Silver Wind Barcelona-Athens final thoughts

Heading home from Athens and wanted to add some thoughts on the cruise, especially regarding expectations because we met a large number of people who were doing their first cruise on Silversea.

First, this itinerary was spectacular and I doubt I will ever have 13 more interesting days——-from the peacefulness of Ithaca to the crowds in beautiful Mykonos, sailing thru the Corinth Canal and having the opportnity to see Ephesus at night, gorgeous living postcard Santorini. It goes on and on. Did not hurt that we had stellar weather.

Service, great and food really good. Just a few small misses but generally better than I expected.

While I spoke with many who enjoyed their experience, on our last night, we were with some people who expressed very negative comments on this cruise (their first with Silversea) specifically regarding gym facilities and entertainment. They had expected 5 star in both of those categories. Here’s my reaction. I have a nephew who exercises every day and when he and my niece travel anywhere, they always stay at large, Marriott hotels where he knows he will have the equipment he wants. No boutique hotels for them. As far as entertainment, yes, on Crystal with a ship with close to 1,000 passengers, the Billy Joel show had the person who played the role on Broadway. It was excellent but I don’t expect the same level with Wind having under 300 passengers.

I guess my point is this——research well. If a casino is important, consider the size of the ship as well as cruise line. If ports are the main focus with early dinner, early bedtime and early awakening, think about who to choose. I loved my Crystal cruise but don’t need all the choices they offer if I am doing a port intensive trip. I travel with a friend and the negative with them is cabin size—-Silversea offers more space as well as butler in veranda suite. Those are things I weigh when selecting.

Going forward, I would look at Silversea first but also consider others based on itinerary and comments from friends who have had good experiences on Regent, Crystal and Viking. I had a great time on this cruise and pointed out my criticisms on an earlier thread. My message here is do research on the ship and cruise line before booking so you won’t be disappointed. Know the strengths and weaknesses as much as possible so you can enjoy your trip and not have a negative experience.

Well said KJT and thank you for the updates.

I am always astounded how little research some do before parting with their holiday time and money. A case in point was the couple who sailed from Santiago Chile to Buenos Aires and brought no sweaters or jackets.

Safe home.

I agree. We have recently disembarked the Silver Whisper, having joined the last leg of the World Cruise in Muscat. The ship was nowhere near full, and there were only 17 passengers new to Silversea, ourselves included.

We have only cruised mainstream lines before, but find that we don’t use or attend a lot of the activities or services offered. We like our own company, good food, excellent service and a quiet atmosphere with no scrum at the buffet or pool deck. There were singers, dancers and musicians on board, and some shows provided by local folk groups. The gym and casino were tiny. But we got exactly what we expected and wanted. Overall a great experience. And the best CD we have ever encountered on a cruise.

Kjtravels16, thank you for sharing your POV on your Wind voyage. It sounded lovely.

And, Willma, appreciate your comments on the last leg of the Silver Whisper's world cruise voyage. Glad you received what you expected and enjoyed your cruise.

Kjtravels16, thank you for sharing your POV on your Wind voyage. It sounded lovely.

 

And, Willma, appreciate your comments on the last leg of the Silver Whisper's world cruise voyage. Glad you received what you expected and enjoyed your cruise.

Concur with both above points. I particularly like your viewpoint Kjtravels16!

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