Hi Joan and Joe -

I find sailing on Silversea or Regent to be very similar experiences. Somewhat great mix of guests from around the world on Silversea; somewhat more formal atmosphere on Silversea. Excellent service on both. I'm happy to sail on either line, and most often choose itinerary and all-in cost when booking a cruise. I don't find much of a difference between the shore excursion offerings. With Silversea, I will do more legwork ahead of time to find independent local guides or tours. That route is sometimes better than the ship's offerings, but not consistently so. It takes a fair bit of time to do that research ahead of time.

I've sailed on Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper, and Silver Explorer. Silver Wind and Silver Cloud are the smaller ships. Shadow and Whisper both had washing machines available - I think they are also free, but can't say for sure. Silversea includes a butler with every suite. I quite like this arrangement - it allows the housekeepers to focus on freshening the room itself and lets the butler handle other requests or issues. Tips were included on Silversea. Silversea excursions can add up; ergo the $1,500 shipboard credit. Included beverage list is quite similar on both lines. I'm not up to speed on smoking policy differences.

Cost differential varies with itinerary and choice of ship (ie, wind and cloud less expensive than shadow, spirit or whisper; navigator less expensive than mariner or voyager) as a general rule. The Voyager is most similar to the mariner in size and amenities. For me, if it were identical itinerary, ship, etc, I'd book on Regent because of Seven Sea Society benefits.

If it matters to you, consider any differential benefits at your level in Venetian Society or Seven Seas Society loyal programs. We find ourselves using the free phone calls and internet access on Regent; that adds up fast on Silversea.

Good luck deciding on your summertime 2013 cruise. Cheers, Anne