AZAMARA CLUB CRUISES

I was lucky enough to sail on a 7 night Mediterranean cruise aboard Azamara Club Cruise ship Journey.

Azamara Club Cruises are a relatively new and up market cruise line under the Umbrella of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. The ships are smaller & more intimate than those operated by the parent company and the emphasis is most definitely on quality, relaxed sophistication and the destination.

The two “Boutique Style” Ships, Azamara Journey and Quest, are both identical and have all the facilities you would expect from an up market cruise line, but in addition they offer a unique “Club Style” concept which adds to the overall experience. The ships are smart, but informal so there is no need to wear evening dress, although for guests who may wish to enjoy a formal dinner, they certainly would not look out of place.

The service was without doubt, the friendliest I have experience on any cruise line. It was obvious that the staff and all the crew enjoyed their jobs and were all pleased to be on the ship.

DESTINATION
The itineraries are designed to make the most of the time in port. As the ship is smaller than average, it can sail into smaller ports such as Sorrento which we visited. It was great not having to endure the expensive 45 minute taxi journey from Naples!

The itineraries allow for many late evening departures and overnight stays, again making the most of the ports of call. Where necessary, Azamara also provided their guests with complimentary transfers to the local town. This was particularly good in Taormina where another luxury cruise company charged 50 Euro return for the same transfer.

There are some fantastic itineraries in the brochure, especially for people who want to visit special events such as the Rio Carnival, The Monaco Grand Prix or there is even the opportunity for clients who wish to play golf, to sample some of the premier courses in Europe.

DINING
The dining arrangements on-board were exceptional. Guests can take a full buffet breakfast in the Windows Café which was always very quiet and well organised, probably because most guests chose to have complimentary room service which consisted of a full menu of both traditional cooked breakfast dishes, cereals, fresh fruit etc. Virtually everything you would expect from restaurant dining.

Lunch was also served in the Windows Café and again offered a huge selection of exceptional quality dishes, many cooked fresh to order.

Dinner could again be taken in the Windows Café or alternatively in the main restaurant, Discoveries, where guests can dine any time between 6pm and 9.30pm. No need to reserve a table in advance so this made it a very flexible option.

There are also two speciality restaurants serving exceptional cuisine, which a small cover charge applies to non-suite guests.

DRINKS
Complimentary Boutique House wines are served with lunch and dinner in any of the restaurants on board. The ship also has a no charge policy for soft drinks, speciality coffee or tea and fruit juices anywhere on board, including your staterooms. Only alcoholic drinks are charged for in addition to the non-house wines selected from the wine menu. This can offer a huge saving to guests and it was very well received.

ENTERTAINMENT
There is a good programme of entertainment daily. As the ship is smaller the theatre was more intimate and limited to the productions available. Never the less, the entertainment was very varied, enthusiastic and enjoyable.

TIPS
Tipping is included in the cruise price.

THE SHIP
When I first boarded the ship, I did notice some minor wear and tear on some of the furniture and soft furnishings. After being on board for just a few hours this became totally insignificant as the ship soon felt very homely and relaxing.

SPA
There is a very relaxing spa on board for those who want to pamper themselves, this offers a huge selection of treatments and therapy as well as a well-equipped gym. The ship may be smaller, but this area of the ship is certainly not lacking in facilities.

STATEROOMS
I had a balcony stateroom which was very comfortable and of a good size. They were very practical and had lots of wardrobe, drawer space and hangers for two guests. As with most ships, the bathrooms and showers were a little compact.

This cruise is perfect for discerning clients who expect a high level of service and high quality of meals, but in a relaxed atmosphere. I would highly recommend this to any of my clients, particularly those who like good quality boutique style hotels.