Wednesday, April 30, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Stockholm, Sweden
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Stockholm, Sweden.
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
Sweden’s Alluring Capital
Emerald spires puncture the sky across Sweden’s alluring capital, a leafy place of history, culture,, and waterfront perfection. Innovative and inventive, Stockholm is a city looking to the future but with a firm grip on its envied past.
Stylish Stockholm has enough to occupy you forever, from cathedral-like food markets to simmering baths and natural escapes. Visit the staggeringly beautiful interior of Stockholm’s City Hall, or learn more about one of Sweden’s best-known exports, with a visit to the ABBA museum. The history is deep, and the architecture is typically stylish, as you explore this capital of Scandi cool. The Gamla Stan old town is a storied historic core of cobbled streets and brightly hued, towering townhouses standing side by side.
Attractive squares fill with the smells of fried herring from traditional restaurants, while the latest culinary trends sweep through the city’s revered kitchens. Breathe in the crisp, clean air and relish the tranquility and atmosphere of a truly great and grand Baltic city. Stockholm’s visitors and residents spill outdoors in the summertime to the city’s beaches and the archipelago’s scattering of 24,000 islands and islets nearby.
SIGHTS
• Gröna Lund Tivoli
• Kungliga Slottet
• Rosendals Trädgård
• SkyView
• Stadshuset
• ABBA The Museum
• Historiska Museet
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Drottninggatan is a vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of the city. It’s known for its mix of large chain stores, boutique shops, and international brands, offering a diverse shopping experience.
“Fika”, the most famous Swedish tradition, is the delightful custom of enjoying a coffee and a treat with friends. Under Kastanjen translates to “Under the Chestnut Tree,” is located in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. It’s tucked away from the busy main streets and faces Brända Tomten, a small public square. Centuries-old buildings line this square, and fika-goers.
Today’s Excursion – Abba The Museum & City Drive
In May 2013, ABBA the museum opened its doors. ABBA remains Sweden’s most successful band of all time, with sales of 378
million albums around the world. ABBA The Museum will span the band’s career from the start in 1970, via the breakthrough with ‘Waterloo’ in 1974, the grand world tours, and finally, the split in 1983.
ABBA The Museum
Since then, ABBA has lived on through a wide range of musical projects run by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson, whose
musical ‘Mamma Mia!’ revived the public’s interest in ABBA’s music yet again. An interest that never seems to fade – in 2013
‘ABBA Gold’ was officially named the best-selling CD ever in England. The museum will give you an overall picture of the band,
the music, and the success they experienced in the 70s and 80s.
Even though only one ABBA member was born in Stockholm, the city can be considered their hometown, as this is the place
where they worked and lived for many years. After departing the pier, you will pass the City Hall where Benny performed for
the first time. The Royal Opera was the scene of ABBA’s legendary 1976 royal wedding gala performance, and Benny and
Anni-Frid lived in the Old Town at one time.
EMOTIONS
A TASTE OF WHAT’S TO COME
Join the Silversea Singers and Dancers to taste what’s to come.
You will also meet some people who will keep you intrigued and entertained.
Tuesday, April 29, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Stockholm, Sweden
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Stockholm, Sweden.
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
Welcome to the land of Nobel Prizes!
We all have heard of the Nobel Prizes, but did you know that their roots are firmly planted in Sweden? Our tale begins in Stockholm, on October 21, 1833, with the birth of a boy named Alfred, son of Karolina Andriette Ahlsell and Immanuel Nobel. With a lineage tracing back to the renowned 17th-century Swedish scientist Olof Rudbeck and numerous engineers in the family, Alfred was destined for a scientific lineage. Yet, he harbored a deep love for literature.
After completing his education in the United States and France, Alfred began exploring explosives in 1862 with his father, who had founded a marine mining company. In 1865, as serendipity would have it, he discovered that by mixing unstable nitroglycerin with an inert solid, it required a detonator to explode, making it far safer and easier to transport. Dynamite was born and duly patented, changing the course of industrial history. Alfred’s wealth was now secured, but his passion for discovery remained undimmed.
His life took a dramatic turn when a French newspaper erroneously published his obituary, labelling him as the “merchant of death”. Stunned by the portrayal, Alfred decided to leave a better legacy.
The first Nobel Prizes were awarded in Stockholm in 1901, five years after Alfred’s death. Every year since December 10, these awards are presented by the King of Sweden, except for the Peace Prize. This particular prize is awarded by the King of Norway because, until 1905, both countries shared the same king and divided the prize between themselves after they separated.
SIGHTS
• Gröna Lund Tivoli
• Kungliga Slottet
• Rosendals Trädgård
• SkyView
• Stadshuset
• ABBA The Museum
• Historiska Museet
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Drottninggatan, a vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of the city. It’s known for its mix of large chain stores, boutique shops, and international brands, offering a diverse shopping experience.
“Fika”, the most famous Swedish tradition, is the delightful custom of enjoying a coffee and a treat with friends. Under Kastanjen translates to “Under the Chestnut Tree,” is located in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. It’s tucked away from the busy main streets and faces Brända Tomten, a small public square. Centuries-old buildings line this square, and fika-goers.
Today’s Excursion – Stockholm & Vasa Museum
Stockholm, founded as a fortress where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic, began to grow in the mid-13th century.It ultimately
became Sweden’s capital.
City Drive, Island of Djurgården
The nearby island of Djurgården was once the royal family’s private hunting grounds.
Vasa Museum
On the island of Djurgården, regarded as Stockholm’s outdoor recreation center and “Green Lung,” we visited the Vasa Museum. On display is the seventeenth-century warship, which sank in Stockholm’s inner harbour on the outset of its maiden voyage in
1628. The discovery of the ship in 1956 and its subsequent salvage in 1961 are among the most significant events in marine archaeology.
City Sights, Royal Dramatic Theatre, City Centre, Opera House, Parliament Building, Royal Palace
Leaving the Vasa Museum, we took a panoramic sightseeing drive through Stockholm. Along the way, we passed several renowned landmarks including the Royal Dramatic Theatre, City Centre, Opera House, Parliament building, and, of course, get a view of the Royal Palace.
World Cruise Gala Dinner – The World Through Our Eyes
We enjoyed an extraordinary evening where photography, culinary artistry, and authentic cuisine came together in the historic brick walls of Winterviken.
Once Alfred Nobel’s dynamite factory, now transformed into Stockholm’s most elegant event space, a multi-sensory journey awaits, where art extends beyond the frame.
As we savored exquisite Swedish delicacies crafted by rising Scandinavian culinary talents, we were surrounded by the powerful images of Silversa’s long-time partner, Steve McCurry. Curated by Sotheby’s and previously showcased in New York and London, this prestigious exhibit now arrives in Stockholm exclusively for World Cruise guests.
The experience culminated in the iconic sounds of ABBA, performed by stars from London’s West End hit musical Mamma Mia!, bringing “Dancing Queen,” “Winner Takes It All,” “Waterloo,” and more to life against the backdrop of industrial-chic architecture and lakeside serenity. This harmonious blend of visual, culinary, and musical artistry creates a celebration as unique as our World Cruise.
9:00 Movie Night: Conclave – 2024, Parental Guidance, Thriller/Mystery
Edward Berger directed the Academy Award for Best Picture. Starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci,
John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini.
Monday, April 28, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Tallinn, Estonia
Where in the World Are We?
We ae in Tallinn, Estonia.
TALLINN, ESTONIA
A Little Guide to Estonian Superstitions
Superstitions are as varied across the world as culinary delights. Discovering those of different countries is always an amusing, if not delicious, experience. Estonia is no exception. While sharing several beliefs with neighboring Latvia and Lithuania, it has its unique customs that one might marvel at or even adopt, should they bring good fortune…
In Tallinn, dropping a knife is said to signal the imminent arrival of a male visitor. It’s customary not to shake his hand over the threshold to avoid bad luck. One should also avoid placing bags directly on the ground, as it symbolizes imminent monetary loss.
Marriage is a crucial subject of numerous superstitions. A child born on the last day of the week is believed to marry late or perhaps not at all. Dropping a piece of cake while eating portends that you may never marry. Once successfully wedded, upon entering their new home, the bride should walk through all the rooms, throwing either ribbons or coins to ensure marital bliss.
Finally, here’s a fun one to try with a friend: when two people say the same thing simultaneously, they must make a wish, then link pinkies and count aloud to three. After that, they say either “Adomas” or “Iewa,” which means Adam and Eve, respectively. If both people say the same word, it’s believed that the wish will come true.
SIGHTS
• St Catherine’s Passage (Katariina Kaik)
• Air Museum
• Kiek in de Kök
• Niguliste Kirik
• Kadriorg Park
• Tallinna Teletorn
• Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral.
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
The most distinctive Estonian souvenirs are traditional Estonian handicrafts, including knitwear, linen, ceramics, leather, and wood, particularly juniper wood. Most of Estonian design can be seen in small galleries, design boutiques, and fashion stores.
Tuljak has a long history. The restaurant building itself is a good example of modern Estonian architecture from 1964. During the Soviet era, Tuljak cafe served the people of Tallinn.
Today’s Activities – The Best of Tallinn
We explored the fascinating castles, squares, cathedrals, and streets of medieval Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tallinn, Upper-Old Town, Toompea Hill and Castle, Pikk Hermann Tower, Huge Estonian Flag
We took a walking tour through medieval Tallinn, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval town centres in Europe. See Toompea Hill, named after the massive, medieval stone castle that is now home to Estonia’s parliament. Adjacent to the castle is Pikk Hermann, a medieval tower approximately 150 feet in height, featuring a huge Estonian flag.
Palace Square, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Mosaics, Dome Church, Tombstones, Sarcophagi
Next, your stroll continues to the Palace Square, site of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. This Russian Orthodox basilica,
complete with golden crosses and black onion-shaped domes, was built in the late 19th century during a period of ‘Russification’. We stepped inside the Cathedral to view the icons and mosaics lining its walls. Next, we walked to the Dome Church. The oldest church in Tallinn was first mentioned in a letter to the Pope dated 1233. Also known as St. Mary’s Cathedral, it has served as the burial site for nobility since the 15th century. The Cathedral has a fascinating collection of noble tombstones and stone sarcophagi.
Lower-Old Town Stroll, St. Catherine’s Passage, St. Catherine’s Guild
Leaving the Cathedral, we walked to a viewing platform for views over the spires of Tallinn’s Lower Old Town. Medieval Tallinn was the northernmost member of the powerful merchant alliance known as the Hanseatic League, and the Lower Old Town is the heart of the historic trading city. After a refreshment stop at a local restaurant near Town Hall Square, stroll through the Lower Old Town and St. Catherine’s Passage. This medieval walkway is home to St. Catherine’s Guild, a collection of artisan studios featuring Baltic glassware, quilts, hats, and other traditional crafts. Following your tour, enjoy some free time to shop for souvenirs and gifts.
3:00 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson: Stunning Stockholm:
Explore Sweden’s magnificent capital city.
6:15 Farewell Show with your Silversea Singers and Dancers Venetian
Followed by a farewell speech from Captain Ivo Botica and our Farewell Crew Parade. See all the crew who have been working hard to make your voyage memorable.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
SCOTLAND’S MOST VERSATILE DUO
SHOWTIME WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER THE MACDONALD BROS
The MacDonald Bros take you on a musical journey, showcasing their diverse range of vocal and multi-instrumental talents. From Celtic anthems to pop classics, they will have you singing and clapping along from beginning to end in this high-energy show.
Sunday, April 27, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Tallinn, Estonia
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Tallinn, Estonia
TALLINN, ESTONIA
A Fairytale City Of New And Old
Tallinn boasts one of the best-preserved UNESCO-listed old towns in Northern Europe, striking a balance between the traditional and contemporary astutely. A beautiful Baltic capital of storied culture and history, Tallinn is riding the wave of a burgeoning reputation as Europe’s hidden gem, boasting a picturesque allure that few cities can rival.
Having endured numerous occupations in its history, Estonia finally gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since pursued progressive, forward-thinking policies. The European City of Culture award in 2011 was a symbol of the country’s increasing integration with the European Union, offering Tallinn a chance to showcase and enhance its cultural heritage. Walk into the old town through Viru Gates, past flower vendors and the smells of roasting nuts.
Town Hall Square is the heart and soul of Tallinn, and when you walk the narrow cobbled streets that open out into it, you’re walking the same pathways that Tallinn’s people have walked since the 13th century.
Surrounded by practically complete medieval walls, lose yourself in deep museums, and visit pretty churches like St. Olaf church, one of the city’s most famous, with its sharp green spire puncturing the sky. Head to Kohtuotsa platform in the upper town for views of the city’s sea of red roofs, interrupted by church towers and rounded turrets.
SIGHTS
• St Catherine’s Passage (Katariina Kaik)
• Air Museum
• Kiek in de Kök
• Niguliste Kirik
• Kadriorg Park
• Tallinna Teletorn
• Alexander Nevsky Orthodox Cathedral.
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
The most distinctive Estonian souvenirs are traditional Estonian handicrafts, including knitwear, linen, ceramics, leather, and wood, particularly juniper wood. Most of Estonian design can be seen in small galleries, design boutiques, and fashion stores.
Tuljak has a long history. The restaurant building itself is a good example of modern Estonian architecture from 1964. During the Soviet era, Tuljak cafe served the people of Tallinn.
Today’s Excursion – Historic Tallinn
We experience the history and architecture of Tallinn during a scenic driving and walking tour of the Upper Old Town.
Orientation Drive
We drove out of the city centre and past Kadriorg Park, the main recreation area of Tallinn. An Italian architect designed the park for Peter the Great, following the Tsar’s conquest of Estonia during the Great Northern War. We visited the grounds where the popular Estonian Song Festival is held every five years. We continued with a drive through the Lasnamäe residential area to learn about Estonia´s Soviet period and the different cultures that lived side by side in the country.
Upper Old Town Walking Tour
We visited the Old Town, starting at the foot of the ‘Tall Hermann’ Tower; then began a walking tour along the cobblestone lanes and narrow alleys. We passed by Medieval houses, towers, and bastions en route to the Upper Town of Toompea Hill. We saw the Upper Town, the pseudo-Baroque Toompea Palace, which houses the Estonian Parliament, the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Alexander Nevski, and the ‘hate wall’ separating the nobility’s and the merchants’ towns.
The walking tour continued past the oldest school in Estonia, which dates from 1319. The famous 13th-century Dome Church, St. Mary’s Cathedral, dates from 1233 A.D. and features more than 100 coats of arms of former noble families. We proceed to a scenic viewpoint for panoramic vistas over the Lower Town, which is highlighted by seaside towers and steeples rising above the cluster of red-tiled roofs.
SUNDAY PERSIAN FAMILY DINNER
Executive Chef Ross and the Galley Team have created a special Persian Family Style Dinner menu. Restaurant Manager Dinu and the Dining Room Staff invite you to enjoy the delicious flavours of Persia.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
PORT OF TALLINN’S MIXED CHOIR
You are invited to experience an enchanting evening as an Estonian choir performs timeless traditional songs, celebrating Estonia’s rich cultural heritage. The songs will be performed by The Port of Tallinn’s Mixed Choir.
Friday, April 25, 2025 – Photo of the Day – En Route to Helsinki, Finland
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Helsinki, Finland.
Today’s Activities included:
9:45 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson: Helsinki and Tallinn: Jewels of the Baltic
The spectacular capital cities of Finland and Estonia are only 50 miles apart across the Gulf of Finland but are markedly different.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski: Secret Intelligence in the Falklands: Satellites, Sigint & Special Forces
Hear about a seven-week war in which secret intelligence guided the policy, strategy and tactics.
THE PIANO MAN
SHOWTIME WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER KYLE ESPLIN
Kyle has become internationally recognized as a dynamic entertainer and was twice invited to play at birthday parties for the rock ‘n’ roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis in Memphis, TN.
Kyle has recently been wowing audiences across Europe and the UK. Don’t miss his all-action show tonight!
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
Thursday, April 24, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Copenhagen, Denmark
Where in the World Are We?
WE are in Copenhagen, Denmark.
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
City of Spires
Effortlessly cool and down-to-earth, Copenhagen is a contemporary, clean, and classy highlight of Scandinavia. A city built to be liveable, Copenhagen has refused to compromise, resulting in a forward-thinking metropolis that’s green and clean. Swim in the waters of Havnebadet Islands during summer, or shelter from winter’s bite by snuggling in beside a roaring open fire during winter.
You can even hop on a train to Sweden, traversing the famous span of a Nordic Noir star – the Öresund Bridge. It takes just a touch over half an hour to step off the train in Malmö. There’s only one way to explore Copenhagen truly, and that’s on two wheels. Easy bike hire schemes will get you moving across this flat city, designed with bikes at the forefront of the mind. Choose a model with electronic assistance to take the strain out of any journey, giving you the freedom to zip around and explore the modern, angular architecture of the centre, as well as the pastoral colours of Nyhavn waterfront.
The Danish concept of hygge is very much alive here, and you’ll feel that warm, cosy feeling as you visit cafes illuminated by the warm glow of hanging filament bulbs, and stuffed to the brim with thick, dusty books.
SIGHTS
• Nyhavn
• Kastellet & Little Mermaid
• Copenhagen University Library
• Frederik’s Church (Marble Church)
• Carlsberg Brewery
• Rosenborg Castle
• Christiansborg Palace
• Tivoli Gardens
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars.
Strøget, Europe’s longest shopping street, runs through the centre of the city. It’s a good place to shop if you’re looking for major international brands such as Lego, H&M, and the Harrods of Danish design.
Today’s Excursion – A Swedish Sojourn
We made the most of our time and explored two countries in one day: Denmark and Sweden. We discovered the city of Lund and its cathedral, took a stroll in the medieval city centre of Malmö, and let ourselves be amazed by the famous Copenhagen landmarks.
Øresund Bridge
On July 1, 2000, a bridge was inaugurated, but it was not just any bridge. It was the Øresund Bridge, linking the two
nations, Denmark and Sweden, together. Two former “enemies” are now one. Two people and two cultures formed the new
area of the Øresund Region. Over the years, the Øresund Bridge has also played a significant role and given its name to the Danish-Swedish TV production “The Bridge”, which you may know from TV.
Lund
Lund is a town with a long history. Once, when under the Danish flag, Lund was the home of the Bishop of Scania. It is now a town with a large university, and many international students come to study here. We visited the imposing cathedral and watched the advanced astronomical clock on the wall.
Malmö
Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden, with 300,000 inhabitants. In the medieval city center, we strolled through the history of Sweden, admiring the charming old 17th-century houses and crossing small squares and cobblestone streets.
Copenhagen Scenic Drive
Returning to Copenhagen, you will pass some of the famous landmarks during your panoramic drive. A few to mention are the
Old Stock Exchange was built by King Christian IV, the naval Church, and Nyhavn before returning to the pier.
Tonight’s dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
THE MUSICAL ARTISTRY OF KENNY MARTYN
Renowned Clarinet virtuoso entertainer Kenny Martyn featuring music from Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Acker Bilk. Kenny’s mastery of the clarinet combined with his unique performance style has been held to critical acclaim in New York, London and Hong Kong. Don’t miss this brilliant master of Musical Entertainment
Wednesday, April 23, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Copenhagen, Denmark
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Copenhagen, Denmark
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid, perched on a rock by the water’s edge in Copenhagen’s Churchill Park, is a figure of profound historical and cultural significance, embodying the eponymous character from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale that inspired the acclaimed Walt Disney film.
This bronze statue, a primary symbol and principal attraction of the city, was commissioned in 1909 by Carl Jacobsen, son of Carlsberg Breweries’ founder. Crafted by the sculptor Edvard Eriksen, the figure was modeled after a dancer, Ellen Price, for its facial features, and his wife, Eline Eriksen, for its body.
Unveiled on 23rd August 1913, the first impression of the statue is its size. Standing 1.25 meters tall and weighing 175 kilograms, she is surprisingly petite. Her proximity to the shoreline has led to many misadventures over the past 110 years. The statue has been beheaded twice, an arm severed, throat slashed, painted, dressed, veiled, and even blown up in attempts to dislodge her from her perch. Yet, she remains one of the most photographed monuments in Denmark.
SIGHTS
• Nyhavn
• Kastellet & Little Mermaid
• Copenhagen University Library
• Frederik’s Church (Marble Church)
• Carlsberg Brewery
• Rosenborg Castle
• Christiansborg Palace
• Tivoli Gardens
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Home to mega-brewer Carlsberg, Copenhagen is also a city for hop enthusiasts, and there is a thriving craft brewing scene to sample. Danish smørrebrød sandwiches are a must try, or for something a little more substantial, settle in for a culinary voyage and try a taster menu – the city’s restaurants are littered with Michelin stars.
Strøget, Europe’s longest shopping street, runs through the centre of the city. It’s a good place to shop if you’re looking for major international brands such as Lego, H&M, and the Harrods of Danish design.
Today’s Excursion – Wonderful Copenhagen & Tivoli
We explored the city’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods.
Copenhagen, Little Mermaid Statue
We took a short drive to the Little Mermaid. No visit to Copenhagen is complete without seeing the city’s most famous symbol. Completed in 1913, this statue was erected to express gratitude to Hans Christian Andersen and his world-renowned fairy tales.
Gefion Fountain, Nyhavn, King’s Square, Royal Theatre, Old Fish Market
We passed by Copenhagen’s famous Gefion Fountain, set amidst the parkland of the Citadel and depicting the Nordic legend of the Goddess Gefion. Drive through the bustling Nyhavn area. Here, see King’s Square, where the Royal Theatre, embassies, and many fashionable shops are located, along with the Old Stock Exchange and Gammel Strand. In addition, view the old fish market warehouses, dating back to medieval times, and Glyptoteket, founded by Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen, the creator of Carlsberg beer.
Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle
Founded in 1843 by Georg Carstensen, Tivoli was inspired by the so-called romantic pleasure gardens of Europe. When Tivoli
first opened its gates, it only had a few rides and amusements; today, however, there is a mix of attractions mingled with
charming flower and relaxation gardens. One of the most photographed features of Tivoli is the Chinese Pagoda, which dates
from 1900 and is situated beautifully by the lake. The fairy-tale writer Hans Christian Andersen was a frequent visitor to Tivoli,
and some say that it was here he was inspired to write The Nightingale.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
35MM BLOCKBUSTER
From the soundtracks of some of the world’s biggest movies, we present a selection of your favorite hit songs. Memorable movies, featuring unforgettable music and our Silversea singers and dancers, accompanied by the Silver Dawn live band.
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 – Photo of the Day – En Route to Copenhagen, Denmark
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Hamburg, Germany, to Copenhagen, Denmark.
Today’s Activities Included:
9:45 Destination Lecture with Dr. Glenn E. Robinson- Wonderful, Wonderful Copenhagen!
Guarding the western entrance to the Baltic Sea, the Danish capital of Copenhagen has played an outsized strategic role in the region for centuries.
11:00 Intermediate Bridge Lesson
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski- Espionage & Treachery in the Cold War:
Enjoy stories of Cold War spies and double agents, and meet the spy who saved the world.
THE VENETIAN SOCIETY
A SPECIAL CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
The Venetian Society is an exclusive cruise loyalty program for global explorers. Membership offers unique benefits, including onboard recognition, invitations to special events, ship visitation rights, and a 5% savings on select voyages.
As you sail more, your benefit grows with each new milestone:
All milestones include complimentary laundry and pressing services.
100 days: 100 days: 5% savings on future sailings
250 days: 10% savings on future sailings
350 days: complimentary 7-day cruise
500 days: complimentary 14-day cruise
Every 150 days beyond 500: complimentary 7-day cruise
Dinner was at The Atlantide Restaurant
DYNAMIC INTERNATIONAL SHOWMAN
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER KYLE ESPLIN
Kyle Esplin is a vibrant pianist and singer who makes a piano ring like no other. His all-action live show, which includes everything from tender Ballads to Classical to Rock’n’Roll, has to be seen to be believed, and he takes Boogie-Woogie piano playing to an incredible new level.
Monday, April 21, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Hamburg, Germany
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Hamburg, Germany.
Today’s Excursion – Medieval Luneburg
We travelled to Lüneburg, a medieval town situated on the river Ilmenau and indeed a secret treasure south of Hamburg.
Located in the northeastern part of Lower Saxony, approximately 50 kilometres south of Hamburg, Lüneburg has a population of around 70,000 residents. The city, rich in tradition, boasts an over 1,000-year-old history closely tied to salt, known as the “white gold” of the Middle Ages. The salt mines made Lüneburg a rich and powerful town and an essential member of the
Hanseatic League.
Luneburg Walking Tour
To learn more and appreciate the beauty of this medieval city, our guide took us on an orientation tour of the Old Town on foot. The numerous important historical buildings, featuring well-preserved brick patrician houses built in the North Gothic style, testify to the city’s prosperity in the Middle Ages. Even today, salt plays a vital role in Lüneburg’s status as a spa town; many illnesses are treated through salt and water therapies. Walk through the small, cobbled streets and alleyways to view the historical town hall, the Rathaus, dating back to 1297. Admire fascinating buildings and merchant houses, steeped in cultural history, such as St. Nicolas’ Church, built in the 15th century, the wooden mill, and Lueneburg’s landmark, the Old Crane.
Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant
CONTRARIAN
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DARRELL JOYCE
A native of Columbus, Ohio, this 30-year veteran of the comedy circuit and finalist in the Aspen and Montreal Festivals, appears to deliver his cutting-edge style effortlessly and is guaranteed to leave audiences
doubled over, rolling in the aisles with laughter.
Sunday, April 20, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Hamburg, Germany
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Hamburg, Germany.
HAMBURG, GERMANY
Hamburger’s City
If you thought the hamburger was an American invention, it’s time to give credit where credit is due, because the hamburger comes from… Hamburg. If your jaw drops because you’ve only just seen the report, well done, and read on. If not, proceed with reading on.
First of all, it’s worth noting that in Germany, it’s common practice to refer to a culinary specialty by its city of origin, as if it were a citizen of that city. For example, a Frankfurter sausage will be called ‘Frankfurter’, just as a Frankfurter would be called ‘Frankfurter’. The same goes for a Berliner, but not the one that John F. Kennedy referred to in his 1963 speech in Berlin; rather, it is a doughnut with jam filling.
But back to our burgers…,
In Hamburg, the Hamburgers (the city’s inhabitants) used to serve a hearty dish to the workers: the Hamburg steak, a patty of minced meat covered in sauce, otherwise known as a Hamburger. This Hamburger was a classic in German canteens and, in the 19th century, one of the main dishes served on board the HAPAG, the shipping line that linked Hamburg to New York. With all the successive waves of migration from old Europe to America, the Hamburger gained a foothold in the New World. With the addition of two slices of bread, it became even more practical, and in less than a century, it became the quintessential American specialty and a national icon that has since conquered taste buds worldwide.
SIGHTS
• Chilehaus
• Deichstrasse
• Historischer
• Weihnachtsmarkt
• Miniatur Wunderland
• Rathaus
• Reeperbahn
• St. Michaelis Kirche
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Hamburg’s inner city is diverse. From boutiques on Gänsemarkt to passages around the Hanseviertel and luxury shopping on Neuer Wall, everyone will find something. Most traditional shopping streets boast luxury outlets and high-street fashion alike, from Jungfernstieg to the Neuer Wall. For more classic Hamburg retail, just near Jungfernstieg, you will discover a row of merchants’ houses that have been in business here since the 1920s.
The humble Fischbrötchen (fish roll) is one of Hamburg’s most popular snacks. Made using pickled or soused herring, they are typically served in a crusty roll with pickles, onions, and remoulade sauce. These moreish morsels are a pride of Hamburg, so be sure to pick one up.
Today’s Excursion – Scenic Hamburg
Enjoy a panoramic tour of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest metropolis and one of Europe’s
biggest ports. Elegant and cosmopolitan Hamburg is a city of palatial office buildings, magnificent promenades, international
musicals, extravagant shopping malls, and the famous Reeperbahn in St. Pauli.
Hamburg Sightseeing
See the City Hall, Germany’s oldest Stock Exchange, the Speicherstadt, as well as the Jungfernstieg, one of the elegant and luxurious shopping areas: St. Pauli and Reeperbahn. Drive past the St. Pauli Landungsbrücke, where the old sailing vessels used to dock. Continue your journey along the world-famous Reeperbahn, where, at the beginning of the 17th century, the “Reepers” constructed rigs. Nowadays, it is referred to as “the mile of sin” where ‘The Beatles’ began their career in 1962.
St. Michael’s church.
See St. Michael’s Church, which was destroyed at some point in the past but was then always reconstructed. Also known as the “Michel” by the locals, this church is the largest North German Baroque church and Hamburg’s prominent landmark.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
BOOGIE FEVER
Get on your boogie shoes and feel the heat in your feet as you join your Silversea Singers and Dancers with the Silversea Band for some disco fever and explosive dance moves, bound to get your toes tapping and heads bobbing.
