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 and more intimate than those operated by the parent company. On-board 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. However they also offer a unique ‘Club Style’ concept which adds to the overall experience. The ships are smart, but informal so there is no necessity to dress up in the evenings. Instead dressing up is optional and you definitely wouldn’t look out of place if you did.
I have to admit that the service was without doubt, the friendliest I have experienced on-board any cruise. 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. 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 golfers 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. Most guests chose to have complimentary room service which consisted of a full menu of traditional cooked breakfast dishes, cereals, fresh fruit etc. It’s great and is virtually everything you’d expect from dining in the restaurant.
Lunch was also served in the Windows Café and again, there was a huge selection of exceptional quality dishes, many cooked fresh to order.
For dinner there were more options. You could dine in the Windows Café or the main restaurant, Discoveries (any time between 6pm and 9:30pm). There is no need to reserve a table in advance so this made it a very flexible option.
In addition there are also two speciality restaurants serving exceptional cuisine, which a small cover charge applies to non-suite guests.
DRINKS Complimentary boutique house wines, beers spirits and cocktails are served in all of the restaurants and bars on-board. The ship also has a no charge policy for soft drinks, speciality coffee or tea and fruit juices anywhere on board. This is fantastic and helps make this cruise great value for money.
ENTERTAINMENT There is a good programme of entertainment daily. As the ship is quite small the theatre was intimate. Never the less, the entertainment was very varied, enthusiastic and enjoyable.
TIPS Tipping is included in the cruise price.
THE SHIP The ship is very homely and comfortable. After the recent upgrade, the cabins and public areas are all looking fresh and comfortable
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. It’s far bigger than I expected for a ship of this size.
STATEROOMS I had a balcony stateroom which was very comfortable and of a good size. It was 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 at the same time as getting fantastic value for money! It would be a very good option for people who normally don’t cruise.