Thursday, May 21, 2026 – Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain.
LAS PALMAS, CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN
Las Palmas and Its Coastal Charm
Gaze up at a velvet sky sprinkled with glittering stars, a nightly spectacle that feels almost magical. By day, venture into the wild heart of nature as you climb the jungled calderas of ancient volcanoes, their slopes draped in lush greenery and echoing with the whispers of history. This is more than just a destination—it’s the gateway to Gran Canaria, a sun-soaked island where golden light dances across rugged landscapes and turquoise waters.
At its core lies Las Palmas, the sprawling capital of the Canary Islands and Spain’s ninth-largest city, unfurling gracefully along a sparkling coastline. Here, life pulses with a vibrant rhythm. Locals and visitors alike escape the city’s bustle on its urban beaches, where soft sands invite relaxation and the Atlantic breeze carries the scent of salt and adventure. When hunger calls, the streets come alive with the clinking of glasses and laughter spilling from authentic tapas bars, each offering a taste of Spain’s culinary soul.
Nature lends a helping hand to serenity: an offshore barrier of ancient lava calms the ocean’s might, transforming Las Canteras into one of the most tranquil and inviting beaches in the archipelago. Slip on a snorkel and plunge beneath the surface to discover a kaleidoscopic world of marine life—colorful fish darting among tropical reefs, a living canvas painted by the sea. Or simply surrender to the warmth of one of the planet’s most enviable climates, reclining on golden sands that curve like a gentle embrace along the city’s edge.
Today’s Excursion – Las Palmas Highlights
We discovered the vibrant essence of Las Palmas on a panoramic tour that unveils the city’s rich cultural and natural splendor.
Playa de las Canteras, Auditorio Alfredo Kraus
Our adventure began at Playa de Las Canteras, a stunning urban beach renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Here, you can unwind by the sea, soak in the breathtaking coastal views, and capture unforgettable photos of this picturesque beach.
From the beach, we journeyed to the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus, a striking architectural gem perched on the Atlantic Ocean. This modern concert hall boasts a sleek, futuristic design and offers a perfect photo opportunity with its dramatic facade set against the serene ocean backdrop.
Pueblo Canario, Vegueta
Next, we immersed ourselves in the charm of Pueblo Canario, a quaint village nestled within the lush greenery of Doramas Park. Wander through this delightful enclave, which features traditional Canarian architecture, picturesque squares, and historic buildings that evoke the island’s cultural heritage. The tour concluded in the historic Vegueta district, the oldest part of Las Palmas, where cobblestone streets wind through a rich tapestry of history. We explored iconic landmarks such as the Santa Ana Cathedral, with its majestic Gothic architecture, and Casa de Colón, a fascinating museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus.
The Silverseas Silver Dawn is refueled by a refueling ship.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
WHISPERS OF THE ISLANDS:
A ROMANCE IN MOTION
A folkloric ensemble born from the soul of the island of Gran Canaria, where tradition finds voice in warm rhythms and lively steps. On stage, the colors of the costumes dance in the ocean breeze, and the delicate sound of the temple and guitars tells old stories about longing, love, and deep roots. Each show becomes a journey through the heart of the Canary Islands, where the past and the present intertwine in a vibrant harmony, meant to delight and excite. A living symbol of local identity, which transforms tradition into an unforgettable experience.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 – Day at Sea – Sailing from Banjul, The Gambia to Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain.
Where in the World Are We?
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Shipyards, Seabirds, and Sunset Terraces: Portimão in Detail”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Portimão, Portugal.
11:15 Boat Building Competition
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Scott Cutler: ”Cosmic Scale: From Subatomic Particles to the Expanding Universe with the James Webb Space Telescope”.
Embark on a journey across the vast cosmic scale, from the tiniest subatomic particles to galaxies billions of light-years away.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Neil Millar: “500 years of Golfing Greats: From King James IV to Rory McIlroy”.
An examination of both the earliest golfers who can be identified by name (dating from 1503) to the greatest golfers of the modern age.
6:15 Pre-Dinner Show! Musical Memories Featuring Moss Hills and Friends.
Cruise Director Moss Hills performs a mixture of really great music from some of the world’s most popular artists.
Featuring the Silver Dawn Band and The Silversea Singers, there will be rock ‘n roll, pop, rock, and more.
Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant.
LOOK CLOSER: AN EVENING OF MAGIC
WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER JOSHUA JAY
Joshua Jay is a dynamic comedy magician known for blending
sharp humor with impressive sleight-of-hand and engaging
audience interaction.
A true world-class performer, he has appeared on stages in over 100 countries, is a World Champion in sleight of hand, has been featured on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, and recently fooled Penn & Teller on their hit show Fool Us.
His performances deliver a high-energy experience filled with laughs, amazement, and unforgettable magical moments.
Tuesday, May 16, 2026 – Sailing from Banjul, The Gambia, to Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain.
Where in the World Are We?
10:00 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Funchal: A Garden City Rising from the Bay”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Funchal, Madeira.
10:45 Enrichment Lecture with Cruise Director Moss Hills: “Sinking Of The Oceanos”.
Cruise Director Moss Hills was on board when it started sinking in the middle of the night with 571 people on board. During a terrible storm, senior officers abandoned the sinking ship and left everyone behind. It was the entertainers who stepped in to try to rescue everyone.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Scott Cutler: ”Digital Hygiene: Safeguarding Your Online Presence”.
Stay ahead of cyber threats—learn essential strategies to protect your personal data, secure your accounts, and maintain a strong digital identity in an interconnected world.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mike Reiss: “The Science of Jokes”.
Why do we laugh? What makes something funny? Learn about jokes from a man who’s written 70,000 of them!
GARY WILLIAMS
PRE-DINNER SHOW
Star of the West End’s “Rat Pack”, Gary Williams has performed worldwide, from New York’s Carnegie Hall to Buckingham Palace, Birdland Tokyo to The Royal Albert Hall.
Described as “The UK’s leading standard bearer for the supercool era” by the London Evening Standard, he wrote the performers’ bible Cabaret Secrets, has recorded at Abbey Road Studios, presented programs for the BBC and was profiled in the Sunday Times’ ‘Fame and Fortune’.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
THE TOMMY DORSEY ORCHESTRA
In Big Band history, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra is recognized as one of the best all-around bands. It could swing with the best of them, and no other band could come close to Tommy’s when it came to playing ballads, especially when they were sung by a young Frank Sinatra. Now under the direction of trombonist Jeff Bush, today’s TDO carries on the tradition by playing the biggest hits such as Opus One, Song Of India, and Marie. Going far beyond a “tribute” show, The TDO includes fresh, new arrangements of entertaining material that fits the swinging Dorsey tradition.
Sunday, May 17, 2026 – At Sea sailing to Banjul, Gambia
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing to Banjul, Gambia.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Santa Cruz: Plazas, Promenades, and the Shadow of Teide”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mike Reiss: “The Perils of Public Speaking…”.
Talking Simpsons in China, Qatar, and Alabama. Plus tips on better public speaking.
BE A STAR
PRE-DINNER SHOW FEATURING BEATRICE
“Be a Star” is a vibrant and captivating show that takes the audience on an engaging musical journey: from the emotions of Italian music to the passionate rhythms of Latin sounds, through the energy of rock, the magic of musicals, and the timeless hits of ‘70s and ‘80s disco dance. A show designed to involve everyone… because, for one night at least, everyone can be a star.
Dinner was in The Altantide Restaurant.
BEN MILLS RETURNS
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Throughout 2020/21, Ben endeared himself to fans worldwide with a series of captivating online concerts broadcast from his Broadstairs residence. These performances not only raised thousands of pounds for struggling musicians but also provided some much-needed live entertainment.
Ben’s exceptional vocal talent has earned him coveted spots at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including three sold-out shows at London’s iconic Wembley Arena following his remarkable journey to the semi-finals on the hit TV show, The X Factor.
Monday, May 18, 2026 – Banjul, The Gambia
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Banjul, The Gambia.
BANJUL, THE GAMBIA
A place of scorched sunlight and faded colonial history.
Emerging from The Gambia’s wild mangrove swamps, Banjul sits at the spot where the River Gambia’s yawning mouth opens to meet the salty tang of the Atlantic. Punctuated by a soaring 35-meter arched gateway, constructed following the 1994 coup d’état, The Gambia’s capital is a place of scorched sunlight and faded colonial history, offering flavors of laid-back beachside relaxation mixed with exotic, old-world African seaport charm.
Despite its capital status, Banjul, with its soft, lyrical name, often has more of a village feel. You’ll feel it most acutely as you explore the tight-knit labyrinth of Albert Market. The orchestral sounds of bartering rise to a pitched crescendo in the early morning—the perfect time to plunge in for a dizzying hit of sensory overload.
A beloved gathering spot since the 19th century, the market is a riot of color, with spit-and-nail stalls buckling beneath the weight of print fabrics, salt-crusted fish, and colorful textiles. While the market can be a disorientating whirl of activity, the city as a whole tends to move at a more lackadaisical, laid-back pace.
Visit Oyster Creek to let an afternoon float by, fishing rod in hand, as the sunlight slants across the water and you savor the hint of an afternoon breeze. Cormorants and pelicans step gingerly across the sinking mudflats that line the riverbank. Those craving cultural immersion can visit a local home for a cooking experience—helping to scale fresh red snapper, sipping baobab juice, and mixing spices into an authentic benachin pot.
SIGHTS
• Banjul National Museum
• Arch 22
• Kachikally Crocodile Pool
• Serrekunda – Batik Factory
• Albert Market
• Abuko Nature Reserve
• Bijilo Forest Park
• King Fahad Mosque
• Roman Catholic Cathedral
SHOPPING
Go to Albert Market to browse through this colorful market. It is bustling and full of color; this main city market has three sections. One is for food – meats, produce, and dry goods; another section hawks clothing, housewares, and other everyday needs; the rest is aimed at tourists seeking arts, crafts, and gifts. Dozens of stalls wind through the maze. Bargaining is expected! Look for batiks, handicrafts, T-shirts, hats, and more
Today’s Excursion – Banjul & Serrakunda
Banjul National Museum
The Museum and contributions made by Gambians to the arts, religion, politics, sports, and technology are shown in photos, as are archaeological finds that describe the African people and their colonial period. It houses three floors of exhibits. The ground floor showcases the political and cultural history of Banjul, the nation’s capital. On the basement level, you can learn about the musical heritage of the Gambia and see what instruments are popular throughout the country. On the second floor, you can learn about the archeological history of West Africa and the Gambia. The same floor also details the national colonial and post-independence political and economic history.
Arch 22
Arch 22 (built in 1996) commemorates the 22 July 1994 bloodless military coup. Arch 22 is a commemorative arch on the road into Banjul. It was built in 1996 to mark the military coup through which Yahya Jammeh and his Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council overthrew the democratically elected Gambian government. A statue of the “unknown soldier” can be seen near the base of the arch: the soldier has a rifle strapped to his back and carries a baby in one hand whilst signaling victory with the other. Arch 22 is also depicted on the back of the 100-dalasis banknote.
Kachikally Crocodile Pool
We drove to Bakau Katchikally and visited the Crocodile Pool. It is one of three sacred crocodile pools used as sites for fertility rituals. It is a privately owned crocodile pool belonging to the Bojang family of Bakau, one of the founding families and major land owners of the city. The exact number of crocodiles is not known, but it is estimated that there are approximately 100.
Serrekunda – Batik Factory
Serrekunda (meaning the home of the Sere Family) comprises 9 small villages that have merged over the years, and it is the largest town in Gambia today. Visit the tie-dye batik factory and see the full process from design to the
waxing and boiling of the fabrics. It supplies many of the local ships.
Saint Albert Market
We stopped at the Saint Albert Market to browse its colorful offerings and catch a glimpse of both household items and souvenirs on offer. Bargaining is expected! Look for batiks, handicrafts, T-shirts, and hats. It is named after
Albert, Prince Consort, husband of Queen Victoria, who controlled Gambia during colonial times.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
MOTOWN
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Join Silversea Vocalists in an upbeat, fast-paced performance featuring this iconic music style, alongside our Silversea Dancers with some stylish moves.
Let us transport you back to the renowned Motown era, with memorable music ranging from the Supremes to the Temptations.
Satruday, May 16, 2026 – At Sea sailing to Banjul, Gambia, Africa
Were in the World Are We?
We are sailing to Banjul, Gambia, Africa.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Las Palmas: History in the Backstreets, Holidays on the Waterfront”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of Las Palmas.
11:15 Enrichment Lecture with Scott Cutler: “When Giants Pivot: Google’s AI Comeback through the Lens of Disruption”.
See how Google, Apple, and Microsoft reacted to AI’s inflection point.
12:15 World Cruise Lunch.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Neil Millar: “Golf’s Surprising History: The Origins and Spread of Golf”.
The origin of golf has become a highly contentious topic. This, and the subsequent worldwide spread of golf, will be examined.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
BEYOND THE ORIGINAL
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Beyond the Original” reimagines classics as male vocalists perform iconic female songs and vice versa. With operatic flair, rich harmonies, and the Silver Dawn Band, Beatrice, Francesca, Luke & Sass deliver unforgettable renditions blending classic, modern, and contemporary styles.
Friday, May 15, 2026 – At Sea -Sailing from Walvis Bay, Namibia, to Banjul, Gambia.
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing to Banjul, Gambia.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Banjul: Atlantic Breezes, River Stories, and Everyday West Africa”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Banjul, Gambia’
11:15 Enrichment Lecture with Mike Reiss: “What Am I Doing Here?”.
Visit 145 countries in 45 minutes, with hilarious and harrowing stories and amazing photos.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Neil Millar: “Golf’s Surprising History: Myths and Misconceptions”.
Frequently, these appear to have arisen as a consequence of golf historians having made speculative claims, often with a degree of hesitancy.
COUNTRY QUEENS
PRE-DINNER SHOW WITH MYA BOYD
Mya Boyd is a 24-year-old from England and has been singing her whole life. She trained at Italia Conti in Guildford when she was 16, then studied Performing Arts at the University of Chichester before joining Silversea as a production vocalist in 2023.
Tonight, performing alongside the Silver Dawn Band, all of her favorite country songs by various female artists such as Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Shania Twain, and more.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
Thursday, May 14, 2026 – At Sea – sailing from Walvis Bay to Banjul, Gambia
Where in the World Are We?
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mike Reiss: “Finding the Funny in Hard Times”.
How we learn to laugh again during troubled times, from the Civil War to COVID.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Gala Souslova: “Where Brands Get Their Name”.
How modern consumer products take inspiration from the Greek Mythology.
THE VENETIAN SOCIETY
A SPECIAL CIRCLE OF FRIENDS
Venetian Society Party: Celebrate loyalty at our elegant Venetian Society gathering
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
FEELINGS FROM THE SOUL
WITH HEADLINE ENTERTAINER AKOS LAKI
Laki’s energetic personality shows best when he is on stage, putting on a show that reaches across the room, touching every single person in the audience. A communicative performer, Ákos speaks four languages and enjoys interactivity with his audience.
Akos has entered many music competitions and won almost as many awards, including first prize at the prestigious Dutch Jazz Contest 1996. He has traveled and performed worldwide, and he can boast of having played with world-famous jazz musicians like Rhoda Scott, George Benson, Marcus Miller, and Candy Dulfer, and recorded with great masters like Paul Camenon Jackson and Mike Clark.
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 – At Sea – sailing from Luanda, Namibia, to Banjul, Gambia
Where in the World Are We?
10:15 Enrichment Lecture with Mike Reiss: “How I Write Comedy (and You Can Too)!”.
Writing jokes for Johnny Carson, Joan Rivers, the Oscars… and The Pope! Really! Look inside the world of the comedy writer.
11:15 Enrichment Lecture with Col. David King, OBE: “Espionage & Treachery in the Cold War”.
Meet spies and their agents, admire the tradecraft they use, and hear about their successes & failures.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Gala Souslova: “The Atlantic Triangle: The First Global Economy”.
Learn how Africa, the New World, and Europe became intertwined through trade, migration, and tragedy.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Scott Cutler: “The Rapid Rise of AI Part 3: 2025, The Road to Artificial General Intelligence”.
A glimpse into AI’s most recent breakthroughs, as it moves beyond automation and specialization toward reasoning, problem-solving, and human-like intelligence.
“BORN ALIKE”
A PRE-DINNER SHOW FEATURING MO AND MUJ
Renowned UK artist Ben Mills is a versatile talent, adept at piano, guitar, and vocals. He boasts a remarkable portfolio, having shared the stage with global icons like Tony Bennett, Barry Manilow, and Lionel Richie. Not one to flaunt his connections, Ben recently graced a remarkable charity concert alongside Sir Rod Stewart and the “Rolling Stones” guitarist Ronnie Wood, which amassed a staggering £500,000 for The Prostate Project. Last year, he was a highlight at Sir Rod’s exclusive Christmas celebration on his UK estate, joined by an all-star ensemble.
Dinner was in the Atlantide Restaurant.
BEN MILLS IN CONCERT
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Renowned UK artist Ben Mills is a versatile talent, adept at piano, guitar, and vocals. He boasts a remarkable portfolio, having shared the stage with global icons like Tony Bennett, Barry Manilow, and Lionel Richie. Not one to flaunt his connections, Ben recently graced a remarkable charity concert alongside Sir Rod Stewart and the “Rolling Stones” guitarist Ronnie Wood, which amassed a staggering £500,000 for The Prostate Project. Last year, he was a highlight at Sir Rod’s exclusive Christmas celebration on his UK estate, joined by an all-star ensemble.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 – At Sea sailing from Luanda, Angola to Banjul, Gambia
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Luanda, Angola, to Banjul, Gambia.
10:15 Enrichment Lecture with Gala Souslova : “Desert and Ocean: Silence at the Beginning of Time“.
Discover with Gala the ancient Namib Desert, one of the oldest landscapes on Earth & how Africa expresses itself through music & cuisine.
JOURNEY OF ALEXANDER SMALLS
LIFE, ART, PASSION, AND WORK
This interview with Alexander Smalls delves into his life – from his roots in music and performance to his rise as a transformative force in the culinary world.
In this conversation, Smalls will delve into his Gullah Geechee heritage, artistic background, and personal
experiences that have shaped his approach to food, culture, and community. He will discuss the inspiration behind his cuisine, the creative process that blends artistry and tradition, and the ways he honors his heritage while pushing culinary boundaries.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Neil Millar: “Golf’s Surprising History: Clubs and Balls”.
Ever since the earliest records of golf (which dates from the mid-1400s), there have been numerous changes to the clubs and balls that are used to play the game.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Scott Cutler: “AI’s Transformative Role in Healthcare – and What it Means to You”.
Discover how AI is revolutionizing medicine, from early disease detection and robotic surgery to personalized healthcare and your own AI-powered medical concierge.
Dinner was at Spaccanapoli, the pizza restaurant, on Deck 11.
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ICONIC RHAPSODY
BILLY JOEL, ELTON JOHN, FREDDIE MERCURY
GREATEST HITS
Enjoy timeless hits from Billy Joel, Elton John, and Freddie Mercury—icons loved worldwide. Experience their greatest songs performed by Silver Dawn’s singers and dancers, featuring our own pianist and vocalist, Remon.
