My Med Escape with Silversea Cruises: A Journey of Luxury

This summer, I had the privilege of sailing aboard Silversea's Silver Ray, an incredible ship that made its debut this year. Alongside a few of my Travel Counsellors colleagues, we embarked on a Mediterranean adventure that I can only describe as unforgettable. But before we get into the details of the cruise, let’s start at the beginning of my journey. Athens: A Perfect Pre-Cruise Treat Before boarding Silver Ray, I enjoyed a couple of nights in Athens, and what a treat that was! Athens is such an interesting city – wonderfully walkable and steeped in history. Strolling through the bustling markets, browsing shops, and not forgetting the Greek cuisine… a perfect start to the trip. I discovered that I really love Greek food! Dining at local restaurants was not only delicious but also surprisingly affordable. Getting to Athens was seamless as well. I flew from Knock to Luton and onwards to Athens the next day. I can't recommend Knock/Ireland West Airport enough— always convenient, always friendly, and even with an overnight at Luton Airport, a far less stressful alternative to Dublin. Stepping Aboard Silver Ray Where do I begin with Silver Ray? From the moment we boarded, I was blown away. Silversea is known for luxury, and this ship exceeded even my high expectations. Boarding was an absolute breeze—possibly the easiest embarkation process I've ever experienced! We stayed in a Veranda Suite, and I can honestly describe it as exceptional. The décor was stylish, the space generous, and the bathroom… oh my goodness! Spacious, beautifully designed, and with storage to rival a luxury hotel – I wish my own was a nice! It’s not often you get a bathroom like this on a ship. Other thoughtful touches like the walk-in wardrobe, a jewellery box in the safe, full-sized toiletries with options to choose from, and a personal iPad for controlling the suite’s settings made it feel truly special. Oh, and let’s not forget our butler, who kept our fridge stocked with whatever we fancied – whether that was wine, spirits, or soft drinks. It was these little details that elevated the entire experience. A Boutique Hotel at Sea Sailing out of Athens in the evening, the adventure began. The Silver Ray doesn’t feel like a traditional cruise ship. A colleague from Silversea described it as feeling like “the best boutique hotel in town,” and they couldn’t be more right. The ship’s asymmetrical design offers such a unique perspective, particularly from the pool deck, which is one of the most impressive I’ve seen. The sunbeds were plentiful (no early-morning dash to reserve one here!) and luxuriously comfortable. The staff were attentive, always ready with a towel (or a cocktail!) The outdoor dining spaces added to the sense of refinement and relaxation. Dining: A Culinary Delight So many people describe themselves as ‘foodies’ nowadays. I would never claim to have that sort of refined palate, but I do know that Silversea delivered on every level. Every plate was exceptional, my top dining highlights included: Kaiseki, where we had incredible Japanese food, beer and sushi for lunch. The Marquee, with its stunning surroundings and relaxed ambiance. S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste), which was a standout. For those unfamiliar, S.A.L.T. is Silversea’s immersive culinary programme that highlights the food, drink, and traditions of the destinations you visit. I even participated in a cooking class with one of the onboard chefs—a little out of my comfort zone but such fun! I left with recipe cards, and I have promised I will try recreating the dish at home sometime! Ports of Call: Santorini, Corfu, and Kotor Our itinerary was nothing short of spectacular. Santorini: My first time visiting this iconic island, and it didn’t disappoint. Yes its busy, but truly as pretty as the pictures! From the charming town of Oia to the magical moonlit sailaway accompanied by a saxophonist playing jazz, it was pure bliss. Corfu: A place I’ve been before and will happily return to again. Corfu Town is perfect for a leisurely wander, with its cobbled streets and charming atmosphere. Kotor, Montenegro: Still my favourite port of call to date! The sail-in through the fjords is a must-see—absolutely breath-taking. We finished our trip with a transfer to Cavtat, Croatia, a beautiful town that’s a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik but just as picturesque. I need to go back here too (it would make for a lovely short break.) So Why Silversea? What stood out most about Silversea was the perfect balance of luxury and approachability. Yes, the service is polished and elegant, but the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Guests ranged in age and were friendly. This is a cruise experience you can relax into and truly enjoy without feeling out of place. As I reflect on this journey, I can honestly say that sailing with Silversea was one of my favourite travel experiences to date. From the stunning ship and world-class dining to the awe-inspiring destinations, it was unforgettable in every way. If you’re intrigued and would like to experience Silversea for yourself, I’d be delighted to help you plan a trip that’s just as memorable. They go to some of the most amazing places on earth – from Antarctica to Japan, French Polynesia to the Galapagos, there is an itinerary for everyone. Get in touch for more info - trust me—you won’t regret it!