Everything you need to know about latest, lux Silversea ship Silver Ray

Silver Ray cruise ship set sail in summer 2024, its modernity and ultra-luxury garnering much attention as the latest high-end ship to launch.

Sailawaze got the inside track when we hopped aboard one of its early voyages to the Adriatic. Our complete guide to the Silver Ray ship will acquaint you with this new, stunning vessel – and let you in on the must-dos and don’ts!

How old is Silver Ray?

Silversea introduced its second Nova-class ship, Silver Ray, with a naming ceremony in Lisbon on June 12, 2024.

Is Silver Ray the same as Silver Nova?

Similar to its sister ship Silver Nova which launched in 2023, Silver Ray is notably spacious, with a seriously high guest-to-space ratio. This expansiveness is paired with top personalised service, featuring a crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1.3, ensuring butler service for all suites.

Where was Silver Ray built?

Silver Ray was constructed at the Meyer-Werft shipyard in Germany. It is the 12th vessel in the Silversea fleet. The line is part of the Royal Caribbean Group.

When did Silver Ray sail?

Silver Ray embarked on its maiden voyage in June 2024 from Civitavecchia, the port of Rome.

How many passengers on Silver Ray?

Silver Ray carries 728 guests and a crew of 544.

How old are guests on Silver Ray?

On our Adriatic cruise, Americans and Australians seem to be in the majority, followed by Brits, the former seemingly not sharing the same cruise stereotypes as we do. While school summer holidays served to bring down the average age dramatically, we were impressed to note that the Silversea crowd is not as old as one might assume, with plenty of younger couples, groups and multigenerational families joining the sailing.

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Silver Ray cruise ship Cabins

Silver Ray offers 364 suites across 13 categories. The interiors emphasise “whispered luxury”, says Silversea, with elegant finishes like decorative (and tech-clever) lighting, plush furnishings and fluted mirrors.

A standout option is the Otium Suites, which offer 270-degree views from their expansive windows. These 1,324-square-foot suites feature large living spaces and top-of-the-line amenities. Oh and an included spa treatment per guest.

The vast Master Suites boast wraparound balconies and bathrooms with ocean views while Medallion Suites are 50 percent wider than standard veranda suites and feature more spacious balconies.

Even the entry Classic Veranda Suites are amply-sized, complete with a walk-in wardrobe, his n’ her sinks wide enough room for two to brush their teeth simultaneously, and a balcony for both of you to laze on, glass of Duval Leroy champagne in hand.

It’s well worth giving in to the lure of room service and a movie night if you’re onboard for a week or longer. There are plenty of films to choose from, the room service menu is extensive (catering to all tastes, from hot dogs to lobster ravioli) and there’s even a fancy lighting mode just for the job.

Breakfast in your cabin is also an excellent idea when you have to get up early for an excursion and the (admittedly, short) walk to the restaurant doesn’t appeal. The blueberry pancakes get rave reviews from us.

Cabin categories on Silver Ray cruise ship

Otium Suite

The Otium Suite is a premium aft-corner suite, 123 m² (1,324 sq. ft.) in total, with a 40 m² (431 sq. ft.) balcony featuring a whirlpool. It includes a spacious living room, large bedroom, walk-in closet, and a bathroom with a whirlpool and walk-in shower. Its standout feature is a 270° view. Each guest (up to two) receives an Otium Spa Treatment worth up to $399.

Owner’s Suite

A favourite among the Venetian Society, the Owner’s Suite is 98 m² (1,055 sq. ft.), including a 16 m² (172 sq. ft.) balcony. It features a dining area, bedroom with mid-ship views, and a luxurious bathroom with double vanity, whirlpool, walk-in shower, bidet and guest restroom.

Grand Suite

The Grand Suite, located at the front, offers expansive sea views. At 54-58 m² (581-624 sq. ft.) with a 6 m² (64 sq. ft.) balcony, it has a large living/dining area, bedroom, and a luxurious bathroom with double vanity, whirlpool and walk-in shower.

Master Suite

Exclusive to Silver Ray, the Master Suite is 67-77 m² (721-826 sq. ft.) with a 22-31 m² (233-330 sq. ft.) balcony. Located in the premium aft-corner, it offers 270° views through floor-to-ceiling windows, with a spacious living area and bedroom.

Signature Suite

Also exclusive to Silver Ray, the Signature Suite is 65 m² (700 sq. ft.), including a 16 m² (172 sq. ft.) balcony. It features a large living/dining area, bedroom, and a bathroom with double vanity, whirlpool, walk-in shower and guest restroom.

Silver Suite

The Silver Suite, a Venetian Society favourite, offers panoramic sea views from the living room and bedroom. It includes a large living and dining area, walk-in closet, bathroom with whirlpool bath, walk-in shower and double vanity.

Junior Grand Suite

The Junior Grand Suite is 54-58 m² (581-624 sq. ft.) with a 6 m² (64 sq. ft.) balcony. Located at the ship’s bow, it features a large living/dining area, bedroom, and bathroom with double vanity, whirlpool and walk-in shower.

Premium Medallion Suite

The Premium Medallion Suite, located aft, offers 49 m² (527 sq. ft.) of interior space and an 8 m² (86 sq. ft.) balcony. It features a large bathroom with double vanity, spacious bathtub, separate shower and a queen-sized bed.

Medallion Suite

The Medallion Suite includes 49 m² (527 sq. ft.) of interior space and an 8 m² (86 sq. ft.) veranda. It offers panoramic views, a luxurious bathroom with double vanity, bathtub, and shower plus a comfortable living area.

Premium Veranda Suite

The Premium Veranda Suite features 49 m² (527 sq. ft.) of living space, with an 8 m² (86 sq. ft.) veranda. It includes a spacious sitting area, elegant décor, and a bathroom with double vanity, walk-in shower or large bathtub.

Deluxe Veranda Suite

At 33 m² (355 sq. ft.), the Deluxe Veranda Suite is located mid-ship. It features a private 5 m² (54 sq. ft.) teak veranda with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a luxurious interior and an elegant bathroom.

Superior Veranda Suite

With 28 m² (301 sq. ft.) of interior space and a 5 m² (54 sq. ft.) balcony, the Superior Veranda Suite is located at the ship’s front and rear. It offers luxurious furnishings, a cosy living area and beautiful sunset views.

Classic Veranda Suite

The Classic Veranda Suite, located at the bow and aft, offers 28 m² (301 sq. ft.) of interior space and a 5 m² (54 sq. ft.) private teak veranda. It includes butler service, a queen-sized bed and a marble bathroom.

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Dining on Silver Ray

On the topic of food (and for when you want to get out of your pyjamas), Silver Ray boasts five decks of restaurants, bars and lounges. The ship offers ten bars and eight distinct dining venues, all designed to create a social atmosphere within an open-concept layout.

Popular returning restaurants include Atlantide and S.A.L.T. Kitchen, while new Nova Class concepts like The Marquee on Deck 10 combine the casual dining options of The Grill and Spaccanapoli into one elegant setting. Here the shutters and flowering trees lend a Mediterranean feel to the joint while cushy sofas tempt you to stay for another glass of rosé. There’s (excellent) pizza available throughout the afternoon here (with extended menus emerging at meal times) but alas you can’t take your slice back to your pool lounger.

Speciality dining favourites such as Kaiseki and La Dame have also returned. The latter offers exclusive wine pairings for an enhanced dining experience, although there is also included wine pairing if you don’t wish to elevate your bill further beyond the $160pp cost.

Here the “simple” tasting menu is anything but and, when we visit, includes such highlights as a rich foie gras teamed with desert wine, succulent sea bass, tender steak and tarragon ice cream – all to the soundtrack of French music. The effect is very much like you’re ensconced in a stylish Parisian hotel. Top tip: there’s very little ambience when we visit on the first night so maybe save a booking here until later in your sailing for more of a vibe.

If you fancy live entertainment while you dine, Silver Note is a super included option. Each course here is named after a musical term and a pianist and singer perform throughout the evening, taking requests from guests… within reason. Look out for the (arguably ludicrous) “olive oil snow” that comes with your bread…

As for Kaiseki, this is a paid-for speciality joint at dinner time but you can swing by at lunchtime for free and gorge on sushi (which not everyone knows about, so go before the secret spreads). “Better than Itsu” is the understated verdict when Sailawaze attends.

If you’ve got particularly deep pockets or an occasion to celebrate, Chef’s Table is an absolute must-book experience on Silver Ray. When we go there are only three of us tucking into the interactive, 11-course menu, inspired by the region we’re visiting. The presentation is fantastic, from gold-painted oyster shells to arty splatters, as Chef talks us through all our dishes, and all the food is sublime. Go with a devil-may-care attitude to calories and a forgiving waistband.

Top tip: Silversea has made much of its 24/7 champagne and caviar offering over the years but these days it’s no longer so readily on tap for wastage/sustainability reasons, so remember you have to actually request it rather than expect it to come to you.

Silver Ray restaurants

Speciality restaurants on Silver Ray

– La Dame – Offers French fine dining with a focus on innovation. US$160 per guest.
– S.A.L.T. Chef’s Table – Curated menu of small plates showcasing regional flavours and key ingredients, paired with wines and cocktails. US$180 per guest.
– Kaiseki – A Japanese restaurant offering a fusion of flavours. US$80 per guest.

Included restaurants on Silver Ray

– La Terrazza – Serving modern Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist.
– Silver Note – Combining glamorous dining with live jazz and soul music.
– The Marquee – A casual dining spot with a focus on plant-based and vegan options.
– The Grill – Offering casual fare by day and transforming into Hot Rocks table BBQ by night.
– Spaccanapoli – An authentic pizzeria serving classic thin-crust pizzas.
– Arts Café – Relaxed café and deli-bar by day.
– Atlantide – European-style restaurant offering seafood, fish specialities and steaks.
– S.A.L.T. Kitchen – Destination-focused restaurant, where regional cuisine and culture take centre stage.

S.A.L.T. Lab

Want to cook yourself? S.A.L.T. Lab is an innovative test kitchen that allows guests to explore regional cuisine in depth, guided by local culinary experts and Silver Ray’s S.A.L.T. Host. Offering hands-on experience with local ingredients, the S.A.L.T. Lab includes cooking stations and a larger, redesigned central workstation where guests can observe and participate in demonstrations. Expect sweeping views and a new outdoor area but be sure to book shortly after you embark as classes fill up – as we learn the hard way.

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Bars on Silver Ray

Whether you’re after a lazy midday drink or a nightcap with a kick, there’s a bar for you on Silver Ray. Just remember to check on your in-room TV when they open (Silversea no longer provide printed-out daily guides, to the chagrin of many passengers).

The Dusk Bar

This open-air sky bar offers panoramic 270-degree views from the stern, perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks and ideal for both sunsets and stars. There’s a lone oboist playing when we visit and it proves a lovely spot for a relaxed catch-up.

Arts Café

The Arts Café serves healthy snacks, smoothies, pastries and sandwiches. It’s an ideal spot for a late breakfast or afternoon snack, complemented by Italian espresso and a variety of teas. If you’re anything like us, you’ll be heading here immediately upon returning from excursions for an iced coffee and a mackerel of something.

S.A.L.T. Bar

Experience the local flavour at the S.A.L.T. Bar, where regionally-inspired cocktails like Rum Punch in Barbados, Pastis in Marseille, or Pisco Sour in Lima are on offer. It’s deemed the “best bar on the ship” by fellow passengers when we’re onboard.

Dolce Vita

Newly reimagined, Dolce Vita retains its Italian glamour, stylish décor and nightly piano performances. With a central bar and cosy seating, it’s good for pre-dinner aperitifs or post-dinner cocktails, remaining the heart of Silver Ray’s social scene.

The Shelter

The Shelter is an intimate pre- and post-dinner cocktail bar with elegant lighting, plush sofas and a wraparound bar.

Panorama Lounge

Panorama Lounge is a tranquil retreat by day and a lively evening venue by night. Enjoy comfy seating, cocktails and live music from a pianist or DJ as you watch the world go by. The outdoor terrace here rapidly becomes a Sailawaze top spot – the Old Fashioned with chocolate bitters and the bright orange Paper Plane cocktail are firm favourites among the bevvies.

Connoisseur’s Corner

Connoisseur’s Corner offers a wide selection of fine cigars like Havanas and Cohibas, plus an indoor area and stylish terrace.

Pool Bar

Does what it says on the tin, keeping you hydrated poolside. Excellent Bloody Marys and pina coladas – take it from us.

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Silver Ray Entertainment and Leisure

There’s a variety of public spaces for leisure time on this luxury cruise ship. For games and reading, the Observation Lounge is perched on the ship’s highest deck. The serene space offers a peaceful retreat, with stunning seascapes as your backdrop. Borrow a book from the library – don’t miss the secret doorway (and the gorgeous ceiling inside) – catch up on the news, or simply enjoy the calming tranquillity of life at sea.

There’s a self-serve coffee machine here – and excellent air con for those escaping the heat of the pool deck in warmer climes! You’ll also find games here, although, on our sailing anyway, these mainly aim towards families and children.

Does Silver Ray have a theatre?

The Venetian Lounge puts on live performances, theatrical shows and feature films. The two-story theatre can accommodate 370 guests and also hosts lectures and other entertainment.

Word of warning: Entertainment on the Silver Ray vessel is very music-heavy – and the calibre of the singers and musicians is very high – but, based on our experience, don’t expect much else, performance-wise.

Does Silver Ray have a casino?

Yes, try your luck at a range of table games, including American Roulette, Blackjack and Poker. For more excitement, explore a selection of multi-game, multi-denominational reel and video slot machines.

Pools on Silver Ray ship

Silver Ray features a 1,400-square-foot pool area, among the largest in the fleet. The asymmetrical design is particularly striking – and unlike anything else out there. There’s also an infinity-style Cliff Whirlpool on Deck 11 and a thermal pool in the spa.

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Silver Ray Wellness Facilities

Silver Ray offers relaxation at the Otium Spa, a luxurious thermal suite inspired by ancient Roman baths. Guests can unwind in the steam room, sauna or indoor spa pool, all framed by floor-to-ceiling windows.

Treatments here include facials promising to “turn back the clock”, cosmetic therapies to “wake up the goddess within”, massages and acupuncture plus beauty and grooming treatments.

We feel supremely pampered after the Otium Experience – the “ultimate spa journey”. We’re kneaded with salt stones (packed with a whopping 84 natural minerals said to tackle muscle tension), calabash (us neither) and bamboo to “entice a most pleasurable feeling of inner wellbeing.” Alternatively, have several glasses of champagne.

The Fitness Centre features cutting-edge Technogym equipment, free weights and specialised classes, combining elite design with customised programs tailored to your body type and goals. Personal trainers are available for one-on-one sessions, ensuring a five-star experience for all fitness levels. Oh, the hunky Roman Gods depicted on the walls by the running machines are very, erm, energising indeed… Avoid early morning and lunchtimes if you’re hoping for gym alone time (no, not like that).

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What is the dress code for Silver Ray?

During the day, the dress code is relaxed, similar to five-star resort wear. Flat or low-heeled shoes are recommended for use on deck. In the evenings, the dress code shifts to elegant casual. Women can opt for trousers, skirts or informal dresses, while men can wear collared shirts and slacks, with a jacket being optional. On formal optional nights, men are required to wear a jacket when indoors.

On cruises lasting seven days or fewer, the dress code remains elegant casual throughout. For cruises lasting eight to 14 days, there may be one or two formal optional nights, with at least two taking place on longer cruises of 15 days. Your TV schedule will inform you of when these take place.

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Silversea Silver Ray Itineraries

Silver Ray’s inaugural season will be spent in the Mediterranean, calling at ports in Portugal, Spain, Italy, France and Greece. Voyages range from seven to 16 days and are scheduled through winter 2026.

In winter 2024, Silver Ray will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to begin a series of South American voyages. Destinations will include Lima (Callao), Peru; Cartagena, Colombia; Panama City (Fuerte Amador), Panama; and Buenos Aires, Argentina.

After another Mediterranean summer in 2025, Silver Ray will embark on a 13-day transatlantic crossing from Lisbon to Fort Lauderdale in November. The ship will then operate a series of Caribbean and Central American itineraries until March 2026, with stops in destinations such as St. Kitts, the US Virgin Islands, Antigua, the Turks and Caicos, and Puerto Rico.

Remember if you’re ever interned in the position of Silver Ray, the cruisemapper app is a very handy locating tool for locating cruise ships all around the world!

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