2026 World Cruise
January 6 - May 27, 2026
Category: John & Sandy
Culinary Journey Aboard Silver Dawn: The Ultimate Brunch Experience
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Manta, Ecuador, to Lima, Peru.
SILVER BRUNCH AT SEA
A SPECIAL CULINARY EXPERIENCE ONBOARD SILVER DAWN
Indulge in a gourmet brunch experience at sea.
An exquisite buffet featuring a symphony of flavors, artfully prepared by our master chef. From delicate pastries to savory specialties, each dish is crafted with the finest ingredients and utmost care.
Savor every bite amid refined ambiance, impeccable service, and breathtaking ocean views. It’s more than a meal, it’s a culinary journey designed just for you.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Callao: Gateway to the City of Kings”
Chris explored the history, culture, and cuisine of Callao, alongside some destination knowledge to fully immerse yourself.
11:15 Q & A with Captain Johannes and Hotel Director Stephen
The Captain and Hotel Director provided insights into life at sea and the daily operation of Silver Dawn
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Jonathan H. Ward: “Under Southern Skies”
Explore the Southern Cross and other wonders of the sky south of the equator.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Palma Ingles: “The Amazon Rubber Boom”.
Developing wealth in the Amazon and the establishment of modern cities fueled by natural rubber extraction
9:30 THE LOVE SHOW
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JESSE HAMILTON JR.
Jesse Hamilton is a rising star who has captivated audiences worldwide! When blending together his club headlining in Europe, with his traditional theater and television credits in the United States, it’s easy to see how Jesse holds an audience right in the palm of his hand!
Exploring Manta’s Rich Culture and History
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Manta, Ecuador, on the west coast of South America.
MANTA, ECUADOR
The city’s economic importance
As home to Ecuador’s second-largest seaport, Manta is one of the country’s most important economic cities.
So, far from rustic shores and a sleepy village, visitors to Manta can expect a modern urban hub, complete with vast beaches, high rises, city slickers, and lots and lots of fish. This is the city with a giant tuna statue welcoming visitors, so it is no surprise that seafood is high on everybody’s list of important things. What was once a small fishing village has today grown into a mighty industry, and ultra-fresh seafood – mostly tuna – takes center stage.
Thus, no trip to Manta is complete without sampling at least one local dish. Foodies will salivate at the chance to taste not only amazing tuna ceviche but also exquisitely prepared squid, octopus, and lobster, along with inspired South American-style tapas.
If tasting the city’s legacy isn’t enough for you, the Archaeological Museum of the Central Bank of Manta boasts an excellent collection of ceramics from the Manteño-Huancavilca culture, which flourished here between 800 and 1550 A.D.
Manta’s seafood, beaches, and boutiques might be enough for some people, but it is worth noting that picturesque Montechristi is only about 20 minutes away. Jump on a colorful (and colorfully authentic) Chivas bus for the short ride to the home of the Panama hat, which does not originate anywhere near Panama! The enchanting village has retained much of its faded Spanish elegance, with milliners as its star attraction.
Today’s Excursion – Traditions of Manta
We explored the rich history, culture, and people of Manta during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.
Manta and Archaeological Museum
Depart the pier for a short drive around Manta en route to the Archaeological Museum of the Central Bank of Manta. The museum boasts a small but excellent collection of ceramics from the Manteño-Huancavilca culture, which flourished here between 800 and 1550 A.D. Other local art exhibitions are also on display.
Chorrillo and Cabuya Plant-Weaving
Next, re-board your coach and proceed to a cabuya plant-weaving factory in Chorrillo. Your visit is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as this traditional art is, unfortunately, rapidly dying out. In the past, this vibrant local industry prompted the production of approximately 4,000 cabuya plant bags per day in the Manta area. Today, this is the last remaining factory, producing 200 bags per week.
Montecristi Golf Club and Private Artisan Fair
Your tour continues with a drive along the picturesque seaside promenade and a visit to a Private Artisan Fair at the Montecristi Golf Club. Observe artisans weaving toquilla straw hats, or ‘Panama’ hats, and meet taqua nut carvers demonstrating their skills. The versatile tagua nut is used to produce a number of different eco-friendly products, from traditional handicrafts to jewellery and shirt buttons.
6:15 PM
GUAYAQUIL SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA
ECUADOR’S PREMIER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Founded in 1949, the Guayaquil Symphony Orchestra is one of Ecuador’s most important musical institutions. With more than 75 years of artistic excellence, it has brought both Ecuadorian and universal symphonic music to national and international stages, establishing itself as a leading cultural ambassador of the country.
This concert invites audiences on a musical journey through Ecuador and beyond, blending Ecuadorian music with works from the universal repertoire. Through rich colors, rhythms, and emotions, the Guayaquil Symphony Orchestra presents an experience that celebrates cultural identity, the meeting of traditions, and the expressive power of symphonic music as a universal language.
Tonight’s dinner was at The Atlantide Restaurant
9: 30 PM ROCK THE BOAT
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY
Join the Silversea singers and our Silver Dawn Band as they take you through a collection of electric party hits to dance the night away.
Adventure Through the Panama Canal: Historic Transit
Where in the World Are We?
We are crossing the Panama Canal.
PANAMA CANAL TRANSIT
A MONUMENTAL GATEWAY BETWEEN TWO OCEANS
Today, the Silver Dawn began transiting the mighty Panama Canal, one of history’s most ambitious and spectacular stretches of water. Connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, and slicing through the heart of a continent. The canal is a staggering engineering triumph, eliminating the need to traverse the treacherous waters of South America and Cape Horn. Enjoy the vast, gushing locks and huge lakes of this man-made modern engineering marvel.
Enrichment Lecture with Jonathan H. Ward: “Searching for E.T. – Are You Out There?”.
Consider whether extraterrestrial life lurks within our solar system and where it may be found.
Tonight’s Dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant.
COME CROON WITH ME THE LOVE EDITION
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JESSE HAMILTON JR.
Jesse Hamilton is a rising star who has captivated audiences worldwide! When blending together his club headlining in Europe, with his traditional theater and tele
Uncover the Wonders of Colon and Panama Canal
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Colon, Panama.
Colon, Panama
Colon welcomes you to one of humanity’s most extraordinary engineering endeavors, the Panama Canal.
This extraordinary waterway connects two of the world’s great oceans and, on opening, saved ships from an epic and treacherous 8,000-mile voyage around Cape Horn.
While the Atlantic Entrance is Colon’s main raison d’être, there is much more to this city on the canal’s grand gateway than first meets the eye. Take an old-world voyage on the regally romantic Panama Railway Canal, which preceded the canal and was constructed at extraordinary human cost to traverse Panama’s narrow land. The tracks have been rolling since the 19th century, and cozying up inside the historic carriages, with their gleaming glass ceilings and polished woods, is an elegant journey back in time to the period when this was the quickest route from the East Coast of the U.S. to California’s gold-rush dreams.
A side trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Portobelo is also a must. With its reef-rock fortifications built by the Spanish in the 17th century, these jagged jaws of coral were carved to cut off approaching pirates and conquistadors. It shares its World Heritage Site designation with nearby Fort San Lorenzo, which perches on an emerald-green cliff, casting its gaze over the harbor below.
Back in Colon, after staring in awe at the grand, clanging Gatun Locks, and splurging on a case of duty-free rum and trinkets from the Colon Free Trade Zone, a trip to the beach will soothe city-worn souls. Playa La Angosta is a rabble of raucous beach-going fun, where the blue waters swirl with bright banana boats and fleeting canoes. Relax on the sand among sizzling yuca fritters and families clamoring in the shade of cabanas. On the Caribbean side, Playa Chiquita is accessible only by boat, but it is rewarded with warm, gin-clear waters backed by thick rainforest.
Excursion description – Panama Canal Expansion
We discovered the history, operation, and expansion of the Panama Canal during this fascinating, full-day excursion to the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’.
Colon, Miraflores Locks Visitors Centre, Exhibition Halls, Huge Ships Crossing the Panama Canal
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the Miraflores Locks Visitors Centre. Upon arrival, take a moment to pause and view the gargantuan ships that pass through the series of locks on the Panama Canal; a truly fascinating sight. Afterward, visit the four exhibition halls, organized by themes that constitute the heart of this centre.
Agua Clara Locks, Agua Clara Visitors Centre, Expansion Observation Platform, New Traffic Lane
Next, re-board your coach and head to the new Panama Canal locks, the Agua Clara Locks, and enjoy a boxed lunch served en route. The Panama Canal expansion is currently the largest engineering project in the world. Upon arrival at the Agua Clara Visitor Centre, head to the Expansion Observation Platform. Here, you can see and learn about how the canal has been expanded through the addition of a new traffic lane. This new lane created two new sets of locks, one on the Pacific and one on the Atlantic, doubling the canal’s capacity and enabling longer, wider vessels to transit. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.
Tonight’s Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant/
KALEIDOSCOPE OF KLASSICS
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Join us as we spin through a kaleidoscopic catalogue of classic artists.
From Elvis to Elton, Whitney to Tina and everything else in between, we invite you to share our colorful selection of smash hits with us.
Join your Silversea Singers and Dancers for a show where you are sure to be rocking and rolling in your seats, with something to satisfy everyone’s favorite musical shade.
Explore the Beauty of Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.
PUERTO LIMÓN, COSTA RICA
A Rich Coast of Beauty, Democracy, and Adventure
Christopher Columbus could be considered Costa Rica’s very first tourist when he set foot on this stretch of coastline in 1502 during his fourth and final voyage to the New World. Believing he had stumbled upon a land brimming with mineral riches, he christened the region Costa Rica, meaning “rich coast.” The name reflected his expectations—but not the reality. To the Spaniards’ surprise, the anticipated gold and silver were nowhere to be found.
Yet, Costa Rica turned out to be rich in something far more enduring: a tradition of peace and democracy. Apart from a brief skirmish some six decades ago, the country has maintained stability and harmony, a distinction unmatched by any other nation in Latin America.
Costa Rica’s wealth also lies in its breathtaking natural beauty. Within an area roughly the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined, the country manages to pack an astonishing variety of landscapes—sun-drenched beaches, towering volcanoes, lush rainforests, and an incredible diversity of wildlife. These treasures have made Costa Rica a global leader in ecotourism, attracting visitors from around the world who seek adventure and sustainability in equal measure.
Even a short visit offers a tantalizing glimpse of what makes this country so special. From the vibrant greenery to the rhythmic waves along its shores, Costa Rica invites you to experience a quick sample of paradise—one that leaves you longing to return.
Today’s Excursion – Tortuguero Canals & Rainforest Skywalk
We discovered the richness of the rainforest as we walked along beautiful trails, and the most amazing shapes of green vegetation appeared before our eyes.
Our adventure began when we arrived at the first of three suspended bridges, exploring a unique and thrilling way to observe the beautiful rainforest canopies. Each of these bridges spans 55 to 200 feet and rises up to 165 feet above the ground.
As we continued our way through tropical plants and giant trees, our naturalist tour guide would point out the most outstanding features of this lush forest, filled with exuberant wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, several species of birds, butterflies, the beautiful blue jean frog, the green and black frog, and others.
During our visit, we observed coffee, cacao, and sugar cane plants and learned about their importance and the significant role they play in the local economy. We also enjoyed some delicious snacks and cold drinks.
Our next adventure took us on an exciting pontoon boat ride through the world-famous Tortuguero canals. We admired the rich flora and fauna, including incredible views of the lush jungle foliage that reflected on the water. Orchids, water lilies, birds, monkeys, sloths, and toucans are common in this unique system of natural and artificial canals that are used as waterways for transportation and exploration.
After this relaxing boat tour, we enjoyed complimentary soft drinks and refreshing snacks.
Significant points of interest seen on this excursion were:
* Learning about Costa Rica and its history.
* An exciting pontoon boat ride through the world-famous Tortuguero canals
* Exploring a Caribbean rainforest uniquely and thrillingly with four suspended bridges.
AGE GRACEFULLY…
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JOHN JOSEPH
Comedy and a bit more music of John Joseph.
John has done everything from New York to London, from television to film. Variety – “A riotous Standup!” Las Vegas Review – “The funniest and classiest show this reporter has seen in all his years!”
Panama Canal Transit: What to Expect on Your Journey
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Cozumel to Puerto Limon, Panama
Enrichment Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Life at the Canal’s Threshold: Colón’s Unique Role”.
Join Chris for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Colon, alongside some destination knowledge.
Enrichment Lecture with Jonathan H. Ward: “Planetary Defense: Protecting Our Planet from External Threats”.
The 21st Century operation & expansion of the canal by the Republic of Panama. How Panama has operated and expanded its Canal for 25 Years.
Enrichment Lecture with Richard Morgan: “South to the Pacific – A Panama Canal Transit”.
What we will see step by step, and what is happening behind the scenes.
LIMELITE – TONIGHT’S SHOW
Experience a magnificent evening of musical entertainment at its best! Limelite is a dynamic show featuring the very best of musical theatre, from New York’s Broadway and London’s West End, as well as some of the most iconic movie musicals.
Join your Silversea Singers and Dancers as we bring this Broadway experience to life! Enjoy hits from past productions through to the present day, including Grease, ABBA, and The Greatest Showman.
Discovering the Panama Canal’s 21st Century Operations
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Cozumel.
Enrichment Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “Life in Green: Discovering Costa Rica’s Caribbean Heart”
We joined Chris for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Puerto Limon, alongside some destination knowledge
Enrichment Lecture with Richard Morgan:
“The Panama Canal-The 21st Century operation & expansion of the canal by the Republic of Panama”
How Panama has operated and expanded its Canal for 25 Years.
Enrichment Lecture with Jonathan H. Ward: “All These Worlds – A Flight through the Solar System”.
Marvel at the familiar and strange planets, moons, and other inhabitants of our Sun’s neighborhood.
Dinner was at the Alantide Restaurant
HOW WONDERFUL LIFE IS: THE MUSIC OF ELTON
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER MARTIN KAYE
With over two thousand performances as “The Killer” under his belt and inspired by some of the most dynamic and beloved artists of our time – Elton John, Jerry Lee Lewis, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley – Martin Kaye has made it his life’s mission to share his love of music with the world.
His distinct showmanship, dynamic flair, and profound love for his audience make every performance and Martin Kaye himself a genuine tour de force.
Exploring Cozumel: Mayan Ruins and Stunning Beaches
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico, on the west coast.
COZUMEL QUINTANA ROO, MEXICO
Paradise Beneath and Beyond the Waves
Dive into the exuberant, colorful world of Cozumel – a Mexican island of exceptional scuba diving, snorkeling, and dazzling beaches. Abundant underwater ecosystems swirl among reefs of black coral – attracting experts and beginners alike to the azure waters of this island.
Mayan mythology says Cozumel was the sanctuary of the Goddess of fertility and love, Ixchel, and this seductive Mexican island of adventure and allure leaves all visitors head over heels.
Waiting across the Caribbean waters from Playa del Carmen, and a world away from its lively resorts, Cozumel is an idyllic land of gently curving palm trees and tropical shores. Playa Palancar sits on the western coast, with velvety sand and balmy Caribbean waters. Relax, with just the notes of the washing sea and whispering palm trees accompanying you during splashes through the shallow waves or tanning sessions on the soft sand. Playa El Cielo – or the appropriately named Heaven Beach – is home to a divine constellation of starfish resting on the seabed, below its glass-clear waters.
Stingrays and sea turtles also swirl in the waters, as you snorkel through some of the island’s most vibrant and diverse displays of marine life. Beach bars serve up spicy Mexican fare with a seaside twist – like delicious shrimp fajitas, fish tacos, and lime-squeezed ceviches.
The crumbling San Gervasio ruins, meanwhile, offer cultural intrigue and a fascinating insight into the remarkable ancient Mayan civilization. Despite the presence of majestic ruins from antiquity, it’s the giant iguanas, soaking up the sun in clearings, who often unwittingly steal the show.
Today’s Excursion – The Best of Cozumel, Duration
We indulged our senses with a taste of Mayan culture, traditions, and natural beauty during this picturesque excursion to beautiful Cozumel.
San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
We departed the pier for the scenic site of the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, the sanctuary of Ixchel, Goddess of Fertility and Good Health. We took a guided walking tour through the ruins and learned about the Mayan culture and its fascinating history.
El Mirador
We continued our scenic ride around the island, marveling at the pristine island and amazing turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, and stopped for a photo at El Mirador, a rocky formation carved out by the ocean.
Pueblo del Maiz (Chocolate and Honey) & Tequila Tasting
We travelled back in time and were enveloped by the mysticism of the Mayans at Pueblo del Maíz. We enjoyed the ancestral flavor of cocoa while learning about the process of making chocolate, and discovered the sacred bees in their natural habitat while listening to legendary stories. We learned about the tequila-making process and had time at the end to shop for local products, spirits, and souvenirs.
Tonight’s Dinner was in The Alantide Restaurant
Tonight’s Entertainment –
WAS I GOING UP OR DOWN?
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JOHN JOSEPH
John Joseph has been touring the world from London to Las Vegas to Australia.
John has appeared in film and television, including the film Mall Cop 2 and TV shows such as The View, HBO & Comedy Central. John has been the opening act for the Doobie Brothers, Huey Lewis and the News, and for over ten years, opening for Julio Iglesias.
Cruise Adventures: Fort Lauderdale to Cozumel
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Cozumel, Mexico.
Enrichment Lecture with Chris Mcpherson: “From Maya Shores to Modern Haven: The Story of Cozumel”.
We joined Chris for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Cozumel.
Enrichment Lecture with Richard Morgan: “The Panama Canal – The Land Divided, The World United”.
The Vision, Construction and 20th Century Operation of the Canal by the United States,
Dinner was in The Altantide Restaurant
GREAT BALLS – HEADLINE ENTERTAINER MARTIN KAYE
Martin Kaye is a high-energy, internationally acclaimed, odd-socked pianist, singer, songwriter, and all-round showman.
Best known for his knockout performances as “Jerry Lee Lewis” in the hit Broadway, West End and Las Vegas show ’Million Dollar Quartet’, Manchester-born Martin exudes energy beyond anything you’ve ever seen.
He sings from the depths of his soul, he pounds the piano with reckless abandon – then jumps on top of it and plays backwards – and just try to keep up with his non-stop legs!
Setting Sail: A Memorable World Cruise Journey
Where in the World Are We?
We are boarding our ship in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
A six-string ensemble greeted us in the cruise terminal. Our World Cruise was plotted out on a colorful map using colorful flowers. The Assistant Cruise Director, Denise, welcomes Sandy.
Meet the Captain
MEET THE CAPTAIN JOHANNES TYSSE
Welcome aboard the Silver Dawn! I’m your Captain, Johannes Tysse, ensuring your journey is memorable, lavishly comfortable, and most importantly, safe.
Hailing from Bergen, Norway, a place rich with maritime tradition, I’ve spent 20 dedicated years mastering the high seas and ensuring safety for both our cherished guests and our commendable crew.
Inspired by my grandfather’s fascinating tales of transatlantic sailing, I’ve always known my calling was to be a captain. Now, I relish the opportunity to connect with amazing guests and our dedicated crew as we explore stunning destinations on the Silver Dawn.
Our journey together promises not only luxurious comfort but also a sense of camaraderie. In my leisure time, you might catch me in the Arts Café or Dolce Vita, indulging in a warm cup of our finest coffee or sharing my love for aviation and travel.
Onboard, I take immense joy in mentoring our bridge team, ensuring our ship operates smoothly. Beyond promising you an extraordinary travel experience with exceptional dining, our paramount focus is your safety and security. Come embark on this unforgettable journey with us.
You’re in safe hands.
Tonight’s Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
Showtime! Silversea Proudly Presents: Emotions
Join your Cruise Director Moss as he presents the Silversea Singers and Dancers for a taste of what’s to come.
You will also meet some of the people who will keep you intrigued and entertained
