Dublin was overcast but warm as we made our way through security and up the ramp of Silversea Cruises' Silver Shadow, the six-star luxury liner that would take us across the Atlantic to New York.

This trip was certainly different from my original plan to cruise the western Mediterranean, but a scheduling conflict dictated our choice. The itinerary wasn't as exciting to me, although we were looking forward to the two weeks of pampering luxury that we would experience.

We had perused every Web site, every bit of print, every photograph and every brochure prior to our trip. We knew the layout of our suite and the deck plan of the ship. We anticipated the deluxe accommodations, fine dining and attention to detail for which Silversea is known. Although we have cruised many times, we had never experienced the all-inclusive elegance nor the intimate atmosphere (a maximum of 380 guests) that Silversea's four ships provide.

On boarding we were led to our Silver Suite, one of only 13 on the Silver Shadow. Not only did we find the spaciousness of the suite astonishing, we were also quite impressed with the amount of shelf and closet space. We hung everything in our walk-in closet/dressing room and put all of our books, gifts and other items on the shelves-- we could have easily added five times the amount of stuff we brought to the shelves and cupboards and still have had room to spare.

Our bathroom was stunning, a beautiful use of space and materials, which my interior designer daughter really appreciated. Faced in marble and granite with a double-sink vanity, Jacuzzi tub and separate shower stall, it was a far cry from the teeny "heads" on most modern cruise ships. A large bar of Bvlgari soap and other Bvlgari amenities in a pleasing Green Tea scent were laid out for us, as were tons of huge towels, two terry bathrobes, and slippers with the Silversea logo. A bottle of Moët et Chandon champagne was sitting in a silver cooler on our coffee table.

We unpacked and sat, dockside, on our ample veranda prior to going for lifeboat drill and orientation. Before we left, our stewardess Imma came bounding into our suite to introduce herself. It was obvious from her sense of humor and brilliant smile that we would have a great time with her, and throughout the cruise, we visited with her as often as possible.