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Silver Origin Silversea Cruises
OVERVIEW: Silver Origin is Silversea Cruises’ first destination-specific ship. Designed to sail year-round in the Galápagos Islands, the vessel has replaced Silver Galápagos. The 100-passenger new-build, which was officially named in February, carries the Silversea DNA with sophisticated interior design and excellent cuisine. There is also a high level of personal service from the 70-strong crew and dedicated expedition team, who lead excursions and give in-depth talks on wildlife, geology and history. Ultra-all-inclusive fares cover food, drink, activities and more, and are designed to immerse discerning guests in the destination.
CABINS: All 51 suites offer an ocean view and butler service. A novel addition is a sliding mirror in the bathroom, so passengers can check out passing views. The lead-in cabins are the 325sq ft Classic Veranda Suites. The Superior Veranda, Deluxe Veranda and Medallion suites feature the line’s first-ever Horizon Balconies. With floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, which can open, and a tiled floor area with a table and seating, they form part of the main cabin area or can be turned into an ‘indoor’ balcony that can be sectioned off from the stateroom by a curtain. The top suites, which culminate in the 1,722sq ft Owner’s Suite, have whirlpool baths and large balconies.
FOOD AND DRINK: The two dining venues, The Grill and The Restaurant, are large enough to seat all passengers. The Grill, on the top deck, converts from al fresco to indoor dining depending on the weather. It also features
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Silversea’s Hot Rocks dining concept, where passengers cook meat and seafood on heated stones. More than 50% of the food is sourced from the islands, so passengers can sample Ecuadorian specialities and regional wines. Room service, which includes a dedicated vegetarian menu, is available from 10am to 11pm.
FACILITIES: Silver Origin has a large platform for easy access to the eight Zodiacs, plus water tanks where passengers can wash off snorkel gear and wetsuits, which are provided. Other facilities include a stargazing platform to observe the unpolluted night skies and a cosy fire pit.
USP: Basecamp is a comfortable area where passengers meet for Zodiac excursions. Featuring the largest LED screen in the Galápagos, the interactive wall shows stunning photography and footage along with facts about the region’s flora and fauna. It also doubles up as the ship’s reception area and boutique.
BOOK IT: Silver Origin is offering seven-night round-trip San Cristobal cruises to the Galápagos Islands, all year round. A sailing departing on August 27, with a two-night hotel stay in Quito and guided city tour, leads in at £8,800, including home to airport transfers, international and internal flights, ship transfers, full-board accommodation, all
drinks and minibar, shore excursions and expedition gear.
silversea.com Reviewed by Jeannine Williamson
May 2022 41
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