Sage - I've cruised on Silver Cloud, not on Silver Shadow, but when you speak of Silversea, Seabourn, Sea Dream (ex-Sea Goddess), you're talking ultra-deluxe (I've cruised with all three--well, Sea Goddess).
That being said, the "small ship" experience is very different from what I refer to as a traditional-type ship such as Crystal, Holland America, etc. There are many who will only choose the small ships, there are those who only are happy on the traditional-sized ship, and there are those who are happy on both. There can be an air of snobbery at times.
The small ship, by sheer dint of size, will offer fewer public venues - library is small, casino is very small, show room is small and the shows are not elaborate production shows - you'll have concert pianists, vocalists, etc. You won't find activities such as bingo, game shows, etc. I'm not saying this with any negative intent - I'm merely saying this because some don't care for the more subdued atmosphere, while others absolutely love it. My own personal advice is that satisfaction with comfortable accommodations is very important because there isn't as wide a choice of public rooms and lounges to retreat to as you'll find on the larger ships.
I've not stayed in a Silver Suite, but they are beautiful. Fares, however, compared to HAL (since this is the HAL Forum) are considerably higher. The fares are all-inclusive--I'd say it's more a matter of convenience not having to sign a chit for cocktails, wines (except very premium wines) than actual savings. It would take a LOT of imbibing to make up the difference. :lol But service, cuisine, etc. are excellent, and you don't have the numbers of people on board as you have with many of the larger ships. You have open seating dining (some prefer that, others miss assigned seating - again, personal preference). Silversea, more often than not, will toss in added perks such as a pre-cruise hotel night, sometimes free economy air, sometimes a free special shore excursion.
For the person who wants the amenities of the larger (traditional) ship combined with the elegance/service/cuisine of the ultra-deluxe smaller ships, then I recommend Crystal.
IMHO, and as one who has been 'going to sea' for 53 years, I truly feel HAL gives tremendous value for money. However, if enough people feel that service is slipping or they are not receiving what they expected, then I would urge you to write a detailed letter to your TA and have him/her present it in your behalf to Holland America.
Getting back to your last question, Sage, it is really unfair to try to compare HAL and Silversea - you're talking two totally different category ships.
Post Edited (06-13-03 22:02)
