Having carved out a reputation for its intimate luxury experience aboard small ships, Silversea scales up its offering with the newest arrivals to the family – Silver Ray and twin sister Silver Nova (who arrived first in 2023, followed by Ray in 2024). The ultra-luxury vessels accommodate a maximum of 728 guests, whose every whim is catered to by 544 dedicated crew.
Prior to their launch, the largest ocean ships in the Silversea canon carried around 600 passengers. The increased capacity brings with it an expanded hospitality offering, while a unique asymmetrical design delivers a sense of openness and space you won’t find on other ships.
Whether you’re lounging poolside or simply catching a ride in the glass-fronted elevator, Silver Ray is built to maximise every vantage point and vista as you sail the wide blue yonder.
The Silversea trump card
Silversea’s S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program aims to immerse travellers deeper into the regional flavours of each destination – whether that’s joining a cooking class in the S.A.L.T. Lab, sipping cocktails in the bar, enjoying a bespoke shore excursion, which might see you join an olive harvest in Kusadasi, Turkey, while learning about Anatolian produce and traditions.
On board, S.A.L.T. Kitchen serves a sophisticated nightly menu of regional dishes and wines that change with every port, ensuring no two meals are the same. Those who are serious about their food will want to book a seat at the Chef’s Table as soon as they board (just ask your friendly butler) to experience an 11-course deep dive into the S.A.L.T. program.
Dining on Silver Ray
From French fine-dining at La Dame to authentic Italian at La Terrazza (with the option to dine alfresco on the stern deck), you’ll find all the classics covered aboard Silver Ray. Kaiseki will sate any Japanese cravings, while Spaccanapoli and The Grill offer casual all-day dining, including wood-fired pizze and steak grilled to your liking.
Downstairs, Atlantide brings a touch of New York glamour to every voyage, and Silver Note wins the prize for the most in-demand reservation, serving an international menu of small plates paired with live jazz and optional dancing.
In the room
Seasoned cruisers will be more than familiar with the compact living quarters that are part and parcel of cruise life. But not so aboard Silver Ray, where an entry level Classic Veranda Suite offers a vast 33 square metres of living space, including an ocean-facing verandah, walk-in robe and separate lounge area that converts into a dining room should you decide to order room service.
The most impressive part? The expansive shower and consistent water pressure, which outshines many a five-star hotel.
Packing tips
Depending on the length of your cruise, you will need at least a couple of fancy frocks – or a sharp blazer – for formal evenings (once every five to six days of sailing). While a simple cocktail dress will suffice, don’t be afraid to break out your best sequins or a full length gown – you will be in good company.
Gents who forget to pack a suit jacket will be politely directed to borrow one from the ship’s reserves so best plan ahead and avoid the embarrassment. The rest of the time, the dress code is “elegant-casual” which means no shorts or jeans after 6pm.
Here are the numbers
Guests: 728
Crew ratio: 728 : 544
Cabins: 363 across nine decks.
Dining: Nine restaurants and four bars.
Children: Allowed but not specifically catered to.
The 2025 season will see Silver Ray head to the Mediterranean from April to November, before crossing the Atlantic for a winter season in Florida.
Pricing: From $7150 per guest for a 7-day sailing between Rome and Monte Carlo (shore excursions not included).
For more information — or to book your next cruise — visit silversea.com
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