Silver Shadow

The first of two new ships to be built for Silversea Cruises, the Silver Shadow was launched in 2000. It is a Millennium class vessel and, along with its sister the Silver Whisper, was designed to be similar in appearance to the fleet's existing liners - but larger and even more luxurious.

Cruise itineraries on the Silver Shadow are extremely varied and the liner travels to a number of locations in New Zealand, Australia and the Far East.

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Popular destinations include Tokyo, Beijing, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Sydney. The ship sometimes travels across the Pacific to provide trips along the west coast of North America, with journeys between Alaska and Vancouver - travelling past some amazing sites like the Hubbard Glacier.

Guests on the Silver Shadow are generally well-travelled and have been on cruises before - often on other Silversea cruises. These passengers are typically in their mid-30s or older and are seeking sophisticated cruises with plenty of luxury, comfort and gourmet food. Young couples looking for a romantic getaway may also enjoy a trip on the Silver Shadow, but it's not generally recommended for families with small children, as there aren't an dedicated youth facilities.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 400
Year entered service: 2000
Beam (ship width): 81.8 feet
Draught (ship depth): 19.6 feet
Length: 610.2 feet
Tonnage: 28,258
Crew: 295
Maximum speed: 21 knots
Number of passenger decks: 7
Number of lifts: 5
Number of swimming pools: 1
Number of cabins: 194

Food, cuisine and dining

There are a number of places to find a delicious meal on the Shadow. The Observation Lounge and Panorama Lounge both serve a relaxed morning meal, while La Terrazza offers a fabulous buffet for breakfast and lunch.

The Restaurant is the main dining area - it's a more traditional cruise environment, with carefully set tables, comfortable chairs and gorgeous ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Other options include the luxurious Le Champagne or the Pool Bar & Grill where you can pick up a juicy burger or a slice of fresh-baked pizza.

For those who are conscious about their health, the CruiseLite dining menu could be the perfect choice. Designed as part of Silversea's wellness programme, this well-balanced menu has been carefully chosen to provide healthy and delicious options that will leave you feeling refreshed and energised.

Most meals include vegetarian, vegan and low-carb options, while other dietary requirements can be accommodated - but be sure to notify the cruise line before you set sail.

Afternoon tea is available every day in the Panorama Lounge, while room service is available throughout the day and night.

On-board entertainment and activities

Seeing a show is probably the most popular evening activity aboard any cruise ship and this is certainly true on the Silver Shadow. While the stunning show lounge may not be as huge as some of the massive theatres found on bigger vessels, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in many other ways.

For example, the seating is not the standard stadium-style chairs that are stuck right next to each other. Instead, small clusters of sofas, tub chairs and other comfy seats are situated around cocktail tables. The venue is tiered so that all guests have a great view and plenty of personal space.

Performances range from cabaret acts and revues to comedy, concerts and soloist musicians. Films are sometimes shown on the large screen behind the stage, while the space is also utilised for lectures and enrichment programmes during the day.

Elsewhere on the Shadow, you can enjoy a quiet drink and friendly conversation in the various lounges and bars, while there's also a library, internet cafe, casino, games room and a number of boutique shops.

Spas and fitness facilities

The Spa at Silversea is a tranquil space - perfect for anyone who needs a bit of pampering and rejuvenation. Unwind in the thermal suite or opt for a specialist treatment like a bamboo massage or body wrap. There's also a beauty salon if you're looking for a facial, new hairstyle or a manicure-pedicure.

In the Fitness Centre, you can work out some tension - and burn a few calories - on modern exercise equipment, or with a circuit training or Pilates class. Personal trainers are available to help you choose the right workouts for your needs, and consultations and nutrition classes are also offered.

Elsewhere on the ship, you can find whirlpool tubs, perfect for a rejuvenating soak to relax all of your muscles. There's also a jogging track and a pool if you want to swim a few laps. Or why not take part in a game of shuffleboard or ping-pong?

Cabins

There are nearly 200 rooms on the Silver Shadow and all of them are classified as suites, meaning that no matter which option you choose, it will be plush accommodation with plenty of space. And with eight price grades available, you're sure to find something to suit your needs - whether you're seeking luxury cruise deals or the finest room available.

In fact, even the smallest rooms - the Vista Suites - are significantly larger than the industry standard. Measuring 287 square feet, they have large picture windows, a separate sitting area with a comfortable sofa and a private bathroom clad in beautiful marble.

All rooms are also equipped with a flat-screen television with a DVD player and satellite channels. There's also a writing desk, a walk-in closet, a personal safe and a mini-bar stocked with your favourite beverages.