First Silversea cruise -- bound for the Amazon!

[OctoberKat]

Terry I have read River of Doubt and would highly recommend it.An incredible story of survival.Should be compulsory reading for Americans.

Teddy Roosevelt was in his 50s with already remarkable acheivements when he made

 

Oops, apologies, not reading carefully.

Edited October 27, 2015 by OctoberKat

[OctoberKat]

Silver Box arrived today. It's real, it's going to happen, yippee.

 

Do wish the booklet were either bigger or printed in a heavier, larger font. As it is, it's a bit tough on these aging eyes. But that is but a quibble.

[jpalbny]

How exciting! The anticipation must be very acute.

 

It is odd how they seem to be printing everything so much smaller that they did 10-20 years ago... :rolleyes:

[TLCOhio]

I am belatedly getting around to booking excursions for our November cruise to the Amazon aboard Whisper. I delayed booking because I'd heard on other boards, e.g., Regent, about how expensive are excursions, so, imagine my delight at learning how affordable are Silversea excursions. Mind you, I've yet to enjoy any of these excursions but I am expecting good times. Especially the ones that don't leave until 9am or later.

 

Would it be useful on this voyage to have reals? We will be on some excursions and want to have currency for tips and incidentals. We'll be in Barbados a week split between pre- and post-cruise. Should we have Barbadian dollars?

 

Glad that your Silver Box has arrived and that your "adventure" is getting so close. Friday, Nov. 20 is your magic sailing date from Barbados with stops in all of the great places where our cruise visited earlier this year.

 

On currencies, we did not get any local moneys in advance. Credit cards worked well in many or most of the places/circumstances. American dollars can work well for tips. Along the Amazon River and in Manaus, we did a couple of private tours and needed some Brazil money. BUT, the guide/tour people took us to a local bank ATM to take care of that need. Things worked fine!!

 

Generally, we were reasonably happy with the Silversea excursions that we used, their value, size, etc. Below, to build up your excitement, are a few of my tour visual highlights for certain of these stops that we really enjoyed. Let us know any added questions, info needs, etc., for any of the ports, tours, etc.

 

I see that Laurel Corona, Ph.D., from San Diego, is going to be along as one of the speakers for your cruise. She has been a college professor, plus author. She did a very good job and had a number of very interesting programs about Brazil, its history, etc. Don't be shy in asking her any questions, talking with her, etc.

 

Look forward to hearing lots of details after your safe return.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 31,729 views for these postings.

 

 

From our very interesting visit to the small and totally-isolated river village of Boca da Valeria along the Amazon River, it was a very moving experience that reminded us how very, very fortunate so many of us, especially those on this ship, are to have great many life options and experiences. There was a single electric line running down the middle of the dirt path in this village and the two homes with satellite dishes, but things were overall fairly primative. There were lots of children begging for "one dollar", plus a local dressed up in costume ready to pose for pictures. Some of the children had small animals to add to the appeal and local color. Below is one example of Chris from Philadelphia with one of the local girls there. From advance reading/research on these CC boards, I knew to bring extra dollars, plus pens, pencils, gifts for the school, items for the the kids, etc.:

 

 

 

While stopped at Santarem along the amazing Amazon River, we had our charter/private boat arranged in advance. We headed into the back-water Amazon regions in search of nature, wildlife, unique scenery, etc. Our boat was fairly small, but with a powerful engine and covered to shade us from the harsh sun. Our skilled Amazon guide Gil Serique was on the look-out for birds, unique views and nature action. Our driver got us through very shallow and challenging areas. We saw lots of special birds, unique animals, flowers, giant water lilies, etc., during this adventure exploration.:

 

 

 

Here is just one view that offerS only a small sampling for what we experienced and enjoyed at this Parintins “Boi Bumba” program. Lots of the story involves the white bull and the relationships with the young lady. Are not the costume wonderful??? Large cast, lots of upbeat music, large "action figures" coming out, etc. Parintins is situated in the largest river archipelago of the mid-Amazon. This area is rich in centuries-old Indian culture and celebrates an annual “Boi Bumba” festival. The yearly folkloric festival, considered second only to Carnival in Rio, is held in June. For cruise ship visitors, the townspeople re-enact this festival for visitors throughout the year. From Cory Sandler, our destination consultant, what we saw is not exactly the full, real deal as done in their larger stadium with the shouting crowds. BUT, we loved the music, dancing, costumes, excitement, etc. It was not cheap at $149 per person, but my wife and others really enjoyed this sampling for a little bit of the Brazil carnival spirit and style. Of our 179 passengers on the Silver Cloud, there were 80 attending this program. :

 

 

 

Don't miss the famed Opera House in Manaus, especially its interior. Here is just one of my visuals as an example. It is said that based on what it cost to build it in the late 1890's, the expenses from importing all of the various materials, etc., that it would total up to a total price tag of ONE BILLION DOLLARS in today's money. Very lavish!! They did a nice restoration of its exterior and interiors during recent years. Looks great. BUT, for all of these costs, it only seats 701.:

 

 

 

With all of your time in Manaus, do not miss seeing a range of the interesting activities at their various markets. This includes for those dealing with wholesale fish, produce, etc. Shown is an example from the fish market that was so much fun to experience, sample the human interactions, etc. Lots of "real people" at these markets.:

 

 

 

Be out on the top decks to see various views, on BOTH sides, of the ship as you sail along the wide and amazing Amazon River. This includes an example here with the sunset view from our ship as we were departing Manaus to sail east towards the Atlantic Ocean.:

 

[blondietoo]

Glad that your Silver Box has arrived and that your "adventure" is getting so close. Friday, Nov. 20 is your magic sailing date from Barbados with stops in all of the great places where our cruise visited earlier this year.

 

On currencies, we did not get any local moneys in advance. Credit cards worked well in many or most of the places/circumstances. American dollars can work well for tips. Along the Amazon River and in Manaus, we did a couple of private tours and needed some Brazil money. BUT, the guide/tour people took us to a local bank ATM to take care of that need. Things worked fine!!

 

Generally, we were reasonably happy with the Silversea excursions that we used, their value, size, etc. Below, to build up your excitement, are a few of my tour visual highlights for certain of these stops that we really enjoyed. Let us know any added questions, info needs, etc., for any of the ports, tours, etc.

 

I see that Laurel Corona, Ph.D., from San Diego, is going to be along as one of the speakers for your cruise. She has been a college professor, plus author. She did a very good job and had a number of very interesting programs about Brazil, its history, etc. Don't be shy in asking her any questions, talking with her, etc.

 

Look forward to hearing lots of details after your safe return.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 31,729 views for these postings.

 

 

From our very interesting visit to the small and totally-isolated river village of Boca da Valeria along the Amazon River, it was a very moving experience that reminded us how very, very fortunate so many of us, especially those on this ship, are to have great many life options and experiences. There was a single electric line running down the middle of the dirt path in this village and the two homes with satellite dishes, but things were overall fairly primative. There were lots of children begging for "one dollar", plus a local dressed up in costume ready to pose for pictures. Some of the children had small animals to add to the appeal and local color. Below is one example of Chris from Philadelphia with one of the local girls there. From advance reading/research on these CC boards, I knew to bring extra dollars, plus pens, pencils, gifts for the school, items for the the kids, etc.:

 

 

 

While stopped at Santarem along the amazing Amazon River, we had our charter/private boat arranged in advance. We headed into the back-water Amazon regions in search of nature, wildlife, unique scenery, etc. Our boat was fairly small, but with a powerful engine and covered to shade us from the harsh sun. Our skilled Amazon guide Gil Serique was on the look-out for birds, unique views and nature action. Our driver got us through very shallow and challenging areas. We saw lots of special birds, unique animals, flowers, giant water lilies, etc., during this adventure exploration.:

 

 

 

Here is just one view that offerS only a small sampling for what we experienced and enjoyed at this Parintins “Boi Bumba” program. Lots of the story involves the white bull and the relationships with the young lady. Are not the costume wonderful??? Large cast, lots of upbeat music, large "action figures" coming out, etc. Parintins is situated in the largest river archipelago of the mid-Amazon. This area is rich in centuries-old Indian culture and celebrates an annual “Boi Bumba” festival. The yearly folkloric festival, considered second only to Carnival in Rio, is held in June. For cruise ship visitors, the townspeople re-enact this festival for visitors throughout the year. From Cory Sandler, our destination consultant, what we saw is not exactly the full, real deal as done in their larger stadium with the shouting crowds. BUT, we loved the music, dancing, costumes, excitement, etc. It was not cheap at $149 per person, but my wife and others really enjoyed this sampling for a little bit of the Brazil carnival spirit and style. Of our 179 passengers on the Silver Cloud, there were 80 attending this program. :

 

 

 

Don't miss the famed Opera House in Manaus, especially its interior. Here is just one of my visuals as an example. It is said that based on what it cost to build it in the late 1890's, the expenses from importing all of the various materials, etc., that it would total up to a total price tag of ONE BILLION DOLLARS in today's money. Very lavish!! They did a nice restoration of its exterior and interiors during recent years. Looks great. BUT, for all of these costs, it only seats 701.:

 

 

 

With all of your time in Manaus, do not miss seeing a range of the interesting activities at their various markets. This includes for those dealing with wholesale fish, produce, etc. Shown is an example from the fish market that was so much fun to experience, sample the human interactions, etc. Lots of "real people" at these markets.:

 

 

 

Be out on the top decks to see various views, on BOTH sides, of the ship as you sail along the wide and amazing Amazon River. This includes an example here with the sunset view from our ship as we were departing Manaus to sail east towards the Atlantic Ocean.:

 

 

Thank you for the photos and advice. Cannot wait to get on board on the 20th

[TLCOhio]

Thank you for the photos and advice. Cannot wait to get on board on the 20th

 

Appreciate your nice comments on my photos and and postings. We are really looking forward to hearing about your loves and best thrills from doing this Amazon River "adventure" on the Silver Whisper.

 

From the Daily Mail newspaper website in London/UK today, they have this headline: "The ultimate Robinson Crusoe retreat: Castaway at a Caribbean island hideaway built under a volcanic arch". This media story is about an interesting aspect of what they describe as "stunning Bequia". This island area was a super surprise for us and we enjoyed so much what we saw and did there. It's a really special island that is not over-run with too much commercialism, crowds, etc.

 

This Daily Mail story focused on what is called "Manhole" that consists of five villas offering spectacular sea views. This unique cluster of stone houses were built by an adventurous couple in the 1960's Five of the original 17 houses are available to stay in and come complete with 12 staff members. Great photos are shared with this newspaper story posting. This story notes: "It could easily pass for a Bond villain lair or a secluded retreat for those who like to castaway and immerse themselves in nature." They note this mini-resort location, which we saw when on a sailing trip around the island, is nestled under a rocky arch surrounded by the turquoise Caribbean waters.

 

Below is one of my pictures to show how we got to see where this special, unique resort is located on their island. For more pictures and details about Bequia, check out this posting on the CC Board Caribbean thread. See more at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2263989

 

Full Daily Mail story at:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3307303/The-ultimate-Robinson-Crusoe-retreat-Castaway-Caribbean-island-hideaway-built-volcanic-arch.html

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 188,763 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

 

 

From our sailing adventure around Bequia, here is my photo of this now-opened, small and exclusive resort that has been crafted around this unique stone arch.:

 

 

 

From our shore excursion in Bequia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, here are two sailing “adventure” samples as we got to see more of these island areas, doing snorkeling on the reef areas with colorful fish, sailing near massive rock formations, lunch on the wonderful Princess Margaret Beach. This beach was not crowded and the weather? Perfect!! About 84F with a nice breeze, etc.!:

 

 

 

[OctoberKat]

We're flying SFO-BGI via MIA Monday, First flight at 6:40am (ouch) so we'll go up Sunday evening to overnight in an airport hotel so as to minimize the pre-dawn trauma. We'll have three full days on a beach in Barbados ahead of the cruise.

 

I now am sorting, doing laundry, organizing dry cleaning, ferreting out the must-haves (e.g., binocs, bird guides, CDs, books, toiletries and meds, etc.). I get most slacks (mine and Jim's) and shirts/blouses done at the French laundry where they fold everything nicely and sheath in plastic -- this facilitates packing and saves space. Important because, given this is Silversea, we're packing a bit fancier than the norm. Also, bringing a ton of sunscreen and insect repellent. Assume the ship will have one or two chess sets available.

 

Saturday we drive Sparky (given name Spartacus) to the cat spa where he will luxuriate whilst we cruise. He gets his own "villa" plus a brush-out every day as well as nail clip and panty shave. Six hours of playtime in tricked out rooms and so on. He's a staff favorite so sometimes he hangs out in the office for easy- access petting.

 

This gearing up for a cruise is intense!

[TLCOhio]

We're flying SFO-BGI via MIA Monday, First flight at 6:40am (ouch) so we'll go up Sunday evening to overnight in an airport hotel so as to minimize the pre-dawn trauma. This gearing up for a cruise is intense!

 

Great to hear that things are now so close. It's hard, hard "work" getting ready for all of this relaxation. Safe travels!!! It's lots of flying to get from SF to Barbados. Let us know of any questions for excursion/tour needs and interests. Look forward to hearing your reports and details about your "best of the best" experiences.

 

Don't want to ask for details about your cat's "panty shave".

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 32,108 views for these postings.

[OctoberKat]

Virtuoso benefits on this cruise:

 

All Virtuoso Guests Receive

Welcome Reception

Onboard Host

Voyager Club Benefits

Each passenger may select 1 benefit from the list below.

 

Island Highlights and Festive Lunch - 2015 | Saint George, Grenada | 22 Nov 2015

$175 USD Credit Toward Purchase of Virtuoso Product

$150 USD Shipboard Credit

 

Island Highlights and Festive Lunch - 2015 Length: 5 hours 30 minutes

Today we will depart from the St. George's Port for an exhilarating tour that offers a sneak peek into Grenada’s natural beauty. We end our day with lunch at Oliver’s Restaurant at the luxurious Spice Island Beach Resort which is located on the world-famous Grand Anse Beach. In this beachfront restaurant a sumptuous meal of local specialties will be served. Following lunch we will return to the pier which is located in the heart of the shopping area.

[OctoberKat]

Apologies. I tried to delete the above but the edit window has closed. I expect one of the hosts will be along soon.

[fizzy]

I am so wishing you a grand voyage and hope you have a bit of time to comment as you go. As an aside, this very day, I asked my dear friends who own a sumptuous safari lodge in South Africa, what the protocol is for bug repellants. Although they are in a malaria free zone, they still advise the use of protection and recommend purchasing products locally where you are traveling as they will probably be designed for use in that area. And they do tell guests that DEET is important. Bon Voyage to you guys. ..........fizzy

[OctoberKat]

I am so wishing you a grand voyage and hope you have a bit of time to comment as you go. As an aside, this very day, I asked my dear friends who own a sumptuous safari lodge in South Africa, what the protocol is for bug repellants. Although they are in a malaria free zone, they still advise the use of protection and recommend purchasing products locally where you are traveling as they will probably be designed for use in that area. And they do tell guests that DEET is important. Bon Voyage to you guys. ..........fizzy

 

I surely appreciate your well wishes, fizzy!

 

Yep, we're all DEETed up plus high-factor sun screen, atovaquone-proguanil (malaria prophylactic), cipro (just in case). Got brimmed hats, neckerchiefs, sturdy shoes and whatnot, small vial of ammonia (stops insect-bite itching instantly, assuming any one such is willing to brave the DEET fumes). I guess you could say we're (ahem) loaded for boa.

 

Given the whims of wifi availability, I do plan to comment on the our trip and the cruise.

[TLCOhio]

Yep, we're all DEETed up plus high-factor sun screen, atovaquone-proguanil (malaria prophylactic), cipro (just in case). Got brimmed hats, neckerchiefs, sturdy shoes and whatnot, small vial of ammonia (stops insect-bite itching instantly, assuming any one such is willing to brave the DEET fumes). I guess you could say we're (ahem) loaded for boa.

Given the whims of wifi availability, I do plan to comment on the our trip and the cruise.

 

Sounds like you are in excellent shape with your Deet and other medical/protection items, etc. On Wi-Fi, we found that the ability to reach and connect to the Internet, upload pictures and messages, etc., worked very, very well during our entire Amazon River, etc., trip. Look forward to hearing the sharing and updates during your adventure cruise.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 125,952 views for this posting.

[TLCOhio]

As are we! Safe travels, everyone. Meanwhile, we are whiling away the hours in Miami airport to connect to the Barbados flight. This already very long day started in San Francisco at 3:45am. If all goes according to plan we should land BGI at 11:15pm. The AmEx centurion lounge here in MIA was overcrowded so we're camped by the gate.

 

On the Silver Whisper roll call, here above is what our San Francisco friend posted. Good luck and safe travels for all on this exciting Silversea "adventure" up the amazing Amazon River. You will experience all of the same and interesting port stops that we enjoyed on the Silver Cloud earlier this year. As a free preview, below are a few more of my visual samples.

 

Fortunately, you will have a nice period of time to see and explore in Manaus. Be sure to check out their historic Opera House there. PLUS, a short walk from the ship are a couple of their market areas that can be fun to explore. As detailed below on my live/blog, the combination of the very good Silversea staff and these unique areas makes for great fun and a wide variety of sights. Happy to answer any last-minute questions on my live/blog if that is of benefit for any travelers on this cruise.

 

Hope that on the main Silversea board of Cruise Critic some of you will give us occasional updates from your cruise and/or a post-travel summary for what you most liked, loved and came as a big surprise.

 

THANKS! Enjoy your journey! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 32,371 views for these postings.

 

 

As you get ready to dock in Manaus, nearly a 1000 miles up the might Amazon River, these two visuals might give you a sampling for what you will initially experience. First is the long and unique bridge across the Rio Negro. This cable-stayed bridge is nearly 12,000 feet long and opened in Oct. 2011. Second, is a example of the many smaller boats that will dock nearby to your cruise ship. These water craft transport people and goods for this part of the Amazon with Manaus as this large region's central hub.:

 

 

 

 

 

Manaus' Opera House is one of the highlights reflecting this town's unique history. It has been majestically restored and had to be built with materials shipped in from Europe a century ago. First is a front view and second a view of the nearby plaza from its balcony with a rainbow as a visual bonus!: