new meaning to cruising in style. From an ultra glam 2,500 square foot owner’s suite to estate-like craftsmen designed staterooms, the ship will feel more like a luxurious manse than a floating vessel.

And here your savvyseafarer thought the Silversea and Seabourn had the luxury market cornered.

Get this, three three Owner’s Suites,  unlike any at sea, will feature walls  of inset Georgian wood paneling are finished in an ivory gloss. Art niches on either side are framed with polished stone and mirrored to reflect the statuary. An ivory marble entryway with a David Hicks inspired black and camel mosaic tile inset is surrounded by plush black carpeting trimmed with a polished nickel metal edge.

The foyer also contains a mahogany gloss bar with three ivory leather and chrome stools, stately burnished silver armchairs covered in faux crocodile and brown and white faux zebra skins and an oversized ivory brocade and black satin chaise in front of floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping ocean vistas. An ebony baby grand piano serves as the room’s focal point while a brilliant alabaster and polished nickel chandelier hangs overhead.

Luxurious Living & Dining

Passengers  will probably spejd most of their time in the spacious living and dining room, which exudes the rich, clubby and refined elegance of a world-class yacht. Macassar ebony-veneered chests with silver hardware topped by faux Zebra-framed mirrors flank the entrance. Walnut herringbone wood flooring rings a field of camel carpeting with an inset chocolate border. A full wall of windows affords uninterrupted aft views.

A camel-colored, suede L-shaped Modern penthouse sectional is prominently positioned in the corner. To its side is a mahogany Anglesey end table and oversized, Mayfair tufted armchair upholstered in coffee-brown velvet; the Planar brushed stainless steel and acrylic coffee table centers the seating area. A 42″ flat-screen TV mounted atop a striking nickel and mahogany entertainment center is anchored by a black teak and nickel Aldgate etagere.

An elegant mahogany Mayfair dining table with smooth caramel leather Clivedon dining chairs affords seating for six topped with a classic candelabra chandelier finished in nickel complete the dramatic dining area.

Wraparound teak-covered verandas feature stylish pieces custom-crafted from Ralph Lauren in white marine lacquer suitable for outdoor living.

Sumptuous Sleeping Quarters

The Tocar designers incorporated  ivory wainscoting and plush silvery grey carpeting to set the stage for the high-style and luxurious bedrooms of the Owner’s Suites. The walls above the wainscoting are covered in Austyn cashmere and all windows and balcony doors are dressed with ivory wool sheers and silver drapery panels in a shimmering, silk/cotton blend.

The bedroom’s centerpiece is the distinctive, Bel Air bed in a deep, library mahogany – its headboard, footboard and side rails upholstered in steel-blue mohair with polished nickel nail-head accents. To its left and right are City Modern bedside chests with stainless trim and hardware, finished in rosewood mahogany. Night-stands are topped with Faceted Crystal Prism lamps with white silk shades. A custom ceiling fixture in polished nickel with teardrop glass balls provides overhead boudoir lighting.

A Mayfair mirror with a burnished silver-leaf frame and beveled glass adorns one wall, framed by polished nickel sconces with white-pleated silk shades. Across the room is the Ralph Lauren Highbridge desk featuring stainless steel sawhorse base with glass top and Noble Estate side chair upholstered in camel wool seat base with contrasting ivory ribbed seat back and polished nickel nail heads. A Noble Estate settee upholstered in taupe leather with polished nickel sabos and two Hasley slipper-chairs upholstered in a light gray cashmere wool blend provide additional seating.

Throw pillows upholstered in both silver textured fabric with contrasting ivory cord and ivory brocade pattern with contrasting blue double-fringe trim add to the elegance.

The finishing touch on this grand boudoir is a marble, six-fixture master bathroom with both a separate shower and large soaking tub. The whimsical mahogany double vanity is topped with double portholes and accented with nickel ceiling-mounted round pivoting mirrors and Ralph Lauren’s classic small sconces with silk fabric shades.

Casual Elegance Meets High Style

Oceania Cruises’ new  1,258-passenger Marina features a leit motif of rich woods, marble and granite, fine wool carpets and lustrous leathers adorn public rooms. There are a whopping 10 dining venues – six of which are open-seating gourmet restaurants, an array of bars and lounges, a full-service Canyon Ranch SpaClub and fitness center, swimming pool and hot tubs.

Marina itineraries will be revealed in the coming weeks, in the meantime you can visit www.OceaniaCruises.com  or call Oceania Cruises toll-free at 800-531-5658.

About Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises® is the world’s only upper-premium cruise line and offers an unrivaled combination of the finest cuisine at sea, elegant accommodations, exceptional personalized service and extraordinary value. Award-winning itineraries visit more than 300 ports in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and the Americas aboard three luxurious, 684-guest ships: Regatta, Insignia and Nautica. The 1,258-guest Marina, the first ship designed specifically for the upper-premium market segment, joins the fleet in winter 2011.

Deep discounts, attractive ports, new bigger (Oases of the Seas), better, spiffier ships (Seabourn Odyssey, Silver Spirit) add to the cruise experience for  2010.

 If you’re planning a cruise in the new year you may want to learn a little about what’s in store for you on the high seas: Myths and Truths About Cruising

 If you’ve never taken a cruise you’re truly missing the boat. It’s simply the best, hassle free way to see the world. You only pack and unpack once. If you don’t live in the port of embarkation, usually only one roundtrip flight is necessary. And you get to live on floating hotel that transports you seamlessly to exotic, tropical and interesting parts of the world. So what’s stopping you? Perhaps it’s a fear of the unknown.

 To help jump start your nautical spirit here are a few myths and truths of cruising that may assuage any apprehensions:

 Myth: They feed you non-stop until you turn into the Goodyear blimp.

Truth: Although food is plentiful, nobody force-feeds you; you do the fork lifting all by yourself. And today all ships offer spa cuisine, diet-controlled portions and lots of exercise options from jogging tracks to onboard gyms and beyond.

Myth: It’s Boring. Truth: Only if you think non-stop diversions aren’t stimulating. Most ships provide head-spinning activities from cultural lectures to disco dancing, casinos to computer classes, evening shows and performances, shore excursions, aforementioned spa options and world-class gyms, basketball and volleyball courts, golf cages, video game arcades, duty free shopping in an array of onboard boutiques (although you don’t always find great bargains) in which to max out the credit card, casinos in which to lose your shirt (or win a T-shirt if you hit a slot machine jackpot), late run movies in a theater or your stateroom and more. More cerebral pursuits include well-stocked libraries, computer centers with Internet hookups, reading, writing and daydreaming.

Myth:  You’ll  get fat.

Truth: This again. No you won’t if you follow prudent eating and exercising. I’m getting fed up with this fable, so stop it right now.

 Myth: I’ll feel claustrophobic.
Truth: Most ships now sport bigger staterooms and suites many with outside verandahs in which you can leave the doors open day and night or go out for a fresh breath of air on a whim (just stay off the balcony railing). The new, bigger vessels have acres of deck space. Some are actually large or larger than a football field.

Myth: I have to be dressed up all the time.

Truth: Sporty attire is acceptable on all ships during the day. Many ships have adopted a more casual dress code for evenings or offer casual dining venues. Some cruise lines no longer require tuxedos on formal nights and others ask only that the man wear a jacket and tie and women an appropriate outfit. By casual we don’t mean warm-ups or cut offs in the restaurant. We’re talking casual chic. 

 Myth: I’ll get fat.

Truth: I thought I told you to cut that out. Sure the menu is stuffed with tempting choices but if you use some willpower you can have a bite of this and a taste of that without stuffing yourself. If you’re low on self-discipline avoid buffets and stick to restaurants where menus are offered and then order sensibly. 

 Myth: I’ll be too unconnected with the world.

Truth: Hey we said there are Internet Cafes. And even ship to shore phone service albeit very pricey, or your cell phone. Just about every port, even the most remote has Internet service these days as well as inexpensive phone cards for sale. I once paid $20 for a phone card in Australia that had so many minutes on it I gave it to a crewmember to use on the day we disembarked. So what’s your worry?

Silversea Goes Outside the Box With New Improved Spa on the Spirit

I’ve enjoyed many treatments at  the hands of Silversea Cruise’s therapists in the little sanctuaries of the Whisper, Wind and Cloud, and now I look forward to surrending myself at the new, super spa aboard the line’s newest vessel.

“We designed The Spa aboard Silver Spirit to be the ultimate environment for relaxation and rejuvenation,” said Christian Sauleau, Silversea’s executive vice president of vessel operations. “It adds yet another dimension of luxury and personalized wellness options for our guests, who already enjoy an unmatched level of service and all-inclusive amenities.”

 The 8,300 square feet (770 square meters), Spa will be the largest in the Silversea fleet, featuring a beauty salon, fitness center, nine spa treatment rooms, two sauna rooms and two steam rooms.

Amenities: a ceramic-tiled Thermal Suite, an exclusive spa area furnished with heated lounge chairswith a connecting private Hammam (Turkish bath) Chamber, serves as the setting for the Private Hammam Experience, one of several new treatments to be rolled out aboard Silver Spirit.

Outdoor relaxation area will for guests at no charge with  offer bar service of  complimentary fruit smoothie, champagne or cocktail while soaking in its expansive whirlpool.

New Medi-Spa Program for Botox and beyond:  Wow.  Passengers can actually leave the ship looking better than when thy boarded through  an innovative assortment of  physician-administered facial treatments using such popular wrinkle-reducing agents as BOTOX Cosmetic and the dermal fillers Restylane and Perlane. Guests can consult with the medi-spa physician on board to determine a personalized treatment plan. Medi-spa treatments are the perfect complement to traditional spa therapies, offering guests the added benefit of returning home looking as refreshed as they feel. New Oriental Medicine Program **Acupuncture Therapy — Experienced and fully accredited acupuncturists will offer programs designed to aid weight loss, relieve stress, manage pain and benefit many other physical and psychological conditions. Acupuncture is recommended as an integrative therapy that can assist the healing process when combined with traditional medication and resources. **Chinese Herbal Medicine Program — Almost all acupuncture programs utilize Chinese herbs. These herbs are termed “whole food” as they consist of dried bark, leaves and flowers of specific plant life that aid the body in its self-healing process. Under the brand name Jou, the Chinese herbs featured at The Spa are harvested in China and meet strict manufacturing standards. Other spa highlights include the following ALL  

NEW treatments: Private Hammam Experience One of the most innovative treatment additions is the Private Hammam Experience, where guests can indulge with an ancient Arabian body scrub ritual performed by a therapist in their private Hammam Chamber. The Hammam Experience offers a greater exfoliation, because the intense heat of the Thermal Suite will have softened and opened the pores, allowing for enhanced nourishment of dry skin and optimum absorption of oils. The Hammam Experience can be enjoyed as an individual treatment or as a prelude to a massage. DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Scrub Bar Experience This fun and unique Scrub Bar Experience is a new spa feature that enables guests to choose their own exfoliating blend of scrub ingredients before they begin the DIY process with just a few easy steps that can soothe sore muscles, slough away dead skin, and reveal a smoother, more polished glow. Silversea Facial Debuting aboard Silver Spirit, this signature Silversea Facial is designed to nourish, soothe and revitalize all skin types with its indulgent alchemy of expert touch, medicinal plants, rose quartz and a pure silver leaf mask.

Bamboo Massage– a warm, soothing massage that will awaken the senses. Imagine bamboo shoots of various sizes soaked in essential oil rolling, sliding and massaging the body’s muscles. Customized to each guest’s preference, the therapist will use deep tissue techniques or gentle strokes to relieve tension and soothe muscles.

Thai Herbal Poultice Massage:  This energizing, rhythmic massage utilizes scented herbal poultices that are heated and applied to the body at pressure points to relax the muscles and release tension. The spa therapist then follows with an array of Eastern and Western massage techniques and acupressure movements combined with essential oils to create a wonderfully relaxing experience.

The Happy Couple – a relaxing couples session enhanced by a bottle of champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.

All organized group fitness classes and seminars are complimentary. Personalized, one-on-one training programs, salon services, spa therapies, including medi-spa and Oriental Medicine programs, are offered at an additional charge. The Spa is operated by Steiner Leisure Limited, a leading provider of spa services. Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper–the Spirit launches this month..

Silversea Cruises Skips a Year and Heads into 2011 with an ocean full of itineraries.

In 2011, the company’s nifty all-suite ships, Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and the Silver Spirit, will embark on  170 diverse itineraries, visiting over 335 ports in more than 100 countries and island destinations–heading north to the wilds of Alaska, off to the  mystical pyramids of Egypt, ancient castles of Dublin and more.  

Headlining the schedules is the sleek  Silver Spirit with a 119-day Inaugural World Cruise that includes seven new Silversea destinations: Brindisi, Italy; San Sebastian on the Canary Island of La Gomera; Ballycastle, Northern Ireland; St. Helier on the British Isle of Jersey; Matarani, Peru; Cooktown in Queensland, Australia; and South Australia’s Port Lincoln. “It’s always our goal to provide unique and enriching travel experiences,” said Kenneth Watson, Silversea’s chief operating officer.

“Our 2011 schedule has been carefully designed to offer a broad range of travel choices, including multiple-day calls and overnight stays showcasing traditional must-see destinations, as well as myriad opportunities to explore the world’s most exotic regions.”

 SILVER CLOUD–  The 296-pax luxury liner opens  with a series of Caribbean voyages and two crossings of the Panama Canal before spending a month in the Mediterranean. Silver Cloud then travels northward to summer in Iceland, Scandinavia, Britain and Ireland. An overnight visit to remote Archangel, Russia, is one of the season’s highlights. Autumn in the Mediterranean precedes a stylish return to the warm Caribbean waters and explorations in the Amazon.

 SILVER WIND — will tote 298 passenger so such  fascinating spots as Dubai (which hopefully will have recovered its billions of bucks by then), India, exotic Oman, the oh so seductively sexy Seychelles, and  Africa’s coastline from Mombasa to Cape Town to Morocco.

 Mediterranean destinations, including the Holy Land, and a Black Sea cruise fill the idyllic days of spring and summer, followed by two more cruises to the Holy Land and an encore of Arabian ports and Seychelles islands to close out the year.

 SILVER SHADOW  will treat h er 382-guests  to Oceania,  New Zealand fjords and a first-ever, 30-day circumnavigation of Australia are among the season’s highlights, followed by extraordinary Far East wonders during spring. Alaska cruises fill the entire summer season before a return to China, Japan and Vietnam. Popular holiday sailings in Australia and New Zealand are again on the calendar for 2011.

SILVER WHISPER  takes her 382 passengers   to the majestic Chilean fjords, s around  South America, the Caribbean and Northern Europe.
And by popular demand of past passengers, the ship will spend  three days in St. Petersburg before continuing to Norway, Canada and New England. She ends the year with Caribbean and South America voyages.

SILVER SPIRIT  the brightest star of the fleet will offer  540 passengers the option of a 119-day  Inaugural World Cruise spanning from Los Angeles to Southampton. This epic journey takes in the tranquillity of French Polynesia, Australia’s untamed landscapes, the unique customs and cultures of Asia, Egyptian wonders and favorite Mediterranean ports from Italy and Monaco to Spain and Portugal. Throughout summer, special Mediterranean sailings focus on the Greek isles or the flavors of Italy. Exclusively for Formula One racing enthusiasts, Voyage 5112 overnights in Monte Carlo during the Grand Prix. Late autumn months are celebrated beneath the warmth of a Caribbean sun. Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper — and launching in December, Silver Spirit — all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. www.silversea.com

(Please check out the savvyseafarer’s other articles on Silversea a www.savvyseafarer.wordpress.com, and

Yipes,  cruise lines are already promoting Alaska voyages and we’re not even into the new year.  I’ve done about a dozen cruises to our last frontier and recommend it to everyone. And I do mean “all.”

The first time we sailed to Alaska, my husband Richard and I and a good friend (who had his own cabin) it was during what I refer to as my “bimbo with brains” day, today I might say my Sarah Palin time, although I don’t think I was ever that…… (you fill in the blank). The ship was nice but old and none of the bells and whistles of today’s vessels. In fact we only had port holes, today I won’t board a ship unless I have a guaranteed balcony.

Anyhow, I just partied on for 10 days oblivious to the fantastic scenery, flora, fauna, elk, tundra or basically anything off the ship. In fact Richard and our friend Bob got off the ship to explore the ports while I got massages and worked out. Then a little older and wiser I sailed again, this time on the maiden voyage of the super luxe Crystal Harmony and while the ship was first in class at the time and one of the most amazing luxury liners to ever sail the seas, I was able to concentrate on the scenery and shore excursions. Okay it wasn’t easy leaving the spa or hot tub.

Anyhow I discovered Alaska in all it’s glory and it is God’s country, pristine, amazingly beautiful. While it’s impossible to fill you in on all the ships heading north to Alaska next year, Holland American just announced that it’s flagship ms Rotterdam–complete with staterooms that sport balconies or what the company calls “lanais” will be making 18 cruises to the area from Seattle starting May 15-September 11. The voyages highlight the inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay –North America’s largest tidewater glacier. According to a recent press release: Under Holland America’s $525-million Signature of Excellence program, the Rotterdam gains 39 new lanai staterooms, created by replacing existing stateroom windows (on Lower Promenade Deck 6) with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. The ship also adds 23 new spa staterooms, featuring a variety of enhanced spa amenities, on its Verandah Deck. All staterooms and bathrooms will receive complete new décor and furnishings. Public areas will host the Retreat, a resort pool feature; the Showroom at Sea, a glamorous nightclub; and Mix, a new concept with three separate bars: Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Canaletto, Holland America Line’s popular and complimentary casual Italian restaurant, will also be added to the ship. Cruise-only fares start at US $649, per person, double occupancy, for a seven-day Alaskan Explorer cruise on the Rotterdam. 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com. # # # our last frontier and recommend it to everyone. And I do mean “all.” The first time we sailed from Vancouver to Alaska, my husband Richard and I and a good friend (who had his own  cabin) it was during what I refer to as my “bimbo with brains” day, today I might say my Sarah Palin time, although I don’t think I was ever that…… (you fill in the blank). The ship was nice but old and none of the bells and whistles of today’s vessels. In fact we only had port holes, today I won’t board a ship unless I have a guaranteed balcony. Anyhow, I just partied on for 10 days oblivious to the fantastic scenery, flora, fauna, elk, tundra or basically anything off the ship. In fact Richard and our friend Bob got off the ship to explore the ports while I got massages and worked out. Then a little older and wiser I sailed again, this time on the maiden voyage of the super luxe Crystal Harmony and while the ship was first in class at the time and one of the most amazing luxury liners to ever sail the seas, I was able to concentrate on the scenery and shore excursions. Okay it wasn’t easy leaving the spa or hot tub. Anyhow I discovered Alaska in all it’s glory and it is God’s country, pristine, amazingly beautiful. While it’s impossible to fill you in on all the ships heading north to Alaska next year, Holland American just announced that it’s flagship ms Rotterdam–complete with staterooms that sport balconies or what the company calls “lanais” will be making 18 cruises to the area from Seattle starting May 15-September 11. The voyages highlight the inside Passage and Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay –North America’s largest tidewater glacier. According to a recent press release: Under Holland America’s $525-million Signature of Excellence program, the Rotterdam gains 39 new lanai staterooms, created by replacing existing stateroom windows (on Lower Promenade Deck 6) with lanai doors that open directly onto the walk-around promenade. The ship also adds 23 new spa staterooms, featuring a variety of enhanced spa amenities, on its Verandah Deck. All staterooms and bathrooms will receive complete new décor and furnishings. Public areas will host the Retreat, a resort pool feature; the Showroom at Sea, a glamorous nightclub; and Mix, a new concept with three separate bars: Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Canaletto, Holland America Line’s popular and complimentary casual Italian restaurant, will also be added to the ship. Cruise-only fares start at US $649, per person, double occupancy, for a seven-day Alaskan Explorer cruise on the Rotterdam. 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com

Check out my other articles at: http://bit.ly/2P9nFf

Photos compliments of Silversea Cruises

It’s so exciting, a brand new member of the tiny Silversea Cruises fleet is about to set sail and I can’t wait. I love this cruise line, it’s simply one of the best afloat with seamless service, scrumptious cuisine, upscale, but not stuff ambiance, all-inclusive rates and suite-size staterooms that engulf you in the lap of luxury.
The 540-passenger Silver Spirit makes her bow on a “Holiday Spirit” voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon. .
The new vessels will feature two new dining options for a total of six venues in addition to in-suite service, which includes dinner served course by course.
What Makes Her Special let me count the ways:
* Exceptional attention to details. * Open seating  dining. *Artfully prepared meals made from the finest quality fresh ingredients by master chefs with a taste for innovation. *Complimentary wines, spirits and sodas and the comfort of an extensive stock of additional rare vintages, the perfect complement to the meal is always at hand.
* THE RESTAURANT Situated midship on Deck 4, dishing out sumptuous culinary fare in an atmosphere of elegance. It is elegant but not at all stuffy – the perfect stage for a dining experience guests want to savor. Open most of the day, The Restaurant serves open-seating breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features contemporary international cuisine, complemented by La Collection du Monde, signature dishes created by Relais & Châteaux in partnership with Silversea’s own master chefs.
*LA TERRAZZA The far aft location of La Terrazza on Deck 7 allows for 180-degree views of the horizon. It is open for casual, buffet-style breakfast and lunch with indoor/outdoor seating available. For dinner, La Terrazza offers an authentic a la carte experience with only the finest elements of Italian cooking, melding together fresh and flavorful ingredients — in the finest Slow Food tradition. Reservations are required for dinner.
* LE CHAMPAGNE for savoring outstanding champagnes and wines paired to perfection with regional fares in the intimate atmosphere of Le Champagne, situated aft of The Restaurant on Deck 4. This innovative Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux features some of the world’s rarest vintages, carefully chosen to highlight a most memorable and exclusive culinary experience. There is a fee to dine and reservations may be made on board.
*SEISHIN new to the fleet, the dining venue takes its name from the Japanese word for “spirit,” this intimate restaurant specializing in Asian fusion cuisine is situated aft of The Restaurant on Deck 4. Seishin features a large, round chef’s table as its centerpiece. Guests at surrounding tables can watch the chef at work sculpting fresh sushi and sashimi. The varied menu ranges from exquisite bento (boxed meal) lunches and a la carte specialties of seafood salad, lobster and Kobe beef to a nine-course degustation dinner. There is a fee to dine and reservations may be made on board.
* STARS SUPPER CLUB also new, the Art Deco-inspired decor of this dining venue elegantly recalls the supper clubs of the 1930s. Located just forward of La Terrazza on Deck 7, Stars Supper Club offers a modern twist with trendsetting menus showcasing regional and seasonal delicacies to be enjoyed in a succession of small courses. Guests can arrive early for cocktails and stay late as the mood is transformed by live music, dancing and nightclub-style entertainment. Reservations are required for dinner.
*POOL GRILL On Deck 9 adjacent to the pool area is the Pool Grill. In addition to a medley of salads, sandwiches, hamburgers and hot dogs offered for lunch in a casual outdoor setting, the Pool Grill on Silver Spirit will introduce a wellness breakfast designed to complement morning poolside fitness classes. Here guests can start the day energized with a menu of light and delicious fares — from nutrition-packed fresh fruit smoothies and organic cereals to egg-white omelettes and spinach and artichoke frittatas. Also set to debut at the Pool Grill is a unique cooking concept for dinner that lets guests cook healthy fare on their own heated volcanic rock plate.
SUPER SPA  where I’ve had some of the best treatments on land or sea (on her sister ships of course, obviously I haven’t yet done the Spirit, but hope to.

*24-HOUR IN-SUITE DINING Complimentary 24-hour room service is available on all Silversea voyages.  Let me tell  you, my husband and I enjoyed this amenity many times of her sister ships and it’s simply divine. We always began with champagne on the veranda (there’s complimentary bottles in the mini fridge) and then maybe a first course out there and then move into the suite and watch a movie while finishing the meal. (Videos are free of charge). You get to order straight from the  Restaurant menu and  are served in courses ona beautifully set table of  fine china, linens and accessories as enjoyed in The Restaurant.

A  luxury cruise trendsetter Silversea raised the bar when they entered service and began spoiling passengers such as we with unheard of exemplory service, cuisine and amenities. 
Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper — and launching in December, Silver Spirit — all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance.
In addition to the large, inviting pool, passengers can get all the exerc ise needed to work off the mega calories in the fine fitness room or in special workout classes led by some of the best trainers around.  I am a spa snob, spa expert and can unabashedly aver that I’ve taken some of the best Pilates Classes, aerobics and Yoga sessions on Silversea ships (and I go regularly to the Golden Door, the top spa in the world). Also, there is no nickle and diming on this line like runs rampant on many other ships.

Yes it cost more but it’s well worth the all-inclusive fare that includes gratuities, hard and soft drinks, and much more. For more information on Silversea Cruises, please contact a travel agent. For a complimentary brochure, please call toll-free (877) 215-9986 or visit www.silversea.com

Posted by Patti Pietschmann at 1:22 PM 0 comments Links to this post

My favorite cruise company, Silversea is

continuing to offer unprecedented savings on a bunch of interesting voyages this year. If you haven’t sampled the fare yet now is the time to book your journey. Silversea is simply one of the top three cruise lines afloat (tied with Seabourn).  Silversea ships debateably rival  Crystal Cruises– although not  everybody, some seafarers prefer larger ships like Crystal operates to the smaller vessels of Silversea.  And I do admit Crystal is pretty spiffy but alas it doesn’t feature the all-inclusive pricing of Silversea which means lots of extra out of pocket. But if you prefer bigger, glitzier ships with Vegas like casinos, Crystal’s your bag.

So here’s the deal: Silverseas is offering  50% savings on 39 worldwide voyages offering 50% savings in all suite categories. Plus, an array of Silver Sailing voyages offer additional perks such as free or reduced air programs … and $1,000 Onboard Spending Credits.

  An innovator in true upscale cruising, Silverseas offers  large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper — and launching in December, Silver Spirit — all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance. With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company’s itineraries encompass all seven continents.  www.silversea.com

Visiting the best beaches in the world is just one of the perks of cruising….. 

New Concierge Service

Silversea’s new concierge service lets passengers design their own unique experiences ashore with the introduction of its new “Silver Shore Concierge” service.

Passengers or travel agent can  call the dedicated toll-free phone line, 1-800-968-9518, or email concierge@silversea.com, to request assistance in making personalized, private onshore arrangements.  The Silver Shore Concierge desk can be reached from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (East Coast time, U.S.), Monday through Friday.

“The new Silver Shore Concierge desk has been created to provide our guests with one-to-one consultations and creative assistance,” said Darius Mehta, Silversea’s director of land programs.  ”Our team of destination experts are happy to set up arrangements to meet a guest’s specific requirements, tailored to their personal interests, or help guests design their own one-of-a-kind onshore experience.”

The Silver Shore Concierge arrangements could include not only sightseeing but also sporting activities, and securing behind-the-scenes or after-hours access to exclusive designer shops, museums, cathedrals and more.  Other possibilities might include a champagne picnic and hot air balloon ride over Tuscany, access to a designer’s atelier in Venice, or a journey through Juneau’s glacier-carved fjords by private catamaran.

Additionally, guests can call upon the Silver Shore Concierge to plan pre- and post-cruise land adventures that include accommodations at some of the world’s best hotels, flights, ground transportation, and guided tours of historical sites and other attractions.

To take advantage of the new service, Silversea guests will need to have a deposited or fully-paid booking.  Payment for confirmed arrangements is made in advance of sailing and includes a service fee.  

The Silver Shore Concierge is also offered aboard ship, where the shore concierge manager and team, together with the destination specialist, are available to assist guests with suggestions, planning and coordination of all their independent touring needs.

The Concierge service is the centerpiece of an array of new Silver Shore tour and hotel offerings designed to make the destination experience more personal and authentic, including:

** Silver Shore Privato — lets guests experience the destination at their own pace on full or half-day excursions by private car or van service that can be reserved on board or in advance of sailing via Silversea.com/MyVoyage.  

** Silver Shore Expedition — adventurous and educational tours for the active explorer.

** Silver Shore Collection — unique and exclusive in-depth explorations of local history and culture.

** Silver Shore Excursions — intimate and rewarding small-group touring.

** Silver Shore Land Adventures — multi-day excursions that head inland to explore the region in depth.  Offered before, after or during select voyages, they include accommodations, porterage, all transfers, sightseeing and some meals.

** Silver Shore Simply Hotel — single-night programs that feature a 4.5- or 5-star hotel stay before or after the cruise at such properties as the InterContinental Athenaeum in Athens, the Park Tower in Buenos Aires or Rome’s Bernini Bristol.  These flexible overnight stays offer guests the option to add transfers, additional nights or upgrades, if desired.

** Silver Shore Grande Hotel — two-night programs that enable guests to extend their vacation at Claridge’s in London, the Peninsula in Bangkok and other landmark hotel or boutique properties across the globe.  Full breakfast and private transfer between the pier and hotel are included.

All Silver Shore tours are available for guests to pre-book online as early as 120 days prior to sailing.  Silver Shore Land Adventures and hotel options can be booked as add-ons to the cruise vacation through Silversea reservations.

Silversea Cruises is recognized as an innovator in the luxury segment, offering guests large-ship amenities aboard its intimate, all-suite vessels: Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper — and launching in December, Silver Spirit — all designed to offer an atmosphere of conviviality and casual elegance.  With the addition of the regal expedition ship Prince Albert II, the company’s itineraries encompass all seven continents.  

HAL heads to Hawaii

Ready to start planning your 2010 vacation. How about a leisurely cruise to Hawaii from San Diego. Nothing like it. Your savvyseafarer has made  this voyage a dozen or more times. And now Holland America’s 1,432-passenger  Zaandam sets sail on 14-day roundtrippers from San Diego–and one 15-day voyage from Vancouver, British Colombia, to San Diego–beginning October  2010 through December.  
 
Nestled between two stretches of sea days are back-to-back calls at Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai and Maui — plus a call at Ensenada, Mexico — before returning to San Diego. Included in the Hawaii cruise roster is a holiday sailing departing Dec. 19.Of course you must book a stateroom with a private balcony, it’s the only way to cruise to Hawaii or anywhere, at least your Savvy Seafarer thinks so. I rarely fly coach and never  sail in a cabin without a veranda.
 
“Our Hawaiian itineraries combine the appeal of warm-water cruising and a port-intensive Pacific island experience,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. “Guests will have time to enjoy our shipboard amenities and activities, and the convenience of visiting four ports in four days without multiple flights or the packing and unpacking associated with island hopping.”
 
Departing Sundays from San Diego, guests will have several relaxing days at sea before arriving at Hawaii. During this time, they can enjoy a day at the Greenhouse Spa, channel their inner chef at the Culinary Arts Center for a hands-on cooking class or attend a Digital Workshop powered by Windows® to learn how to share memorable photos taken on the voyage. The Speaker Series offers exciting insights into upcoming ports and includes destination-related topics such as Polynesian music and dance traditions.
 
The first port call is to Hilo on the big island of Hawaii –with excursions to the amazing Kilauea Volcano — with its impressive molten lava flows, botanical gardens and the awe-inspiring Akaka Falls.  En route to Oahu,  the ship will offer  an evening at the Polynesian Cultural Centers or other Hawaiian must-dos: whale watching, a traditional Hawaiian luau, a stroll down Waikiki beach or even surfing. For a more reflective view into Hawaii’s past, guests can visit the USS Arizona Memorial from World War II.

Pax  on the 15-day voyage departing Oct. 2 have an added call at Kona, once known as the playground of Hawaii’s royalty. Kona is synonymous with the famous coffee that grows on the slopes of dormant Hualalai volcano, a definite must-see for coffee aficionados. Another highlight of this longer voyage is an evening scenic cruise past the famous Kilauea volcano. 

Your Savvy Seafarer has sailed on a variety of Holland America ships and gives the cruise lines 4 Stars for service, ambience and accommodations and 3 to 4 stars for cuisine–it depends where  you dine. The dining rooms offer good fare while the alternative venues usually offer more haute cuisine especially since the chefs have fewer mouths to feed and can put their best efforts forward.

 Fares: start  at $1,499 per person for the full 14-day Circle Hawaii and $1,699 per person for the 15-day voyage.

 For a cruise brochure or for more information on Holland America Line’s Grand Voyages, consult a professional travel agent, call 1-800-522-3399 or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

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       The Savvyseafarer’s Pros and Cons of Shore Excursions

                   Seeing the world by cruise ships is the most seamless way to go. You can visit dozens of different islands or cities without the hassle of repacking and boarding countless airplanes. And to make it more convenient (and add to corporate profits) cruise line offered a variety of organized shore excursions for an additional fee.  

     But to book a shore excursion or head off on your own, that is the question. The answer banks on your budget, inclinations and tolerance for potentially long lines, crowded busses and sometimes excruciatingly long shopping stops.  

Port tours vary in price depending on cruise line and can run you anywhere from $50 and up a person for a simple snorkel or walking excursion to well over $100 each for such higher-priced options as golf, helicopter rides, seaplane rides and visits to ancient ruins. Some lines even offer overnight excursions to city hotels, or private limousine tours that can run $400 a person and up.      

       Monte Carlo

The bottom line is shore excursions are worth it if you want to venture to attractions located far from the pier, have easy access to historic monuments, forts, castles and learn more about an area.  However if all you want to do is walk around a port  town, shop or go to a beach it could be much cheaper and less time consuming to get a map and go it on your own. For instance: In most Caribbean ports shops and even some attractions are a stone’s throw from the ship, but good beaches are a cab ride away. (Although it still might be less expensive to hail a taxi to the beach than participate in tour).  In St. Barths, one of the best beaches, Shell Beach, is just a stroll from the pier and the island is pretty maneuverable on foot.

In big cities it makes better sense to pop for a tour. It is also wiser to take a shore excursion in any Third World country or foreign port where language and customs present a barrier.  For example in Brunei you would definitely want to take the guided tour to sites such as the biggest mosque in Asia– Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque. You’d probably never find it on your own or much less pronounce the name correctly. And without guidance may not be aware that local custom mandates covering your body from head toe in long pants, long skirt, and long sleeves.  More than one cruise passenger has appeared scantily clad at the mosque steps. Fortunately the locals are used to this and have robes available to drape over visitors). 

Of course whether on your own or in an organized group you should dress properly where touring.

Locals operate most port tours and cruise lines are pretty much at their mercy. This can be a good thing or a bad in the case of a recent visit to Costa Rica. We were booked on a rain forest trek. Our giddy young female tour operators kept warning us that since it was late in the morning we may not spot any denizens in the area. “We don’t why they send you so late,” they moaned, “the animals are only around in the early morning.” Well one reason it was late was the ship doesn’t arrive any earlier. Which the cruise line should have thought about before adding this tour to the program. Well not only didn’t we see any creatures of the woods, we pretty much didn’t see anything but millions of ants. A spectacle that seemed to fascinate our guide who made us stop for a seeming eternity to watch them cross our path. Needless to say there were many complaints. Not the least of which was about the non-stop blabbing of our guidettes. Which may have been a good thing had it been interesting. It wasn’t.

However in French Polynesia we walked off our ship and into the arms of local tour operators who took us snorkeling, diving and to the beach at half the price charged by the cruise line.

Shore excursion comfort factors vary from ship to ship. Princess Cruises’ New Waves snorkel and scuba trips can’t be beat. Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Seabourn and Radisson Seven Seas also run a tight ship with handpicked tours that usually run smoothly. 

Alas too many tours translate into lengthy bus rides, and too much time in souvenir shops. Following a long, hot, but worthwhile tour of the Acropolis outside of Athens, passengers who thought they were being driven directly back to their ship were squirreled into a tacky little shop belonging to the tour guide’s brother-in-law. 

The best way to decide on a shore excursion is by reading the brochure thoroughly. Keep a look out for red flags such as:  “once there you will have two hours to swim, snorkel, beach comb or just relax.”  Now while that doesn’t sound so bad, we’re talking a 6-hour tour that includes two hours on a catamaran.  And while champagne and drinks may be proffered (usually bad bubbly besides) do you really want to spend four hours on a boat after being on a ship! Maybe you do.  But think about it. The length of the tour is always noted in the brochure deduct time spent getting there to time available once at your destination to decide if this is a good thing or not. For some reason unknown to this seafarer, shore excursions have gotten longer. On a recent cruise it was difficult to find any less than 5 hours long.  A couple of hours in a cat or sailboat may not to be tough duty; the same amount of time in a bus may not be that pleasant.

Shore excursion managers  are eager to please , answer  questions and of course book business.  So  be sure to discuss the excursion in detail  before you plunk down your dough. Some tours involve strenuous treks in hot, humid climes. Cruise lines are quick o point this out to avoid liability or problems. Be sure to pick tours that you can handle physically.

One final caveat:  the bigger the  ship, the faster shore excursions sell out, so if you still want to take an organized tour, don’t delay, book it soon after you embark or on line if the cruise line permits.

It’s also a good idea to get your hands on a few good guidebooks to learn about  the ports of calls  you’ll be visiting or surf the web.

 Making A Case For  Long Cruises

For the Savvyseafarer a  one week cruise is simply too short. It takes at least two days to adapt and get my sea legs, especially on a new ship. Ten days work better, two weeks are even more enjoyable and well a month is ideal–on the right ship.

We’ve taken a few 28-day and longer journeys and it’s amazing how quickly the time flies.  We actually got off the ships in better shape than we started.  We jogged, swam, worked out in the gym, took  Pilates, Step, and aerobic classes,  had massages, facials and assorted body treatments, attended riveting lectures, learned Spanish, saw late run movies, dined in fine restaurants, read several books, checked our email daily, made new friends, went to musical and comedy shows, sunned, relaxed and visited five countries.  

 Who says there’s nothing to do on a cruise?  Well lots of people. But they are wrong. Very wrong.

 My husband and I have not only been on several cruises but on at least half dozen voyages of 21 days or more. When we tell friends and family that we’re taking such a long voyage they invariably raise an eyebrow and comment, “Won’t you be bored? Whatever will you do?”

 Plenty folks. Contrary to popular belief, days on board a ship can be as chuck full as you’d like. Especially today, and of course if you select he right ship and stateroom.

We prefer small luxury liners with suites. The bigger the quarters the better for longer voyages. However folks who really want non-stop activities should lean toward mega ships such as Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance, Radiance and other ships Of-the-Sea, Princess’ Grand and Coral class ships, Celebrity’s behemoth fleet and Holland America’s newest vessels.  On some of them you’ll find rock climbing walls, huge fitness centers, generous spas, basketball courts, paddle tennis, golf, an assortment of dining venues, Vegas-like casinos, lavish showrooms and productions and more. Now tell me who could be bored. Sure there was a time when a seafarer did get weary dining in the same spot night and day. But many ships now feature a  choice of  restaurants, some for an additional charge that rival landside operations (such as on Carnival’s Legend, Celebrity’s Constellation and Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Sea et al), 24 hour cafes, diners, pizza parlors and even ice cream shops. I must admit that this wasn’t the case when we first started cruising about 20 years ago. And that yes, there were days at sea that ennui overwhelmed us. But that was then and this is now.

 Room service on our private balcony……

Silversea is one special cruise line.  They just get it right.  Our most recent long journey was aboard Silversea Cruises sweet little Whisper. Although any of Silverseas’ four ships: Cloud, Wind, Shadow or Whisper provide all the right offerings to make any long cruise special.   We sailed from Los Angeles to Auckland with stops in Ensenada, the Hawaiian Islands, Tonga, Samoa and New Zealand. There were glorious days during which we did all those aforementioned activities. We also watched movies on the plasma screen television in our site while room service waiters served us multi course dinners. We tried our luck in the tiny casino (but didn’t win), took afternoon tea with yummy pastries. We worked off our indulgences in exercise classes led by Gabor, a Rumanian fitness instructor who worked our abs, butts, upper and lower bodies and taught us Pilates and Yoga.

Not quite 10 years old, Silversea boasts an astonishing 65,000 repeat passengers who receive assorted perks as Venetian Society member that increase with number of days spent on board. On our cruise passengers were rewarded with sapphire, ruby or diamond pins and free cruises for having spent from 100 to 300 days cruising with the line.

What keeps them going back is the compact luxury, excellent personalized service, fine dining, open seating,  all-encompassing tab that includes complimentary wines, booze and soft drinks, tips, shuttle service in most ports and in top suites, laundry service.  Guest mingle easily at the bars and in the lounges. Many become fast friends meeting same time next year for another cruise. The crew on these ships is some of friendliest afloat. This time there was Ricky, from Manila, a deck steward and sometimes barkeep who went out of his way to service passengers. Nick, the regular pool bartender, an outgoing Kiwi who kept folks happy with powerful pours of their favorite brands. Spellbinding lectures were provided by Dr. Dieter Arnulf Galler, a rather opinionated but fascinating speaker who kept his audience rapt with tales of Tonga, New Zealand and the south Pacific.   At night there was Michael heading The Bar (it’s called just that) where he knows everybody’s name and drink preference.

 Beloved, omnipotent veteran cruise director Ray Solaire kept passengers content with fun and games. Amiable Anne the social director taught Spanish and accompanied shore excursions. She and Ray also acted on stage in a short play written by the latter. 

On Silversea ships everybody becomes one big happy family.  Stewardesses not only keep suites in tip top shape but they lay out your bed clothes, hang your laundry and stock your fridge with water and supplies.  It is always sad disembarking a Silversea ship.

 While we never wonted for activities on sea days, the ports of calls were welcome sights. The ship sailed from LA with stops in Ensenada, Mexico and the Hawaiian Islands—where we stopped in Hilo, Hawaii, Kauai, Maui and Honolulu before heading on to more exotic ports of call, like Apia, Western Samoa. There we took a shore excursion led by a savvy guide named Julie who told us that the natives eat only two meals a day but “snack frequently.” Sounded like a being on a cruise. We went by van to a local beach where Beverly Hills attorneys run the restaurant. Go figure. We swam in the crystal clear, but rather shallow sea and sunned until heading back to the ship. We made an unscheduled substitute stop in Nuku’Alofa, Tonga due to inclement weather where we were supposed to dock in Figi. Who among you have been there? Even though Silversea pax are well traveled this was new for most of us and fascinating. We booked a tour to an island. But before we were able to board the little boat, we were given a mandatory excursion to see the sites and markets of the city. The pristine island was worth the wait with its warm, transparent waters and friendly natives who entertained us with local dance routines.

From there we steamed to New Zealand. It was our first visit to this retro 1950s scene where locals go at a slow pace enjoying life to the fullest at the beach, in sailboats, sitting in cafes or restaurants and taking time to smell the roses.  In Tauranga  we hiked around a The Mount and went to the beach; in   the Bay of Islands  we walked around the cute, picture postcard town and walked about 2 miles to the nearest  beach. Guess you get the point that we like the beach a lot. A whole lot.

The days flew by—all 24 of them. We even lost a day, we will never see January 20, 2003 as it was the day we passed through the International Date Line. I missed it, it would have been an added 24 hours. We were sad to disembark in Auckland. In fact we wished we could have stayed on the extra 9 days to Sidney. But alas all good things must come to an end. And we had several hours to spend before catching the long, 12-hour flight home. A very long, bumpy ride.

Sidebar:

Not every ship conforms to long voyages. You can’t go wrong with Crystal Cruises luxurious Harmony or Symphony—we’ve been on both for three weeks at a throw. 

Crystal’s only drawbacks are  the fare is not all-inclusive—there are many extra charges including tips which are automatically added to shipboard accounts, spirits, wines, bottled water and soft drinks—and assigned tables in two seatings in the dining room (Silversea allows passengers to dine whenever and with whomever they want at open seating meals).  Crystal does offer two alternative dining venues: an Italian and Asian restaurant–along with room service.

If you book a suite or mini suite on any of Princess Cruises’ Grand or Coral Class ships you can’t go wrong, ditto for Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. But never ever try this in a regular stateroom and always book a balcony. Some 75% of Silversea ships (Wind, Cloud, Shadow and Whisper) have private balconies, while Crystal offers 50% or more and Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are well endowed with verandas.

Just remember cruising means only having to pack and unpack once; eliminating of flying—which concerns most of us during these trying times. (Our LA to Auckland cruise entailed only one flight, back to LA from Auckland). You can visit several countries or islands effortlessly, have all your meals and activities at your beck and call usually for no extra charge save for shore excursions and spa treatments. 

I recently attended a press conference where they said only a small percentage of travelers go by sea. And for the life of me I can’t understand this.  Cruising is one of the most therapeutic, exciting ways to vacation. And with more modern ships providing contemporary and high tech comforts and amenities it’s better than ever.