CRUISE CONTROL
YOU Travel & Cruise Bethlehem’s Catherine Membery boards Silver Moon to see what sets Silversea apart - and why small-ship cruising continues to win over seasoned travellers.
Catherine Membery and her husband joined Silver Moon in Hobart, midway through a voyage from Auckland to Melbourne. With just 596 guests on board, the scale felt calm and intimate from the outset.
The service was a standout for me,” she says. “The Silversea crew numbers nearly match that of its passengers, and they were unfailingly respectful, friendly and efficient. We loved meeting our butler and truly valued how he personalised our experience; and witnessed our fellow passengers also enjoying their interactions with the attentive crew.”
Many guests on board were seasoned travellers choosing to simplify the way they see the world. Catherine met a woman who, after a lifetime of travel, said cruise life suited her perfectly, allowing her to continue overseas journeys without the usual logistics.
Only unpack once
It’s one of cruising’s simplest luxuries. Settled into their ocean-view suite, Catherine appreciated the ease of unpacking just once and waking somewhere new each day. She explored Hobart independently but recommends organised shore excursions. “That way you always ensure you get back to the ship on time!” she laughs.
Broaden the mind
On-board experiences are varied enough that the ship becomes part of the destination. “So much to do and so many interesting people to meet,” says Catherine. “Meals are magic when dining options are so varied, with a range of included wines, notably regional varieties. Among the restaurants with exceptional cuisine and service, Silver Note was a special treat, an intimate but lively space with pianist and jazz singer. Salt Bar became a regular for cocktails and socialising with other guests. The immersive S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) destination based culinary programme is a feature I enjoyed on Silver Moon.”
Daily activities range from entertainment and lectures linked to ports of call to time in the pool, on deck, at the gym or in the spa.
The world is your oyster
Silversea’s 12 ships sail to more than 900 destinations worldwide, from Northern Europe’s Baltic and the Mediterranean to Asia, Alaska and closer-to-home itineraries around New Zealand and Australia. Expedition voyages to Antarctica and the Arctic add another layer for those seeking something more remote.
“There’s a reason so many overseas tourists cruise New Zealand and Australia,” Catherine points out. “Arriving in Melbourne by sea was spectacular.”
“Experiencing a Silversea cruise for myself exceeded my already high expectations. What a wonderful way to see the world.”