Category: Uncategorized

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.

THE BOCA RATON – WORLD CRUISE HOTEL

THE BOCA RATON PROVIDES A YEAR-ROUND ESCAPE FOR CLUB MEMBERS AND OVERNIGHT RESORT GUESTS (THE PROPERTY IS NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC). FIVE DISTINCT HOTELS SET WITHIN THE LUXURY RESORT INCLUDE BEACH CLUB, BUNGALOWS, CLOISTER, TOWER, AND YACHT CLUB. AMENITIES RANGE FROM A PRIVATE GOLDEN BEACH, TO 50,000 SQUARE FOOT SPA PALMERA, 18- HOLE GOLF COURSE, A 32-SLIP MARINA, RACQUET CLUB WITH 16 TENNIS COURTS AND SIX PICKLEBALL COURTS, TWO POOL CLUBS, BANYAN BUNCH KIDS CLUB, THE BREAK TWEEN LOUNGE, TWO FITNESS CLUBS, AND RETAIL SHOPS.

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Boca Raton, about 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale.

Bon Voyage Dinner – January 5, 2026 – Fort Lauderdale

As a Silversea World Cruise guest, your voyage begins before it begins, with an exclusive Bon Voyage event and welcome dinner prior to setting sail. This tantalizing multi-course preview introduces you to your fellow voyagers and showcases a variety of delectable dishes from some of your upcoming destinations. The entertainment was outstanding, especially the Cirque de Soleil-style acrobatic dancing and the European Junior Ballroom Champions.

Where in the World Are We?

We are sailing from Boston, Mass to New York.

Today’s Activities Included:

10:00 Silver Dawn Crew Talent Show

11:15 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn Robinson: Noble New York
Start spreading the news! Get in the New York state of mind! We end our wonderful world cruise in perhaps the greatest city in the world!

Dinner

35MM BLOCKBUSTER

From the soundtracks of some of the world’s biggest movies, we present a selection of your favourite hit songs. Memorable movies, unforgettable music, featuring our Silversea singers and dancers, and the Silver Dawn live band.

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Nuuk, Greenland.

NUUK (GODT AB), GREENLAND
Glimpse into the soul of Greenland
Framed by striking fjords and backed by snow-dusted peaks, Nuuk offers a refined glimpse into the soul of Greenland. As the ship approaches, the city reveals itself in layers—colourful houses dotting the rocky shoreline, crisp Arctic air scented with sea spray, and an atmosphere where nature and culture meet in quiet harmony.

Nuuk’s waterfront promenade invites you to stroll amid contemporary sculptures and avant-garde architecture, while the surrounding wilderness whispers of ancient Inuit traditions. Culinary experiences here lean into the region’s bounty, offering
delicacies infused with Nordic flair and local essence. Whether admiring modern Greenlandic art or taking in panoramic views from a coastal trail, Nuuk surprises with its elegance and authenticity. At this destination, the Arctic spirit is not only preserved but elevated.

SIGHTS
•Colonial Harbour

• Whale watching

CUISINE
Greenlandic cuisine blends traditional Inuit and modern influences, featuring local ingredients like whale, seal, fish, and berries. Traditional dishes include mattak and suaasat, a hearty meat soup, shaped by the country’s Arctic environment and heritage.

Today’s Excursion – Nuuk Highlights
We embarked on a comprehensive bus tour of Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, home to more than a third of the country’s population,
exploring its rich history and modern developments. We began at the historic Colonial Harbour, home to Hans Egede’s House, the oldest Greenland building dating back to 1721. WE journeyed through the vibrant downtown area, passing the Parliament House and the Katuaq Cultural Centre, a hub for arts and culture. The tour extended to the suburbs of Nuussuaq and Qinngorput, showcasing contemporary residential areas and Scandistyle apartments. Along the way, view the Atlantic Harbour, the skiing centre at Mount Quassussuaq, Nuuk Airport, and the University of Greenland, Ilisimatusarfik. We enjoyed stops for photography, including vistas of the private boat harbour and the serene fjord near the cemetery.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant

Tom Cruise rescued us with a helicopter rescue.

See the Helicopter Rescue Practice Off SS Silver Dawn.

BERNARD WALZ
TONIGHT’S SHOW: A NIGHT AT THE POPS

Australian Piano Sensation Bernard Walz presents “A Night At The Pops!” Join Australian Pops concert pianist Bernard Walz as he presents a solo piano concert of popular classics, including Strauss, Chopin, Joplin, and Gershwin, in his inimitable style! A new program of musical thrills not to be missed!

https://youtu.be/-nR6PE1erko

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Hambantota, Sri Lanka, off the southern coast of India.

HAMBANTOTA, SRI LANKA
The gateway to Sri Lanka is rich in resources.

Far to the south of Sri Lanka is the city of Hambantota, which has a colorful and storied traditional Ruhuna past and great promise for the future.

This gateway to Sri Lanka is rich in resources. Since being upset by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, it has put great emphasis on rebuilding and progressively taking a central role in the development of the southern region of Sri Lanka.

Traditionally an agricultural area, the region is known for having some of the country’s most skilled jewelers and craftspeople. The bazaar or ‘pola’ is a popular marketplace where locals sell produce, goods, and fish.

SIGHTS
• Kataragama
• Mulkirigala Rock Temple
• Yala National Park
• Mahapelessa Hot Springs
• Ussangoda National Park
• Birds Research Centre And Resort
• Mirijjawila Botanic Garden
• Agro Technology Park
• Ramba Viharaya
• Sithulpawwa Buddhist Monastery

SHOPPING

For those interested in shopping, Hambantota offers many options that capture the essence of Sri Lanka. The local market, generally buzzing with activity, is a great place to immerse yourself in the community’s daily life. You can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional Sri Lankan snacks.

Conversely, souvenir shops around the city offer crafted goods that showcase local artistry. From intricately designed textiles to hand-carved wooden artifacts and traditional jewelry, these shops provide an array of items that make meaningful keepsakes or gifts.

Whether you’re looking for something simple or something special, Hambantota’s shopping venues allow you to take home a piece of Sri Lanka’s rich culture.

Today’s Excursion – The Sacred City of Kataragama
We discovered Kataragama’s rich history and fascinating culture in this sacred temple city.
Hambantota, Kataragama
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Kataragama. Formerly a small village in medieval times, Kataragama is now a fast-developing township in the deep south of Sri Lanka. In a country of many religious beliefs, Kataragama is unique because it is a site of religious importance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. Upon arrival at
Kataragama, discover the rich, fascinating culture of this revered temple town.

Kiri Vehera Buddhist Temple, Ruins, Stone Inscriptions, Brick Dagobas,
Our first stop is at the Kiri Vehera Temple, built in the 3rd century B.C.-2nd century B.C.
This critical and historic temple has been declared a protected site by the Sri Lanka Archaeological Department and is revered by both Sinhala and Tamil Buddhists. During your visit, see some of these ruins, including stone inscriptions, brick dagobas, balustrades, and guard stones scattered around the temple complex. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to a nearby
Hindu Temple in praise of Skanda, the Hindu God of War.

Hindu Temple, Mosque, Mandara Rosen
With six faces and twelve arms, Skanda is believed to be one of Sri Lanka’s four guardian deities, a most benevolent god, and worshipped at the beginning of a new venture. As a result, it is revered by the Buddhist community. However, since a mosque of significant importance can also be found on the premises, this site is revered by Muslims, too. It has been further hallowed and sanctified by a visit from Lord Buddha during his lifetime and is believed to be the place where he planted one of the saplings
of the Bodhi tree under which he gained enlightenment.

MEET DESTINATION & ENRICHMENT LECTURER
EVELYN EVANS
Evelyn was born in Shanghai, raised in Hong Kong, and educated in the UK and Ireland. The fourth generation of her family to be born in China, she enjoyed carefree trips on her father’s China coast tramp steamers from a very early age, which gave her a great love of the sea, the region, and all things Asian.

However, now living in England and having had a half-Swedish mother, Evelyn has traveled extensively throughout the Baltic Region, and her enthusiasm for this fascinating, magnificent part of the world is something you cannot help but realize.

Her introduction to the ports we visit will give you the background to enjoy what you see and do and give you the appetite to return and explore further.

Evelyn read Colonial History at Trinity College Dublin and had a long career in Advertising – working in Hong Kong, Sydney, Singapore, Manila, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.

Now a freelance travel writer and lecturer, she visits this region every year and at every opportunity.

3:30 Destination Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Colombo:

The colonial capital of what was Ceylon from 1815, Colombo has a wealth of historic buildings and monuments mixed with modern, vibrant architecture. Gateway to 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, there is much to see and excellent food to enjoy.

INDIAN FAMILY STYLE DINER

Executive Chef Ross and the Galley Team created a special Indian Family Style Dinner menu for you.

Restaurant Manager Dinu and the Dining Room Staff await you to make this unique dining experience.

GLITTER AND BE GAY

ENTERTAINER MARY MCCABE

Mary McCabe is a soprano hailing from Downpatrick, Northern Ireland. Mary has been connected with Northern Ireland Opera since its inception, beginning as a Young Artist and later as an Associate Artist.

Tonight’s show featured popular opera arias, musical theatre & art songs.

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Kagoshima, Japan.

KAGOSHIMA, JAPAN
Dominated by the imposing Sakurajima volcano’s cone
One of Japan’s most southerly significant cities, Kagoshima is dominated by the imposing Sakurajima volcano’s cone – a legendary active volcano that broods, churns, and puffs out ash nearby. A pretty old-time ferry chugs across the still waters to the gently sloping foothills of the volcano’s cone, and it’s easy to imagine where the comparisons with its sister city Naples materialized, as you sail the glorious sweeping Kinko Bay, below beaming sunshine, towards the immense volcanic spectacle. This is undoubtedly no historical relic, and the volcano remains revered and feared, with the most dramatic recent eruption in 1914 spewing out a new bridge of land into the sea.

Make the most of the geothermal activity in the area by indulging in a stress-simmering black sand bath. Incredibly relaxing, you’ll be submerged in the warm sand as you feel your muscles relaxing in the heat and rejuvenating blood pumping around your body. Enjoy a privileged view of the iconic volcano’s rim from the terraced garden of Senganen Garden. Built in 1658, this elegant, traditional garden has belonged to the Shimadzu family for 350 years. Wander the gardens – which bloom with Japan’s renowned cherry tree blossoms and feature tiny bridges looping over ponds and rock pools – before sitting back and sipping a wholesome green matcha latte.

Elsewhere, museums offer Feudal Era and Satsuma Province history and insights into the Kamikaze squadrons of World War II. Lake Ikeda is also nearby, so watch for the legendary Issie monster.

SIGHTS
• Sakurajima
• Senganen Garden
• Kagoshima Aquarium
• Shiroyama Park
• Reimeikan Museum

KAGOSHIMA FOOD GUIDE
Kagoshima’s cuisine is also known as Satsuma Cuisine (薩摩料理, Satsuma Ryōri) after the old name of Kagoshima Prefecture. It is one of the most distinct local cuisines because of Kagoshima’s isolated location at the southern end of Kyushu. Travelers may notice some influences of Okinawa cuisine, as Satsuma controlled Okinawa for a few hundred years. A wide variety of restaurants can be found in downtown Kagoshima, for example, along Gourmet-dori (“Gourmet Street”).

Today’s Excursion – Views of Kagoshima
We embraced Kagoshima’s scenic beauty and flavors in this historic city.

Amaminosato, Shiroyama Scenic Overlook & Last Samurai Statue
We drove by the bronze statue of Saigo Takamori, known as the ‘Last Samurai.’
Next, our tour continued to AmaminoSato. We strolled through a unique Kagoshima garden
with Japanese gardens and tropical plants. We also visited a workshop and gallery of Oshima silk, a traditional craft.

Dinner was in Kaiseki Japanese Restaurant

INTERNATIONAL TENOR
AND WEST END STAR SHIMI GOODMAN
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH SHIMI GOODMAN
AT 9:15 PM
VENETIAN LOUNGE, DECK 5
With a wealth of theatrical experience, Shimi has captivated audiences worldwide, performing for King Felipe VI of Spain, British royalty, and other distinguished heads of state. Tonight, he returns with a brand new show featuring beloved musical theatre classics, enchanting opera favorites and a selection of timeless hits from Andrea Bocelli, Van Morrison, and Michael Bublé. Effortlessly gliding between genres, Shimi delivers a performance described by the press as “mesmerising.”

Check out today’s Chronicle.

Where in the World Are We?

Beginning our 2025 World Cruise in Tokyo.

TOKYO, JAPAN
Dense and delightful

Dense and delightful, there’s nowhere else like Japan’s kinetic capital – where ancient
traditions blend seamlessly with a relentless pursuit of the future’s sharpest edge. See the city
above as elevators rocket you up to towering viewing platforms, from which you can survey a
vast urban ocean interspersed with sky-scraping needles. Look out as far as the distant loom of
Mount Fuji’s cone on clear days. Futuristic – second-accurate – transport seamlessly links Tokyo’s
14 districts, while the glow of flashing advertisement boards, clanks of arcade machines, and waves
of humanity flowing along its streets add mesmerizing, dizzying, and glorious sensory overload.

One of Tokyo’s most iconic sights, don’t miss the flood of people scrambling to cross Shibuya’s
famous intersection. Join the choreographed dance as crowds of briefcase-carrying commuters are
given the green light to cross simultaneously – bathed in the light of massive neon advertisements.

The culture is vibrant and deep, with 7th-century, lantern-decorated temples, stunning palaces, and tranquil scarlet shrines waiting below cloaks of incense and nestling between soaring skyscrapers.

Restaurants serve up precisely prepared sushi and wafer-thin seafood slivers, offering a unique
taste of the country’s refined cuisine. Settle into traditional teahouses to witness intricate
ceremonies, or join the locals as they fill out karaoke bars to sing the night away. In the spring,
cherry blossom paints a delicate pink sheen over the city’s innumerable parks and gardens.

SIGHTS

• Idemitsu Museum of Arts
• Imperial Palace East Garden
• Jindai-ji Temple
• Meiji Jingu Shrine
• Mori Art Museum
• Nakano Broadway
• 
  SHOPPING
  Overlooking the harbor, Decks Tokyo Beach’s six-story complex of shops, restaurants, and boardwalks
  is two connected malls: Island Mall and Seaside Mall. For kids (or nostalgic adults), check
  out the Lego Discovery Center, Joypolis mega-arcade, Trick Art Museum, and Madame Tussauds Tokyo.
  At the Seaside Mall, a table by the window in any of the restaurants looks out to a delightful view
  of the harbor, especially at sunset, when the yakatabune (traditional-roofed pleasure boats) drift
  down the Sumida-gawa from Yanagibashi and Ryogoku.

We arrived in Tokyo three days before our cruise departure to visit all our favorite places from when we lived here from 2004 to 2006. We stayed at the famous Okura Hotel, which has hosted US Presidents, Kings and Queens, and other Heads of State. It is a magnificent hotel.

2024 WORLD CRUISE – BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS on the SILVERSEA Silver Shadow

January 15 – May 26. 132 Nights. 66 Ports, 15 Countries.