Wellness should be about balanced indulgence, not self-sacrifice - that's the philosophy behind Silversea's new programme called Otium, named after the Roman leisure time dedicated to bathing, talking, singing, drinking, eating and relaxing. The easygoing regime includes a 24-hour room-service menu of comfort food, as well as new spa treatments, relaxing baths and hot chocolate served on your balcony.
Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.
Day 11
Bilbao
Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.
Day 12
At sea
Day 13
Vigo
Day 14
Porto
Porto may be Portugal’s second city, but it takes first place in many cruisers’ hearts. It’s a gastronomic wonderland – with port and tonics, pastel de natas and excellent seafood. It's also full of architectural marvels, including the famous ironwork bridge joining the neighbourhoods of Gaia and Ribeira. You’ll find that both ocean liners and river cruise ships stop at its ports.
Day 15
At sea
Day 16
Lisbon
In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.
Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.
Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.
Porto may be Portugal’s second city, but it takes first place in many cruisers’ hearts. It’s a gastronomic wonderland – with port and tonics, pastel de natas and excellent seafood. It's also full of architectural marvels, including the famous ironwork bridge joining the neighbourhoods of Gaia and Ribeira. You’ll find that both ocean liners and river cruise ships stop at its ports.
In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.
We had three weeks on the Spirit which was over Christmas and New Year. Could not fault the service from the staff. The food was very good with plenty of choice.
There were a few problems with water egress on our deck but this was quickly dealt with. Christmas Day was lovely although no Christmas Dinner to speak of that was the evening before, but the brunch they put on was excellent.
The entertainment in the evening was a bit lack luster and the DJ I can only describe as being poor. All he did was put tracks on and disappeared.
The entertainment in the theatre was a bit hit and miss and felt they could have brought more acts on.
Some ports of call where closed because it was holiday season or a Sunday, but that didn't bother us.
Overall an excellent cruise with only a few minor issues would certainly recommend.
Excellent cruise from start to finish. Every member of staff treated me incredibly well and with compassion and humour as appropriate. I am partially disabled but I was treated with respect.
The food was superb and the head chef catered to my various intolerances and special requests with grace. Nothing was too much trouble. The excursions were all zodiac based and the gangway staff were fantastic helping me on and off the ship every day despite my laughter, screaming and even crying on one occasion. The expedition staff were phenomenal. My cabin lady was by far the best I have ever had and we are going to be life long friends. My butler was also very professional and very kind to me.
I would recommend Silverseas to anyone who can afford it!
Great cruise the team are fantastic
A bit panic getting on and off in Barbados and Putto Rico
Entertainment was very average and amatory I would say
The ship is lovely service is fantastic food is good would definitely do this cruise again
A very dissatisfying and disappointing first experience of Silversea. The food is extremely below par and expectations, as we were cruising in Japan the buffet had to be served by staff but there was a distinct lack of generosity in their helpings- given that leftover food is only thrown away after each meal surely it is better to allow passengers that have paid for it to eat it !!!! The reception staff on board were unfriendly, surly and unhelpful. The Room Attendants gave very inconsistent service - some days you got shower gel and towels whilst on others you got neither. Amenities were not replenished after use. Management on board were ineffective at problem solving and following through on resolutions.
All in all we would NEVER sail with Silversea again based on this experience alone.
Where do I start with this excuisite cruise ship? Silver Spirit is luxury line Silversea's largest cruise ship, but when I say large it's guest capacity is only 608, none of your 7,000+ guest small city cruise ship here! Every inch of this beautiful ship oozes style, comfort and luxury, and as you enjoy everything form the pool deck, Venetian lounge theatre and observation lounge to the culinary excellence of each of the 8 superlative restaurants, you always feel there is plenty of space for every guest. Almost every suite has a balcony and comes with a buttler. Being onboard with like-minded international travel companions makes for interesting conversations and new life long friendships. Yes, it is more expensive than other cruise options but once you've paid, everything onboard is included, even selected shore excursions, no more angst over gratuities either. You can pay for cheaper cruises but you will not find the quality or attention to detail that Silversea offers as it's basic standard. It doesn't have to break the bank either if you book well in advance. Silversea offer excellence of service and nothing is too much for the guests' needs. Every member of crew from the captain to maintainance crew members are always pleased to see you and always say good afternoon/morning/evening with a smile whenever they see a guest. Everything about the Silversea experience is second to none and it is a must for every cruiser to experience, but be warned once you've sampled the best nothing less will do!
