Q – We are looking at the Silversea 14-Day round-trip Yokahama itinerary next April. Is this a really good Japan itinerary and can you explain why Silversea is charging almost $7000 per person for their four-night Imperial Japan pre-cruise program.
A – You have actually stumbled across one of the very best Japan “in-depth” itineraries we’ve ever seen. Standard Japan programs generally range from 7-10 nights. We love the additional smaller ports and the extra days Silversea offers.
We don’t feel that spending almost $14,000 for a four-night pre-program, no matter how good it might be, is a good investment. Instead, we would recommend a two-night pre-cruise program in Tokyo at a cost of approximately $700 per person.
Sixteen nights in Japan will give you the depth of understanding and cultural exposure you are seeking.
In defense of Silversea, touring arrangements in Japan are among the most expensive on the planet. A simple English-speaking private transfer from the airport to hotel in Tokyo will run the operator approximately $1200 USD. That net then has to be marked up.
Go for it.
