Silver Wind to Mediterranean

This was one of the first Silver Wind cruises of the summer season and, with a full complement of 296 passengers on board, it was a sell out.

Yet the amount of space per passenger on this ship was phenomenal. Six star rated and all inclusive, the Silver Wind could easily carry twice as many passengers as she does.

All cabins are outside, with most having private balconies. From the 290 square foot standard balcony rooms to the 1000 square foot plus suites, all have marble lined bathrooms and top end Bulgari toiletries, a separate sitting area with entertainment system, beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, walk in closets, and the ability to 'order' in from any of the on board restaurants during normal opening hours.

Silver Wind is a ship for people whose tastes go beyond rock climbing walls, Vegas style revues, and the chance to play bingo every afternoon. She is all about exquisite food and service and expansive, totally luxurious surroundings, where the idea of a queue for anything is a complete anathema. Her passengers tend to be very well travelled, and even better dressed for the evening. Despite that, the atmosphere on board is actually quite light hearted and friendly. Just talking to your fellow passengers is entertainment in itself.

The main dining room- simply called The Restaurant- is set low down in the ship, and offers open sitting for all main meals. Here, off the menu orders are actively encouraged, and catered to with great style and flair. It's an unruffled, near flawless dining adventure.

Up top, the Lido is a marvellous place for breakfast and lunch. Menu items are cooked to order here. At night, it converts into the excellent, reservations only La Terrazza, with fine Italian fare.

Entertainment is low key, with a small casino, a piano bar, and a main lounge that sometimes doubles as a disco. There is a two level, aft facing theatre for stage shows but, truth be told, Silver Wind is not a late night party boat.