Silversea Expedition Cruises – Alaskan Adventure, with Silversea’s Silver Discoverer

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Departing 20th July 2015 from Vancouver, Canada.

Silversea Expedition Cruises offer journeys that are just as exhilarating as they are luxurious. Alaska is breathtakingly beautiful: from its famed glaciers and evergreen forest to its jagged peaks and peaceful fjords. This wild place is also home to a captivating array of creatures, from brown bears to bald eagles. Perhaps most compelling, though, will be your experience of this state’s culture: gain some perspective on First Nation traditions, admiring their totems and visiting their longhouses. Accompany professional photographer David Wright ashore and in the Zodiacs and learn about photography skills in his lectures and workshops. [/jbox] call-our-advisors [jcolumns model=”3,2″ inbordercss=”1px solid #555555″] [jbox]

Itinerary

Itinerary [/jbox]
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Silversea Expedition Cruises – Silver Discoverer


Silver Discoverer is designed for discerning travellers who like to explore the great outdoors while enjoying gracious comfort and gourmet cuisine indoors. [/jbox]
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Route Map

Silversea Expeditions Silver Discoverer Vancouver to Seaward AK [/jbox]
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Explorer Suite Prices

from £5,350 pp

Based on 2 persons sharing an Explorer Suite, including; Gourmet cuisine inspired by Relais & Châteaux Complimentary beverages served throughout the ship – including fine wines, champagnes, spirits, beer, bottled water, specialty coffees and soft drinks In-room bar and refrigerator stocked with your preferred beverage selections Complimentary 24-hour room service and in-suite dining served course-by-course from The Restaurant Complimentary guided excursions ashore, enrichment lecturers and destination consultants Fares include on board gratuities [/jbox] [/jcolumns]  

About the Ship, Cruise Highlights, Ports of Call & Excursions

[jtabs] Silversea Expedition Cruises – Silver Discoverer ::

Silversea Expedition Cruises – Silver Discoverer

Silversea’s third expedition ship is expertly engineered to explore the most isolated archipelagos of the Pacific. Her small size and shallow draft allow close-up access to rugged coasts well beyond the reach of ordinary vessels. And she has been newly refurbished to help guests maximize their experience and build a genuine connection with the regions they visit. Spacious decks and panoramic public rooms mean the drama of the unexpected is never far from view. A fleet of Zodiacs allows exploration from the water or remote landings anywhere nature or curiosity dictate. Since many of our expeditions sail to some of the world’s most pristine coral reef systems, there’s a glass-bottom boat for underwater viewing along with a full complement of snorkeling equipment and a dive programme for advanced divers.

Click Here for Silver Discoverer – Deck Plans

Silversea have also taken great care to assemble a truly outstanding Expedition Team, composed of experts in the culture, history and wild life of the destinations, to present informal talks, guide Zodiac outings and lead small-group explorations ashore. While back on board, every creature comfort awaits: an ocean-view suite, in-suite bar and the head-to-toe pampering of a butler; elegant lounges and open bar where fellow travellers gather to swap tales about their day’s adventures; and cuisine that meets Silversea’s standards of culinary excellence — which are lofty, indeed. Imaginative menus in The Restaurant feature both regional offerings and dishes inspired by Relais & Châteaux. Additional amenities include a sun-catching pool deck, a fitness centre, and a beauty and massage centre — particularly alluring after an adventurous day ashore. Silver Discoverer is designed for discerning travellers who like to explore the great outdoors while enjoying gracious comfort and gourmet cuisine indoors. [jtab/] Dining ::

Silversea Expeditions Dining

Flavours and aromas become as much a part of your experience as the sights you see and the cultures you encounter on your expeditions. Silver Discoverer offers four all-inclusive dining venues, each serving superb cuisine with a sophisticated level of attentive service and ocean views. No matter where you dine, you can arrive at your leisure and dine with whomever you choose, recount experiences ashore with fellow guests and discuss lecture topics with Expedition Team members while savouring fine cuisine and perfectly paired wines.

The Restaurant

The Restaurant serves contemporary, international cuisine with sophisticated elegance and impeccable service. Menus feature local specialities unique to the voyage destination. The Restaurant offers open-seating dining, which means there are no assigned times, no assigned tables. You are free to dine when, where and with whom you please.

The Grill

Poolside convenience for breakfast and lunch including fresh-from-the-oven pizza and lighter fare. When the stars come out, this popular eatery is transformed into an interactive dining venue where fresh seafood and prime cuts are grilled table side on a heated volcanic rock plate.

Discoverer Lounge

Enjoy lighter fares for breakfast and lunch while relaxing in the casual atmosphere of the Discoverer Lounge. Large picture windows give way to natural light and passing views of the ever-changing scenery.

In-suite Dining and Room Service

You can have breakfast delivered to your suite or a formal dinner ordered from The Restaurant menu. Lighter fare is always available from our 24 hour room service menu. [jtab/] Suites ::

Silversea Expeditions Suites

All Silver Discoverer suites offer ocean view, butler service, mini-bar stocked with your preferences, a choice of bathroom amenities, down duvet covers, premium mattresses, Radio/Alarm with iPod docking station, plush robe, hairdryer, WiFi internet access (fees apply), flat-screen television with on-demand movies, music and satellite news programming and daily suite service with evening turndown. [jaccordion]   Explorer Suite :: SIlversea Silver Discoverer Suite Explorer

Explorer Suite

Silver Discoverer Explorer Suite 350 x 201 As spacious as a View Suite, enjoy the passing scenery through two porthole windows. With preferred midship location, Explorer Suites can accommodate up to three guests. An enchanting retreat, Explorer Suites exude cosy opulence and a cushy seating area perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring ashore. Each suite has an overall size of 186 SQ.FT. / 17.3 M2
  • Two portholes
  • Sitting area
  • Twin beds or queen-sized bed, including storage draws
  • Marbled bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Choice of bathroom amenities
  • Writing desk
  • Hair Dryer
  • Wardrobe with personal safe
  • Flat screen television with on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming
  • Radio/Alarm with Ipod docking Station
  • Wifi available (fees apply)
[jacc/]   View Suite :: SIlversea Silver Discoverer Suite View

View Suite

Silver Discoverer View Suite 350 x 201 Welcoming and comfortable, the View Suite provides a relaxing haven for even the utmost adventure-seeking guests. Complete a day spent exploring onshore with an evening unwinding in the comfort of your sitting area. Capture passing ocean scenes through your view window. Freshen up in your beautiful marbled bathroom before enjoying an elegant on board dinner. Or cozy up under fine bed linens to watch an on-demand movie on the flat-screen television. Fall asleep easily, dreaming of the incredible experiences that await you the following day. Each suite has a view window and overall size of 181 SQ. FT. / 16.8 M2
  • View window
  • Sitting area
  • Twin beds or queen-sized bed, including storage drawers
  • Marbled bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Choice of bathroom amenities
  • Writing desk
  • Hair Dryer
  • Wardrobe with personal safe
  • Flat screen television with on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming
  • Radio/Alarm with Ipod docking station
  • Wifi available (fees apply)
[jacc/]   Vista Suite :: Silversea Silver Discoverer Suite Vista

Vista Suite

Silver Discoverer Vista Suite 350 x 201 A quiet sanctuary. The suite’s sitting area has plenty of room to relax while on your cruise. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views. The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed. Some Vista Suites can accommodate up to three guests. Each suite has an overall size of 269 SQ. FT. / 25 M2
  • Two large view windows
  • Sitting area
  • Twin beds or queen-sized bed, including storage drawers
  • Marbled bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Choice of bathroom amenities
  • Hair dryer
  • Writing desk
  • Wardrobe with personal safe
  • Flat screen television with on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming
  • Radio/Alarm with Ipod docking station
  • Wifi available (fees apply)
[jacc/]   Veranda Suite :: SIlversea Silver Discoverer Suite Veranda

Veranda Suite

Silver Discoverer Veranda Suite 350 x 201 A Silversea signature, complete with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a private balcony with patio furniture. Veranda Suites lavishly accommodate up to three guests. Sophisticated and welcoming, Veranda Suites are a favourite of returning Silversea guests. Each suite has an overall size of 280 SQ. FT. / 26 M2 (including balcony 35.5 SQ. FT. / 3.2 M2).
  • Teak style balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors
  • Sitting area with convertible sofa that can accommodate an additional guest up to the age of 14 years old. Veranda Suites 601, 602, 603, 604 only)
  • Twin beds or queen-sized bed, including storage draws
  • Marbled bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Choice of bathroom amenities
  • Hair dryer
  • Writing desk
  • Wardrobe with personal safe
  • Flat screen television with on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming
  • Radio/Alarm with Ipod docking station
  • Wifi available (fees apply)
[jacc/]   Medallion Suite :: SIlversea Silver Discoverer Suite Medallion

Medallion Suite

Silver Discoverer Medallion Suite 350 x 201 A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury. The perfect summary of The Medallion Suite offered by the world’s best cruise line. The Medallion Suite is Silver Discoverer’s most spacious with an overall size of 408 SQ. FT. / 38 M2 (including a Balcony 27 SQ. FT. / 2.5 M2). This is the ideal suite for socialising with friends or enjoying quiet time alone on your private balcony.
  • Teak style balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors
  • Living room with sitting area
  • Twin beds or queen-sized bed, including storage draws
  • Marbled bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Choice of Bathroom Amenities
  • Hair dryer
  • Writing desk
  • Wardrobe with personal safe
  • Laundry service
  • Two flat screen televisions with on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming
  • Radio/Alarm with Ipod docking station
  • Wifi available (fees apply)
[/jaccordion] [jtab/] Voyage Highlights ::

Voyage Highlights

Follow in the Footsteps of the Harriman Expedition with Professional Wildlife Photographer Daivd Wright. Alaska was considered the last frontier, and we will embark on our journey heading north from Vancouver, following to some degree in the footsteps of those bent to partake in the different gold rushes of the 19th century. We want to see different treasures, want to reach some of the untamed areas, National Parks with glaciers and forests, see emblematic animals like the Bald Eagle, Brown Bears, Steller Sea Lions, Humpback Whales and Orcas, as well as hundreds of thousands of birds. To some extent we will retrace the route of the famous Harriman Expedition of 1899 – one of the first Expedition Cruises done in this (and any other) area. Similar to his expedition we will have experts and specialists on board to enrich your experience while travelling “Alaskan Wilderness Safari”. And what better than to have professional photographer David Wright on board, helping you to improve your camera skills, accompanying you ashore and in the Zodiacs, lecturing about essential knowledge and giving hints about how to take better pictures.

Day 1 — Vancouver, Canada

Embark Silver Discoverer and depart on your exciting 13 day Silversea Expedition – Alaskan Adventure. After settling in you will attend a safety briefing and be introduced to your Expedition Team. Weather permitting we will have a sail-away cocktail on deck. We invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in the Restaurant. An aperitif will permit you to relax after your travels towards Silver Discoverer.

Day 2 – Cruise Johnstone Strait and Canada’s Inside Passage, British Columbia, Canada

After your long travels to board the Silver Discoverer, make use of the first day settling in, having a leisurely morning, attending some of the informative lectures our experts and specialists will give about Alaska’s varied history, wildlife and nature and enjoy the comfort and amenities the Silver Discoverer has to offer. Perhaps you would like to learn a new approach to photography and attend a workshop by professional photographer David Wright. At the same time you can always be on the outer decks, looking for birdlife, whales and other marine and terrestrial mammals as we cruise the Johnstone Strait; this spectacular 110 kilometre (68 mi) waterway invites you to take in the scenery from the outer decks of the Silver Discoverer. The strait that is between 2.5 km ( 1.6 mi ) and 5 km ( 3.1 mi ) wide is home to large numbers of Orcas during the summer months. The largest member of the dolphin family, Orcas (also known as Killer Whales) can measure nearly ten metres in length and weigh up to six tons. These predators consume up to 500 lbs of food every day. They use echolocation to hunt, emitting a series of clicks and whistles to determine the size, shape, speed, distance and direction of their prey.

Day 3 – Metlakatla, Alaska, USA

Our first stop in the US will be on Annette Island, Alaska. During the morning, while we approach the island, either be on the look-out for wildlife on the outer decks or attend one of the informative lectures by our lecturers and on-board specialists. One of the topics might be art of the indigenous people of this area. The Tsimshian are famous for their Totem Poles. During the visit of the town we will get to see at least 12 of these emblematic pieces of art and we will experience a dance performance at their longhouse. Apart from the ceremony we will be led to the William Duncan Memorial Museum to understand their culture and history, specifically why and when they moved to Annette Island. You can also take one of the many trails around Skaters Lake getting an insight into the different plants used by the Tsimshian.

Day 4 – Rudyerd Bay and Misty Fjords, Alaska, USA

Located within the Tongass National Forest is the wilderness area and Misty Fjords National Monument. It has been described as an almost untouched coastal ecosystem with outstanding geological features, so be prepared for a broad spectrum of wildlife that we intend to see during the early morning in and around Rudyerd Bay. Our excursion will be looking in the air for Marbled Murrelets, which unlike most members of the auk family nest in trees, and Bald Eagles, Brown and Black Bears on the ground, and Harbor Seals and Sea Otters in the water. Another destination today might be Walker Cove, promising yet another look at interesting wildlife.

Day 5 – Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is one of the larger towns of the area and will offer a variety of exciting options. Today you may choose to participate in a truly unique “Alaskan Wilderness Survival” program. Travel by local boat with a wilderness skills instructor to a remote island where he will lead your small group through an old-growth rainforest and show you a few tricks of the survivalist’s trade. This hands-on experience engages all in tasks like building a shelter, collecting wild edibles, and signalling from the beach. Back aboard the vessel, you will haul sampling pots in search of the elusive (and invasive) Green Crab and other fascinating creatures that inhabit the ocean floor. Alternatively enjoy exploring the wilderness of Alaska with the chance to spot some local wildlife, catch Dungeness Crabs and enjoy a civilized crab feast in the comfort of the George Inlet Lodge, an old cannery house built over the fjord on stilts. You will learn from local experts about fish traps and hear tales of the fish pirates that would rob the cannery of their fish. During the boat cruise pass an old gold mine and see the Mahoney Glacial Cirque. At the bottom of the Cirque there is a river that is host to bears, eagles, and salmon as well as Orcas, sea lions and seals who frequent the area in search of fish. Yet another option might be a visit to the Haida village of Kasaan on Prince of Wales Island. Near this small village you would be taking a trail through the rainforest, seeing one of the most outstanding collections of Totem Poles and the only remaining old Longhouse in Alaska.

Day 6 – Wrangell Narrows, Petersburg, and Sail Island, Alaska, USA

Running for 22 miles between the islands of Mitkof, Kupreanov and Woewodski the Silver Discoverer will be using the very narrow and scenic Wrangell Narrows heading north for Petersburg in the early morning –enjoy the scenery before or during breakfast. At Petersburg we pay a visit to one of Alaska’s major fishing communities. Although the Tlingit and other indigenous groups had been in this area for centuries, it was only after Norwegian Peter Buschmann (after whom the town is named) settled here, starting the first cannery (still working) and attracting more immigrants from Scandinavia –hence the nickname “Little Norway” – that a permanent town evolved. The fisheries are keen on a sustainable catch and there even is the Petersburg Marine Mammal Center to support research and education. During the afternoon there will be a chance for more lectures about Alaska’s wildlife and history and a photography workshop with David Wright–unless you want to spend your time on deck, looking for wildlife yourself. In the late afternoon we will do a Zodiac cruise around Sail Island that will hopefully permit you to see some Steller Sea Lions and to go in search of Humpback Whales.

Day 7 – Endicott Arm and Frederick Sound, Alaska, USA

Another morning Zodiac cruise awaits us. There are several glaciers to be seen- the North Dawes Glacier is a hanging glacier, while the Dawes Glacier is a tidewater glacier. At Dawes Glacier we hope for calving ice, will be able to see many waterfalls and, as always, might see Bald Eagles that have made the coastal area their home, or Harbour Seals. During the afternoon we will cruise Frederick Sound with Silver Discoverer. This way we can cover a larger area –as it is very scenic and promises another opportunity for whale watching.

Day 8 – Point Adolphus, Inian Island, Elfin Cove, George Island, Alaska, USA

During the early morning Silver Discoverer will be near Point Adolphus, a well-known area for whale watching. Enjoy a morning coffee while you are on the outer decks, looking for Humpback and Minke Whales, as well as Orcas or simply enjoying the landscape. Later during the morning you will be going on a spectacular Zodiac cruise at Inian Island, searching for some of the emblematic animals of Alaska: Bald Eagles, Tufted Puffins, Steller Sea Lion, Sea Otters, and Humpback Whales. The Zodiac cruise will permit you to be close-up to the wildlife. In the afternoon we visit the small community of Elfin Cove and nearby George Island. Although George Island has been used during World War 2 to protect Alaska against a potential Japanese invasion and there are remains of the military installations, you will have good opportunities to go for a hike.

Day 9 – Yakutat, Alaska, USA

During the morning we will visit the community of Yakutat and, for those interested, there will be a flightseeing excursion to be able to see the Hubbard Glacier from above. This glacier commences in Canada and after some 80 miles terminates in Disenchantment Bay –making it the longest glacier in North America. Silver Discoverer will eventually be taken along the front of the Hubbard Glacier by our Captain and while cruising we hope to see some glacier calvings. We will then start heading northeast and while we cruise the Gulf of Alaska you can make out many of the different mountains and glaciers of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. Scan the waters for whales from the outer decks. Perhaps you would like to know about the different expeditions that have chartered Alaska or want to find out what birds and mammals call this part of the world their home –attend one of the lectures by our experts and specialists on board.

Day 10 – Cruising the Gulf of Alaska

Today is a good day to take it easy, sleep a little longer, have a leisurely breakfast –perhaps even in bed- as we continue cruising the Gulf of Alaska. During the day you might want to be out on deck, scanning the water’s surface for signs of whales. When you are not looking for wildlife from the outer decks, join the lecturers and specialist while they talk about the wildlife and history of Alaska in the Explorer Lounge. Today would be a good day to sort through the photos taken so far, and perhaps attend a workshop about editing them given by professional photographer David Wright.

Day 11 – Kukak Bay and Geographic Harvour, Alaska, USA

Kukak Bay and Geographic Harbour are well-known areas for bear spotting. The Brown Bears feed on sedges and razor clams on the beaches, and will look for salmon in the rivers. To be able to observe the males, females with cubs and juveniles we will make use of our Zodiacs and cruise the shorelines in search of good photographic opportunities. Although it is not the last day of the voyage, the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party and Dinner would be the social highlight of the day!

Day 12 – Chiswell Island and Holgate Glacier

The Chiswell Islands –part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge – will give us a last chance to go out in our Zodiacs to get a close-up look at Steller Sea Lions. Millions of birds call these rugged islands their home and we can expect to see Horned Puffins, Tufted Puffins, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and of the auklet family the Cassin’s Auklet and the Whiskered Auklet, among others. Today we will have the ship’s videographer’s presentation of the voyage on DVD. Enjoy those marvellous takes and moments. Kenai Fjords National Park’s famous Holgate Glacier will be our last chance to see a calving glacier. Enjoy an aperitif on the outer decks as we leave the area shortly before sunset.

Day 13 – Seward, Alaska, USA

After breakfast disembark Silver Discoverer Expedition highlights and wildlife listed here are possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed. Your Expedition Leader and Captain will work together to ensure opportunities for adventure and exploration are the best possible, taking into account the prevailing weather and wildlife activity. Expedition team members scheduled for this voyage are subject to change or cancellation. [jtab/] Expedition Team ::

David Wright – Filmmaker and Photographer

David Wright is an award-winning filmmaker and photographer with more than 25 years of professional experience (Emmy, BAFTA & Chris Awards). During his career, he has worked regularly for clients including National Geographic and Discovery Channel. He covers a wide variety of stories spanning natural history, adventure, and history topics. Recent credits include BBC/Discovery’s ‘Frozen Planet’, and BBC’s ‘Natural World’. Having worked in over 50 countries, often in remote and challenging locations, David’s experience has given him a wide range of photographic / video skills that enable him to push camera technology to its limits and to create a unique perspective. This led to him being invited by Nikon to give a series of presentations on how to shoot films with your video equipped digital stills camera at major professional venues. David is now working with Silversea to offer a hands on experience to guests and to teach them how to improve their photographic and video skills by learning the tricks of the trade. The program is accessible to everyone, making it fun to document you adventure whether you shoot with a smartphone or a high-end digital camera. David will provide insights on how some of television’s most challenging series were shot and give guests an experience of what it is like to be on assignment in some of the world’s most exciting locations. During his career, he has led scientific expeditions to remote areas of the Northern Territory and the Kimberley, including the Hunter River region. Assignments have taken him throughout Australia, visiting remote Aboriginal communities, wildlife hotspots, and cultural sites. Having worked in many of Australia’s most remote and challenging locations, David’s experience enables him not only to teach a wide range of photographic skills, but also to give a unique perspective on the region’s wildlife and landscapes. Highlights have included several films about Australia’s famed saltwater crocodiles, the rare and elusive cassowary, as well as the creatures that inspired many Aboriginal Dreamtime legends and much of their rock art.

Susan Currie

After completing her Ph.D. at Cambridge University Susan was recruited by BP to work in the oil industry. She worked offshore in the North Sea and in offices based in Aberdeen in Scotland. Her work included analysis of borehole core rocks, constructing mathematical models of sub-sea oil and gas fields using computers, and planning oil and gas wells. As part of her wider interests she was the University/Industry Liaison representative for BP in Aberdeen. After working for BP for six years, Susan then worked for the American independent company Amerada Hess for ten years and published a series of academic papers in geological journals on her geological work. She was tempted back to BP by the opportunity to work on the geology of Angola and in addition to her technical remit Susan worked as a schools liaison officer for BP encouraging students to select science and technology options in the curriculum and arranging work experience courses. As a Fellow of the Geological Society of London she was asked to work on their Validation and Accreditation Committee, helping less experienced geologists gain nationally recognized accreditation in their subject. In 2008, Susan was offered a position working for the UK Government in the then newly formed Department of Energy and Climate Change where she was part of a small team regulating the offshore oil industry. In 2002, she was offered her first expedition cruise work in the Antarctic Peninsula and from that point on all of her vacation time, and a considerable amount of unpaid leave-of-absence time, was spent exploring different parts of the world on expedition cruise ships. After a decade of part-time work on ships, which included travels in Australasia, Alaska, Kamchatka, Antarctica, the British Isles, Norway, and 11 ice-breaker voyages to the North Pole, Susan decided in 2012 to leave her work in the oil industry and devote herself full-time to expedition cruise work. [/jtabs]
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