Sunday, May 3, 2026 – Cape Town, South Africa.
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Cape Town, South Africa.
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
The Tavern of the Seas
Sprawling across endless, staggeringly blue coastline and watched over by the iconic plane of Table Mountain, Cape Town is without doubt one of the world’s most beautiful cities. A blend of spectacular mountain scenery, multiculturalism, and relaxed ocean charm awaits in the Mother City, where you can venture out to rolling vineyards, dine in laid-back sea suburbs, or spend days exploring cool urban culture. Cape Town’s natural splendor fully reveals itself as the cable car rears sharply to the top of Table Mountain. From the summit, 3,500 feet above sea level, you can let the scale of the panoramic vistas of the city rolling down towards the ocean wash over you. Another heavenly perspective waits at the top of Lion’s Head’s tapering peak. A sharp hike and an early start is required, but the views of the morning sun painting Table Mountain honey-gold are some of Cape Town’s finest.
Cape Town’s glorious sunshine and inviting blue rollers can be a little deceiving – these oceans are anything but warm at times, with nothing between the peninsula’s end and Antarctica’s icy chill. This cool water has upsides though, bringing a colony of adorably cute African penguins to Boulders Beach. Boarded walkways offer the perfect vantage point to see the cute creatures dipping into the sea and lounging in the sun. Nearby, journey to the end of Africa at the Cape of Good Hope, where you can stand at the bottom of this mighty continent, watching out over the merging waves of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Cape Town’s beauty is counterpointed by the ominous island form, which sits four miles offshore from the bustling restaurants and lazy seals of the lively V&A Waterfront. A living history lesson, you can sail in the ships that transported prisoners out to Robben Island, before a former prisoner tells of the traumas of life on this offshore prison. Your guide will show you the cramped cells, and render Mandela’s long walk to freedom in heartbreaking, visceral clarity.
TABLE MOUNTAIN
Table Mountain is Cape Town’s most famous landmark, revered for thousands of years by the Khoisan people, who called it Hoerikwaggo, meaning “Mountain in the Sea.” First climbed by a European in 1503, it later became a vital navigational beacon for ships arriving at the Cape. Today, with its iconic flat summit and panoramic views, Table Mountain remains a powerful symbol of the city’s natural beauty and history. The opening of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway in 1929 made the summit accessible to visitors from around the world. Now protected as part of Table Mountain National Park, it is also recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, celebrated for both its scenic splendor and cultural significance.
SIGHTS
• Cape Town Ostrich Ranch
• Nobel Square
• Maidens’ Cove
• City Hall
• Long March to Freedom
• Parliament of the Republic of South Africa
• St. George’s Mall
• Cape Town’s Little India
• Iziko Koopmans-De Wet House
We hired a private car for a tour of
South African Penguins at Boulders Beach
Cape of Good Hope – The most Southwestern location in Africa, and Cape Point with the lighthouse.
World Cruise Event – Diamonds Are Forever, May 3, 2026, Cape Town.
Cape Town will dazzle with the addition of “Diamonds Are Forever,” a Silversea-exclusive event at the world-class Vergelegen Conservatory, in partnership with South African Michelin-starred chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. Unparalleled South African hospitality, celebrated cuisine, exceptional regional wines from the estate’s cellar, and a little added sparkle, all for a night to remember.
As dusk settled over South Africa’s storied, 18th-century Vergelegen Estate, we gathered beneath a chandeliered marquee for an extraordinary evening. Stars fall on this land of transformative brilliance – from the legendary Cullinan Diamond reborn as the Great Star of Africa to the athletic and artistic stars whose talents illuminate the world.
Gumboot dancers opened the night with ancestral fire. An orchestra carries it aloft. A magician mystifies us. A breathtaking Diamond Dance finale – luminous, unforgettable – brings the evening to its brilliant close.
An added bonus was capturing photos of fellow World Cruise couples kissing.
Saturday, May 2, 2026 – At Sea sailing to Cape Town, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, South America.
The Men’s Breakfast was in The Altantide Restaurant.
10:00 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Cape Town: A Meeting Point of Currents, Cultures, and Conversations”
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Cape Town, South Africa.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski: “Secret Intelligence: Spies in Sub-Saharan Africa”.
Meet the CIA’s chief poisoner, MI6’s “James Bond” in her 2CV, and the boss of BOSS – South Africa’s Bureau of State Security.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Harold S. Minkowitz, M.D.: “The Science of Happiness”.
Let’s explore together what can make us happier and the components of a richer life!
6:00 Farewell speech from Captain Ivo Botica and our Crew Parade.
See the crew who have worked hard to make your voyage extra special – followed by Farewell Showtime! Motown with Silversea Singers and Dancers.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
PORT ELIZABETH (GQEBERHA), SOUTH AFRICA
A Xhosa tale
Port Elizabeth is located in the homeland of the Xhosa people, the ethnic group from which Nelson Mandela
hails. In Xhosa culture, oral tradition and storytelling play a significant role, with the tale of Qamata being
one of the most prominent. Qamata is regarded as the primary deity responsible for the creation of the
world and this story is not only a fundamental aspect of the Xhosa creation myth but also highlights the
deep connection the people have with their land and the natural world, showcasing the complexity of Xhosa
cosmology.
According to legend, Qamata was one of the first two beings to exist, born from the primordial forces of the
sky and the earth. Entrusted with the task of shaping the earth, Qamata faced a formidable opponent in
Nkanyamba, a sea dragon and the nemesis of his mother.
In one of their intense confrontations, Nkanyamba inflicted a grave injury on Qamata, hindering his ability
to create dry land amidst the endless ocean. In response, the Earth goddess, his mother, intervened by
casting large cattle made from reeds into the waters. These cattle miraculously transformed into landmasses,
giving rise to the continents.
Initially, these new lands were lifeless and barren. To remedy this, the Earth goddess began to populate
them with life. However, each night, Nkanyamba would drag the lands back beneath the waves, erasing the
creations of the Earth goddess.
To thwart this cycle, she fashioned four celestial beings from her own essence, who became the guardians
of the earth. These demi-gods assisted Qamata in his struggle against Nkanyamba, ultimately driving him
deep into the ocean. This victory allowed life to thrive without further interference.
SIGHTS
- Shamwari Private Game Reserve in
the Eastern Cape - South African Air Force Museum
- Storms River bridge
- The Campanile
- The Island Nature Reserve
- Van Stadens Wild Flower Reserve
- Fort Frederick, Eastern Cape
- Kragga Kamma Game Park
- Kwantu Private Game Reserve
- Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan
- CUISINE AND SHOPPING
Port Elizabeth has a diverse culinary scene with many local foods to try, including seafood, meat dishes, and baked goods. Locally grown oysters are a popular dish in Port Elizabeth. Biltong: A popular snack made from dried, cured, and spiced meat. Malva pudding: A sweet and sticky baked sponge pudding made with apricot jam and served with hot cream sauce.
There are plenty of places to shop in the Eastern Cape. From large shopping malls in Port Elizabeth to small boutique shops in Richmond Hill and country shops in the Gamtoos Valley there is a wide range of shopping in the Eastern Cape. Some of them are Greenacres, Baywest Mall, Walmer Park, Sunridge Village, MetLife Mall, Oceanside Surf Store, Pier 14, Moffet on Main Lifestyle Center, Cleary Park.
Today’s Excursion – Pumba Private Game Reserve – Safari & Lunch
We experienced the abundant wildlife and birdlife of the Pumba Private Game Reserve during this game drive.
Port Elizabeth, Pumba Private Game Reserve
The Pumba Private Game Reserve is a beautiful and expansive reserve spans over 14,826 acres of land, and offers the thrilling experience of spotting the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes) in their natural environment. Pumba also covers five of the seven biomes, and is the first of the eastern Cape game reserves to introduce a white lion breeding program.
Game Drive, Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, Buffaloes, Giraffes, Zebras, Hippos, Birds
Upon arrival at the lodge and after refreshments and a comfort stop, we met our experienced ranger/guide and received our safety and tour instructions. Afterward, we begin our guided morning safari aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle.
We experienced Pumba’s abundant game whilst marvelling at the exquisite natural beauty of the reserve. In addition to the amazing display of animals found at Pumba, the reserve is home to over 300 diverse bird species. Other animals you may observe during your game drive include giraffes, zebras, hippos, cheetahs, warthogs, hyenas, wild dogs, and more.
Lions
Elephants
Rhinos
Cape Buffalo
Zebras
The Rest
THE COUNTRY GENTLEMEN
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DANIEL THOMPSON
Known for his rich bass-baritone voice, warm stage presence, and an understated style built on storytelling, authentic vocals, and musicianship,
Daniel Thompson is an award-winning vocalist and
guitarist from Sydney, Australia, who recently marked 30 years as a full-time entertainer.
At sea, Daniel brings the music of Johnny Cash to life with the storytelling and musical integrity that defined his touring years.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
35MM BLOCKBUSTER
TONIGHT’S SHOW
From the soundtracks of some of the world’s biggest movies, we present a selection of your favourite hit songs.
Memorable movies, with unforgettable music, featuring our Silversea singers and dancers, with the Silver Dawn Band.
Tuesday, April 29, 2026 – Durban, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Durban, South Africa.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA
The home of “Bunny Chow”
Durban is a coastal city located on the eastern shore of South Africa, along the Indian Ocean. It is the largest city in the province of KwaZulu-Natal and is well known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and busy port—one of the largest in Africa. Durban has a rich cultural diversity, shaped by African, Indian, and European influences, which is reflected in its languages, traditions, and especially its food.
The city is famous for local dishes such as bunny chow, a popular street food that highlights Durban’s strong Indian heritage.
In addition to its cultural life, Durban is an important economic and tourism center. Visitors are drawn to attractions like the Golden Mile beachfront, uShaka Marine World, and nearby nature reserves and mountains. The city also plays a key role in trade, manufacturing, and transportation due to its strategic coastal location. With its mix of modern development, natural beauty, and cultural history, Durban is a unique and vibrant city in South Africa.
SIGHTS
• The Golden Mile and Beaches
• Umgeni River Bird
• Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
• Kwa Muhle Museum
• Durban Natural Science Museum
• Mini Town
• Durban City Hall
CULTURE
One of the strongest expressions of Durban’s culture is its food, especially spicy curries and the famous bunny chow, which originated in the city. Religion also plays an important role, with Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and traditional African beliefs practiced side by side. Cultural celebrations such as Diwali, Reed Dance festivals, and Heritage Day reflect this diversity. Along with a relaxed coastal lifestyle, love for sport (especially rugby, soccer, and surfing), and strong community values, Durban’s culture is a dynamic blend of tradition and modern urban life.
Today’s Excursion – Tala Private Game Reserve
Located in the KwaZulu-Natal hills is the wildlife conservancy of Tala Private Game Reserve, an area of indigenous acacia thornveld, open grassland, and sensitive wetland that provides an exceptional environment for game viewing and birdwatching.
Tala provides visitors with superb game viewing experiences in open game vehicles with highly knowledgeable and
experienced rangers and a tracker who will not fail to impress you with his bush skills. At Tala, the aim is to bring you closer to nature, to interact with the environment and animals, and to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush. The reserve, which spans nearly 7,500 acres (3,000 hectares) and encompasses diverse natural environments, features well over 300 bird species, along with big game such as rhino, kudu, hippo, giraffe, and the rare sable antelope. Several distinctive and remarkable plant species are also found on Tala. The fiery aloe in full bloom, the imposing euphorbia, and the smell of the fragrant wild sage on a dewy morning make for wonderful, vivid memories.
First, the Zebras.
Next are the Rhinos.
Followed by Osterich, Nala, Kudus, Wildebeast, birds, hippos…
And, the highlights were the Giraffes.
Finally, a few miscellaneous pictures.
Dinner was at 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, our vocalists Beatrice, Mya, Mo, and Mujahid deliver unforgettable renditions blending classic, modern, and contemporary styles.
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 – Durban, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Durban, South Africa.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA
The Surf City
What is it about South Africa’s third most popular city that draws people so much? Is it the vibrant waterfront, complete with street performers and sand artists? Is it the melting pot of ethnicity, with all cultures from Zulu to Indian finding a home here? Is it the laid-back lifestyle that has locals calling it simply “Durbs”? Is it the sweeping landscape? The clement climate? One visit to Durban will quickly make you see the reason people love it so much is a combination of all of the above.
Durban has always been a beach city, but it was the massive investment for the 2010 World Cup that really put it on the map. A huge revamp of the promenade has brought with it some fantastic eateries which serve up all kinds of “chow” from traditional bunny chow to bobotie (a sweet spiced mince dish with egg topping). Expect Asian influences wherever you go, too. Durban has the largest Indian population outside of India.
Although there is little evidence, it is known that the city of eThekwini – Durban in Zulu – was inhabited by hunter-gatherers thousands of years ago. It was first sighted by Vasco de Gama in 1497, but it was not until 1824 that the British settlers raised the Union Jack. This was after King Shaka gifted “25-mile strip of coast a hundred miles in depth” to Henry Francis Fynn after Fynn helped him recover from a stab wound. It remained part of the British Commonwealth until 1960, when it became part of the Republic of South Africa. The city’s Euro-African heritage remains to this day.
SIGHTS
• Durban Beach Front
• Durban Botanic Gardens
• Durban City Hall
• Durban Natural Science Museum
• Hollywoodbets Kings
• Park Stadium
• Kwa Muhle Museum
• Mitchell Park Zoo
• Moses Mabhida Stadium
• Phansi Museum
• PheZulu Safari Park
• Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
• Ushaka Beach
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate shopping, leisure, and entertainment haven! Gateway is the largest retail
destination in the city, offering an uNrivaled experience that caters to all ages and interests.
The Victoria Street Market, where the scents of spices and the vibrancy of local crafts create an unforgettable experience.
The bunny chow – the Durban specialty – is unique to the city and consists of a quarter loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with a curry of your choice. The dish is also called a ‘kota’ in many parts of the country. The original bunny chows were made only with vegetarian fillings and were known as bean bunny chows.
Today’s Excursion – Valley of a Thousand Hills
Meet modern and olden day African tribal culture in the traditional and spectacular homeland of the Zulu on this half-day
exploration of the ‘Valley of a Thousand Hills’.
Phezulu Safari Park
Depart the pier aboard your coach and drive via the national road for approximately one hour towards the Phezulu Safari Park. In this geographically wondrous part of the world shaped first by the windings of the great Mgeni River, then by the culture of the Zulu tribes, and finally by the coming of European man, the hills still beat to the Zulu drum.
As you journey into the valley, learn how historically these tranquil rolling hills belie the blood-soaked drama that unfolded almost two centuries ago. It was then that the Zulu King Shaka, known to historians as the ‘Black Napoleon’,
subjugated the tribes that today make up the Kingdom of the Zulu.
Zulu People, Dances, and Witch Doctor
Your visit to Phezulu (an open-air museum) creates the opportunity to discover first-hand the intricacies, ethnic customs, and beliefs of the Zulu people. Here, Zulu tales and history are depicted in energetic, costumed song and dance by the renowned Gasa clan, who have been performing unique plays for over 40 years. Dances of courtship and betrothal, of the throwing of the Sangoma’s (witch doctor) bones, of war, and of birth, set to the mesmerizing beat of the Zulu drum, take you into another world.
Traditional Huts, Refreshments, Optional Reptile Park guided tour
Afterward, explore the Zulu cultural village with its traditional beehive huts and fascinating glimpses into African tribal culture. Learn what the different coloured beads that adorn the skirts actually represent and how the women make bread and beer. After enjoying some refreshments, opt for a guided tour of Phezulu’s impressive reptile park or browse a wealth of ethnic home crafts for sale in the well-stocked curio shop, including pottery, Zulu fabric art, woodcarving, beadwork, and other curios.
Reptile Park
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER DANIEL THOMPSON
Known for his rich bass-baritone voice, warm stage presence, and an understated style built on storytelling, authentic vocals, and musicianship, Daniel Thompson is an award-winning vocalist and guitarist from Sydney, Australia, who recently marked 30 years as a
full-time entertainer.
At sea, Daniel brings Johnny Cash’s music to life with the storytelling and musical integrity that defined his touring years.
His two shows—Johnny Cash: The Man in Black and The Country Gentlemen—celebrate songs that have crossed genres and stayed with audiences for decades.
Monday, April 27, 2026 – Durban, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Durban, South Africa.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA
The Surf City
What is it about South Africa’s third most popular city that draws people so much? Is it the vibrant waterfront, complete with street performers and sand artists? Is it the melting pot of ethnicity, with all cultures from Zulu to Indian finding a home here? Is it the laid-back lifestyle that has locals calling it simply “Durbs”? Is it the sweeping landscape? The clement climate? One visit to Durban will quickly make you see that the reason people love it so much is a combination of all of the above.
Durban has always been a beach city but it was the massive investment for the 2010 World Cup that really put it on the map. A huge revamp of the promenade has brought with it some fantastic eateries that serve all kinds of “chow,” from traditional bunny chow to bobotie (a sweet, spiced mince dish with an egg topping). Expect Asian influences wherever you go, too. Durban has the largest Indian population outside of India.
Although there is little evidence, it is known that the city of eThekwini – Durban in Zulu – was inhabited by hunter-gatherers thousands of years ago. It was first sighted by Vasco de Gama in 1497, but it was not until 1824 that the British settlers raised the Union Jack. This was after King Shaka gifted “a 25-mile strip of coast a hundred miles in depth” to Henry Francis Fynn after Fynn helped him recover from a stab wound. It remained part of the British Commonwealth until 1960, when it became part of the Republic of South Africa. The city’s Euro-African heritage remains to this day.
SIGHTS
• Durban Beach Front
• Durban Botanic Gardens
• Durban City Hall
• Durban Natural Science Museum
• Hollywoodbets Kings
• Park Stadium
• Kwa Muhle Museum
• Mitchell Park Zoo
• Moses Mabhida Stadium
• Phansi Museum
• PheZulu Safari Park
• Sri Sri Radha Radhanath Temple
• Ushaka Beach
SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate shopping, leisure, and entertainment haven! Gateway is the largest retail
destination in the city, offering an uNrivaled experience that caters to all ages and interests.
The Victoria Street Market, where the scents of spices and the vibrancy of local crafts create an unforgettable experience.
The bunny chow – the Durban specialty – is unique to the city and consists of a quarter loaf of bread hollowed out and filled with a curry of your choice. The dish is also called a ‘kota’ in many parts of the country. The original bunny chows were made only with vegetarian fillings and were known as a bean bunny.
Today’s Excursion – Tala Private Game Reserve.
Located in the KwaZulu-Natal hills is the wildlife conservancy of Tala Private Game Reserve, an area of indigenous acacia thornveld, open grassland, and sensitive wetland that provides an exceptional environment for game viewing and birdwatching.
Tala Private Game Reserve
Tala provides visitors with superb game viewing experiences in open game vehicles with highly knowledgeable and
experienced rangers and a tracker who will not fail to impress you with his bush skills. At Tala, the aim is to bring you closer to nature, to interact with the environment and animals, and to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush. The reserve, which spans nearly 7,500 acres (3,000 hectares) and encompasses diverse natural environments, features well over 300 bird species, as well as big game such as rhino, kudu, hippo, giraffe, and the rare sable antelope.
Several distinctive and remarkable plant species are also found on Tala. The fiery aloe in full bloom, the imposing euphorbia, and the smell of the fragrant wild sage on a dewy morning make for wonderful, vivid memories.
Upon your arrival at the Tala Game Reserve Lodge, enjoy refreshments followed by your exciting two-hour open vehicle game drive. Have your camera ready for this exhilarating look at Tala’s wildlife.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
VIRTUOSO BARITONE
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH GIOVANNI PALMINTERI
Giovanni recently made his debut in La Traviata, playing the role of Giorgio Germont at the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina.
He is known for his portrayal of Figaro in Gioachino Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, which debuted in various theaters in Italy.
He also played the role of Dandini – La Cenerentola (C.Gounod), Malatesta – Don Pasquale (G.Donizetti), Belcore – l’Elisir d’Amore (G.Donizetti), Don Giovanni-Don Giovanni (W.A.Mozart), Papageno – The Magic Flute (W.A.Mozart), Silvio – I Pagliacci (R. Leoncavallo), and Carmina Burana (Carl Orff).
Sunday, April 26, 2026 – Richards Bay, South America
Where in the World Are We?
We are in Richards Bay, South Africa.
RICHARDS BAY, SOUTH AFRICA
Often referred to as a “port city” or “harbor town.”
Considered the official gateway to Zululand, Richards Bay has transformed from a tiny fishing village into a bustling harbor town. Once underpopulated, with fewer than 60,000 residents in the wider area, the town has grown dramatically over time.
Today, its 30-square-kilometer lagoon is the region’s major port and the deepest natural harbor in Africa. This growth has been driven by significant mineral deposits, beautiful wetland scenery, unspoiled beaches, and nearby game reserves.
Located on the north coast of KwaZulu‑Natal, Richards Bay was founded in 1879 when British Rear Admiral Sir Frederick William Richards landed there during the Anglo‑Zulu colonial wars and eponymously named the port. Despite its exceptional natural setting, Richards Bay remained a southern African backwater for many years, with a population of as few as 200 residents as recently as 1969. While the population increased after the town was formally proclaimed, it retains a relaxed, less congested atmosphere even today.
The town’s Zulu heritage is omnipresent, and visitors are encouraged to explore local arts and crafts. Nearby Dumazulu Village is the only Zulu village officially opened to tourism by King Goodwill Zwelithini, offering a rare and authentic insight into traditional Zulu culture. For those more interested in nature, the surrounding hinterland boasts remarkable flora and fauna, including opportunities to see the critically endangered white rhino and the iconic Big Five.
Richards Bay’s attractions are also found close to the port. The surrounding 350 kilometers of coastline, known as the Dolphin Coast, is a haven for divers, beach lovers, and nature enthusiasts, offering pristine beaches and rich marine life.
SIGHTS
• Duma Zulu Cultural Village
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park
• Lake Mzingazi
• Tuzi Gazi Waterfront
• Alkantstrand Beach
• Richards Bay Game Reserve
CUISINE
Richards Bay’s cuisine reflects its coastal setting and rich Zulu heritage, offering a flavorful mix of traditional and contemporary South African dishes. Local meals often feature pap (maize meal) served with slow‑cooked stews, grilled meats, and leafy greens, while Zulu specialties like ujeqe (steamed bread) and amadumbe (root vegetables) are commonly enjoyed.
Thanks to its seaside location, fresh seafood such as fish, prawns, and calamari is widely available, alongside KwaZulu‑Natal favorites influenced by Indian flavors, including spicy curries and the iconic bunny chow.
Today’s Excursion – Hluhluwe Safari Game by Private Van & Guide
We discovered the breath-taking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve during this panoramic, full-day, game-drive excursion by private van, 4×4 vehicle, and a private guide/ranger.
Richards Bay, National Road, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, Memorial Gate
We departed the pier aboard our private van for the scenic Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. Truly one of the most fascinating parts of Africa, this expansive reserve preserves the wildlife of Zululand, along with the beauty, charm, and tradition of its natural surroundings. Upon arrival at the Memorial Gate and after a brief comfort stop, we received our safety and tour instructions.
Afternoon Game-Drive, Rhinos, Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Zebras, Giraffes, Cheetahs
Afterward, begin your guided afternoon safari aboard an open-air, 4WD safari vehicle. Your panoramic, approximately two-hour game drive traverses the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. The reserve has become renowned for its small population of rare white rhinos and abounds with a spectacular variety of beautiful, diverse African wildlife and bird species, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes). In addition, look for wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, mountain reedbucks, kudus, and warthogs. During your game drive, you may have the opportunity to encounter many of these beautiful animals up close.
See a short video of an elephant drinking water from a pond.
Private Picnic Spot, Sundowners, Finger Foods, Memorial Gate, Refreshments, Shopping
Following your game drive, stop at a private picnic spot to enjoy a variety of finger food.
6:30 PM World Cruise Italian Family Dinner
MYSTERIES
HEADLINE ENTERTAINER MARK HASLAM
Able to work venues from the largest stage to the most intimate room, Mark Haslam transports audience members into a place of intelligent wit and inexplicable events.
Mark’s road to becoming a magician began in England’s Lake District. Now relocated to Southern California,
Mark’s seemingly effortless miracles have been enjoyed at some of America’s most exclusive clubs, including The University Club in Manhattan, The Valley Hunt Club in Pasadena, and The California Club in Los Angeles.
Saturday, April 25, 2026 – At Sea sailing to Richards Bay, South America
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Pointe des Galle, Reunion, to Ricards Bay, South Africa.
10:00 Veterans and Friends – “A-10 Warthog vs. The Hercules – Which is Better?” featuring Col. Joe Koroluk and Lt. Cdr. Mike Simpson
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Between Wild Coast Cliffs and Garden Route Bays: East London in the Middle”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture and cuisine of East London, South Africa.
11:15 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski: “Secret Intelligence: On the Shores of the Arabian Sea”.
Hear stories of secret intelligence around the Persian Gulf, from WW2 to the Cold War, including regime change in Tehran in 1953.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Harold S. Minkowitz, M.D.: “The Operating Room – Your Peek Behind the Scenes”.
Dr. Minkowitz will take you behind the scenes, and you will see what happens from the time you are admitted to the hospital.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Fitzpatrick: “South Africa’s Role in Global Affairs”.
Emergence from apartheid and subsequent reconciliation gave South Africa a high moral standing on the world stage. How is it using it?.
6:00 Magician Presentation by Mark Haslam “The Trick Brain”.
A thought-inducing presentation heading down the creative pathways illuminated by magicians, writers, and other artists.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
ICONIC RHAPSODY
BILLY JOEL, ELTON JOHN, FREDDIE MERCURY
GREATEST HITS
Enjoy timeless hits from Billy Joel, Elton John, and Freddie Mercury—
Icons are loved worldwide. Experience their greatest songs performed by Silver Dawn’s singers, dancers, and featuring our own pianist and vocalist Remon.
Friday, April 24, 2026 – At Sea sailing for Richards Bay, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Pointe des Galles, Reunion, to Richards Bay, South Africa.
8:00 Our Food and Beverage Team presents: “Silver Brunch”.
Join us for a delightful brunch buffet featuring a delicious array of favorites. We can’t wait to see you there!.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Sugar, Steamships, and Stadium Lights: Durban Through the Decades”.
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Durban, South Africa.
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Fitzpatrick: “African Nuclear-Weapons Free Zone”.
After South Africa ended its nuclear weapons program in 1989, a new treaty banned them everywhere on the continent. What does it mean?
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Harold S. Minkowitz, M.D.: “Gut health and the microbiome – What it is and why it’s so important”.
What can we do to ensure we have a healthy gut Microbiome?
6:00 Venetian Society Party: Celebrate loyalty at our elegant Venetian Society gathering.
Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant.
IL BEL CANTO
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH GIOVANNI PALMINTERI
Giovanni Palminteri is a Classical Baritone, Showman, and Actor.
He has performed his soloist concert in opera houses around the world, and he was the first opera baritone to perform during the “World Cruise” event aboard the Silver Whisper for many years.
Some of his productions include: Made in Italy, Il Bel Canto, Passione, Teatro Dell’Opera, and the new show Virtuoso Baritone. Giovanni recently made his debut in La Traviata, playing the role of Giorgio Germont at the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina.
He is known for his portrayal of Figaro in Gioachino Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, which debuted in various theaters in Italy.
Thursday, April 23, 2026 – At Sea sailing to Richards Bay, South Africa
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from Pointe des Gallets, Reunion, to Richards Bay, South Africa.
10:15 Destination Lecture with Chris McPherson: “Zululand Coastline, 21st- Century Port: The Story of Richard’s Bay.”
Join Chris, your destination speaker, for an exploration into the history, culture, and cuisine of Richards Bay, South Africa
2:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Lubienski: “Secret Intelligence: Pearl Harbor & Guadalcanal”.
Learn how secret intelligence impacted two pivotal events in US history.
3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Mark Fitzpatrick: “The Law of the Sea”.
The once lawless high seas now have rules governing territorial seas, rights of innocent passage, mining rights, and more.
4:00 Enrichment Lecture with Dr. Harold S. Minkowitz, M.D.: “Pain – New therapies in Pain Management”.
Dr. Minkowitz will discuss some current therapies, lifestyle, approaches, and new therapies in development.
6:00 Magician Presentation by Mark Haslam “Houdini”.
A thought-provoking presentation exploring the creative pathways illuminated by magicians, writers, and other artists.
ROCK THE BOAT
TONIGHT’S SHOW
Put on your dancing shoes and join us on the Pool Deck as we dance the night away with our collection of eclectic party hits.
The Silversea Singers and Band to keep you swinging and swaying as those records keep playing for you to party throughout the entire evening!
