In this review

There are 4 Grand Suites abroad the Silver Shadow, all positioned at the very front of the ship. Of these, 2 are located on deck 8, 1 is on deck 7 and another on deck 6.

Room ratings

RoomRating
Size
(5.0)
Design
(3.5)
Cleanliness
(4.5)
Condition
(4.5)
Sitting space
(3.5)
Closet space
(5.0)
Soundproofing
(5.0)
Balcony
(4.0)
BathroomRating
Size
(5.0)
Storage space
(4.5)
Products
(4.5)
Towels
(5.0)
Shower/bath
(5.0)
Cleanliness
(5.0)
Condition
(5.0)
BeddingRating
Comfort
(4.5)
Condition
(5.0)
Pillow options
(5.0)
Blanket options
(4.5)

The suite review

The Silver Shadow Grand Suite is more like a private apartment than a room at sea. We were impressed with the size – the indoor space measures an enormous 90m² (974ft²) in one bedroom configuration with an 11m² (116ft²) teak veranda.

The Suite features a vestibule that opens to a main living space with lounge, dining, bar and writing areas. A single floor-to-ceiling glass door opens onto the teak veranda. Located forward of the main living area is the bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and access to the main bathroom. We reviewed suite 701.

The timber floored vestibule includes a hall table, mirror, cloak wardrobe and access to a guest bathroom. In the living area a 2-seater bar (with Illy Espresso machine) is on the right hand side. On the left is a large writing desk, chaise longue, side board with Bang & Olufsen sound system and wall mounted flat screen TV. Beyond this is a 4-seat dining table and the sitting area.

The sitting area of the Silver Shadow Grand Suite is generous, comprising a large 3-seater sofa and 2 heavy arm chairs. However, these arm chairs seem too large, even for this space, and they tend to impede access to and from the veranda.

The sitting area in the Grand Suite onboard the Silver Shadow.
The sitting area in the Grand Suite onboard the Silver Shadow.

Unlike the Silver Suites, the Grand Suite does not boast double floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead onto the veranda. Rather, there is one single glass door and next to it a large window. This has the unfortunate effect of restricting natural light. The mustard-yellow palette used on the walls does little to help lighten the space.

While the teak veranda has the same floor space as that of a Silver Suite it is not quite as usable, as the front portion is enclosed.

The Silver shadow Grand Suite veranda is partially enclosed.
The spacious Silver shadow Grand Suite veranda.

The bedroom in the Silver Shadow Grand Suite is almost as large as an entire Vista Suite. It features a forward facing king-sized bed and deep cupboards and draws set beneath 2 huge windows affording views directly over the front of the ship. The bed features Silversea’s signature Pratesi® sheets. A flat panel TV, iPod docking station and vanity mirror complete this exceptionally large yet cozy sleeping area.

The Grand Suite’s marble bathroom is almost identical to that of a Silver Suite. Guests will appreciate the separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, toilet with bidet, as well as the double-vanity and large mirror. There is plenty of storage space either side of the mirror and underneath the vanities. Guests may choose either hypo-allergenic, Ferragamo or Bvlgari bathroom products. Plush bathrobes and slippers are also supplied.

Guests who book a Silver Shadow Grand Suite enjoy extra perks including welcome chocolates and champagne, afternoon canapés and cocktails, dinner at the officers table at least once per voyage as well as free dry cleaning and laundry.

It’s worth noting that owing to the location at the front of the ship, the Silver Shadow Grand Suite is prone to heightened movement in high seas.

Dining review

The Silver Shadow offers 4 dining options (depending on the time of day). These include La Terrazza, Le Champagne, The Restaurant and The Grill.

La Terrazza is located at the rear of the ship on deck 7. During the day it offers a buffet selection, however at night it is transformed into the Silver Shadow’s signature Italian restaurant. La Terrazza embraces the slow food movement and the menu reflects local and seasonal changes. The freshly made pasta is exceptional and not to be missed. Weather permitting, guests can dine al fresco on the outdoor terrace. Reservations at La Terrazza are required.

Located next to La Terrazza is Le Champagne, the Silver Shadow’s fine dining restaurant. It is the only Wine Restaurant by Relais & Châteaux at sea. As you’d expect the menu is outstanding and the wine list superb. Guests can dine on such favourites as caviar, gold leaf risotto, breast of forest pigeon with artichoke and morel ragout, or lobster thermidor.

We recommend taking the advice of the sommelière at Le Champagne when selecting wines. They have a wealth of knowledge and will be happy to make a recommendation from the connoisseur’s selection to fit your budget, or even pair a selection of wines with your various courses.

It’s not only the food and wine that will please the senses at Le Champagne, fine works of art from the ship’s private collection hang from the walls enhancing the dining experience.

Le Champagne has limited seating and is very popular, so we advise you to make reservations prior to boarding to ensure you don’t miss out. You can do so via the Silversea website.

The Restaurant is the main dining venue onboard the Silver Shadow. While it is indeed a large venue, it has been cleverly divided into a number of smaller spaces that help create a more intimate feel. The menu changes daily and will often feature locally sourced produce. We rate the food quality and presentation very highly. Reservations are not required at The Restaurant, guests can dine when they like, with whom they like – from a romantic table for two, to a memorable party of 10 or more!

One of the advantages of having a Silver Shadow Grand Suite is dining ‘at home’. Guests can enjoy a meal selected from The Restaurant menu, served course-by-course at their own suite dining table. Your butler will lay the table with crisp linen and fine crockery, then come and go throughout the evening attending to your ever need.

Exclusive to Silversea is the hot rocks dining experience at The Grill, the poolside al fresco dining venue. Pre-heated volcanic rocks are brought to the table allowing guests to cook steak, veal, lamb, pork or seafood to their liking. A selection of delicious sauces prepared by the Silver Shadow’s chefs make a great accompaniment. We recommend The Grill for a super relaxed, informal evening under the stars.

The owners of Silversea, the Lefebvre family, have a passion for fine art as well as luxury cruising. So it was decided that the Silver Shadow should house it’s very own private art collection.

From Chagall to Picasso, the works on display represent some of the most outstanding examples of modern art available to the public. Unlike most private collections no appointment is require to view these master works. Indeed they are on display throughout the public areas of the ship.

Guests wishing to become more acquainted with them can book a tour with the Silver Shadows art curator (select voyages) who will be delighted to explain the finer points of the many and varied works.

About the Author: Jason Kerr

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In this review