Shuffleboard with a League of Nations

 
Reviewed By: MILLS, SADDLEWORTH on 6th Apr 2009
Cruise Line: Silversea Times cruised before: 10+
Cruise Ship: Silver Cloud Sailed: November, 2007
Destination: Dubai Age: 46-55
Cabin: Suite
Having spent several frenetic days in Cairo...experiencing wonderful sights, sounds and people, I headed northwards to Port Said to join the ship, Silver Cloud. Although, I have sailed on her many times, I never cease to be amazed at that initial glimpse of such regal elegance in her design.

Silversea, market themselves as a truly 6* cruise line, offering an experience of total luxury.
They never disappoint.
From the moment you board, everything is provided that even the most discerning guest could wish for. From the spacious, beautifully appointed suites to service that is unrivalled, from gourmet cuisine to understated elegance in all the public areas, a cruise on Silversea is the most memorable experience. I returned from my first sailing with her, able to say without doubt that this was my first 'holiday' where I could find no fault. And now, after many return visits, my opinion is the same.

Although not an inexpensive cruise, what you do receive is true value for money. There are no gratuities to pay, all drinks including champagne and premium brands are free, there are no extras to pay to dine in other restaurants. You do not have sittings for dinner. You dine when you want and with whom you want.
There are no interior suites and in general, because activities are not offered for children, the clientele is mainly adult.
The entertainment and activities whilst discreetly available, are advertised but not promoted. There is no pressure to participate in organised events.
Because the ships are quite small, having two in the fleet at 17,000 tons carrying 296 guests, and two at 30,000 carrying 382 guests there is no queuing to leave or board the ships at port stops.

On this particular cruise, we meandered down the Suez, taking in stops in Egypt, Oman, Jordan and finally docking in Dubai. A fascinating itinerary....which I would highly recommend.
To explain the title reference...I always meet interesting people on the ships and have made many frienships, this time joining for the first time, daily shuffle board....with a German gentleman, a Swiss lady, a Belgian, a Czech and a Japanese. Language limited but enjoyment boundless.
If you haven't tried Silversea, you really do not know what you are missing. 6* PLUS !!!!
Quality of Food5
Main restaurant. Lots of fresh fish dishes. Least desserts.
Entertainment5
All entertainment good. Not too interested in guest lecturers.
Shore Excursions5
Two stops in Oman...as not visited before. Lease, possibly Sharm el Sheikh.
Staff5
All crew outstanding. They do EVERYTHING! Nothing too much trouble
Children's Facilitiesn/a
Onboard Activities4
More than sufficient.
Cabins5
Can be explained by referring to them as Suites. There are no cabins on their ships.
Overall Rating5
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