This article was originally published in early 2020, a short time after Silver Shadow completed a refurbishment in 2019. In 2021, we revisited the vessel’s magnificence as it returned to service.

Lounging on plush new furniture a few feet from the guest registration desk, Susan and Leon Kempen looked utterly at ease. It was difficult to accept that this Australian couple had just flown more than halfway around the world, from Melbourne to Fort Lauderdale. Surely the familiar glass of Champagne and warm reception that complemented their embarkation on Silver Shadow played a part in their comfort. Their satisfaction, however, had more to do with the unfamiliar: The reception area of a ship they had come to know so well in previous journeys with Silversea was now larger, brighter and more welcoming than they remembered — a change that took the Kempens by surprise.

“When we booked it, we didn’t realize it was going to be a real upgrade,” said Mrs. Kempen, as she was about to embark on the Grand South America 2020 voyage. “I can’t visualize the old space anymore; it’s really exciting,” she said, before comparing the revamped reception area to that of Silver Muse, a ship almost twice as large as Silver Shadow. “The central lobby area is a terrific addition and I can see us using it a lot.”

The Atrium, as this central lobby area on Deck 5 is now known, is one of several changes that Silver Shadow underwent as a result of its most recent refurbishment, completed in late 2019. True to its name, it is an expansive combination of space and light that invites discovery. Aside from the guest reception counters, it features an interactive guest relations desk, spacious and open-walled boutiques, a cruise sales office and vibrant new furnishings.

At the heart of it all sits Arts Café, the deli-bar and evening cocktail lounge featured on sister ships Silver Spirit and Silver Muse, which now brightens Silver Shadow with a light of its own. With one glance at the Atrium and the ship’s other enhancements, it becomes readily apparent — at the risk of sounding contradictory — that Silver Shadow is all about light.

The new face of La Dame

Beyond the Atrium, Silver Shadow’s refurbishment shines particularly bright in La Dame. Located on Deck 7, this signature haute cuisine restaurant is a staple across Silversea’s classic fleet. But a new face greets me upon entering — one with delicate features and surrounded by aquatic life: “Masque de Femme,” a design originally imagined by master glassmaker René Lalique in 1935.

With apologies to the Eiffel Tower, Lalique’s mysterious nymph now reigns as the muse of Silver Shadow’s La Dame (the Eiffel Tower’s nickname in Paris is “La Grande Dame de Fer,” which inspired the restaurant’s name). The nymph is one of the two designs that adorn the handmade crystal panels exclusively made by the French glassmaking company for Silversea. The second motif, christened “Coutard,” features a geometric pattern that represents a spray of fine transparent water droplets, like waves in the ocean.

The elegance and maritime elements of Lalique’s bespoke artwork does its part in tying the space together. It’s no small task, considering that Silver Shadow’s La Dame was expanded to more than twice its original size. Up to 40 diners are now able to enjoy the seven-course menu — fitting for the high demand that the restaurant typically commands on every voyage.

An irresistible cocktail lounge

Two “new” faces are also making a splash one deck above La Dame. The first is Connoisseur’s Corner, Silversea’s signature après-dinner lounge that features a premium choice of signature cigars, cognacs, whiskeys and other liquors. It’s not “new” in the strictest sense of the word, since Connoisseur’s Corner was present pre-refurbishment on Deck 7, located in a spot now occupied by the expanded La Dame. The effect of the refurbishment, however, is felt beyond the relocation. Ever the rich and luxurious cigar lounge, the updated Connoisseur’s Corner offers a more spacious venue, with its buttery-soft leather chairs and marble-topped tables.

As part of its expansion, Connoisseur’s Corner now features an outdoor area. What struck me most about this addition is that it does not look or feel like a mere extension of its indoor counterpart. The rattan-style furniture with soft cushions feels much more appropriate for the al fresco setting, complemented by decorative plants that create a cozy garden atmosphere. The refurbishment tells a tale of two corners, with the zen-like atmosphere of the outdoor area providing a delightful contrast to the sumptuous cocktail lounge ambiance inside.

Rounding up the list of newcomers on Deck 8, the casino has also benefitted from a makeover. Originally located on Deck 5, the gaming haven was relocated to make way for the Atrium. Though not open for business during my visit, I could appreciate the room’s updated decor and new layout of blackjack tables, roulette boards and slot machines. Moreover, the casino now sits right next to the lively Panorama Lounge, providing a veritable tandem of onboard entertainment.

Tasteful makeovers for the suites

Across the rest of the ship, no stone was left unturned during the refurbishment. From the new equipment in Zagara Spa’s fitness center to the brighter tones of the upholstery and carpeting in the Observation Lounge and Show Lounge, all areas of the ship received a makeover. Even Silver Shadow’s exterior was transformed: in what feels like an homage to the ship’s name, a subtle shade of grey provides a two-tone design to the livery — a first for Silversea’s classic fleet.

Beyond the revamped common areas, I couldn’t resist peeking at the guest suites. The complete floor-to-ceiling renovation reveals a bright and soft new color scheme that mirrors the design of sister vessel Silver Muse. As I explored deck after deck of tasteful transformations, I came across the Kempens, now fully installed in their own suite. As luck would have it, the Australian couple were booked in the very same suite that they stayed in on their last voyage aboard this vessel, giving them unique insight into the changes they now saw. “We really enjoyed the Muse experience,” Mr. Kempen said, “and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed sailing on Silver Shadow, so it’s very exciting to see these two elements come together.”

Want to experience the remade Silver Shadow yourself? Start exploring different voyages on Silver Shadow, including destinations such as Canada & New England and the Caribbean and Central America.