When Silversea’s Silver Shadow departed Fort Lauderdale in mid-November, it marked the beginning of something rather special – a 33-voyage Caribbean season that extends through early March 2026. Four intimate ships will navigate waters that larger vessels simply cannot access, calling at 32 destinations across 19 countries.
The appeal lies in what president Bert Hernandez describes as discovering the Caribbean’s authentic soul. While mainstream cruise lines dock at over-developed ports, Silversea’s smaller vessels slip into places like Little Bay in Montserrat and Les Saintes in Guadeloupe – boutique harbors where the region’s genuine character remains intact.
Culinary journeys through island cultures
The line’s S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) culinary program threads through each voyage, connecting passengers to authentic taste sensations. On Silver Shadow’s Valentine’s week sailing from Barbados to Saint Maarten, guests can attend a private cooking class at La Suite Villa in Martinique’s Trois-Ilets, guided by Chef Julien Fournet. His French-Creole cuisine balances local ingredients with global techniques.
Silver Spirit’s December departures from Bridgetown offer wine and cheese tastings at Barons de Rothschild’s Lounge in St. Barts – the only location of its kind outside France. A cooking class follows at Rosewood Guanahani, set against one of the island’s most striking beaches.
Beyond the beaches
Natural wonders punctuate the itineraries. In Dominica’s Roseau, geothermal activity creates beaches where fine bubbles fizz through the sand. Guadeloupe’s Les Saintes Bay rewards snorkelers with thriving coral reefs, while hikers can tackle Mount Morel for panoramic views.
The newest ship, Silver Ray, makes its Caribbean debut in December with a 10-day Eastern Caribbean voyage. Late January sees it return for another roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, calling at Spanish Town in the British Virgin Islands, where Devil’s Bay National Park’s geothermal pools and distinctive boulder formations await exploration.
The Silversea difference
With sailings ranging from seven to 21 days, the experience balances immersive port calls with sea days designed for onboard discovery. The Nova Class Silver Ray, along with Silver Spirit, Silver Shadow, and Silver Dawn, each maintain the signature service standards that define luxury expedition travel.
For travelers seeking Caribbean authenticity beyond the typical cruise experience, Silversea’s season offers access to islands where culture, cuisine, and natural beauty remain refreshingly unspoiled.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
