Silver Cloud Expedition

First, the company’s flagship ship, “Silver Cloud,” embodied everything best that the cruise industry could offer to the most discerning travelers. Built in 1994, the liner accommodates 296 guests and sails around the world, visiting the most exotic ports. Despite the luxurious accommodations and service, many of the company’s repeat clients consider Silver Cloud as their own private yacht, a home away from home-and return to it again and again.

Cruises on Silver Cloud follow an “all-inclusive” system: the cruise fare includes meals in any of the ship’s restaurants (except the exclusive Relais & Chateaux restaurant), alcoholic beverages (except particularly top-shelf wines), and of course, gratuities. In some ports, the company offers a free transfer to the city center, and sometimes even a free shore excursion.

In October 2012, the ship underwent a renovation, and now all public areas aboard the liner and the suites are furnished with new pieces, adorned with luxurious carpets and décor items, and feature a fresher, more modern look. The in-cabin bathrooms were also refurbished-now they have marble flooring and a tropical shower. All accommodations include large walk-in closets.

The “luxury” style is also reflected in the culinary traditions on board: at the Italian restaurant La Terraza, dinners are held in a “slow food” style-an eating philosophy that emerged as a response to fast food. “Slow food” means environmentally clean products and traditional methods of preparing them, rooted in the past: mozzarella made from Neapolitan buffalo milk, natural balsamic vinegar from Umbria, air-dried Parma ham, and the famous two-year aged Parmigiano cheese from Emilia-Romagna.

The most popular place where guests love to gather is The Bar, a lounge styled in Art Deco. You’ll be pleasantly surprised-after your first visit, the bartenders will remember your name and your favorite drinks. Dancing evenings are held there from time to time.

A quieter, more relaxed evening can be spent in Panorama Lounge-a delightful lounge with an ocean view and live piano music in the evenings.

In every port, you’ll be met by a local company representative who will tell you everything you need to know about the city, provide maps, and offer recommendations for the best restaurants and most interesting sights.

On board, the ship features a superbly equipped fitness center and spa: after an intensive yoga or step session, it’s so pleasant to enjoy a hot-stone massage procedure or opt for a relaxing facial massage.

The main regions where Silver Cloud sails include Africa (Cape Town itineraries), the Baltic and Northern Europe countries, the Caribbean region, the Mediterranean, as well as transatlantic cruises.