Milford and Doubtful Sounds, the jewels in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, have the auspicious title of “titanic mason” given to them by the Maoris, simply because no other explanation seems to fit. Join us on a festive voyage of sheer beauty; from the cliffs that rise vertically upward from the ocean to dwarf the ship to the bright lights of Sydney, start 2020 in spectacular style.
Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand’s north island. Known as the ‘City of Sails’, its two harbours will tempt you with waterfront walks, and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbour bridge’s span.
Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 metres to the Sky Tower, and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers, which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await, and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height, above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o Tāmaki.
Read more Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park, the French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection, and exhibits works from Māori and Pacific artists.
New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery, and day trips across the sparkling bays, to nearby islands like Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi, and Rangitoto, are always tempting. Discover lava caves, grape-laden vineyards and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands. You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city, to the horizon beyond, from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb, and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual, translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.
Moderate ActivityWheelchair Accessible - Must Transfer from Chair
2
TAURANGA (Bay Of Plenty)
New Zealand
12 Excursions
Sat 21 Dec
Saturday 21 Dec
9:30 AM
-
8:30 PM
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Tauranga is New Zealand’s sunny capital – with wide sweeping beaches and surfers curling across cresting waves. Climb to the top for spectacular views of the natural harbour, or take winding coastal footpaths to explore the unfolding scenery. An entry point to the vast indent of the Bay of Plenty, the volcanic peak of Mount Maunganui is a fittingly dramatic welcome. Brooding, geothermal energy creates spectacular natural attractions across this region, while plunging waterfalls, and fascinating Maori culture ensures that the Bay of Plenty has a lot to offer visitors.
Said to receive New Zealand’s highest amount of sunshine, the hanging kiwi, citrus fruit and avocados add an exotic touch to the area’s landscape - especially around Te Puke. Vibrant teal and orange colours await at the stunning geothermal area of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, where mud pools bubble and steam rises from the earth.
Read more There are more hot pools, and some of the country’s best scenery, at Lake Rotoiti - where you can kayak across the smooth surface and enter a cave that glows gentle blue, with its darkened roof illuminated by glittering glow worms.
Enter New Zealand’s fantasy world, with a visit to some of the country's celebrated filming spots - which have featured as doubles for JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth's fantasy settings. Offshore, the wonderful White Island’s volcanic cone peeks from the waves, and New Zealand's most active volcano certainly knows how to put on a show, belching out smoke across the water.
Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
4
PICTON
New Zealand
11 Excursions
Mon 23 Dec
Monday 23 Dec
8:00 AM
-
6:00 PM
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The gateway to New Zealand’s South Island waits just across the Cook Strait from Wellington. Pretty Picton is a beautiful harbour town, lying on the cusp of the mighty scenery of the Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park, and providing an attractive link between New Zealand’s two main islands. The journey into the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound is a vista that only New Zealand can provide, as you sail through crumpled green peaks and folding hills, towards Picton’s little flotillas of yachts and endearing waterfront appeal.
You could easily spend days here browsing art studios and galleries, nursing freshly ground coffees, and watching the undulations of the bay’s waters from Picton’s waterfront eateries. Or enjoying the coastal location and sea views while wandering Picton Memorial Park, among palm trees, bright flowers and benches that sit before sweeping views of the Sound.
Read more There’s a lot to explore beyond Picton’s limits, too, with mighty flayed inlets and glorious sweeping bays enticing you out into the sumptuous panoramas.
The Marlborough Sounds are 1,500 km of eye-rubbingly beautiful scenery, formed by submerged valleys cascading down to the sea's waters. With its multitude of bays, coves and islands, you’ll find no shortage of walks, as well as plenty of opportunities to get out onto the calm water and push through the gentle waves in kayaks. Or sit back and enjoy weaving through the scenery from the comfort of a sailboat, looking out for abundant wildlife like penguins, dolphins and seals. Vineyards coat the sheltered land between the mountains and ocean – generating the perfect climate for cultivation. Sample a glass of the renowned Sauvignon Blanc, from the Blenheim wine region nearby for a taste of the fruitful produce.
New Zealand's ‘Garden City’ is a place of quiet streets, leafy parks and beautiful tree-lined boulevards. Christchurch has an unmistakable English flavour to it, and serves as the gateway to southern New Zealand’s natural wonders. The rebuild of the country's oldest city continues apace - following the earthquakes that devastated it in 2011 - and the South Island's biggest city is now blossoming, having evolved into a confident and cultural powerhouse.
Colourful street art adds an edge to the city, while shiny new bars and restaurants contribute to the sense of revitalisation and renewal. Visit museums, and take tours to learn more of the reconstruction, which has made incredible progress in recent years. The old-time charm of a punt on the River Avon is still a quintessential Christchurch experience. Sail amid weeping willows drooping to the water, as you drift through a blur of colours in the botanical gardens.
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Surrounded by extinct volcanoes, soaring lakes, and the rolling farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, spectacular scenery sprawls around the city. Pay a visit to the Southern Alps’ snow-covered peaks, the stunning hot pools and rushing streams of Hanmer Springs, or the Hector’s dolphins who swim at Akaroa. A city that has faced immense challenges - both natural and manmade - over the last decade, it's hard not to feel inspired by Christchurch's defiant character and friendly people, who share an open and welcoming outlook that shines stronger than ever.
Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
7
STEWART ISLAND
New Zealand
4 Excursions
Thu 26 Dec
Thursday 26 Dec
8:00 AM
-
6:00 PM
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Within touching distance of the South Island's southern tip, the majority of New Zealand's third-largest island is handed over to a beautiful sprawl of National Park. Taking its name from the Māori word 'Rakiura' which means ‘land of the glowing skies’ this is an island sanctuary of radiant beauty. Sunsets and sunrise are magical, but it’s the swirling patterns of lights that dance across the heavens above that enchant above all else - as the southern hemisphere’s version of the northern lights dazzles overhead.
Slow the pace, on this island of leisurely fishing villages and swirling Maori legend. The majority of Stewart Island has been claimed by dense forests, which conceal wonderful wildlife watching opportunities, and reveal isolated coves and dramatic cliffs. Bring your hiking boots, as with only 15 miles of road, the best way to see the rugged beauty is by crunching along seaside trails.
Read more Coastal hikes along sweeping bays lead to viewpoints like Ackers Point, or you can take to the sea's waves to undulate gently offshore, admiring the island’s coastline from the turquoise waters. Pleasure cruises along the scenic Paterson Inlet will take you out to islands teeming with life and animal activity. Stewart Island, and its scattered skerries, provide the perfect sanctuary for crowds of brilliant birdlife. Encounter everything from blue penguins to albatross and New Zealand's national icon - wild kiwis.
As with all of New Zealand’s fiords, Doubtful Sound is a masterpiece of nature. The only way to reach it is by boat, crossing Lake Manapouri, so of the three Sounds (Dusky and Milford being the other two), Doubtful is the least touristy. Thus those who are lucky enough to experience Doubtful Sound deserve it.
Because of the Sound’s inaccessibility, you’ll encounter very few people as you float through the silent waterways. Animals, however, are a different matter. Because of the lack of human interaction, Mother Nature has been given a free rein here. The dense forest is rife with wildlife and birdsong is a constant soundtrack (otherwise it is the sound of silence). In the water, you can expect to get up close and personal with fur seals, pods of bottlenose dolphins and some lucky souls have even sighted the occasional whale and albatross.
Read more Ornithologists will no doubt already know that Doubtful Sound is home to the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin, so be sure to keep your binoculars ready as it would be a shame to miss the once in a lifetime sighting.
The region is famous for its seven meter annual rainfall, so do not be surprised if the sun isn’t shining. Yet despite the potential mist, Doubtful Sound remains majestic. The waterfalls are more mesmerising, the glassy water more mysterious, and the mountains rising into the clouds more impressive. As the Fiordlands website puts it, Doubtful Sound offers its visitors “cloistered serenity”. Expect to be both humbled and uplifted.
8
CRUISING MILFORD SOUND
New Zealand
Fri 27 Dec
Friday 27 Dec
2:00 PM
-
5:00 PM
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New Zealand fiord country along with Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's premier attractions. Incredibly beautiful, wild and remote, the region is an intriguing combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Much of Fiordland is virtually unexplored wilderness and still the habitat of rare birds. As the ship cruises the beautiful Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sounds, experience the majestic fiordland of South Island's western coast. Captain James Cook sailed along this coast in 1770 and again in 1773, when he anchored at Dusky Sound for a rest and ship repair. Doubtful Sound is one of the region's most majestic fiords. It is ten times larger than Milford Sound. As the ship cruises into Hall Arm, gaze at vertical cliffs and mighty waterfalls plunging over sheer rock faces. In fine weather, mountains and greenery are reflected in the protected waters of the fiord.
Read more Farther north lies Milford Sound. Far from any populated area, Milford Sound is famous for its grandeur and spectacular beauty. It is perhaps the best example of New Zealand's renowned classic landscape of steep granite peaks framing glacier-carved inlets with mirrored reflections on dark waters. Dominating the scene is Milford's landmark, the triangular pinnacle of Mitre Peak. Along the sheer cliffs, several waterfalls tumble more than 500 feet (154 metres) into the sheltered Sound. Only a few moored boats and a scattering of buildings at the head of the Sound break the unity of mountains, forest and water. This spectacular beauty and unspoiled setting is yours to enjoy as the ship cruises Milford Sound.
9
DAY AT SEA
Sat 28 Dec
Saturday 28 Dec
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Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
10
DAY AT SEA
Sun 29 Dec
Sunday 29 Dec
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Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
11
BURNIE
Australia
7 Excursions
Mon 30 Dec
Monday 30 Dec
7:30 AM
-
4:00 PM
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Breathe in deep – here in Burnie, you’re tasting untouched air that is some of the cleanest anywhere in the world. Nearby Cradle Mountain once registered some of the world’s purest air - and the breezes here are purified by miles of uninterrupted ocean, stretching south to Antarctica. Tasmania itself is a place of sweeping National Parks, soaring granite mountain ranges and lakes reflecting spectacular scenery in glass-smooth surfaces. With dense eucalyptus forests coating the hills, and hikes rewarding with deserted sandy beaches, it’s no surprise that Burnie life revolves around getting outdoors and exploring the natural splendour of this shield-shaped island state of Australia.
If mountain hikes sound a little strenuous, spend some time getting to know the island’s adorable wildlife.
Read more Visit Fern Glade Reserve to see the spade-like beaks of platypuses gliding through the waters, or the Little Penguin Observation Centre where Burnie’s own colony of adorable penguins waddle playfully. West Beach’s golden sand is also close by, perfect for lying back and soaking up some sun, or for watching on as surfers skip across the curling waves.
Burnie has always been a place where things get made - in the past this came with a tinge of grey industry, but the city has now reinvented itself as a hotspot for all things creative. View the island’s most revered works, learn how to fold your own paper creations in workshops, and marvel at skilled local creators working hard in their studios at the Maker’s Workshop. Great food is also on this maker’s city’s agenda - feast on freshly shucked oysters, and award-winning cheeses. Later, you can toast the artisan spirit of Burnie with a glass of cool climate wine, or by swirling a nightcap of single malt – some of the world’s best whiskeys are produced here.
Australia’s metropolitan cultural capital is a refined, contemporary and richly liveable city - which has a blend for every taste. The smells of freshly ground, artisan coffees fill the streets of this hip, youthful city, which is generously sprinkled with fine dining establishments, art galleries, and absorbing museums. With an airy outdoor lifestyle, Melbourne is a vibrant global hub of fashion, fun and festivities.
Multicultural and diverse, Victoria’s capital is crisscrossed by narrow alleys and splashed with street art. It’s fair to say Melbourne’s bearded baristas take their coffees seriously. Settle in to sample the unique coffee culture that is an essential part of Melbourne life. Looking for something a little stronger? The city’s rooftop bars come alive with clinking cocktails as the sun sets.
Read more A world leader in culinary arts, take your seat at award-winning restaurants, and sample world foods alongside delicious wines, cultivated in the vineyards of the surrounding valleys. Savour a glass while cruising the arching Yarra River, for an unbeatable introduction to Melbourne.
An outdoor city, it’s no surprise that Melbourne is one of Australia’s sporting giants. The vast bowl of Melbourne Cricket Ground serves as the city’s sporting cathedral – squeezing in over 100,000 fans and hosting various sports on its hallowed, oval turf. Whether it’s the rumble of hoofs during the Melbourne Cup, revs of engines during the Formula One, or thwacks of tennis balls during the Australian Open - few places can boast such a comprehensive list of high-profile sporting appeals.
Silversea's oceanview suites are some of the most spacious in luxury cruising. All include the services of a butler thanks to the highest service ratio at sea and almost all have a private teak veranda so that you can breathe in the fresh sea air by merely stepping outside your door. Select your suite and Request a Quote - guests who book early are rewarded with the best fares and ability to select their desired suite.
Personalised service – nearly one crew member for every guest
Multiple restaurants, diverse cuisine, open-seating dining
Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, including champagne, select wines and spirits
24-hour dining service
Onboard entertainment
Complimentary transportation into town in most ports
Onboard gratuities
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Ship - Silver Muse
Silver Muse redefines ultra-luxury ocean travel - enhancing the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodations that are the hallmarks of the Silversea experience. Silver Muse is the best place between sea and sky, 8 dining venues, spacious outdoor areas and up-to-the-minute technology makes her simply divine.
Silver Muse redefines ultra-luxury ocean travel - enhancing the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodations that are the hallmarks of the Silversea experience. Silver Muse is the best place between sea and sky, 8 dining venues, spacious outdoor areas and up-to-the-minute technology makes her simply divine.
Silver Muse Dining Options: 8 Restaurants
The Grill
Sourced from volcanic rock and placed in an oven to reach an optimum temperature of 400˚C, The Grill invites guests to cook their food directly at their table. With the stone cooking available in the evenings only, The Grill becomes a daytime rotisserie, gourmet salad and burger bar.
La Dame
Indulge in an evening where fine wines are complemented by a set bespoke menu of regionally-inspired dishes in an intimate, elegant setting. An extraordinary six-course experience celebrating the world’s most distinguished wine regions aboard your luxury cruise ship. Per guest reservation fee of US$60.
Atlantide
This elegant bar and grill incorporates the best that the sea has to offer. Created to temper your taste buds, designer dishes such as royal crab, blue lobster and Verbena infused red snapper in a sea salt crust are showcased alongside the best steaks offshore.
Indochine
Elegant and exquisite dishes bursting with Asian essence awaken your gastronomic senses and immerse you in an expansive tapestry of the palate. Savour the fusion of flavours of a vast continent that defies definition — in a stylish restaurant that pays homage to its delectable cuisine.
La Terrazza
Silversea cruises offers a divine selection of Italy’s best cuisine, served à la carte in La Terrazza. Authentic recipes and the freshest ingredients come together with flair and passion — a flavourful expression of Silversea’s distinctive Italian heritage.
Kaiseki
The fine art of Kaiseki lies in its meticulous preparation and beautiful presentation. With teppanyaki available exclusively for evening diners, daytime menus feature a varied and balanced menu of sushi, sashimi and other raw Asian-inspired dishes.
Per guest reservation fee of US$60.
Spaccanapoli
Reflecting Silversea’s Italian heritage, this emblematic street in Naples divides the city in two and is renowned for its pizzerias. Therefore it is unsurprising that Spaccanapoli reflects the true Italian way of life: the freshest ingredients, authentic dough and a perfect sense of the fabled Italian lust for life.
Silver Note
A sumptuous, intimate setting with a lively, joie de vivre ambience is the perfect place to dine, dance and dream the night away… Small plate tapas-style dishes of mouth-watering international cuisine perfectly compliment the rich, exciting entertainment as the smooth sounds of jazz and blues gently caress your ears.
Sourced from volcanic rock and placed in an oven to reach an optimum temperature of 400˚C, The Grill invites guests to cook their food directly at their table. With the stone cooking available in the evenings only, The Grill becomes a daytime rotisserie, gourmet salad and burger bar.
La Dame
Indulge in an evening where fine wines are complemented by a set bespoke menu of regionally-inspired dishes in an intimate, elegant setting. An extraordinary six-course experience celebrating the world’s most distinguished wine regions aboard your luxury cruise ship. Per guest reservation fee of US$60.
Atlantide
This elegant bar and grill incorporates the best that the sea has to offer. Created to temper your taste buds, designer dishes such as royal crab, blue lobster and Verbena infused red snapper in a sea salt crust are showcased alongside the best steaks offshore.
Indochine
Elegant and exquisite dishes bursting with Asian essence awaken your gastronomic senses and immerse you in an expansive tapestry of the palate. Savour the fusion of flavours of a vast continent that defies definition — in a stylish restaurant that pays homage to its delectable cuisine.
La Terrazza
Silversea cruises offers a divine selection of Italy’s best cuisine, served à la carte in La Terrazza. Authentic recipes and the freshest ingredients come together with flair and passion — a flavourful expression of Silversea’s distinctive Italian heritage.
Kaiseki
The fine art of Kaiseki lies in its meticulous preparation and beautiful presentation. With teppanyaki available exclusively for evening diners, daytime menus feature a varied and balanced menu of sushi, sashimi and other raw Asian-inspired dishes.
Per guest reservation fee of US$60.
Spaccanapoli
Reflecting Silversea’s Italian heritage, this emblematic street in Naples divides the city in two and is renowned for its pizzerias. Therefore it is unsurprising that Spaccanapoli reflects the true Italian way of life: the freshest ingredients, authentic dough and a perfect sense of the fabled Italian lust for life.
Silver Note
A sumptuous, intimate setting with a lively, joie de vivre ambience is the perfect place to dine, dance and dream the night away… Small plate tapas-style dishes of mouth-watering international cuisine perfectly compliment the rich, exciting entertainment as the smooth sounds of jazz and blues gently caress your ears.
Public Areas
Fitness Centre
The Fitness Centre brings together elite design with programs that are specifically created for your body type and needs.
Connoisseur’s Corner
If you appreciate good cognac or premium cigars, be sure to visit the Connoisseur’s Corner to see the ship’s exceptional selection.
Dolce Vita
No cruise is complete without meeting new people. Enjoy complimentary drinks and live music at the bar while meeting other guests.
Casino
Enjoy a selection of games at the Silversea Casino for guests 18 and older, or discover new games during your luxury cruise.
Zagara Beauty Spa
Come and indulge in a luxurious spa treatment. Facials, body wraps, massages: the spa is the perfect place to unwind.
Tor’s Observation Library
Set on the highest level at the very top of the ship, this is a quiet space for reading and reflection while being dazzled by the undulating seascapes that are constituent to life on board.
Venetian Lounge
Welcome to Venetian Lounge, a place where the arts of theatre and music meet with full-scale productions and feature films.
Arts Café
Hosting various, exciting exhibitions, the Arts Café will showcase painting and sculptures from a broad range of talent.
Panorama Lounge
Relax and unwind in the Panorama Lounge, a sophisticated yet amicable space offering beautiful ocean views as you enjoy your cruise.
Pool Deck & Jacuzzi Area
Take a dip in the pool, relax in one of the whirlpools or simply soak up the view from one of the sunbeds, while your pool attendant anticipates your every whim.
Boutique
There is a wealth of luxury shopping experiences aboard all Silversea ships, featuring the most distinctive and appealing brands from across the globe.
Zagara Beauty Salon
Maintain your fresh look throughout your luxury cruise at the Beauty Salon. Services are available for men and women.