Aboard Silver Nova to Alaska, Silversea Delivers on 'Finding More' Promise

Discover Silversea's New Gem

Embark on a journey aboard Silversea's Silver Nova, the latest marvel in luxury cruising. My recent voyage to Alaska brought impeccable service, stunning design, and a truly memorable experience. From the serene Deck 10 to the delicious Marquee, indulge in everything this ship offers. Read my review below.

Long recognized as one of the top luxury brands in the cruise industry, Silversea Cruises remains at the top of its game — something I can confidently attest to after a recent voyage aboard the relatively new Silver Nova to Alaska.

I've been fortunate to sail on each of the line’s new ships in recent years: the delightful and intimate Silver Origin in the Galápagos; sister ships Silver Moon and Silver Dawn in Europe; and now the Nova Class, beginning with Silver Nova in 2023 and her sister ship, Silver Ray, last year.

The company recently introduced a new marketing concept titled "To Finding More." While I may not have discovered more in the literal sense during this voyage, I did find an exceptional ship, a warm and attentive staff, impeccable service (a phrase I don’t use lightly), and excellent cuisine. So yes, I found more to love.

Captain Alessandro Zanello, the Master of Silver Nova, is someone I’ve sailed with several times. Young, charming, and approachable, he remains a tremendous asset to the brand.

Previous sailings were typically short introductory cruises for industry, media, and VIPs. These events are centred around naming ceremonies, Godmothers, and celebrations — enjoyable but not reflective of a true guest experience.

This time, I sailed as a regular guest on a full itinerary with fellow travellers — no fanfare, no VIP status. It allowed for a genuine evaluation of the brand and a firsthand understanding of how the ship operates during a typical voyage.

It had also been over 20 years since my last visit to Alaska, and it was wonderful to revisit familiar ports with upgraded excursions and explore new ones. I found Alaska less touristy and more connected to nature than I remembered.

During Nova and the Ray sailings for their christening cruises, I admired their striking new design. The vessels were built more asymmetrically than previous ships. On the Nova Class, accommodations are located on Decks 6 through 9, while the stunning public spaces are found primarily on Decks 4, 5, and 10.

In the past, Silversea ships had public rooms and suites sharing decks, a layout that worked well, of course.

But these changes have made the Nova and Ray feel more expansive, light-filled, and visually impressive. At times, you can see directly from port to starboard through walls of glass that bring the outside in. It's a spectacular design.

Silver Nova accommodates 728 guests, significantly more than Silver Moon or Dawn, which each carry 596. But the ship never feels crowded. Additionally, there are some fantastic new spaces on this ship. We met many guests who were either new to cruising or new to Silversea, and they raved about the Nova’s beauty. And it is gorgeous.

Being welcomed onboard on Deck 4 at the elegant Arts Café with Champagne and caviar set the tone for what was to come. I've boarded well over 400 ships in my day, and even I was impressed.

Every room is a suite, each with a veranda and all the comforts one might need. Ours, Suite 6082, was located aft, and Jerry, our Butler, was a dream — always attentive, thoughtful, and ready with treats for the mini-bar, fresh fruit, canapés, or anything we requested.

One improvement already underway is the addition of kettles and coffee makers in all suites, not just the higher categories. Also, Silversea should consider reinstating binoculars in each suite, especially for Alaska sailings.

Our Suite Attendant, Berto, kept everything pristine and cozy. He was quick to provide us with different pillows and bath crystals, as requested. And one day, after a chilly excursion, we returned to find a hot bath drawn for me, candles flickering, and music playing — a lovely, thoughtful touch.

Returning to the newer spaces on the Nova class, Deck 10 has become a favourite especially in warmer weather. It’s a destination-focused deck with panoramic views. The Observation Lounge at the front is serene and was packed during our sail into Icy Bay — a stunning fjord where the Captain and a local pilot navigated us close to a glacier through "bergy bits" of ice. Staff served hot chocolate with Baileys and sweet treats to enhance the experience.

Just aft is the stylish new S.A.L.T. Bar, which has been elevated from its previous spot as an intimate jewel near the Atlantide restaurant on the Dawn and the Moon. With regional cocktails, great views (whales, anyone?), and expert mixologists, it became our go-to for pre- and post-dinner drinks. Behind it, the S.A.L.T. Lab offers cooking classes by day and transforms into a Chef’s Table at night, a multi-course culinary experience that requires reservations and carries a surcharge.

Farther aft, a luxurious pool graces the starboard side, flanked by chic lounging spaces and a pool bar on the port side, echoing a five-star resort vibe.

Then comes The Marquee, a mostly outdoor spot with some deck coverage on one side and heaters to warm you in cooler climes. This is a fantastic new, deliciously inviting restaurant which also combines Hot Rocks and Spaccanapoli for the best pizza at sea – it's outstanding.

The Marquee also offers salads, fish and chips, burgers, and casual lunches, and then opens in the evening for the Hot Rocks experience – a mainstay on every ship in the fleet. And one must reserve for dinner.

Continuing to the aft, one comes upon the Dusk Bar, yet another sexy bar ideal for watching the world go by as the ship sets sail. Guests enjoy 270-degree panoramic views from the stern. It's, of course, a must-do for sunsets!

There’s so much more to see and do aboard Silver Nova that I’ll continue my ship tour in a future column. Next time, I’ll explore dining, the expanded S.A.L.T. concept, and OTIVM, the spa and wellness experience that blends leisure and luxury.

Written by Vanessa Lee