Author: John
Silversseas Dawn sailing to Adelaide, Australia

Where in the World Are We?

We are sailing from Melbourne to Adelaide, Australia.
12:00 Italian Amalfi Lunch: Savor the bright, coastal flavors of Italy’s Amalfi Coast with a fresh, Mediterranean‑inspired lunch.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Tony Van Maanenberg: “The History of Wine in Australia”.
A summary of Australia’s Wine Industry and why South Australia is the iconic home to many top wines.









































4:00 Enrichment Lecture with Geoff Gray: “The Australia–America Alliance: Can it adjust to secure the future?”
Includes discussion of the AUKUS agreement and Australia’s nuclear submarines.












6 PM. Captain Tysse Venetian Society Cocktail Reception




Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.










“AMERICANA”
ROAD-TESTED CLASSICS FROM THE HIGHWAYS OF AMERICA
Patrick and the boys are back, with a brand new show. This show is called “Americana” – “Road Tested Classics from The Highways of
America” It’s all about the stories Behind the songs. Stories from Patrick’s own adventures “on the road” in America .
Great American writers, like John Steinbeck, Mark Twain and Jack Kerouac, have all had an enormous influence on Patrick, as a songwriter. His love of Dylan, Willy Nelson and countless others, shines through in all his performances. Let Patrick and the boys take you on a quick road trip around America in their show.







Marvelous Melbourne, Australia

Where in the World Are We?
We are in Marvelous Melbourne, Australia.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Australia, often called the “Land Down Under,”
Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is known for its rich culture, creative laneways, and world‑class food and coffee scene. The city blends historic architecture with modern design, offering visitors everything from markets and museums to waterfront promenades and beautiful gardens.
Often regarded as Australia’s sporting capital, Melbourne hosts major international events and is home to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Its lush green spaces, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens, provide peaceful escapes within the city.
With easy access to surrounding regions like the Great Ocean Road and Yarra Valley, Melbourne offers a memorable experience both in the city and beyond. Most visitors find that 4–5 days allows enough time to enjoy its highlights at a relaxed pace.
Excursion – Royal Botanic Gardens & Aboriginal Heritage
This half-day excursion allowed us to see some of Melbourne’s highlights as well as learn about the Aboriginal history of the
region and a vast array of Flora and Fauna at the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Panoramic Drive
Depart the pier for a panoramic drive. Sit back, relax and enjoy an informative narrative of some of featuring some of
Melbourne’s highlights including St Kilda, The Sports Precinct, Yarra River, Parliament House and much more.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Experience the Royal Botanic Gardens on foot with a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the diverse plant life and
serene landscapes of this iconic 38 \ hectare garden. The walk also provides insights into the gardens r rich history, unique
plant collections from all around the world and the significance of its design.



















Aboriginal Heritage Walk
Following your immersive garden experience, head to the Koorie Heritage Trust, an Aboriginal-owned and -operated cultural
centre located in Federation Square. From there, embark on the Birrarung Wilam (River Camp) Walk, a culturally rich guided
stroll with an experienced Aboriginal Cultural Guide. Meandering from Federation Square to the Birrarung Wilam Aboriginal
art installations, you’ll delve into the history of Birrarung?Marr (“Beside the River of Mists”) and the ongoing significance of the
land to the Kulin Nation, gaining profound insights into how this site has evolved and its importance as a vibrant gathering
place today. The experience concludes back at the Koorie Heritage Trust, there you will explore exhibits spanning three levels
and engage directly with cultural artifacts, such as possum-skin cloaks, clap sticks, and spear-throwers,gaining tactile and
interpretive insights into Aboriginal traditions.





An Indian Holy Day Curry Dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant.















LIMELIGHT
ICONIC MOVIE MUSICALS
Limelight is a dynamic show featuring the very best of musical theater from New York’s Broadway and London’s West End as well as some of the most iconic movie musicals too!











Marvelous Melbourne, Austrailia

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Melbourne, Australia.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Australia’s cultural and sporting capital
The aroma of freshly ground artisan coffee drifts through this youthful, vibrant city, known for
its fine dining, art galleries, and world‑class museums. With an easygoing outdoor lifestyle,
Melbourne stands as a global hub of fashion, culture, and creativity. Its multicultural character
shines through narrow laneways splashed with colorful street art—and yes, its bearded baristas
take their craft very seriously.
Settle in to experience Melbourne’s famous coffee culture, or seek something stronger as the
city’s rooftop bars come alive at sunset. A leader in the culinary arts, Melbourne invites you to
dine at award‑winning restaurants, savor global flavors, and enjoy wines from nearby valley
vineyards. For a memorable introduction, cruise along the sweeping Yarra River with a glass in
hand.
A true sporting powerhouse, Melbourne boasts iconic events and venues—from the vast
Melbourne Cricket Ground, to the excitement of the Melbourne Cup, Formula One, and the
Australian Open. Few cities offer such an impressive range of world‑renowned sporting
experiences.
Excursion – Panoramic Melbourne
We took in the scenic sights of Melbourne, visiting the Eureka Skydeck and the Shrine of Remembrance. We took in notable sights, landmarks, buildings, and parks and learn about the city and its history and culture.
St. Kilda & Panoramic Drive
We took a scenic drive into Melbourne, which is renowned for its grace, Old World charm, and the magnificent
parks and gardens that surround the city. On the way, we travelled along the Esplanade, passing through St. Kilda, a trendy
and well-known inner-city suburb with an eclectic history.
In beachside St Kilda, backpackers, families and joggers converge on the Esplanade, where yachts and windsurfers can be seen on the bay. Boom-time mansions, historic sea baths and Luna Park’s eye-catching rides are reminders of the strip’s past as a glitzy resort. Fine-dining restaurants and old European cake shops can be found on Acland and Carlisle streets. Revellers fill the area’s pubs and music venues at night.








Eureka Tower & Shrine of Remembrance
We toured the Eureka Tower and ventured high up to the 88th floor, where we got a bird’s-eye view of the CBD and Melbourne’s sprawling suburbs.
After a short drive, we visited the monumental Shrine of Remembrance located in the peaceful gardens, just
minutes away from the bustling city center.






























We had our 42nd Wedding Anniversay Dinner with close friends in The Atlantide Restaurant.












“COUNTRY DAYS”
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER PATRICK MCMAHON
Patrick McMahon is an Australian country rock singer and entertainer originally from the “tall timber country” of Nannup, Western Australia.
Known as “The Boy from the Bush,” he is celebrated for his energetic live performances and versatility, ranging from original Americana compositions to tributes to icons like John Denver, Kenny Rogers,
Glen Campbell and Johnny Cash.


Sailing from Hobart, to Melbourne, Austrailia.

Where in the World Are We?

We are sailing from Hobart to Melbourne, Australia.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Kangaroo Island: Australia’s Wild Edge in Miniature”.
Join Chris for an exploration of Kangaroo Island’s history, culture, and cuisine, along with destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.


























2:00 Enrichment Lecture with David Horner: “Bound for South Australia: Utopia for Free Settlers!”.
The early settlers of South Australia were not convicts. They were free settlers who had purchased land and were sailing with great anticipation of a new life.












3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Geoff Gray: “Cook, Bligh, and Flinders: The great navigators who discovered and mapped Australia”.
The stories of Captain James Cook, Matthew Flinders, and William Bligh charting the coasts of Australia are tales of courage, endurance, and scientific curiosity.



























6:00 Enrichment Lecture with Tony Van Maanenberg: “The Victorian Gold Rush – Harbinger of Australian Democracy?”
Tony details the events at that time and reveals some of the amazing discoveries found then, and more recently.
























Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.









ENCORE!
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER CLARISSA SPATA
Clarissa Spata is a versatile Soprano, performing a range of Operatic repertoire, Classical crossover, and musical theatre favorites.
She recently made it to the Quarter Finals of The Voice Australia with Delta Goodrem as her mentor.
Clarissa has performed many principal roles for Opera Australia’s touring division, as well as for Australian International Productions
touring China.










Sailing to Hobart, Tasmania, Austrailia

Where in the World Are We?

We are sailing from Auckland, New Zealand, to Hobart, Tasmania.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Adelaide on the Map: A Planned City with a Quiet Confidence”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration of Adelaide’s history, culture, and cuisine, along with destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.























11:15 Enrichment Lecture with Tony Van Maanenberg: “Port Arthur Convict Settlement – Australia’s Cruel Past”.
Some 100 kilometers of Hobart is the former Port Arthur Convict Settlement. Was this former penal settlement harsh, tragic,
and violent to its most hardened criminals? What horrific event here brought about significant legislative change to Australian gun laws?














2:00 Enrichment Lecture with George Gray: “The Wonders and Woes of the Great Barrier Reef and our Oceans”.
Stretching over 2,300 kilometers along Queensland’s coast, the Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s most treasured natural wonders. However, the reef faces serious threats from pollution, invasive species, and warming seas.








3:00 Enrichment Lecture with David Horner: “The Founding of Melbourne and Victoria: the Australia Felix”.
Founded in 1836, within half a century it was already Australia’s largest and grandest city, and in 1901, it became capital of the new Commonwealth of Australia.
















Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.









ROVING SPIRIT
WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JULIETTE PRIMROSE
A truly world-class performer, Juliette has toured internationally since age 21, captivating audiences as solo fiddler for Lord of the Dance and Gaelforce, and
performing in touring productions of The Phantom of the Opera and West Side Story.
From age 17, she supported legends including Dame Shirley Bassey and Dionne Warwick.
Trained from age four and a postgraduate of Britain’s Royal Northern College of Music, Juliette holds a U.S. designation as an Artist of Extraordinary Ability.





Hobart, Austrailia

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Hobart, Australia.

HOBART, TASMANIA
Gateway city for Australian and French Antarctic operations
Mount Wellington’s looming, cloud‑wisped form is an ever‑present sight as you explore
booming Hobart, the cosmopolitan capital of Australia’s most southerly state. Once a British
penal colony, Australia’s second‑oldest city is now a place to enjoy a free and easy lifestyle.
Encircled by dramatic cliffs, landscaped gardens, and rolling vineyards, Hobart offers a striking
natural backdrop to its vibrant urban atmosphere.
The city is rich in cultural pursuits, home to museums and respected—if sometimes controversial—
galleries that proudly display both new and old art. Fresh sea breezes and a picturesque
waterfront location contribute to Hobart’s creative energy, where local artisans showcase their
work at the massive Saturday Salamanca Market, attracting visitors from across Tasmania and
beyond.
Dining by the waterfront is a delight, and the ascent up Mount Wellington offers a powerful
reminder of Hobart’s unique remoteness. From the summit, sweeping views reveal flowing
forests, undulating mountains, and the endless ocean surrounding the city. A short journey
outside Hobart brings you to animal sanctuaries where you can meet some of Tasmania’s most
iconic wildlife, including the famous Tasmanian devil.
For those with a thirst, Hobart’s long brewing tradition invites you to enjoy a refreshing ale
poured from the country’s oldest brewery. The region’s climate—marked by generous sunshine
and cool Antarctic breezes—also creates ideal conditions for acclaimed wines. Thick clusters of
pinot noir grapes ripen in nearby vineyards scattered along the valleys, where you can savor
tastings paired with artisan cheeses and sausages.
Excursion – Hobart Highlights
We discovered the highlights of the ‘Jewel of the South’ on a coach tour of Hobart.
Salamanca Place & Battery Point
We departed the pier for a narrated, panoramic sightseeing drive designed for passengers who prefer to discover Hobart’s history and landmarks with little or no walking. Proceed past the historic warehouse complex of Salamanca Place, which now houses shops and restaurants. Along the way, see the elegant, 19th-century mansions and quaint cottages of Battery Point. Mt. Wellington.
Next, ascend Mt. Wellington, which towers nearly 4,000 feet above sea level and is among the area’s tallest mountains. Upon arrival, take in spectacular vistas of Hobart City and the south-eastern shores. After our photo stop, we drove by Australia’s oldest brewery en route to Queens Domain and the Botanical Gardens.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Our tour continued with a visit to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Established in 1818 at an Aboriginal site on the Derwent, the botanical gardens feature historic plant collections, 19th-century trees, and native Tasmanian species.
Hobart City
Following our visit, we had an orientation drive past the picturesque shops, government buildings, and landmarks of downtown Hobart before returning to the pier.


































World Cruise Chinese New Year Dinner






CITY OF HOBART HIGHLAND PIPE BAND
A LOCAL SHOW
Established in 1946, the City of Hobart Highland
Pipe Band is one of Tasmania’s longest‑standing
and most cherished pipe bands.
Known for its distinctive modern Brodie tartan and strong community spirit, the band performs at major
events throughout the year, including ANZAC
Day marches, the Hobart Christmas Pageant,
UTAS graduations, regional fairs, and their
much‑loved monthly appearances at the Salamanca Market.
Led by Pipe Major Garry Fletcher, the band offers free
structured tuition for both pipes and drums, welcoming new members of all ages.
As multiple-time Tasmania Grade 4 Champions (2018, 2019), the band continues to uphold and share the rich musical tradition of Highland piping across Hobart and beyond.







Sailing from Auckland, New Zealand, to Hobart, Tasmania.

Where in the World Are We?

We are sailing from Auckland, New Zealand, to Hobart, Tasmania.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Why Melbourne Feels Different: A Walk Through Its Personality”.
Join Chris for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Melbourne, alongside some destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.


























2:00 Enrichment Lecture with David Horner: “Tasmania: From Penal Colony to Apple Isle”.
And then the settlers tried to eliminate all the indigenous population. Tasmania overcame this grim past to become a thriving and charming island.












Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.






MOTOWN
Join Silversea Singers in an upbeat, fast-paced performance featuring this iconic music style, alongside our Silversea Dancers with some stylish moves.
Let us transport you back to the renowned Motown era, with memorable music ranging from the Supremes to the Temptations.








Sailing from Auckland, New Zealand, to Hobart, Tasmania.

Where in the World Are We?

We are sailing from Auckland, New Zealand, to Hobart, Tasmania.
8:00 World Cruise Breakfast in The La Dame Restaurant.










10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Hobart: Maritime Heritage on the Edge of Wilderness”.
Join Chris for an exploration of Hobart’s history, culture, and cuisine, along with destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.



































2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Tony Van Maanenberg: “Aussies & Kiwis – What Ties Them Together”.
Tony takes us on a journey through the ANZACs. What has tied New Zealand and Australia in a unique bond that few other countries share?





















3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Geoff Gray: “A Tale of Two Cities, with ongoing rivalry”.
Melbourne and Sydney have long vied for supremacy as Australia’s leading cities. From the gold rushes that brought immense wealth to Melbourne in the late nineteenth century, to Sydney’s iconic Harbor.




























4:00 Enrichment Lecture with David Horner: “There She Blows! Early sealing and whaling in Australia and New Zealand.”
Seal and whale hunting were the basis of the early European settlement of New Zealand and of many Australian communities.



















Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.





9:15 Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Reception.
Captain Johannes Tysse welcomes all guests and introduces the Senior Officers of Silver Dawn, followed by Showtime.




A NIGHT AT THE THEATER
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER CLARISSA SPATA
Clarissa Spata is a versatile Soprano, performing a range of Operatic repertoire, Classical crossover, and Music Theatre favorites.
She recently reached the Quarter Finals of The Voice – Australia, with Delta Goodrem as her mentor.
Clarissa has performed many principal roles for Opera Australia’s touring division, as well as for Australian International Productions touring China








Auckland, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Auckland, New Zealand.

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
From Sky-High Views to Island Escapes
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 harbors 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 harbor bridge span.
Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 meters 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. 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 Mäori 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.
Today’s Excursion – Maritime Museum, Harbor Sailing & City Sights
Experience the spectacular beauty, history, and landmarks of Auckland during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion by
land and water.
Auckland, Downtown Area, Parnell Village, Auckland Domain, Auckland Harbour Bridge
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately two-hour sightseeing drive through Auckland’s lovely downtown area. Along the
way, note the contrast between the city’s modern structures and the restored Victorian buildings in the suburbs. From here,
drive through Parnell Village, which features trendy shops, boutiques, and an exceptional collection of art galleries in restored,
Colonial-era buildings. Your drive continues past Auckland Domain, home to beautiful-manicured gardens, and the stately
Auckland War Memorial Museum. From here, drive across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then stop for splendid views and
photo opportunities at a scenic viewpoint.
New Zealand Maritime Museum, Galleries, Exhibits, Models, Books, Photographs, Artefacts
Next, proceed for a guided tour of the New Zealand Maritime Museum. The bond between New Zealand and the ocean is
presented, preserved, and celebrated in this exceptional museum. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour. Explore the
Itinerary, galleries and exhibits detailing the nautical history of New Zealand, from the earliest Polynesian settlers to today. An extensive collection of models, photographs, books, drawings, and artefacts are displayed for your enjoyment.






















Waitemata Harbour Cruise, Ted Ashby, Westhaven Marina, Auckland Harbour Bridge, Inner-Harbour
Leaving the museum, embark the Ted Ashby, a heritage sailing vessel, for a scenic, approximately 60-minute cruise along the
sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour. Cruise past Westhaven Marina, the largest yacht marina in the Southern Hemisphere,
then sail past the Auckland Harbour Bridge and inner-harbour, where you may have an opportunity to steer the vessel yourself.
Following your harbour cruise, disembark your vessel and commence the short walk back to the ship. En route, you may opt to
visit the small gift shop at the Maritime Museum













2:00 Enrichment Lecture with David Horner: “Raiders of the Tasman Sea: When war came to Australia and New Zealand”.
As island nations with no land borders, Australia and New Zealand are two of the most secure countries in the world







3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Tony Van Maanenberg: “An insight into New Zealand and Maori culture – What makes them so unique”.
As island nations with no land borders, Australia and New Zealand are two of the most secure countries in the world.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant











TOUR OF PASSION
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JULIETTE PRIMROSE
Tour of Passion is a fast-paced musical journey through time and around the world—thrilling, soulful, and wildly diverse, spanning everything from Mozart to AC/DC. Virtuoso violinist and fiddle player Juliette Primrose is your enchanting guide.
A truly world-class performer, Juliette has toured internationally since age 21, captivating audiences as a solo fiddler for Lord of the Dance and Gaelforce, and performing in touring productions of The Phantom of the Opera and West Side Story. From age 17, she supported leg ends, including Dame Shirley Bassey and Dionne Warwick.







Auckland, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Auckland, New Zealand.

Auckland, New Zealand.
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 harbors 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 harbor bridge span.
Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 meters 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. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds in Albert Park, the French Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection and exhibits works by 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 of the city and 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.
Today’s Excursion – Devonport & North Shore

Devonport & North Shore
We discovered historic Devonport and the lovely north shore of central Auckland during this panoramic sightseeing excursion.
Auckland, Iconic City Landmarks, North Head, Volcanic Formation, Yachts & Sailboats
We depart the pier for a scenic drive from central Auckland to the beautiful suburb of Devonport. We took in unsurpassed views of Auckland City and its iconic landmarks, then headed towards Takapuna. A photo stop is made at North Head, part of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park, for sweeping views of Auckland and its harbour. Yachts and colourful sailboats dot the seascape below as you look down from atop an old volcanic formation. This area was the site of 19th-century harbour fortifications, with a number of military tunnels and bunkers still in place today.
Mount Victoria, MK VII Gun, Spectacular Views
Next, our drive continued on to Mount Victoria, the tallest volcano on Auckland’s North Shore and once the site of a Māori settlement. See the MK VII, eight-inch disappearing gun, and take in spectacular, 360-degree vistas over the north Peninsula, Devonport, and Auckland. Leaving Mount Victoria, proceed to Devonport, a charming village that feels like a step back in time.
Devonport, Guided Tour, Free Time, Shopping and Exploration, Ferry-Ride
One of the oldest settlements in New Zealand, this quaint suburb on the north Peninsula is noted for its wooden colonial architecture. Upon arrival, we took a guided orientation tour of Devonport. Afterward, some free time was available to stroll the village streets, browse galleries and boutiques, or simply relax with a refreshment at a café. At the conclusion of the tour, our driver-guide provided us with ferry tickets for our return to the ship.































Tonight’s Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.







Local Show: Haka the legend
Experience the power of kapa haka — from graceful action songs to fierce war dances — as our performers bring this treasured Māori art form to life.






