Spacious suites and expansive views: What to know about Silversea Cruises' new ship
Silversea Cruises is celebrating its 30th anniversary with the launch of a new ship.
The luxury line’s newest vessel, Silver Ray, will set sail this weekend. The 728-guest ship, the second in the line’s Nova Class, was officially named in Lisbon, Portugal, on Wednesday.
“It is fitting that we are celebrating Silver Ray's naming in the same year that Silversea celebrates 30 years of excellence, connecting our past with our future as we continue to lead in luxury travel and industry innovation,” Bert Hernandez, the line’s president, said according to a news release.
The vessel’s launch follows sister ship, Silver Nova, which joined the fleet last year.
Where will Silversea’s new ship sail?
Silver Ray will spend its first season in the Mediterranean before moving to the Americas in December. The ship’s 12-day maiden voyage, departing on Saturday, will sail from Lisbon to Civitavecchia, Italy, with stops including Cádiz and Palma de Mallorca in Spain; St. Tropez in France; and Monte Carlo, Monaco.
What can guests expect on board?
Like Nova, the ship features a distinct asymmetrical design. The off-center pool – uncommon among cruise ships, which generally center their pools – helps bring occupants closer to the water, and offers more expansive views. The vessel’s roughly 43,000 square feet of exterior glass bolster that openness.
The new Master Suite and Signature Suite categories will make their debuts on Silver Ray. Master Suites range from around 720 to nearly 830 square feet and offer sweeping views from their location at the corner of the ship’s aft (there’s also a two-bedroom configuration). The Signature Suites have plenty of room as well: their 700 square feet includes 172 of balcony space, along with dining and living areas.
Other features include the line’s S.A.L.T. Chef’s Table – available only on Nova and Ray – with small plates featuring regional cuisine and wine and cocktail pairings.
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How much does Silver Ray cost?
Prices vary by sailing date, room category and other factors, but an 11-day cruise from Venice to Athens currently starts at $7,750 per person based on double occupancy for the line’s essential fare. That option features standard inclusions such as food and drinks such as champagne and premium spirits, but excludes shore excursions.
Are luxury cruise ships worth the money? We did the math for Silversea's Silver Nova.
The port-to-port fare, which includes shore excursions, starts at $8,400, while the door-to-door price, which includes those plus airfare and transfers, starts at $10,200.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Here's what $8K will get you on Silversea's new cruise ship
