Having visited New Zealand upteen times , this was a little different because the ship is so much smaller , especially compared to Majestic Princess , with the ability of venturing that much further into Milford Sound also visiting Stewart Is. . Much prefer this size of ship with only 386 passengers & nearly the same number of crew & surprisingly quite stable for such a small ship at 28,000 tonne displacement , however affordability will for now be a consideration . We do have another cruise in March 2020 on the Silver Muse .
Embarkation
5 out of 5
With the smaller ship , White Bay offers convenience , with parking close at hand , including drop-offs at the door . The process of registering & boarding was a few minutes , even for our " guests " , something no other cruise line offers .sts "
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
My wife requires pureed meals , for instance , beef & reef , which was no problem whatsoever , although the first dining event did take some time to get the meal right for the chef introduced himself ( an Australian , surprise , surprise ! ) Very attentive .
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our personal butler , Ricardo & our suite attendant , Allan ensured all expectations & everything in the room along with our requirements were well & truly met . Drinks ( complimentary ) I preferred in the dining were then presented in our suite with the compliments of Ricardo .
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Apart from the total power failure off Stewart Island for near 5 hours , the Silver Shadow appeared to be in very good condition .
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
A veranda suite , starboard side with easy access to the Panorama Lounge . Similar size to a Princess Grand Class mini-suite . Our personal butler ensured all was taken care of .
Ship tip
Some months prior to embarkation , enquire if you can invite family or guests aboard for lunch .
Embarkation . Did have the pleasure of inviting my sister-in-law & husband aboard with us to enjoy a luncheon , including various wines , coffee etc ..
Our first visit to Stewart Island . Enjoyed a walk across to the main township . We did have a little " excitement " following our departure , for around 1800 hrs , whilst we were finishing dining , the ship " blacked out " totally , no power at all , about 5 mile or so from the island . The Captain kept the 386 passengers advised at all times , even with the information tugs were on standby from Port Chalmers , however , by 2300 hrs , power was restored & the Silver Shadow continued to proceed to Port Chalmers at speed to make up for time lost .
Because of the size of the Silver Shadow , she was able to berth at the ferry wharf , allowing easy access to town without relying on a shuttle although that was supplied .
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