Like many southeast Florida neighbors, Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing. In a state where gaudy tourist zones often stand aloof from workaday downtowns, Fort Lauderdale exhibits consistency at both ends of the 2-mile Las Olas corridor. The sparkling look results from upgrades both downtown and on the beachfront. Matching the downtown’s innovative arts district, cafés, and boutiques is an equally inventive beach area, with hotels, cafés, and shops facing an undeveloped shoreline, and new resort-style hotels replacing faded icons of yesteryear. Despite wariness of pretentious overdevelopment, city leaders have allowed a striking number of glittering high-rises. Nostalgic locals and frequent visitors fret over the diminishing vision of sailboats bobbing in waters near downtown; however, Fort Lauderdale remains the yachting capital of the world, and the water toys don’t seem to be going anywhere.
Miles of sandy beaches, lively outdoor events, and a charming web of waterways help to make Fort Lauderdale a relaxed, vacation capital of Florida. The excitement is palpable, as cruise ships and gleaming yachts gather in the harbour ahead of adventures and luxury journeys across the waves. Soak up the relaxed atmosphere in the canal-laced ‘Venice of America,’ as you enjoy big label shopping on Las Olas Boulevard – or visit fancy restaurants and bustling art galleries. For a wilder experience, the swampy wetlands of the Everglades sprawl away nearby. Fort Lauderdale Beach is a lively stretch of sand, bordered by palm trees, and sprinkled with crowds enjoying the Sunshine State’s generous weather. The charming promenade of red-brick tiles extends right along the beach’s length and rumbles with passing rollerbladers and cyclists. Flick across the waves while paragliding, or relax with a coffee or a margarita in a beachfront bar, as volleyball games play out in front of you. For a quieter beach option, Olas Beach lies a little down the coast towards Port Everglades, and has extra space to spread out and tan on acres of smooth white sand. Spot the backs of alligators waiting patiently, and the toothy grins of crocodiles patrolling the murky waters of the Everglades – the USA’s biggest tropical wetlands. A haven of extraordinary wildlife, birds wade through its swamps, and black bears and panthers roam its wilds. Take to a plane to appreciate the full scale of the national park or purr along exploring its waterways in a fan powered boat.
If you associate Puerto Rico’s capital with the colonial streets of Old San Juan, then you know only part of the picture. San Juan is a major metropolis, radiating out from the bay on the Atlantic Ocean that was discovered by Juan Ponce de León. More than a third of the island’s nearly 4 million citizens proudly call themselves sanjuaneros. The city may be rooted in the past, but it has its eye on the future. Locals go about their business surrounded by colonial architecture and towering modern structures.By 1508 the explorer Juan Ponce de León had established a colony in an area now known as Caparra, southeast of present-day San Juan. He later moved the settlement north to a more hospitable peninsular location. In 1521, after he became the first colonial governor, Ponce de León switched the name of the island—which was then called San Juan Bautista in honor of St. John the Baptist—with that of the settlement of Puerto Rico (“rich port”).Defended by the imposing Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal, Puerto Rico’s administrative and population center remained firmly in Spain’s hands until 1898, when it came under U.S. control after the Spanish-American War. Centuries of Spanish rule left an indelible imprint on the city, particularly in the walled area now known as Old San Juan. The area is filled with cobblestone streets and brightly painted, colonial-era structures, and its fortifications have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Old San Juan is a monument to the past, but most of the rest of the city is planted firmly in the 21st century and draws migrants island-wide and from farther afield to jobs in its businesses and industries. The city captivates residents and visitors alike with its vibrant lifestyle as well as its balmy beaches, pulsing nightclubs, globe-spanning restaurants, and world-class museums. Once you set foot in this city, you may never want to leave.
St. John, the smallest most idyllic of the three United States Virgin Islands, is best known for its dozens of post card perfect white sand beaches, turquoise bays abounding in colourful corals & rainbows of tropical fish endless vistas of green velvet hills. Only nine miles long (14.5 kilometres) and three miles (4.8 kilometres) wide, two thirds of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park, so its spectacular beaches & untouched forests will remain that way for generations to come and remain accessible to all. There are tours of the National Park by Jeep or safari bus and hikes on spectacular trails led by Park Rangers who enrich the experience with talks on the island’s history and geology as well as its flora & fauna. While it is only twenty minutes from St. Thomas by convenient hourly ferry, St. John is the peaceful, uncommercialised paradise of island fantasies. It has no high-rise buildings, cruise ship docks or airport. Visitors can obtain discounted air fares to St. Thomas. Despite its unspoiled atmosphere, it offers every facility and amenity found at major resorts.
Like so many of the islands in the Caribbean, 2017’s double whammy of hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated much of St. John. However, as relief funds get funnelled into rebuilding, normality is gradually being restored, and St. John version 2.0 is emerging – bolder, brighter and better.St. John’s small size might just give it the edge over other desert islands. The US purchased the tiny landmass (at just nine miles long, the island is the smallest of the three American Virgin Islands) from the West India and Guinea Company in 1917 and it remains under US govern to this day. Historically speaking however St. John is Danish, who colonised it for almost 250 years before its sale to America. The Virgin Island Nation park covers almost two-thirds the island, meaning visually St. John is stunning, and will remain that way for generations to come. This ‘gift’ to the world comes thanks to Laurence Rockefeller who in 1956 gave the 5,000 acres of lush forest to the people of the island, with the caveat that it become a national park. Thus, velvety green hills slope into picture perfect white sand beaches, which are ringed by turquoise seas.One very definite winner of the tourism hiatus since 2017 has been the marine wildlife. Underwater life was barely affected by the storms and the subsequent lack of tourism has allowed the eco-systems to propagate. The island’s abundant coral reefs were not overly affected by the storms and today the waters are teeming with sea turtles, reef sharks and sting rays.
You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats.
Cherry red roofs, yacht-sprinkled bays and a sophisticated French flavour all add to the gorgeous Caribbean allure of Gustavia. The island’s capital rolls around a horseshoe-shaped harbour, where gleaming yachts hover and fancy boutiques, bars and restaurants fizz with life and clinking cutlery. Head up to red and white Gustavia Lighthouse to look down over the revered waters, which attract many a celebrity guest and diving enthusiast to these shores. Christopher Columbus was the first European to discover this volcanic island in 1493, giving it the name St Barthelemy in honour of his younger brother. The island has a unique history as a Swedish colony, following a deal with the French King Louis XVI to exchange the island with Sweden for better trading rights. It was returned to French control in 1878 and is now a French Overseas Collectivity. Learn more of the Swedish legacy at Fort Karl – which sits on a 29-metre-high hill above Shell Beach. The fort now lies in ruins, but you’ll meet wandering iguanas, and the views down of sweeping sea and emerald coastline are some of the island’s finest. Down below, a delightful spread of tiny pebbles and shell fragments are scattered like confetti and lapped by crystal-clear water. A little exploration uncovers countless other glorious beaches and natural wonders. Colombier Beach is a little out of the way but cradles silky-smooth sands and typically turquoise waters. If you have chance, find somewhere to settle and sip fruity rum cocktails as the sunset flares across the waves.
Mountainous St. Kitts, the first English settlement in the Leeward Islands, crams some stunning scenery into its 65 square miles (168 square km). Vast, brilliant green fields of sugarcane (the former cash crop, now slowly being replanted) run to the shore. The fertile, lush island has some fascinating natural and historical attractions: a rain forest replete with waterfalls, thick vines, and secret trails; a central mountain range dominated by the 3,792-foot Mt. Liamuiga, whose crater has long been dormant; and Brimstone Hill, known in the 18th century as the Gibraltar of the West Indies. St. Kitts and Nevis, along with Anguilla, achieved self-government as an associated state of Great Britain in 1967. In 1983 St. Kitts and Nevis became an independent nation. English with a strong West Indian lilt is spoken here. People are friendly but shy; always ask before you take photographs. Also, be sure to wear wraps or shorts over beach attire when you’re in public places.
St. Kitts verdant volcanic slopes rise from crystal clear Caribbean waters, promising a land of escape, relaxation and rejuvenation. A place for ‘limin’ – the local word for kicking back, Caribbean style, you’ll be welcomed to an island paradise blessed with swarming reefs, hidden white-sand beaches, and irresistible shallow seas. Bigger sibling to nearby Nevis, St. Kitts is a place of unrestrained natural beauty. Soak up the dreamy Caribbean bliss, or explore sprawling island rainforests, teeming with hummingbirds and the distant sounds of waterfalls, as you walk the island’s vine-tangled paths. A ride on Basseterre’s scenic sugar train is a rumbling, immersive journey through the heart of this Caribbean island of culture and vivid unspoiled scenery. Carriages that once transported crops of sugar cane to the city sweep around long curving bends, revealing a spectacular introduction to St. Kitts. The landscapes here are beautiful, and things are no less spectacular offshore, where glorious crystalline waters invite you to dive with turtles, and explore doomed wrecks like the River Taw ship – which has now exploded with marine life. In Basseterre itself, stop off to see the pea-green Berkeley Memorial clock, which stands in the Circus, surrounded by busy St. Kitts life. Independence Square is also waiting among the city’s charming Georgian buildings. Renamed from Pall Mall on the 19th of September 1983 – to celebrate the island’s independence – the pretty square gravitates around a colourful burbling fountain, and has a dark history, as a former slave market. Wary canons watch out over the waves far below at Brimstone Hill Fortress, a site of significant history, which dates back to 1690. Known as the ‘Gibraltar of the West Indies’ due to its importance at the heart of the British empire, St. Kitts was one of the first island in the West Indies to be colonised. Nowadays, its World Heritage Site fortress offers panoramic views along the coastline it was built to defend.
Colourful houses speckle the rolling green hills of Tortola island overlooking tempting electric blue waters. Let the unspoiled British Virgin Islands scenery wash over you as you look out over secluded coves of heavenly beaches and quiet yacht-filled bays. Road Town is an ideal base for island hopping to the scattered charms of this volcanic archipelago – whether you choose to head out to the dazzling white sand beaches of Anegada Virgin Gorda’s boulder-strewn caves or Jost Van Dyke’s famous beach bars. A quieter more secluded escape than some of the Caribbean’s resorts Road Town is a laid-back slice of paradise offering an indulgent selection of serene beaches fringed by thick layers of palm trees. Strap on your snorkelling mask to submerge in warm water that glistens with swirling fish – spot squirrelfish and clownfish among the reef’s many inhabitants. Snorkel leisurely or dive among the turtles and sleek stingrays that glide through Salt Island Bay’s life-filled shipwreck. For an alternative to the beaches take on Sage Mountain’s challenge to tour through a dense mesh of redolent white cedar and mahogany trees. Learn of sugar cane and rum production history – which go hand in hand here – or shop to pick through local jewellery or handcrafted metalwork. Get a flavour of island cuisine by enjoying succulent flying fish sandwiches or follow your nose to spicy barbecues producing pork roti with a fiery jerk kick on the sand. Round off your meal with a sweet guava pastry.
Like many southeast Florida neighbors, Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing. In a state where gaudy tourist zones often stand aloof from workaday downtowns, Fort Lauderdale exhibits consistency at both ends of the 2-mile Las Olas corridor. The sparkling look results from upgrades both downtown and on the beachfront. Matching the downtown’s innovative arts district, cafés, and boutiques is an equally inventive beach area, with hotels, cafés, and shops facing an undeveloped shoreline, and new resort-style hotels replacing faded icons of yesteryear. Despite wariness of pretentious overdevelopment, city leaders have allowed a striking number of glittering high-rises. Nostalgic locals and frequent visitors fret over the diminishing vision of sailboats bobbing in waters near downtown; however, Fort Lauderdale remains the yachting capital of the world, and the water toys don’t seem to be going anywhere.
Miles of sandy beaches, lively outdoor events, and a charming web of waterways help to make Fort Lauderdale a relaxed, vacation capital of Florida. The excitement is palpable, as cruise ships and gleaming yachts gather in the harbour ahead of adventures and luxury journeys across the waves. Soak up the relaxed atmosphere in the canal-laced ‘Venice of America,’ as you enjoy big label shopping on Las Olas Boulevard – or visit fancy restaurants and bustling art galleries. For a wilder experience, the swampy wetlands of the Everglades sprawl away nearby. Fort Lauderdale Beach is a lively stretch of sand, bordered by palm trees, and sprinkled with crowds enjoying the Sunshine State’s generous weather. The charming promenade of red-brick tiles extends right along the beach’s length and rumbles with passing rollerbladers and cyclists. Flick across the waves while paragliding, or relax with a coffee or a margarita in a beachfront bar, as volleyball games play out in front of you. For a quieter beach option, Olas Beach lies a little down the coast towards Port Everglades, and has extra space to spread out and tan on acres of smooth white sand. Spot the backs of alligators waiting patiently, and the toothy grins of crocodiles patrolling the murky waters of the Everglades – the USA’s biggest tropical wetlands. A haven of extraordinary wildlife, birds wade through its swamps, and black bears and panthers roam its wilds. Take to a plane to appreciate the full scale of the national park or purr along exploring its waterways in a fan powered boat.
The Otium Suite is one of our newest and finest suites. Located in the premium aft corner position, the Otium Suite has a total size of 123 m2 (1,324 sq ft), including a 40 m2 (431 sq ft) balcony, which comes complete with a whirlpool. Features include a spacious living room area, a luxurious walk-in closet, a separate large bedroom, plus a bathroom with a whirlpool bath and walk-in shower. The crowning glory of the Otium Suite, however, is surely its unprecedented 270-degree view, giving you some of the best possible views of your destination.
The Otium Suite includes an Otium Spa Treatment Per Guest up to $399 (up to two guests per suite)
One bedroom: 123 sq m including veranda (40 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
The aptly named Owner’s Suite is a Venetian Society favorite. So, why not travel in this stylish suite and get a taste of the ultimate luxury lifestyle. The suite’s total size is a huge 98 m2, or 1,055 sq ft, which includes 16 m2 (172 sq ft) of balcony, making for comfortable outdoor living. The favorite midship position gives incredible views from both the dining area and bedroom. A luxurious bathroom with a double vanity, plus a whirlpool bath and walk-in shower, bidet, lavatory, and guest restroom perfect the in-suite experience.
One bedroom: 98 sq m including veranda (16 sq m)
Two bedrooms: 131 sq m including veranda (21 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
If you have ever wanted to indulge in one of the epitomes of ultra-luxury cruising, then the Grand Suite is perhaps the answer. Situated at the front of the ship, the Grand Suite offers sophistication and style for serious travelers. Thanks to an innovative design, the Grand Suite is one of the most luxurious and spacious suites aboard Silver Ray, offering sweeping sea-to-sky views of your destination from all living areas. A luxurious bathroom with a double vanity, whirlpool bath, and walk-in shower, plus a complete guest restroom.
One bedroom: 85 sq m including veranda (13 sq m)
Two bedroom: 118 sq m including veranda (18 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
This new suite category is exclusive to Silver Ray. The Master Suite is stately, commanding, majestic, and perfect for relaxing after a day exploring onshore. Located in the premium aft corner position, the Master Suite has a total size of 67–77 m2 (721–826 sq ft) and includes 22–31 m2 (233–330 sq ft) of balcony. The incredible floor-to-ceiling glazing surrounding the living room and bedroom area will offer outstanding 270-degree views of your destination, regardless of where you are in the world.
One bedroom: 67–77 sq m including veranda (22–31 sq m)
Two bedrooms: 100–110 sq m including veranda (27–36 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Another exclusivity for Silver Ray. The Signature Suite is one of our most distinctive new suites, offering unparalleled destination immersion through unobstructed views from all interior areas. The Signature Suite is one of the most spacious suites on board totaling 65 m2, or 700 sq ft, including 16 m2, or 172 sq ft, of balcony for superlative outdoor living. The innovative layout will feature a large dining and living room area, as well as a secluded bedroom. The large bathroom features a double vanity, whirlpool bath, walk-in shower, and lavatory, and the suite includes a guest restroom.
One bedroom: 65 sq m including veranda (16 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Deck(s): 6, 7, 8, 9
Section: Mid-Ship
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
The Silver Suite is a Silversea favorite. It’s one of the Venetian Society’s favorite choices, and we can see why! The Silver Suite aboard Silver Ray offers an innovative design layout that will unlock full ocean views from both the living room and bedroom while the spacious living area allows for comfortable relaxing. A generous dining area makes cozy nights dining in veritable experiences in themselves. The suite features a generous walk-in closet as well as a bathroom with whirlpool bath, a walk-in shower, double vanity, and separate lavatory.
One bedroom: 63 sq m including veranda (11 sq m)
Two bedroom: 96 sq m including veranda (16 sq m)
Wheelchair accessible suites: 6022, 7018
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Silver Ray’s Junior Grand Suite is a comfortably sized home away from home. Spaciously proportioned with 54–58 m2, or 581–624 sq ft, including 6 m2, or 64 sq ft, of balcony the Junior Grand builds on the success of the Grand Suite. It has inherited the best features of the Grand Suite by being positioned in the top bow position, offering spectacular views of the destination. The interior layout features a spacious living and dining area, as well as a secluded bedroom. The large bathroom features a double vanity, whirlpool bath, and walk-in shower.
One bedroom: 54–58 sq m including veranda (6 sq m)
Two bedrooms: 87–91 sq m including veranda (11 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
With features similar to our best-selling Medallion Suite, the Premium Medallion enjoys an optimal location at the aft. The Medallion Suite design builds on the phenomenal success of our iconic Veranda Suite while offering the comfort of a generous interior and balcony (49 m2/527 sq ft and 8 m2/86 sq ft, respectively). Additionally, the suite features a large bathroom with a double vanity, a spacious bathtub, and separate shower, as well as a secluded bedroom area with a queen-size bed.
One bedroom: 49 sq m including veranda (8 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
A mark of distinction, the Medallion Suite boasts a sumptuous and spacious living area, complete with rich textures and panoramic views from your large private veranda (8 m2, or 86 sq ft). Nestle under plush bed linens for one of the best night’s sleeps of your life, or rejuvenate after a busy day of exploring onshore in the cozy indoor seating area (49 m2, or 527 sq ft) The large bathroom with a double vanity, spacious bathtub, and shower is the perfect place to soak the day away. Relax with ease in the Medallion Suite, as the grandeurs of this stateroom surround you with distinguished luxury.
One bedroom: 49 sq m including veranda (8 sq m)
One bedroom: 527 sq ft/49 sq m including veranda
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note that the third guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have third-berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite offers elegant decor, a stunning marbled bathroom with a luxurious double vanity and sumptuous walk-in shower or large bathtub. Located now in the top aft location, the Premium Veranda will offer a comfortable interior. Additionally, an ample seating area provides a generous expanse of interior comforts. Four suites (one on each deck) will offer spacious interiors adapted for guests with disabilities and will be located in the ideal midship position. A new iteration of our iconic and perfect suite configuration.
One bedroom: 33 sq m including veranda (5 sq m)
Wheelchair accessible suites: 6045, 7037, 8031, 9041
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Whether you are preparing for a dynamic day onshore, primping for a romantic dinner on board, or settling down for a quiet evening in-suite, you will be enveloped by the Deluxe Veranda Suite’s warm touches. Located in the ideal midship position, the Deluxe Veranda Suite offers a comfortable 33 m2, or 355 sq ft, of interior luxury. But perhaps this suite’s finest asset lies just outside, as floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a 5-m2 (54-sq-ft) furnished private teak veranda offering sweeping views of your destination.
One bedroom: 33 sq m including veranda (5 sq m)
Two bedrooms: 33 sq m including veranda (5 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Well situated at the front and back of the ship, the 28-m2 (301-sq-ft) interior of the Veranda Suite is only the beginning. The 5-m2 (54-sq-ft) teak balcony makes each spectacular sunset feel like it is yours alone. From beautiful bed linens to sumptuous furniture, our Superior Veranda Suites are luxurious inside and out! Whether enjoying some down time with the state-of-the-art entertainment system or taking in dinner in-suite, the Superior Veranda is the coziest home away from home on the high seas.
One bedroom: 33 sq m including veranda (5 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Located at the bow and aft of the ship, the Classic Veranda Suite will offer travelers a taste of our famous onboard luxury. After a busy day of exploring, come home to the haven of the Classic Veranda Suite. With butler service, a queen-size bed (which can be separated on demand), and a beautiful marble bathroom, you won’t want to leave! However, the best part of our Classic Veranda Suite is by far the large (5 m2, or 54 sq ft) private teak veranda, which offers sweeping views of the destination. Pure bliss.
One bedroom: 33 sq m including veranda (5 sq m)
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
Please note the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of suites that have 3rd berth capacity.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities