2026 World Cruise
January 6 - May 27, 2026
Author: John
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Where in the World Are We?/
We are in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, in the South Pacific.
BAY OF ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND
Beaches, Forests, and the Meeting of Two Seas
The Tasman Sea on the west and the Pacific Ocean on the east meet at the top of the North Island at Cape Reinga.
No matter what route you take, you’ll pass farms and forests, marvelous beaches, and great open spaces.
The East Coast, up to the Bay of Islands, is Northland’s most densely populated, often with escapees from bigger cities “looking for a more relaxed life” clustered around breathtaking beaches. The first decision on the drive north comes at the foot of the Brynderwyn Hills.
Turning left will take you up the West Coast through areas once covered with forests and now used for either agriculture or horticulture. Driving over “the Brynderwyns,” as they are known, takes you to Whangarei, the only city in Northland. If you’re in the mood for a diversion, you can slip to the beautiful coastline and take in Waipu Cove, an area settled by Scots, and Laings Beach, where million-dollar homes sit next to small Kiwi beach houses. An hour’s drive farther north is the Bay of Islands, known worldwide for its beauty. There you will find lush forests, splendid beaches, and shimmering harbors.
The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 between the Mäori and the British Crown, establishing the basis for the modern New Zealand state. Every year on February 6, the extremely beautiful Waitangi Treaty Ground (the name means weeping waters) is the site of a celebration of the treaty and protests by Mäori unhappy with it.
Continuing north on the East Coast, the agricultural backbone of the region is even more evident, and a series of winding loop roads off the main highway will take you to beaches that are both beautiful and isolated, where you can swim, dive, picnic, or just laze.
Today’s Excursion – Kawiti Glowworm Caves & Kawakawa
We explored this region’s geological wonders, dating back 300 years, and saw a multitude of stalactites and stalagmites in limestone caves, home to millions of glow worms, at the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves. Get close enough to see the actual body of the glow worm and its blue/green tail light.
Kawiti Glow Worm Caves
We departed the pier with our driver-guide for a scenic drive into the countryside to the Kawiti Caves, which are still owned by the Kawiti family, whose early founders fought against the British army. We followed our guide along a wooden boardwalk through a 655-foot limestone cave system. As we wondered at the glow worms above, our guide explained the life cycle of the New Zealand glow worm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) and the intricate webs used to catch their prey (mosquitoes and midges). You will get close enough to see the actual body of the glow worm with its blue/green tail light, before making the return bushwalk through a natural karst rock corridor and pristine rainforest. Re-board your coach for the short drive to Kawakawa, the quintessential New Zealand town.
Kawakawa
Next, we visited nearby Kawakawa, which still has a railway line running down the middle of its main street. However, its claim to fame is its public toilets designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the famed Austrian architect and artist. With a thatched roof, a living tree, gold balls, mosaic tiling, and bottle-glass windows all integrated into the structure, the colourful toilets are the unmistakable hallmarks of the Austrian-born, New Zealand-based artist. They are, without doubt, the most photographed toilets in the world.
6:30 Silver Dawn Choir performance with World Cruise Ambassador Eleanor
Come and support your fellow guests of the Silver Dawn Choir as they present a short selection of the music they have been working on.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
ALL THAT JAZZ
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER MIROSLAW GALCZYNSKI
At 25, Miro completed a Master’s Degree in performance and teaching at the University of Poznan. Miro then worked extensively throughout Europe as a soloist and with bands. He also has experience as an in-demand session musician and has recorded many albums for artists playing jazz, pop, rock, and blues.
Miro moved to Australia in 2007 and taught at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music and McDonald College in Sydney. Miro also plays for the Australian International Ballet Academy, is involved in a Roy Orbison Tribute show, and in 2011 recorded his first jazz album in Australia with his own group, the Miro Galczynski quartet.
Norfolk Island, Austrailia
Where in the World Are We?
We are on Norfolk Island, Australia, in the South Pacific.
NORFOLK ISLAND, AUSTRALIA
Discovering Norfolk Island’s Story
Marooned between the Queensland coast and New Zealand’s North Island, Norfolk Island is a place of perfect isolation.
Once a remote penal colony feared for its brutality, it later became the sanctuary of the Bounty mutineers, who made the arduous journey thousands of miles from Pitcairn to start afresh here in 1856. Local guides – often direct descendants of the Bounty mutineers – share the island’s history firsthand. A stunning 360-degree painting tells the story of the Bounty in immersive detail.
The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area is a living museum, and between 1788 and 1855, the island was home to a notorious and brutal penal colony, first settled by the British in 1788. Earmarked for the worst of the worst, the sheer remoteness of the location was said to render any escape attempt impossible.
The same unique setting that made it such a notorious outpost also formed a remarkable island ecosystem. Birdwatchers can explore the subtropical rainforest and shores, home to 25 rare and endemic bird species sheltered by fragrant pine trees and lush gardens.
Discover the diverse coral lagoon with glass-bottom boat tours revealing coral gardens and colorful tropical fish. To the south of Emily Bay’s clear, tempting waters, the small Philip Island stands stark against the blue, with flashes of bright orange ochre and greenery painting its steep cliffs.
Today’s Excursion – The Journey of the Bounty Mutineers
Visit a Panoramic painting of the Journey of the Bounty Mutineers, ranked among the top attractions in Australia. Enjoy an audio tour that brings the past to life, following the journey of The Bounty Mutineers who arrived on Norfolk Island in 1856, recounting where they lived and how they adapted to their new life.
Cyclorama, Gallery Guava
Experience one of Australia’s top tourist attractions, the panoramic painting Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama. Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama transports you to the eighteenth century and immerses you in the dramatic story of the people of Norfolk, including the Bounty Mutiny. You will find Gallery Guava is like a little jewel box brimming with paintings, bone carvings, ceramics, glassware, jewelry, and prints, all inspired by Norfolk’s natural beauty and mystique. This panoramic painting will transport you back in time, then hop back on the bus to finish the journey of the Bounty Mutineers.
Bounty Folk Museum, Journey of The Bounty Mutineers
Next, discover the amazing story of Norfolk Island in this museum. The Bounty Folk Museum is a treasure chest of history, an Aladdin’s cave full of fantastic collections and inspiring information stretching back to 1788. The Bounty Folk Museum is the people’s museum of Norfolk Island. The museum chronicles the history of the Island and its people, past and present, and then your bus will take you on your final Journey of the Bounty Mutineers.
On 8 June 1856, a total of 194 people, descendants from the Bounty, arrived on Norfolk Island from Pitcairn Island aboard the Morayshire. This consisted of 40 men, 47 women, 54 boys, and 53 girls. They arrived in cold, wet, blustery conditions. Few had ever been to sea before; they were seasick, homesick, and heartsick. The journey of 6,000 km (3,700 miles) took five weeks. They arrived at a recently abandoned penal settlement set aside for the ‘worst of the worst’, it was full of ghosts and memories. It was a large and frightening testimony of man’s inhumanity to man. We will bring the past to life with an audio aboard the bus, recounting stories of the families, where they lived, and how they adapted to their new life on Norfolk Island. We trust you enjoyed the Journey of the Bounty Mutineers.
4:00 Enrichment Lecture with William Lokey: “Typhoons, Cyclones, and Hurricanes – The Ocean’s Most Powerful Storms”
Explore how tropical cyclones are formed, how they are tracked, how they are named, and – with warmer oceans – will it get worse?
6:00 Enrichment Lecture with Reed Kaestner: “10 Pro tips for better Travel Photographs”.
In this lecture, you will learn ”secrets” that will make your photographs look like they were shot by a “pro”!
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
ROCK THE BOAT
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY
Join the Silversea singers and our show band as they take you through a collection of electric party hits to dance the night away.
Fishing in the South Pacific
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Noumea, New Caledonia, to Norfolk Island, in the South Pacific.
8:30 Food and Beverage Team presents: “Silver Brunch”, a culinary journey with exquisite flavors.
Join us for a delightful brunch buffet, as we will be serving a delicious array of brunch favorites. We cannot wait to see you there!
9:30 Welcome to our Country Fair! A fun‑filled event for guests of all ages to enjoy!
Each of our departments will create and host unique games and challenges, giving you plenty of opportunities to play, compete, and experience a variety of activities throughout the fair. From friendly competitions to classic carnival fun, there will be something for everyone.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “An Island Shaped by Empire: Norfolk’s Remarkable Past”.
Join Chris for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Norfolk Island, alongside some destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself with this port of call
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Reed Kaestner: “The Incredible World of Birds”.
Join us as we discuss the world of birdwatching, amazing migrations, and unique bill adaptations. and interesting behavior of our “feathered friends.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Christopher Whelan: “The Anglo-American Relationship: Is it Really ‘Special’?” The special relationship forged by Churchill and Roosevelt during the Second World War has had its ups and downs. Has a special relationship survived?
4:00 Enrichment Lecture with William Lokey: “Ancient Disasters and the Legends They Inspired”.
Extreme events have always been a part of human life, and ancient peoples have had their own ways of explaining them. Can we learn from them today?
6:00 Enrichment Lecture with Prof. Lisa Matisoo-Smith: “DNA Ancestry Tests”.
Discover what they can and can’t tell you, and why.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
MUSIC FROM THE MODERN ERA
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER MIROSLAW GALCZYNSKI
No stranger to the music business, Polish-born Miroslaw ‘Miro’ Galczynski has been engaging audiences for three and a half decades with his skills as an accomplished percussionist and pianist.
Starting as a classical pianist, Miro broadened his repertoire as he studied and mastered the idioms of classical, jazz, blues, and rock.
At 25, Miro completed a Master’s Degree in performance and teaching at the University of Poznan. Miro then worked extensively throughout Europe as a soloist and with bands.
He also has experience as an in-demand session musician and has recorded many albums for artists playing jazz, pop, rock, and blues.
Noumea, New Caledonia
Where in the World Are We?
Today is our second day in Noumea, New Caledonia, in the South Pacific.
NOUMÉA, NEW CALEDONIA
A Vibrant Gateway to New Caledonia’s Island Paradises
Use Noumea as your launching point for a collection of idyllic island escapes, each one showcasing the natural beauty and charm of New Caledonia’s lagoon.
Begin your journey with a visit to Amedee Island, a tiny emerald gem rising from brilliant turquoise waters and crowned by its iconic 19th‑century lighthouse. This striking white tower, built in France and transported piece‑by‑piece to the Pacific, invites visitors to climb its 247 steps. From the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping, uninterrupted panoramas of swirling blue currents, coral reefs, and distant islets scattered across the UNESCO‑listed lagoon.
Back at sea level, immerse yourself in the underwater world that surrounds the island. Snorkel through warm, clear waters where sea turtles glide gracefully through the shallows, clownfish weave between gently swaying anemones, and vibrant reef fish flash by in iridescent colors.
For a more relaxed look at the underwater scenery, hop aboard a glass‑bottom boat and drift above coral gardens teeming with life.
Afterward, unwind on Amedee’s pristine beaches, where soft sands meet the shade of towering coconut palms—ideal for a leisurely picnic, a sun‑soaked rest, or a quiet moment with the sound of waves.
Today’s Excursion – Center Town
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
WE HONESTLY LOVE YOU
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER SUSANNAH MIRANA
Susannah Mirana is an Australian singer, original artist, and International performer.
Nominated for the 2024 and 2025 ACE Awards for Best Female Vocalist, she is known for her stunning voice, incredible versatility, and stage presence.
Her shows are compelling, dynamic & inspired. Constantly experimenting & evolving, Susannah has spent the past twenty years working with some of the best in the industry and has mastered an impressive range of musical styles to thrilling effect.
Noumea, New Caledonia in the South Pacific
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Noumea, New Caledonia, in the South Pacific.
Perched overlooking the life-filled reefs of Noumea Lagoon, Noumea is the vibrant and colorful capital of New Caledonia.
Catch some shade in the city’s center, beneath Coconut Palm Square, and absorb the vibrant fusion of French and Kanak cultures. Or take a leisurely open-air stroll along the waterfront, where white boats bob and jostle on the lapping waters. Bring your tongs – the local word for flip-flops – there will be plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, and leaf through paperbacks on dazzling beaches.
Noumea is a perfect jumping-off point for serene island adventures, too. Enjoy a voyage to the island paradise of Amedee Isl – a tiny green land with a narrow historic lighthouse rocketing up from its center. Climb 247 steps for the stunning view of the blotchy blue waters all around. Or, explore the waters to swim among turtles and orange clownfish.
Set among the New Caledonian barrier reef, there are incredible diving opportunities, and glass-bottom boats offer you a dry window into the underwater world. Kick back on some of the softest sand imaginable and enjoy glorious sea views from the inviting shade of coconut palms.
More island jaunts like Illot Maitre – which translates to the Master Isle – tempt, where you’ll find idyllic strings of stilted bungalows laced across the crystal-clear, shallow waters. Swim in the sparkling sea, and sprawl across the white sand beaches that are waiting.
Back in the city, try soft coconut crab, following a starter of New Caledonian prawns. Bougna is the traditional Melanesian dish of choice and a social experience in which locals share a mixture of vegetables and chicken in coconut milk, slow-cooked for hours in a banana-leaf-lined pit.
10:15 Enrichment Lecture with William Lokey: “Cruising Through the Ring of Fire”.
See how much we have learned about our Earth in the past 100 years, including the Theory of Plate Tectonics, and what we think the Earth is up to along our voyage
Today’s Excursion – Best of Noumea, New Caledonia.
Today’s Excursion – Best of Noumea.
We experienced the history, cultures, and scenic splendour of Noumea.
Noumea, Church of the Immaculate Conception
We departed the pier with a panoramic drive through the outskirts of Noumea. There are superb views of Nouméa and the ship as we drive along the road to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1874, and the oldest in New Caledonia. While exploring its interior, we viewed exquisite stained-glass windows depicting the miracles of Lourdes.
Ouen Toro, Anse Vata, Nouméa Aquarium, Nouméa, Baie des Citrons, Coconut Square
We continued back to Nouméa via the bays and stopped at La Ouen Toro Hill to take in panoramic views of the city, picturesque tropical islands, and reef-protected waters. Next, we drove to Anse Vata and the aquarium to see the stunning marine life of New Caledonia, including the fascinating prehistoric nautilus and rare fluorescent corals.
We continued to Baie des Citrons, passing elegant waterside apartments, numerous marina facilities, and the downtown area. Continue on to the central shopping district and beautiful Coconut Square before heading back to the pier.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
ISLANDER’S LEGACY: TALES OF NOUMÉA
TONIGHT’S LOCAL SHOW
Step into the world of Nouméa and be captivated by a dynamic showcase of tradition and island heritage.
Through stunning performances, intricate dances, and authentic costumes, the cultural legacy of New Caledonia is brought vividly to the stage.
This is a heartfelt tribute to the island’s natural beauty, enduring customs, and lively island spirit.
Mystery Island, Vanatua, in the South Pacific
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Mystery Island, Vanuatu, in the South Pacific.
MYSTERY ISLAND, VANUATU
A Quiet Paradise of Crystal Lagoons and Coral Reefs
Inyeug Island—more widely known as Mystery Island—is a serene tropical gem located in the Tafea Province of Vanuatu, the country’s southernmost cluster of islands.
This enchanting island is celebrated for its striking natural beauty, featuring dramatic, rounded cliffs rising gracefully from the surrounding turquoise waters. These formations help shape a series of calm, protected lagoons where the ocean displays some of the clearest and lightest hues in the world.
Apart from a small airstrip, used only twice a week to bring visitors to and from the region, the island remains untouched and undeveloped. It is composed almost entirely of soft, sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush coastal vegetation. With no permanent residents, roads, or commercial establishments, Mystery Island offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Visitors come here to unwind on quiet shores, bask in the warm sun, and swim in the gentle, crystal-clear sea. The surrounding reefs make it an exceptional spot for snorkeling, where the underwater world is alive with color. Schools of tropical fish glide through intricate coral formations, and the tranquil environment allows even novice snorkelers to explore comfortably.
The magic of Mystery Island
Experience Mystery Island like never before. Snorkel in blue-green waters teeming with wildlife, lounge on dedicated daybeds, and explore the curiosities of this island in pavilions and installations curated by Silversea. Finally, top off your visit with a fusion cuisine experience right on the beach.
Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant.
Tonight was a Lousianna style Mardi Gras theme.
BOOGIE FEVER
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Get on your boogie shoes and feel the heat in your feet as you join with the Silversea Band, Singers and Dancers for some disco fever and explosive dance moves, bound to get your toes tapping and heads bobbing!
Sailing to Mystery Island, Vanatua, in the South Pacific
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Savusavu to Mystery Island in the South Pacific.
10:00 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “From Mission Posts to Modern Marina: Nouméa’s Journey”.
Join Chris for an exploration of the history, culture, and cuisine of Noumea, along with destination insights to fully immerse yourself in this port of call.
12:15 World Cruise Picnic Lunch Event in the S.A.L.T. Kitchen.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Prof. Lisa Matisoo-Smith: “Lapita, the Ancestors of Pacific Peoples”.
Discover the Lapita culture and people and how they first settled the islands of Remote Oceania over 3,000 years ago.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with William Lokey: “Cruising Beneath the Southern Cross”. Learn about the most famous constellation
in the Southern Hemisphere, its role in history and ancient navigation, and legends and stories about it from New Zealand to Africa.
6:00 Venetian Society Cocktail Reception.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
PAYING TRIBUTE TO LEGENDS & SUPERSTARS
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER SUSANNAH MIRANA
Susannah Mirana is an Australian singer, original artist, and International performer.
Nominated for an ACE Award for Best Female Vocalist in 2024 & 2025, she is known for her stunning voice, incredible versatility, and stage presence.
Her shows are compelling, dynamic & inspired. Constantly experimenting & evolving, Susannah has spent the past twenty years working with some of the best in the industry and has mastered an impressive range of musical styles to thrilling effect.
Sailing to Fiji, in the South Pacific.
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Tonga to Savasava, Fiji, in the South Pacific.
10:00 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “The Essence of Fiji Found in Savusavu and Castaway Calm: The Allure of Mystery Island”
Join Chris for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Savusavu and Mystery Island.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Prof. Lisa Matisoo-Smith: “Marae and Moai”.
An Introduction to the culture and politics of ancient Polynesia.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Christopher Whelan: “The Legacy of the British Empire: Good, Bad or Ugly?”.
There’s no doubt the most powerful empire in history changed the world, but what is its legacy today?
4:00 Enrichment Lecture with Reed Kaestner: “Mastering Cellphone Photography” Yes, we all have one, that camera in your pocket or purse!
Come learn how to unlock the amazing features and techniques that make these miracles of modern technology perform at their best.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
9:15 Special Valentine Show! Silversea Proudly Presents: “Heartstrings: A Valentine Showcase” ❤
Join us for an enchanting evening celebrating music and romance.
Nuku’Alofa, Tonga – The Pacific Paradise Steeped in History and Natural Beauty
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Nuka‘Alofa, Tonga, the only Kingdom in the Pacific.
NUKU’ALOFA, TONGA
The Pacific Paradise Steeped in History and Natural Beauty
Nuku’alofa is the capital of Tonga and sits on the north shore of Tongatapu Island in the Pacific Ocean.
This peaceful destination is lined with blissful, powder-white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise seas that host a large, lively coral reef.
First explored by James Cook in 1777, it is the only island in the South Pacific to have avoided colonization, and its name translates to “home of love”.
This is evident in the friendly welcome you’ll get from happy locals and in the deeply relaxed vibe. Take a stroll into town to visit the Talamahu Market. You’ll find delightful hand-carved arts and crafts, woven baskets, jewelry, and a large selection of fresh fruits.
The sea is ideal for snorkeling with underwater volcanic caves to explore, shipwrecks, and a profusion of colorful fish to spot. Just thirty minutes offshore are the spectacular Mapu’a’a Vaea Blowholes. Known as The Chief’s Whistles by locals, water blasts 30 meters into the sky from a concertina of coral rock, which creates pockets of pressure.
John’s trip to the clinic, then to the emergency room, was to get a medication that was not available on the ship.
Today’s Excursion – Historical Experience
Discover Tongatapu’s rich historical and cultural legacy on a tour that includes stops by Captain Cook’s Landing Place, the Ha’amonga ‘a Maui stone formation, the terraced tombs of former kings, and the country’s Royal Palace.
We began our half-day shore excursion with a bus ride to the spot where British sea captain James Cook landed in 1777 on what he nicknamed the “Friendly Islands, “after the courteous inhabitants of Tonga. Hear tales of how he slept under the Malumalu ‘o Fulilangi banyan tree and see the lagoon where he docked his sailing ship more than 200 years ago.
Next, wectraveled to see Ha’amonga ‘a Maui, a massive coral limestone trilithon built in the early 13th century that, according to oral chronicles, served as the gateway to the king’s compound.
On our trip back to port, we stopped at the terraced Langi (tombs) and saw where His Majesty King George Tupou I, the founder of modern Tonga, is buried at the Royal Tombs complex. Make a final photo stop outside the whitewashed Royal Palace, official residence of Tonga’s king, before making your way back to the ship.
ECHOES OF TONGA: CELEBRATING ISLAND HERITAGE
Come and enjoy the traditional performances from Ancient Tonga.
Through traditional movement of solo performances, to all boys or all girls, and group performances. The performers tell a story through movement of places, love, and royal dynasties.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
Sailing the South Pacific to Nuku’Alofa, Tonga.
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing to Nuku’Alofa, Tonga, in the South Pacific.
11:15 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Christopher Whelan: “Lawyers on Trial: Hired Guns or Heroes?”
Lawyers are universally unpopular, but is this justified? Aren’t they necessary for justice? What would you do if faced with tragic choices?
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with William Lokey: “Cruiser’s Guide to the Deep Blue Sea”.
Explore the Ocean’s depths, tides, landforms, currents, animals, the “Green Flash”, and other fun facts and theories about what is going on beneath Silver Dawn.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Prof. Lisa Matisoo-Smith: “Polynesian Voyaging”.
What we know about ancient Pacific voyaging – and did Columbus really discover America?
4:00 Enrichment Lecture with Reed Kaestner: “Getting the most out of your travel photographs”.
An easy-to-understand discussion of composition basics. Applying a few “rules” will take your photographs to the next level.
MAGIC AND MAYHEM
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER STEVE MARSHALL
Steve then began working for the Walt Disney Company, where he created and performed his magic shows in their parks in California, Florida, and Tokyo.
Steve decided to stay in Tokyo and has become known there not only as a magician but also as a comic actor for television commercials.
He has been the featured actor in commercials for companies such as Sony, Ikea, Kitson, and McDonald’s when he portrayed the lovable, and comical, “Mr. James” for a series of six commercials and public appearances all over Japan for the hamburger chain’s big summer and fall campaign.
