Anyone who has been following Silver Shadow's reviews on Cruise Critic, must have had second thoughts . The complaints escalated and the stars dropped. Having just returned from one of the finest cruising experiences I have ever enjoyed, I must protest! I will grant you that what others see as old fashioned and in need of a makeover, I see as a patina, a graceful lady who takes very good care of herself. I never once suffered a bed that wasn't anything but pure comfort. The upholstery was out of date? Good grief, is that why you took the cruise ? For the upholstery? I'd strongly recommend buying pashminas at your first port of call. I am quite sure that in addition to all the myriad services the Butler provides you, he has likely been trained as a draper who will artfully cover the offensive sofa with the same kind of panache he brings to your breakfasts in bed or the bath he'll draw you at the end of a long day ashore.

The service on Silver Sea is simply heaven on earth. Every single crewmember is at your beck and call whenever you need anything. The ship is so well staffed that you never have to wait for a single thing. And the fact that every single drink, every glass of wine, every soft drink and water is at your beck and call and all included in one fare is just another reason to love Silver Shadown

There's enough variety in the various restaurants that the pickiest eaters can find favorites like superb pasta in La Terrazza, and stone-grilled meats at Grill by the Pool that are excellent. Pastries and desserts are particularly good everywhere aboard ship. The dining experiences are as varied as you mood. Opt for formal breakfast service in the Dining Room or catch the morning breezes on the deck outside La Terrazza. Read more