Is a Silversea cruise worth the money? What's included in the rate? What does the butler do?

[@dancedoggy]

Thank you for booking me on this cruise - I sail this week! I’m glad I booked many months ago and again thanks for the onboard credit, suite upgrade and tips about reserving shore excursions and restaurants. ❤

[@DrGariS]

You’re one of my fav people!

[@petejames1326]

@@DrGariS did you really get picked up from your house in a LIMO and taken to your local airport INCLUDED in the fare? does the cruise fee really include AIRFARE? im in australia and if i wanted to go on a cruise starting in MIAMI, would they really fly me all the way from australia to miami for FREE and back? this would be too good to be true., is all alcohol included or just the cheap beer and wine? of you want spirits are they extra? and the better wine is extra isnt it?

[@DrGariS]

@@petejames1326 with their D2D service with air they do include the exec transfer from the US although in your case from AUS it’s better when you do everything separately with a P2P fare. Most sprits are included. It’s extremely inclusive and an incredible value. From AUS it’s still a great rate but do it P2P and it’s a better deal for you in your case! Email me

[@monikamichaelis-iw3to]

Silversea is the best luxury cruise there is. Had the pleasure to be on silver spirit and silver whisper. Caviar, lobster, champagne and the menu is outstanding. Someone came by to clean my eyeglasses for me. A butler looked after us and the fridge was always filled with whatever one likes to drink. At the most, there are 600 passengers on the ship.

[@DrGariS]

We also get private rates and extra perks that nobody else gets with SSC, but I agree that SSC is a great product 👍

[@monikamichaelis-iw3to]

@@DrGariS The butler brings breakfast or lunch or dinner, reservations for restaurants, helps when the safe fails toopen when we forgot the number. I would say he helps a lot with requests.

[@brentshuffler1234]

Thanks for highlighting the dining options on this cruiseline! Circa minute 7:15, I am just curious to know whether such an ultraluxury cruiseship offers truly health-conscious cuisine: e.g., amidst all the hype about desserts and pizzas, do they have genuine wholegrain breads, pizzas, etc.? This is the kind of distinction that I find still seriously lacking in the cruise-industry. More and more people also want to avoid any form of wheat. . . . so it would be great to find wholegrain or multigrain options across dessert menus, sandwiches, pizzas and pastas, for example....instead of the usual ultra-processed white-flour fluff....more decoration than nutrition.

[@DrGariS]

They have vitamin juices and lots of fruit and veggies AND you can tell them what you want them to make as well as long as you give them 24 hours, but yes - it’s not just comfort food 24/7

[@annm.7176]

I really like this You don't have a bunch of games and things flying around in the air overhead and people slides and all that.

[@DrGariS]

Yes - I’m on Silver Nova now and it’s WONDERUL!

[@annm.7176]

I also like the way that everything including drinks comes with it so you're not nickel and dimed to death. They seem like they're like the cruises when they first came out first class.

[@DrGariS]

They are very special for sure

[@stefansteiger4027]

We cruised on different luxury lines - we like Silversea most

[@DrGariS]

It’s a great product. Email me for extra perks next time [e-mail]

[@loridoherty3302]

We are doing Alaska on Silversea in June and also signed up for rafting trip. Any other excursions you really enjoyed?

[@DrGariS]

Of course. Just email me. You got my $600 onboard credit and 5% off, correct?

[@NorwegianForestMeow]

Are the Longchamp handbag and Silversea backpack in 11:46 for the guests to keep? Thanks ❤️🙏🏻

[@DrGariS]

Yes but only repeat guests get this or some that book with me as a group amenity. :)

[@NorwegianForestMeow]

@@DrGariS Wow! That’s great to know 🤩 Thanks

[@M158-o3x]

Is that a frozen and dead polar bear at 28:20? Do you contact details for bookings for someone in the UK?

[@DrGariS]

Of course I help people from the UK. That’s not a dead polar bear.

[@FraserAtSea]

I'd love to one day make it onto a Silversea ship, even just for a look or a short cruise. As a mass-market cruiser, the concept of these cruises is just so opulent to me - they look amazing!

[@DrGariS]

It’s still a cruise ship but much more elevated. I can still help you get a good value on mass market things too. You should email me at [e-mail] THANK YOU! :)

[@hiltonhead03]

Great video. My wife and I have never been on a cruise. We have been researching for months and still have no idea. We would like all inclusive to include alcohol (beer, wine, spirits). Shore excursions would be nice but would actually pay exactly what we like vs pre booked. Also, we usually do a few weeks in Hawaii so would prefer casual vs dressy/formal. Like what Regent offers but open to suggestions. Aloha, in advance, for your recommendations.

[@DrGariS]

Hi Hilton. Please go ahead and email me at [e-mail] and I will be happy to assist. They are both amazing cruise lines so getting to know you better would be better so we can get you on what might be best for you. :)

[@kimmerkt6710]

We want to go on a cruise so bad! I see people getting great deals but I can't seem to find them and recommendations?

[@DrGariS]

Email me and I’m happy to help get the best value of course

[@user-fl1hd1zr1d]

I’m looking into my first cruise and after a ton of KZbin videos I know I don’t want to be on carnival but not sure if this is good for solo travelers

[@DrGariS]

Email me at [e-mail] and I’m happy to help

[@stevewilson6390]

Blue collar worker here, no swank or stuffiness with me, yes i have good manners and i do behave. We are looking to do our bucket list Japan cruise in 2026 i'm just wondering if we will be comfortable or find the experience a little hoity toity.

[@DrGariS]

Hey Steve - plenty of Blue collar workers that like to be pampered. You won’t feel out of place and I’ll help get you perks. Email me and I’ll help or suggest a different fit if Silversea doesn’t work out. They are pretty good though.

[@Switzerland-Highlights]

Our guests from Luxury Travel Switzerland love the high quality from Silversea Cruises ❤️🥰❤️

[@DrGariS]

They don’t get the same type of discounts and perks we do though. Feel free to send if they need my help to save - [e-mail]

[@debbralee426]

Is this cruize mostly older people? I have been considering this cruoze but I have a feeling other 30-somethings wont be there

[@DrGariS]

It’s mostly older but it varies. Cruising in general is older but when you’re 30-40 you’re more limited in age group to the less expensive ones like RCCL

[@oberstleutnant787]

For non drinkers taking this cruise, they are literally subsidize those heavy drinkers

[@DrGariS]

Oh that’s definitely not true. We find most people do not drink that much on Silversea.

[@philbikes1931]

We were on the Silver Nova in June 2024 and never saw anyone I would think to be drunk. They do offer top-shelf liquors and will even put a couple of those bottles in your room if you ask them. My wife doesn't drink so I share your concern that I am somehow subsidizing those that can knock them down, but I just tell myself I am paying for quality.

[@dianapoquette7930]

I am now exploring high end cruise lines. We’ve been on many other voyages. I appreciate quality, class, and smaller ships. However, we do not want to dress up often, especially in a tux. (Just one night) He will not be comfortable. Suggestions?

[@DrGariS]

Hi Diana. If you stick to the Nova and Ray, they have relaxed the dress code. Please email me at [e-mail] and we can discuss further :)

[@helenfox2783]

On the Shadow now and it's very laid back. Far more than I was expecting.

[@paulready8897]

Very nice video. Was thinking about going on a Regent cruise, but I’ve been hearing a lot of complaints about them from food being very hit or Miss with no consistency to crew as well as management having very dismissive attitudes. If there is an issue they will blame you and not resolve the issue. Seems like they have been going downhill lately and are just a pretender or a wannabe luxury cruise line. Silver Sea seems to be much better so I will look into them for a cruise.

[@DrGariS]

Glad it was helpful! There are discrepancy issues across the board with most lines, but Silversea still delivers a darn good product! Please reach out to me to get extra onboard credit, and usually lower than published fares!

[@dw9955]

Giving them a second chance in January. Totally disappointed in the Silver Whisper to Alaska last July. Going on the Silver Nova through the Panama Canal in January. Will go back to Seabourne if disappointed….

[@DrGariS]

I hear you. This may not be the best match for you. Are you already booked? Right now we have a PRIVATE sale that will get you an ADDITIONAL $600 onboard credit on top of the $1000 they are giving. :). You may want to change and give Scenic Eclipse or Commandant Charcot a try! 😊

[@fredfred-kt9vw]

Thank you for this! When the cruise says it has a formal night, how do you know where it will take place?

[@DrGariS]

It’s usually 2 times on the cruise. I’ll let you know when you book and give you all the ins and outs for sure. Feel free to email me.

[@wandab3843]

Looks good!

[@DrGariS]

It is!

[@paulamillard5145]

I’m ready to book this cruise. How do I contact you?

[@DrGariS]

Hi Paula - my email is the best way to - [e-mail] I’m looking forward to helping you. I see you’ve already emailed. You’re in great hands with me! ;)

[@MrBriansaunders]

Interesting that Celebrity offers the same lobster bisque and mushroom soup in their specialty french restaurant, Murano.

[@DrGariS]

It’s not the same as the one from Murano. I have a video on Murano on my channel from Celebrity and they are different. Celebrity is an excellent line also but no comparison to Silversea. Murano is definitely great on Celebrity though! 😊

[@mikegarcia450]

How many on the ship? Plus , how is it different than Princess

[@DrGariS]

Are you serious? 596 max capacity. Princess is mass market, huge cattle call (like almost any other mass market products, sadly). There are way too many differences to name. No art auctions, open bar, gratuities, butler service, all suites, wifi included automatically, extremely good dining and even your shore excursions are included. There is a HUGE difference between SSC and Princess. Princess has also had a huge amount of cutbacks. I don’t even recommend Princess for anyone looking at mass market. If you insist on sticking with mass market, do Virgin or Celebrity, NOT Princess. I can assist with any of these. :)

[@sharonnewton4374]

How did I miss what is included in the price?

[@DrGariS]

All beverages, wifi, gratuities and shore excursions

[@helmutbuendgensritchie9714]

What are now the tricks to get reservation in restaurant la dame?

[@DrGariS]

I’ll walk you through it when we book dependent on your sailing and what “my Silversea” looks like

[@helmutbuendgensritchie9714]

I booked a trip in November 24 14 nights ,lissabon- ft. Lauderdale. Should I book la Dame in advance,if possible?

[@DrGariS]

If you can - yes! I will help you also. You should transfer it to me to get an ADDITIONAL 5% off this month@@helmutbuendgensritchie9714

[@slchang01]

I have not booked these luxury cruises yet...but I did a 9 days Alaska curise 8 years ago...You might want to inform us how much did it cost you for this trip so have a reference point to compare with, therefore the judgement part of worthiness or not...Care to disclose the costs on that part? Thank.

[@DrGariS]

I don’t discuss rates on KZbin but I’m happy to quote you on one - feel free to email me at [e-mail].

[@FranciscoCamino]

Absolutely

[@DrGariS]

Happy to help get you booed and hopefully save you some money. :)

[@FranciscoCamino]

Everytime I get onboard, I wonder, is it worth it?. When butlers start spoiling me, I say: “I need to book again”.

[@DrGariS]

@@FranciscoCamino and next time, email me so I can assist you!

[@judem429]

I have 1162 days on Silversea. 8 Worlds.

[@DrGariS]

Fabulous. You need to book with me to get more perks and extra attention!

[@dd-dd2co]

Room service is chargeable?

[@DrGariS]

Room service is included

[@dd-dd2co]

@@DrGariS Thank you! Deciding between Silversea and Seabourn!

[@DrGariS]

@@dd-dd2co email me and I’ll help you. We can also chat on the phone. They are both wonderful, depending on what you want to do!

[@maureenphelps1732]

Why are the steaks so thin? Is that a European thing?

[@DrGariS]

They are not, I like them very well done and butterflied

[@PREMIUMLUXURY-iw1cx]

Dr.GariS,... you have a friend in well-done meat. 🙂Only positive comments here.

[@DrGariS]

Haha thank you so much!!! 😊

[@kathleemcallister]

do they have a casino??

[@DrGariS]

They do. It’s super small but it’s on my other full ship tour video. Blackjack, roulette and slot machines. :).

[@kathleemcallister]

you have so talked me into this. i am on a ifxed income though. do you have the winning lotto numbers

[@DrGariS]

I don’t but it’s definitely not as expensive as you may think when you put together the drinks, shore excursions, gratuity and wifi they include (instead of paying out of pocket). Sometimes this is lower than celebrity Aqua class. What do you usually cruise on?

[@leighshepherd8356]

Looks surely like the way to do cruisin

[@DrGariS]

Yes, it’s such a nice value. It truly depends on your style and budget though!

[@leighshepherd8356]

Looks perf for size

[@DrGariS]

email me at [e-mail] so I can assist on your next adventure and save on international business class air AND expeditions

[@debbralee426]

Based on this video, im really underwhelmed and disappointed in the entertainment on the boat

[@DrGariS]

It’s not their strong suit at all. The Ray and Nova have better entertainment but that’s definitely not the main reason to do an SSC voyage

[@sharonsalzberg2654]

My husband and I took a Silversea cruise in early 2015, to the Caribbean. Someone I knew was a travel agent and talked me into it. First time cruising on this line. Did not like the cruise because the butler service was non-existent, the dryers did not work in the laundry, the entertainment was bad and the passengers boasted about their numerous cruises on the line. We met one couple from England and enjoyed a dinner with them after we left the cruise. One and done on this line.

[@DrGariS]

I book other lines but that’s a super unusual response. I have stellar top producer status on almost all upscale lines. Try Ponant or Scenic. They are awesome

[@pennybaxter4]

My family ( parents ) and I are going on a silver seas cruise next week the silver dawn we are from the uk 🇬🇧 and flying to Miami to pick up the cruise in fort laudadale I’m not a big cruiser this will be my second cruise ,I hope it’s ok , my last cruise was a Cunard cruise the queen Victoria queens grill to st Petersburg in 2015 and I do remember people loving to talk about how many cruises they have been on and what there status is ‘ I suppose it makes them feel good for 5 minutes . One of my family members my dad has recovered from brain cancer 98% so I’m just going to try and have the best time ever fingers crossed 🤞 .

[@DrGariS]

@@pennybaxter4hi - thank you so much for the beautiful comment. Well, there’s no such thing as perfection. Definitely Silversea should be a lovely time - somewhat different than QG class on Cunard for sure (smaller). The most important thing is that you have a wonderful time with family. I’m so happy you’ll all be going and having a nice time. Most important is the time you make with your family and I’m glad to hear your dad is recovering and hope you have a wonderful and safe flight too! :)

[@pennybaxter4]

Thank you so for your kind words it means so much Best wishes to you and thank you for the smashing insight .

[@DrGariS]

@@pennybaxter4you’re so welcomed. Have the best time and enjoy every moment. Let me know what you thought. You’re welcomed to email me after and use me if you don’t already have a good agent. :)

[@noname-JS]

Food and that jazz singer seem great. The people...obviously rich, but meh. Everything from ship to cabins and service remind me of my Founders Voyage on Oceania's Vista. I would never take Silversea to Alaska. So many other lines are more privileged in that region.

[@DrGariS]

There was a variety of people aboard. Oceania is not luxury by the way - not like Silversea. What line would you prefer to Alaska? Ponant is doing it next year and they are amazing.

[@frankcutronijr]

It looks awesome

[@DrGariS]

It’s such a nice way to travel. I’m glad you enjoyed my video - thanks for the kind comment! :)

[@randall8379]

Silly 'butler' uniform. A white jacket would do.

[@DrGariS]

Maybe you should chat to them. They do a GREAT job and I actually like the way they do it

[@randall8379]

@@DrGariS I'm sure they're good at their jobs. I just think a traditional white jacket like what they used to wear on passenger ships would be more appropriate. The outfit they're wearing now looks clownish. And I think a simple uniform blends better with the line's decor. You see the same thing at 5 star hotels like Claridges. I think it's a little humiliating for staff to have to dress that way.

[@DrGariS]

@@randall8379 they seem to be ok with it. It’s a good matter of opinion. As you can see on my channel there are different butler outfits that go with properties and ships all over the world. From shorts and tee shirts to what Silversea does. I actually interview them and have serious talks and every single Silversea butler or buttress I have spoken with have never complained about the uniform (which by the way does indeed change throughout the times of service).

[@randall8379]

@@DrGariS Maybe but I don't think they will necessarily tell you what they really think. They almost always come from very poor countries and are grateful to have jobs. I don't think they will want to be seen questioning management decisions. Even the term 'butler' is absurd in 2023. From my perspective as a passenger I'd rather see staff outfitted in more simple uniforms (not shorts!) than dressed up in fancy dress comic clothes. And the same for those men who stand outside five star hotels in absurd top hats, great coats and all manner of foppish clothe opening doors and looking for tips.

[@DrGariS]

@@randall8379​​⁠I have a Cuban background and I actually keep in touch with several old butlers who don’t even work with the line. I’ll have to ask one of them. Again, I don’t think that’s accurate but maybe you know some too. I know one from Zimbabwe and one Filipino and both loved their time with Silversea. I’ll ask and update you about their uniforms.

[@reeciastoglin2631]

The steak looks great-- we eat everything well done 😂😂😂

[@DrGariS]

Thanks for saying that. I love that well done!

[@dogmaticagnostic7716]

Who calls themselves "dr" if they aren't a physician? Unbelievably pretentious.

[@DrGariS]

I appreciate your curiosity! While it might seem surprising, I do hold a PhD in psychology and am a professor. My passion, however, lies in travel. Feel free to look up my credentials, and you'll find a blend of academia and wanderlust. Cheers!

[@dogmaticagnostic7716]

@@DrGariS My only curiosity is a simple one: why would a guy who was a travel agent, keep referring to himself as "Dr" on his KZbin page? Your alleged PhD has nothing to do with your travel activities...so why bring attention to it?

[@DrGariS]

I appreciate your curiosity about my professional background. I've dedicated significant effort to excel in my work, including planning travel for the college where I served as a professor. I continue to maintain relationships with clients from that time. While I may not fully understand the relevance of sharing these details, I respect your interest. If there's anything specific you'd like to know or discuss, feel free to let me know.

[@droski33]

Looks like a snoozefest

[@DrGariS]

It’s not for everyone but it’s an amazing voyage and I like variety. Everything from Scenic Eclipse to Royal. It depends on your mood and your budget and I work with all types of budgets and people. You’re welcomed to email me. Cheers!

[@droski33]

@@DrGariS do any of the scenic ships port in the USA? Boss wants to go on one.

[@DrGariS]

They do at times @@droski33