The MOST LUXURIOUS Ship at Sea! The New Silversea Silver Ray - The Inaugural Voyage & Full Ship Tour

today we set sail not on the silver Nova but on her brand new sister ship the silver Ray having cruised on her inaugural Voyage from Lisbon to Barcelona I'm here to share a first look at this Innovative asymmetric vessel I know what you're thinking aren't cruises full of old people and buffets not on these cruises Timmy is it really true when they say champagne and caviar anywhere anytime or all the time well as The Unofficial Cruise Ambassador for the millennial generation I volunteer tribute let's get cruising Our Journey Begins in Lisbon Portugal a breathtaking backdrop for our exploration like her sistership the silver Ray boasts an asymmetric design forget the standard features like a central staircase or pool that you're used to the ray Embraces a curved staircase that winds around her decks hidden Nooks where you can explore and some unique design elements that will leave you wondering what took them so long our exploration of the silver Ray begins on Deck two the first point of contact for most guests while it may not be bustling with activity silver sea really has gone the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and welcoming arrival experience feeling a bit competitive challenge your fellow voyagers to a friendly game of table tennis and before you head off on your exciting Adventures to go with aore be sure to refill your water bottles at a convenient Hydration Station deck 2 really does set the tone for the rest of your journey a seamless blend of thoughtful design and exceptional Comfort now let's move on to deck three the first main deck for guests this is where the excitement really starts here you'll find a truly unique venue the shelter this luxurious bar takes center stage in the stunning three-story Atrium and is a highlight you won't find on any other ship except the silver Ray and her sister ship the Nova as the name suggests the shelter specializes in all things champagne imagine a glamorous wraparound bar overflowing with bottles of chilled champagne always ready to be popped open next stop atlantide the signature restaurant found on almost every silver sea ship this venue offers a sense of continuity but don't be fooled it's more like a beloved New York steakhous that's been beautifully updated there's no need for reservations and the menu keeps things exciting a new alart menu arrives every 3 days with an additional daily specials menu featuring local Specialties based on your current Port the atmosphere is sophisticated yet comfortable with gleaming marble floors Rich wood paneling and elegant silver and glass sconces but the real star of the show here are the windows these are the largest I've ever seen in a main dining room on a cruise ship offering breathtaking views for breakfast and lunch and transforming into to a magical space filled with expansive nighttime Vistas while it's officially called the main dining room on some lunches we practically had the entire restaurant to ourselves now let's move on to the Salt kitchen it's a revolutionary concept that debuted on Silver Sea's previous generation of ships starting with the Silver Moon it's exciting to see it carried over to the newest Nova and Ray the bright and open space embodies the program's core concept sea and land taste here The Culinary team takes Center Stage offering a unique opportunity to explore the regional Specialties hidden gyms and fascinating culinary histories of the destinations you visit this focus on Regional exploration allows the chefs to be more experimental than in other onboard restaurants be prepared for a journey for the Curious pallet in fact inquisitive Minds will find a treasure Trove of knick-knacks and collectibles lining the shelves each piece a souvenir from a different Port of Call around the world silver sea salt program is truly oneof a kind and I applaud them unlike anything I've ever experienced on other cruises but the adventure doesn't stop there there are four unique salt experiences on board in addition to shore excursions all designed to be Unforgettable heading up a deck we arrive at ladam Silver Seas Flagship restaurant now this is one of two restaurants on board that does require an additional charge but based on our experience it is well worth the Splurge be prepared to be dazzled ladam practically oozes sophistication from the moment you step inside you'll be surrounded by laik Crystal accents creating a truly luxurious atmosphere The Culinary experience here is a tour to force with every detail meticulously considered to create an unforgettable evening imagine a multi-course tasting menu featuring the most Exquisite dishes each artfully presented in prepared with the perfect wine and for a truly decadent touch ladam offers exclusive access to a super premium caviar next up on our tour is kaiseki a Japanese inspired restaurant also with an additional cover charge I should point out that this is Japanese inspired it's not authentic Japanese stepping inside you'll be transported to a Serene and intimate space reminiscent of a traditional Japanese Inn it's easy to forget that you're actually on a cruise ship kaiseki offers a delightful dining experience guests can choose from an array of options including both raw and cooked dishes craving something comforting opt for a steamed bun or the Hardy Tatu soup for sushi a fesi anad the sushi bar is a must visit here you can watch the chefs expertly prepare your meal from classic favorites like tuna and salmon to more adventurous options like oi and mackerel here's a valuable tip for budget-minded travelers while there is a cover charge for kaiseki in the evenings you can get your fix for free during lunchtime moving midship we arrive at the Arts Cafe it's silver se's Central Perk the Arts Cafe is filled with Curiosities unique art pieces that are definitely worth a closer look the Cafe's vibrant atmosphere makes it a natural Gathering Spot you'll often find fellow guests here catching up or simply relaxing with a good book but the Arts Cafe offers more than just caffeine and conversation it's also conveniently located next to the Excursion desks in the main Reception Area chances are you'll find yourself starting your morning here grabbing a delicious coffee and a breakfast sandwich before embarking on your next adventure and just past the Arts Cafe you'll find the inviting silver Ray Boutique this open plan space welcomes you to browse at your leisure fashionistas will be delighted by the curated selection of luxury Brands think of it as a chance to bring home a unique peace to commemorate your Unforgettable Voyage if you're feeling the urge to splurge the friendly staff here is more than happy to help separate you from your money moving towards the after the ship we've reached la taza silver Seas take on the classic Buffet experience but be prepared to have your expectations altered lza boasts one of the most impressive buffets I've ever encountered on a cruise imagine expansive counters overflowing with a dazzling array of choices from fresh sushi and made to order pasta stations to delightful pre-made smoked salmon boxes unlike crowded buffets on other ships here you'll find elegant white tablecloths and sparkling crystal glasses By Night laraza undergos a stunning transformation The Buffet disappears and the space transforms into a sophisticated Italian restaurant fresh handmade pastas sipping on Regional wines all under the gentle sway of the ship owing to the asymmetric design of the ship the outdoor area wraps around the back of the boat giving guests an exceptional view from all sides take a moment to explore lat's magnificent upward spiral staircase and you'll find yourself on Deck five where the Panorama Lounge awaits this expansive space features a large wraparound bar perfect for indulging and custom crafted cocktails expertly crafted by the bartenders settle into one of the oversized tables and plus chairs and let the live jazz band set the mood for a relaxing and Unforgettable evening just outside the Panorama Lounge is another hidden treasure the library this cleverly designed space provides a Haven of Tranquility perfect for curling up with a good book check out these funky chairs this unique setting adds a touch of Whimsy and provides the perfect spot to relax and get lost in a captivating story nestled between the Panorama lounge and the library you'll find a Haven for cigar a fesad the connoisseurs Club this sophisticated space is a dream come true for True cigar connoisseurs see what I did there here you can indulge in a curated selection of exotic smokes from all corners of the globe whether you prefer to relax indoor in the club's luxurious atmosphere or enjoy the fresh fresh air on the private Terrace the connoisseurs Club caters to your every whim our Explorations continue with silver note a truly unique venue on board the silver Ray imagine stepping back in time to the Golden Age of jazz and blues silver note captures the essence of these iconic spaces offering a intimate and Atmospheric experience this gym is open for dinner only transforming into a vibrant Hub of music and culinary delight the menu here is a celebration of small plates and toas perfect for sharing and grazing think creative in unique dishes like this Gourmet Twist on tuna in a can even if you're not a foodie or you're on a liquid diet silver note offers something special settle into a comfortable seat at the full service bar let the smooth sounds of the resident Jazz Duo wash over you and simply enjoy the show there is an IND expression surprise and Delight well silver note definitely gets the award for [Music] this moving midship we arrive at DOL the silver Ray's main bar and the Undisputed center of the ship's nightlife scene large windows allow natural light to flood in during the day making it the perfect spot for enjoying a pre-dinner drink while basking in the beauty of the sunset as the night falls the Ambiance transforms and Dolce Vita takes on a magical Starlet quality ideal for savoring an after dinner cordial but DOL Vita isn't just about the views and the drinks it's also the heart of the ship's entertainment believe it or not some of the best live experiences we enjoyed on board were in L do Vita as we make our way outside of dolita we come to the casino and it's small like really small but that's okay because there's so much to see and do aboard Ray that I don't need to spend my time losing money at Blackjack and finally we reached the bow of the ship and the Venetian Lounge this isn't your typical theater space imagine a stunning two-story venue designed with a ship's asymmetric layout in mind the result a truly spacious and undeniably beautiful space dead dedicated to world class entertainment prepare to be wowed by elaborate musical Productions and captivating dance performances all presented to you in this Grand setting alongside and slightly in front of the Venetian Lounge we arrive at the otm spa the spa fitness center and Salon in one is open to guests to relax and detox and because none of you will actually ever see the gym on the inside I've taken out on myself to visit on your behalf come on guys you know it's true check out this waiting room seriously what other Spa have you ever been to that has champagne on Ice decks 6 through 9 are dedicated to providing guests with a Haven of comfort and luxury in a previous video we offered a detail review of our standard Veranda Suite which is the most common type of accommodation on Silver Ray if you're curious about the details and amenities in the suite be sure to check out that video welcome aboard the silver Sea Ray I thought we would start this entire experience by kind of outlining the itinerary telling you a little bit about what we're doing where we are um we are actually on the inaugural Voyage like actually the very first public voyage for the ray uh spectacular it's it's in uh Portugal Spain goes all the way through on a 12 Day right you're you're more in tune with this than I so there's a 7-Day option and a 12-day option the 12-day option goes from Lisbon through the south of Spain goes through France and then ends in Rome uh the 7-Day option is just the part from Lisbon and it ends uh in Barcelona so we are on board the 7 day um itinerary so we've started in Lisbon uh our first day was really at C day which is actually perfect for us as we got to really go explore the ship that day uh we docked around 5:00 P pm. had an overnight in cadis which was really nice um we should have taken the opportunity to go exploring that that evening but we had a tour the next morning uh cadis was fantastic the city is right there it's a port city there's a fantastic history it's very walkable as well and it doesn't require any extra Transportation which is always nice then we had Mala and then we did a day at Sea which is always one of our favorite days and then yesterday we were in Valencia the paa capital of the world um and also just incredible from a historical perspective as well as from an arts and culture perspective and then today in Palama did my and then tomorrow we'll end up in Barcelona this is a new itinerary for me I've never gotten to see any of these ports you have experienced them all um and and for me the Highlight was kadis and Valencia I I was blown away kadis is this very romantic City with architecture and small little winding streets that you can kind of go down Valencia is the opposite right it is a a modern city it looks like something out of Westworld or Star Wars they actually filmed it they do they do they filmed they filmed them in Valencia um so those are my two highlights and and another thing that silver SE does very well that some of the other crises don't do is their shore excursions they kind of curate a little bit for everybody right so there's uh usually a set of free shore excursions that are like city tours or things that aren't very involved uh then there's a set of Premium ones that do cost a little bit extra usually a little bit more advanced or a little bit longer um and and those may or may not appeal to you and then there's always you know on these goats the super luxury right the custom cars the helicopter rides to alhamra or something like that starting on Deck 10 things really start to get interesting let's go back to that asymmetric Design This is what really blew me away the main pool deck on Deck 10 I wasn't sure what to think at first but after a while it really dawned on me this is genius silver Seas ditch the traditional pool design layout and basically turned the entire Sund deck sideways this eliminates the width restrictions and creates a massive pool deck that stretches basically the entire length of the ship plus the surrounding Sund deck is unlike anything I've ever seen on a cruise before it offers incredible space for a ship with only around 750 guests opposite the pool is a 360° bar it's a popular spot to gather but keep in mind there's not much built-in shade here the the design of the ship really does kind of blow your mind they really did throw out the rulebook when it comes to how to build a ship the twists and turns everywhere it just doesn't make sense on how it balances especially with such an unconventional design this must have been a massive engineering feed it really is impressive when you sit down and think about it make sure not to miss these luxury Cabanas which were always hugely popular does your cruise ship have a mixologist that Wheels his bar cart out poolside to make craft cocktails oversee Ray does also located on this deck is the walking trail move at your own pace enjoy the breathtaking ocean views and get some exercise and hey if you're watching this I guess that counts towards my step count too picture this an orange tree bursting with life it's citrusy scent mingling with the fresh Sea Air you can curl up with a captivating novel and surrender to the rhythm of the waves or simply people watch in Blissful anonymity it's like having your own private balcony overlooking the entire pool scene but with the added bonus of plush seating in a fragrant Citrus twist forget ordinary bars the silver Ray boasts a superstar the salt bar has been reimagined from The Muse class of ships silver sea clearly knows a good thing when they see it and they've given this popular spot a major upgrade on the ray while it keeps the originals charm this revamped bar is much larger and even more inviting ready to become your favorite pre-dinner Hangout we enjoyed exotic cocktails here including some real imaginative ones with smoke Bubbles and edible works of art speaking of works of art each bar on Silver Ray has its own unique menu specific to that venue good luck at trying them all behind the bar you'll discover the salt lab a modern kitchen where culinary magic happens this isn't just any cooking demo the menus change with every Port of Call reflecting the Region's flavors imagine savoring localis without ever having to leave the ship the salt program remember sea and land taste is truly unique silver C should be proud free cooking classes let you learn and create and yes devour your Masterpiece afterwards Pro tip I always learn better with a glass of wine classes fill up fast so reserve yours early they last about an hour and the best part you really do get to eat what you make are you ready to elevate your culinary journey to Legendary status at night salt lab transforms into the chef's table this exclusive paid experience is unlike anything you've encountered on the ship before imagine a intimate setting a live culinary performance and an 11 course tasting menu unlike any other right before your eyes The Talented chefs transform fresh Regional ingredients into edible masterpieces each course inspired by your current sailing destination but the chef's table isn't just about the food although let's be honest the the food is pretty incredible this is an interactive experience The Culinary team welcomes your questions photos and videos and might even ask you to participate in the kitchen the chef's table offers a curated selection of just one white and one red option this might feel like a Miss for some especially considering Lam's meticulously chosen pairings for each course craving a moment of Peace aboard the silver Ray look no further than the panoramic observation Lounge at the ship's bow this Haven of Tranquility offers breath taking expansive SE views thanks to its prime location curl up with a captivating novel In The Comfy Library area or gather your traveling companions for a friendly board game there's a dedicated space stocked with games tables and even a daily puzzle to keep your mind sharp but the real show stopper here might be the most luxurious Monopoly board you've ever seen we'll have to investigate later how they keep all those tiny houses and hotels from taking a tumble during rough Seas a small coffee and tea station ensure you can fuel your relaxation with a soothing beverage moving back towards the ship's aft we arrive at the Marquee a truly imaginative venue unique to Silver Nova and silver Ray the Central Area boasts a beautiful double height Cabana style Alfresco space decorated with magnificent trees that illuminate at night creating a romantic and surreal Ambiance it's perfect for a Starlet dinner here you'll find the grill restaurant it's also known as hot rocks on other silver sieg ships by night this transforms into a dedicated dinner venue where guests can Grill delicious meats and Seafoods on 500° lava stones but the magic doesn't stop there during the afternoon this space takes on its Alter Ego scopo named for the famed Street in Naples Italy here guests can indulge in freshly prepared pizzas and calzones claiming the title of the best pizza on the Seven Seas it offers more than just dinner and lunch options it also boasts one of the most unique and healthy breakfast selections on the silver Ray a TOA style plate of fruits and spreads ranging from Savory to Sweet leaving you satisfied yet not stuffed right behind the Marquee lies another new venue specific to the Nova class The Dusk bar this is your go-to spot for soaking in the breathtaking views with a frozen cocktail in hand during the day as the sun begins to dip it transforms into the perfect place to enjoy a Sundowner deck 11 a Haven designed for those looking for every last drop of the sun forget the crowded Leo decks of yester year here on the topmost floor Ray once again leans on her asymmetric design to stand apart from the others picture yourself stretched out on a luxurious sunlounger strategically placed throughout the expansive deck the layout gracefully winding its way around the pool offering a panoramic view that stretch over the end of the ship onto the sea but the PS to resistance is the cliff whirlpool unsurprisingly the centerpiece of deck 11 is actually the centerpiece the stunning Cliff Whirlpool with its glass exterior wall is a heated infinity pool allowing guests a luxurious way to unwind after a long day of excursions as the port disappears in the distance let's talk about the elephant in the room is the silver Ray worth it silver C already occupies the very highest levels in the cruising World along with Brands like Seaborn and cryst you know what you're getting impeccable service gourmet food and topshelf drinks it's the same level of Excellence you will find across their entire fleet but the ray she's a bird of a different feather the ship itself is a game changer it pushes the boundaries of what a ship can be both in terms of design and experience and this is what makes her so exciting her ability to appeal to a younger more adventurous generation cruising might conjure up images of crowded Mega ships endless buffets and questionable scooter rentals but forget everything you think you know about cruising because silver sea has launched a whole new breed we are so fortunate to be able to experience travel like this and excited to Showcase a level of travel that we think is perfect for Our Generation for those who might have dismissed cruising entirely based on outdated preconceptions if you're put off by the 4,000 and passenger behemoths and the all you can eat mediocrity then maybe we'll see you out on your first silver sea catch you next time

Channel: The Art of The Craft 4K

Views: 2,303

Keywords: travel, luxury, trip review, reviews, luxury travel, hotels, gourmet, luxury hotels, 5 star, cruise, luxarycruise, silversea, seabourn, silver ray, crystal cruises, silver nova

Id: jQmYClVZYLo

Length: 24min 9sec (1449 seconds)

Published: Sat Jul 13 2024