Antarctica Cruise

We had an incredibly marvelous experience in Antarctica. The trip exceeded all expectations. Only nature could improve the voyage with calm conditions in the Drake Passage. The level of service was very enjoyable. The expedition crew was wonderful in sharing their knowledge and experience. Our personal butler checked on us doing the rough seas to make sure we were well and if we needed anything. The guest lecturer on astronomy added to the experience.

The level of service was very good, from the expedition team to our butler - just as good as on the other Silversea ship that I was on. If anything, this being a smaller ship, it's even better. In fact, I particularly enjoyed the history lectures given on board.

The staff and crew were all extremely friendly and really attempted to learn all the passengers’ names. This was especially nice since we felt they were doing it on their own and not with the expectation of a larger tip (since gratuities are all included).  We enjoyed having a butler we could call on any time, day or night. The food was exceptional, and quite varied. We appreciated that they had healthy options, too. We also thought the sommelier did an excellent job of choosing some special, interesting wines from all over the world for the ship. We never felt the need to purchase something else off their wine list. This may seem like a small thing, but again it made us feel that we received really good value for our money.

Pictures don't do Antarctica justice! The "other-worldly" scenery is simply spectacular! We especially enjoyed the other travelers aboard this ship -- interesting people from all over the world. And the casual atmosphere promoted onboard made for a relaxed, more-enjoyable experience for us as we've never enjoyed the "formal" nights on other cruise ships.

I'd also like to mention that I received excellent service from the outdoor expedition supplier you recommended as well. The people there were very helpful. I did not expect the amazing service I experienced from Silversea, and it truly isn't possible that it could have been improved upon. I don't have words to describe my appreciation for their work.

I wanted to go to Antarctica because it was the only continent I hadn't visited. The most memorable part of the cruise was the zodiac visit to Paradise Harbor. I've traveled far and wide and I've never witnessed such peaceful beauty.

The staff, guides and crew went above and beyond all of my expectations. I had a small accident while ashore, and the expedition crew rushed me back to the ship and helped (with much difficulty) me aboard as I was unable to stand on my twisted ankle. The sea was also getting rough at the time. Several able seamen were required to lift me from the zodiac. After a thorough check up and treatment by the ship's doctor, I was further amazed at the level of service from the housekeeping staff. Our cabin housekeeper brought fresh ice packs every hour without being asked. This went on well into the night and certainly beyond what could possibly have been her regular work hours. The hotel manager even sent chocolates to the room! Of course I felt like a complete idiot that the accident happened at all; The crew gives more than one lesson on how to properly and safely exit the zodiac, relying on the four people standing on either side of you when you stand. I was so excited by what I saw that I ignored them completely and simply hopped off the side of the zodiac, stumbling over my own two feet when I fell. The entire incident could have been avoided if I'd just followed the simple instructions. And yet, none of the staff made any mention of my failure to pay attention and fussed over me for days! In the dining room, they assigned a member of the wait staff to follow me through the buffet line at breakfast and lunch to take my plate to the table while I walked on crutches. There were many other instances where the staff went above and beyond what could be considered even premium service. I doubt if I would have been as well cared for in my own home! I can't say enough good things about the people who crew the Silver Explorer.

Antarctica was always on our dream list, so when Richard's 70th and the Silver Explorer coincided we decided this was it! The staff, guides and crew were all excellent. The expedition staff (like all other staff) were professional, friendly, enthusiastic and very good at what they did (several came from South Africa - and from our own hometown of Knysna!). We always felt informed, safe and special. The food was also excellent.