I’ve done 5 Azamara cruises in the past two years and each has been fantastic. I’ve also sailed with Silversea and Seabourn in the past and while I loved those too Azamara is about 90 percent as good and about 25 percent the price. Fellow passengers are younger and a bit more fun also.
Oooh my!! I need to rethink our cruising plans. This is the kind of cruising I've always wanted. On the large (theme park) lines the only luxury I get and feel is from my balcony. Thanks so much for this insightful video(s).
It's always a pleasure, Bill! We loved the “old” footage from 2005. Your presentation style is always top-notch. Other RUclipsrs don't come close. We loved your series on the golden age of cruising. ❤
After watching this video we booked the Christmas & New Year Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Journey. It was fantastic. I’m 55 and husband 57 we were nearly always the last ones in the living room every night till it closed, along with 75/72 year old couple. We found your channel after booking a Cunard cruise for January 2024 and wanting to know more about what to expect. Thanks.
The negatives sound like positives to me! No casino! No frantic, yelling daytime activities! Heaven - sign me up! Great review. We're looking at Azamara for a Norwegian Fjords cruise, because the itinerary looks so good.
Hi Bill, only recently discovered your channel, and have only cruised twice, but already can't wait for the next one! The archive footage is fascinating - more or that when you get a chance please! Thanks! Gareth
I would love to see some footage of your cruise adventures 20 plus years ago, I have been cruising since the early '70s and still love it. These days, I stick to Viking, Oceania and Celebrity, although I have Regent in mind soon. Thanks so much for your very thorough and enjoyable videos.
Excellent information We are currently looking at Azamara v Seabourn v Explora. Would love to find a comparison on these 3. Eagerly awaiting you next vlog on Azamara. Keep up the great work BTW...we have sailed Several times on Oceania. No longer the same quality. Thus, why looking at the aforementioned cruiselines
@irishinusa1615 Hi there. Many thanks for your comments. Oceania is very much a direct competitor to Azamara. So interesting to note your thoughts on them
Interesting cruise line choices. The exact same as ours. We like the larger O ships, the 930 passenger Viking ships, and the Sky Suites on Celebrity. Azamara ships are too small for us, same as Oceania’s smaller four.
Hey! Thanks for the visual shout out! That's our thumbnail for the Celebrity Ascent! My late wife, Laura, would have been so proud to see that you used her thumbnail.
@@ritzytravelguide not similar. It's the one you used. In the bottom, left corner of the thumbnail you chose for the Celebrity Ascent, you'll see Extraordinary Adventures written. That's us. Well, that was us. Now it's just me. 😞 😢
@@ritzytravelguide these are our Azamara tours... ruclips.net/video/w3x-tYn8gXo/видео.htmlsi=NPIYMAMn4ghQ5FlD ruclips.net/video/1mriUyESvSk/видео.htmlsi=oEvWGA-ndjG59jYK
@ScottStein1 Hi Scott, sorry I'm a bit confused. The thumbnail here is for Azamara Pursuit. Are you referring to a thumbnail for the Celebrity Ascent? So sorry to hear about your wife.
Big fan of your videos and definitely would enjoy seeing your older footage! I loved becoming acquainted with the Azamara Pursuit and have put it on my cruise bucket list. I am a small ship enthusiast and especially appreciate that this ship is a one class only option. Thank you for the great coverage and the chuckles thrown in for free! ❤
Bill I must say I have been very much enjoying your channel. We will be sailing on Celebrity next month. Thank you for sharing all of your cruise videos with all of us. Now you have us thinking about an Azamara cruise. You remind me a little bit of Jim Zimm. Wishing you and your wife many happy cruises in your future.
Many thanks for your kind words. Azamara is definitely worth considering, we really enjoyed our time aboard. Have a great cruise with Celebrity next month.
I prefer mid sized ships with ZERO KIDS!! I go for the glorious food 🍱 Being a Solo traveller aged over 60, it will be great if all cruise lines offer Solo Cabins and not need me to haemorrhage lots more money 💰
YES more of the past footage!! Wonderful to see the changes and what the industry used to be. After this video, I think I'm going to be doing some research.....I'm sure those prices canNOT be "normal" and I don't know what I'd face as a solo traveler, but it seems to be seriously worth the time to investigate :-) Thank you so much for this amazing view!
Hi there Maria, great to hear from you. Azamara is running a few promotions at the moment. Take a look at their website, and they have a Deals section. And also a section on Solo Travellers
Azamara looks like a lovely cruise line to sail with. The prices you pay for fares in England are so much cheaper than what we have to pay in Australia. Hardly any cruise ships call at Fremantle these days, so our cruising is very limited. Thank you for an excellent review. I'm looking forward to the next video.
Love love love the same screen footage of the ship/ Ritzy Travel guide today and back then! Very unique, very niche. I’m not a big fan of the full videos of vintage cruising as I’m more interested in your specific journey and commentary. However, sprinkling of historic videos is AMAZING! Keep up the channel, we love it!
I haven't taken a cruise on Azamara yet, but I do know a couple that has, and they enjoyed it thoroughly. The only thing they wished was different was the size of the bathrooms. Beyond that everything else was on par with the other luxury or premium lines. What they really liked was the longer port stays.
Hi there, yes the bathrooms are a little small. I should have mentioned it in this video. I have remembered to mention it in the 2nd Video, coming out in 2 days time! That aside, we really enjoyed Azamara, a fabulous experience
Thanks Bill, after watching this inspiring video , my wife wants to really look into the Azamara cruises. And my wallet thanks you. 😂 Please show some of the videos from your old cruises. We really enjoy your channel. Keep them coming.
Watching this put me in a good mood and made me very hungry. Everyone looks like they're having a great time. Seems like these smaller, even older, ships have a lot going for them. I hate the fact that some prime areas are closed off to only suite occupants on some newer ships; I'd protest this trend by not booking them. Thanks for sharing the joy!
We love Azamara , we have been on Quest twice and Journey once, the small ships can get so much further , we went all the way into Ho Chi Minh City the sail away down the Saigon river was stunning , yes the showers are tiny and the conditioner is not recommended , but it’s a small gripe. We went in Aqualina twice and Prime C once, I agree main dining room is just as good 👍
I enjoyed reminiscing about our recent cruise on the Pursuit. Our taste and yours match. Your video is well done. I would add that if one can swing the cost of the club continent suite, it’s worth it. The bathroom is much, much nicer. You can go to the speciality restaurants for no add’l charge and, yes, they are excellent. You get a personal butler who just does some extra things to make you feel even more pampered. Can’t wait until January when we board again. Maybe see you there?
Hello Bill. I do love your presentations. Seeing archive footage from days gone by are nice, because back then, we did not need Wi-Fi nor internet connections, or have a phone in our hands all day and night, and we weren't preoccupied with how MANY USB charging spots there were in the cabin and WHERE they were located, No ?? Getting rid of that dastardly shower curtain is still a challenge on many ships. I've heard varying opinions about the other Azamara ships over the past year. It seems Pursuit has been maintained very well. One day, you must put together a "Who's Who" in shipping's past. With all the Classic Ships you and your wife have sailed on. That would be very cool indeed. There were many classic ships back in the day, and the varied ports were more a plenty, in relation to the standard "Itinerary" you get on most ships today, unless of course you are on a small boutique ship sailing off the beaten path itineraries. Most ship don't visit many of the ports of yesteryear.
Hi Jeremy, many thanks for your comments. Yes, over the coming months we are aboard quite a few modern ships, and I shall try to sprinkle in some footage from yesteryear too!
You pretty much much nailed it. We were on the Pursuit a few years ago. Food and service were great. What you didn't mention is we found the evening entertainment was a bit wanting. The onboard cast was only fair (and small) and there was only one other band on the ship. So every night it was them or the piano bar. They and the pianist were very good,but the sets were pretty much the same every night, so on a long trip, there's nothing to do by the end. You've just seen it all.
Wonderful fact filled presentation. you really do this very well . Sailing on the Journey around the greek islands three weeks tomorrow , so excitment is really building :)
@@ritzytravelguide It was simply wonderful. I would describe Azamara as "affordable low end luxury/ premium " . In terms of what you get in relation to what you pay. We had a balcony cabin midships. The cabin is functional with a petite shower. I enjoy a nice cool shower in the warm weather , so not good. The ship is showing signs of age . Its like being with an elderly friend, you ignore the wrinkles and enjoy the company. This was our fourth Azamara cruise . The food and service was excellent , entertainment was so-so. The grill area was good . We like the smaller ships we are both in our 60's so we dont enjoy large crowds of loud people . when you get to a "certain" age, you know what you like. :) I just adore reclining on a lounger looking at the sea day dreaming , not a care in the world . Then , its time for lunch , then tiffin , then a few drinks round the pool bar , then back to the cabin , shower change , glad rags on and a quick gin and tonic before dinner. Yes I know its hell ! :) We have pushed the boat out ( no pun intended ) and booked out first transatlantic cruise on Regent seven seas Mariner November 2025. So looking forward to a new expereince . Take care . regards John.
@theapprentice2298 Hi John, thanks so much for your reply and thoughts. I love your analogy: "...you ignore the wrinkles and enjoy the company". That is absolutely spot on! These ex Renaissance ships are getting on in age, but for the moment still have a lovely charm and character. Pair that with the ambiance and atmosphere aboard, and it's an enchanting combination. Added to which I think the fellow passenger mix aboard are very much 'my type of people.' Active, broad minded adults, in a comfortable phase of life. But still very much able and wanting to give everything a good go. Living life to the full whilst you still can. Azamara ships can't last forever, they are, after all, coming up to 25 years old. But as long as the ships have maintenance under control, the interiors are routinely refreshed and updated, and the standards and inclusions don't drop, I will happily continue to enjoy sailing with them. As you correctly say, they are lower Luxury Level, with several ultra luxury lines above them. But I do love these quirky, fun little Azamara ships. Have a fantastic time on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner, that should indeed be a treat!
Loved this video. These ships were the original Renaissance branded ships. They called them R1, R2 etc. They went bankrupt and the ships were sold off. Princess bought one and called her the Pacific Princess. We cruised on her a few times and loved the design and layout. It looked very much like the footage you showed from your 2005 on Hellenic cruise. Like you, we enjoyed the 700 only guests, which gave the ship a lovely feel. Having not cruised on Azamara, you've sold it to us now, so we will see what's available in our part of the world in the southern hemisphere. Azamara does visit here in our Summer enroute to Asia. We would love to see some footage from your previous cruising days. We all like to see how cruising used to be as well as what it's like now. Thank you for your great vlogs and virtual cruises you take us on. Happy cruising. 💃🕺
Hi Jill. Many thanks for your comments. Both myself and my wife thoroughly enjoyed this Cruise with Asmara. Yes, I see that Azamara frequently spend part of the year in Australia. Sometimes with intrepid crossings across from Asia and Singapore!
Nicely done Bill as is all of your work. Informative and very entertaining. Love the vintage footage. Keep em coming. Not sure if I missed it, but I didn’t hear about a spa/thermal suite. That’s usually a priority for my wife. Do they have one? Thanks, Jorge
Hi Jorge. Yes, Azamara does have a Spa Suite, with treatment rooms, a saltwater bath/pool, and separate deck. We didn't try it on this occasion, as we had nothing but port days!
As always, you created an excellent and informative video. With their pricing this is a wonderful choice for luxury small ship cruising. Hopefully, they can maintain their level of quality and service with these lower prices. 🙏
i loved this information of this Azamara Cruise !i would love to find out more about this and their cruises that Americans can be accommodated with an airline package !
We did a Mediterranean / Greek Island cruise on Azamara Journey in 2010 for our 25th Anniversary. Azamara was my husband’s favorite. My favorite is Regent.
@@bz8047 In my opinion, Regent is one step higher than Azamara, and I consider Regent to be “luxury”. The food, service, staff, overall offerings on Regent were better than Azamara. I rate Azamara as “near luxury”. Of course we sailed on both before the pandemic and have not sailed on either after, so don’t know if they have been downgraded, as seems to be the case with all the lines.
Great video, I go on cruises on a regular basis usually on Princess or Holland America this video has convinced me to book a cruise on Azamara. I am a widower so I sail as a solo cruiser, I would be curious to know if Azamara is a solo cruiser friendly cruise line. Both of you have great voices and the addition of music made this video fun and relaxing to watch!
Thank you Bill; we’ll get investigating Azamara cruises with a view to booking something in 2025. This year we selected SAGA Spirit of Adventure for a Norwegian Fjord cruise. It’s a similar size ship and very upmarket with everything included. Thanks again for your video.
Great Video! Azamara is our choice of cruise line . Since summer 22 , 3 x Pursuit, 1 x Quest and next September on the Onward. If you book your next cruise onboard you can book at your preferred TA rates with additional discounts and OBC. Last cruise we had an Oceanview cabin which was also surprisingly nice. The ships dock in the better dock facilities, for example in Malaga we docked right into town, and we sailed up the river to the centre of Sevilla. If not most shuttle busses are included in the fare. Just be aware the shore excursions are not the best, very expensive and low quality. We heard a lot of complaints about that. (The only ones)
Hi there. Many thanks for your insights. It's smaller size let's it dock much nearer the action in many ports! I do agree with you about their pricing for excursions. We too noted their high prices, and didn't take an excursion with them for this reason.
I did an Iceland cruise on Azamara Journey in 2003 and I agree with just about everything you said in this video. The Journey is pretty much identical to the Pursuit and the overall ambience is refined and elegant. I loved the ship and the cruise and would really like to sail on Azamara again, preferably in a warm weather area. My package included laundry (wonderful) and one specialty dining meal (which I would not pay extra for as the food in general was wonderful). What stood out for me was the service. I had breakfast in my cabin every morning, and I even had it on the balcony in Reykjavík, which was wonderful. As a non drinker, it was great to have a bartender who came up with interesting and delicious nonalcoholic creations just for me. In contrast to your experience, on my cruise we had daily enrichment presentations by an academic and we learnt a lot about the places we were visiting. I chose not to participate in the White Night (indoors) as we were in rough waters in the Arctic and I was feeling a little queasy. The ginger candies provided were very helpful. It was wonderful to dock right in town in places like Isafjordur and walk on and off the ship at your leisure without having to be herded in large groups. One issue in 2023 (which thankfully did not affect my booking) was that Azamara was implementing a new computer system in 2023 and it did not go well. Many guests complained that their bookings, excursions, etc, were mishandled. I think their customer reputation took a hit as a result, which may explain why they are currently offering discounts. Assuming the computer issue has been rectified I would not hesitate to recommend Azamara for a relatively affordable luxury cruise.
Hi Gerard, thanks so much for your comprehensive thoughts and comments. Breakfast on the balcony in Iceland would have been visually stunning! Agreed, the service aboard is excellent and friendly. It makes such a difference to the ambiance of a cruise. I think you are right, their episode with talk of lost bookings possiblly might have given them a PR hit.
Five years ago, we had a great cruise on the Azamara Quest. We upgraded to a suite. If we hadn’t, some tough points. Bathrooms in cabins are very small. The buffet was hit or miss for us and we couldn’t find seating on the wihite night event. It was overcrowded. The pricing was great. We had a great time and would go on Azamara again, but trying the Oceania Vista next. In the end, maybe we are paying a 10 to 15% premium for the Vista over Azamara, so expecting more.
Hi there. Many thanks for your comments. Interesting to hear your thoughts. Sycamore took over Azamara in 2021, so I'm thinking your experience was under the previous management, albeit it the same ship. And yes, the bathrooms in particular are small!
@@ritzytravelguide We have been on 5 or 6 times and Azamara is one of our favorite cruise lines. Another new one we did this past April/May was Atlas Ocean Voyages - we booked them again for this coming October. Really small ships at 196 passengers and ships are 2020+ builds. Swanky.
My family booked me, 77 year old Army veteran, into the Marriott Merlin Beach Resort with only an address written on a piece of paper and 16 hour flight ahead in my hand. Nothing more. I wanted to go to Italy. I knew nothing about Phuket, yet I quickly fell in love. Enjoy the happiness there.🦋
Very intriguing and very tempting. Some of those food offerings look jaw-droppingly good! As for pricing, I'm wary of all-inclusive in some ways become what it means is that you are paying for everything, even if you don't or can't use it. Not a drinker? You are paying for drink whether you like it or not. And the cost of flights to and from the ship are not included and can easily add another thousand quid for a couple. Factor that in and the quoted $180 pppn is unlikely to be attainable. But, if you get what you pay for I would be happy. My definition of luxury is "lack of hassle". Azamara is now on my radar. Thanks!
Very good points. My Wife isn't a drinker either, but loved the ready access to soft drinks, speciality coffee, up market tapas and kight bites around the clock, afternoon tea, and the special Gala events that are sprinkled throughout the week.
Absolutely love Azamara for the value. It is relaxed and laid back. Amazing service. My only complaint is the internet is almost unusable and very expensive. They claim it is starlink but it is not even close to modern cruise internet speeds or usability.
Hi there, great to hear from you. Yes, totally agree with you on all your points. The internet and wifi onboard is poor. We raised this issue with them whilst aboard. I think it is a widely known weak spot for them
We did 25th anniversary cruise on Azamara Journey. It was absolutely the best... Only A deck chair collapsed when I was sun tanning. I was hit in the mouth. A few teeth were chipped. It was an unfortunate accident but reimbursement for chipped teeth was slow coming.
Hi, many thanks for making contact. You know what, I think about this every week. I do hope to continue that Greek Series of videos from March 2024, but I am scratching my head a little, as to how to best do it. (As I still have many hours of unaired footage from that cruise.) For some reason the Celebrity Infinity ship, and the Greek Ports didn't get the public imagination going! The viewing figures were far less than most other videos I have put out, and I don't know why. I will have to go back to the drawing board, and think how to present the balance of the footage that I have of the Celebrity Infinity, and the Greek Cities. Then come back with a format that captures peoples imagination!
I appreciate the detail of the desserts. I am concerned about musty or mold smell on carpets or cabin, as my travel partner has a very sensitive olfactory system and have had to leave many hotels (some of which were five star).
Very nice video and commentary. Thank you. The single supplement is rather high on Azamara, but for those who don’t care, this looks like a lovely cruise experience. Solo inside or Oceanview cabins price out at US$575-$700 per night. I wonder if they ever offer reduced single supplements like Regent with their 25% supplement on some cruises?
Azamara, possibly more than most, really discounts their repositioning cruises. I see balconies available this November for under $100 / night. (Lisbon -> Miami, ppdo.) Obviously it's mostly sea days, that's out of peak, and you have to book flights. But that's an incredible price for a luxury trip under any circumstances.
Really liked the small ship luxury feel of Azamara Onward. Unfortunately everyone we met seemed to be a top trump cruiser who's only topic of conversation was about themselves and how much money they had or how many Azamara sea days. Really spoiled the experience. Will try again.
Just had dinner with a couple and discussed cruise lines. We both have been on Viking, and they have done Azmara. They said they like Azmara, but Viking food and service was better.
Bill - please more vintage video. Good for perspective. Our first cruise was in 1993 and there are RUclips vids of that ship. That ship was state of the art back then, it’s in the scrap heap now. BYW, Is your wife of Thai background? (If I can be so nosey…)
Hi there. Thanks for your suggestion of more vintage video. I shall sprinkle some more in over coming videos! Yes, most ships from the 1990s are decommissioned. A lot of them in Alang, India. I'm putting a video together, for release later in the year, ''Where Ships Go To Die.'
We love your videos..especially the food reviews. But could you give more information on gluten free options as this is a deciding factor for us. Looking forward to the next episode. John and Gill.
Hi John & Gill, I'll scan my footage to see if I managed to catch the gluten free options. If I did, I'll gladly add it to the 2nd video. As an aside , we noted there were quite a few GF options available
Good job on the video. I'd be interested to watch you do a comparison of this Azamara experience to the experience on another R-Class ship, such as Oceania Sirena.
Hi Brad, I was thinking of doing exactly that, whilst I put together this video. But we haven't been on Oceania for a while. If we do, I'll put one out!
@@ritzytravelguide I'm taking my GF on Oceania Sirena in Dec. She'll be turning 60, plus she's put up with me for 10 years now, so I figure that deserves rewarding. It's also relatively well-priced, which is one reason I booked. A date to at least consider, although it might be impractical for you, as you're in the UK, I believe.
@BradWillis Have a great time on Sirena in December. We will be cruising around Asia at that time, but will be thinking of you on the other side of the world!
Definitely bust out the old videos. And I know this video was long already, but food is one of the most important things to me, so I would have liked to have seen more detail on the buffet breakfast & lunch and MDR breakfast & lunch.
Great video one question. My wife uses a mobile scooter and onboarding it was a ramped stairway. Does it have accessible balcony’s. Thank you looking forward to next video
Hi there John, glad you enjoyed the video. Concerning accessible balconies: I believe so. Here is their official information : www.azamara.com/our-ships/accessible-cruising/accessible-staterooms#:~:text=Adjustable%20height%20commode%20chairs%20(upon,Accessible%20balconies%20(selected%20staterooms)
Have recently discovered, and subscribed to, your channel. Will seriously consider Azamara based on your video. However, my wife has a gluten intolerance. Does Azamara offer gluten free options in the buffet and restaurants ?
Hi Rebecca. We are potentially putting it on the list, for end of this year, or the beginning of next. Just trying to see whether there is a particular itinerary that takes our fancy!
I had heard some questionable things about Azamara. But I'll take an auld jazz club or piano bar any day. I can sing with Vera Lynn, swing with Benny Goodman, and sink into Coltrane like no one I know. I'm 6'2" and solid. I can deal with a small stateroom if I must, but a cramped WC is a problem. Still very interested. Very, very.
If you enjoyed the video please give it a thumbs up. Also, please feel free to leave a comment. We love to hear from people!
Renaissance, built a nice little line, before they folded.
@bodyloverz30 Absolutely they did!
@@ritzytravelguide No travel agent commissions = no sales. This concept worked for airlines, yet failed for this cruise line.
@@ritzytravelguide It's amazing, how many lines have the R vessels.
@bodyloverz30 Yes, one of the reasons Renaissance failed over twenty years ago
I’ve done 5 Azamara cruises in the past two years and each has been fantastic. I’ve also sailed with Silversea and Seabourn in the past and while I loved those too Azamara is about 90 percent as good and about 25 percent the price. Fellow passengers are younger and a bit more fun also.
Hi there Andrew, we are very much in agreement!
niiiiiiiiiice!
This is my vision of cruising. Love this. So beautiful. You two are a very classy couple. ❤😊
So kind of you. Thank you Ann 😊
I agree! 😊
@veronicabuzzanca7036 Awww 😊
Oooh my!! I need to rethink our cruising plans. This is the kind of cruising I've always wanted. On the large (theme park) lines the only luxury I get and feel is from my balcony. Thanks so much for this insightful video(s).
You're very welcome
THIS is the cruise line for me! Thanks for this video Bill.
Glad you enjoyed it!
It's always a pleasure, Bill! We loved the “old” footage from 2005. Your presentation style is always top-notch. Other RUclipsrs don't come close. We loved your series on the golden age of cruising. ❤
Very kind 😊
After watching this video we booked the Christmas & New Year Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Journey. It was fantastic. I’m 55 and husband 57 we were nearly always the last ones in the living room every night till it closed, along with 75/72 year old couple. We found your channel after booking a Cunard cruise for January 2024 and wanting to know more about what to expect. Thanks.
Sounds fabulous. The Living Room is such a lovely place to spend the evening. So glad you enjoyed it all
complimentary room service is awesome- early morning coffee, tea and scones will be a great wake up call !!
Room service was delightful
This is the best ship I've seen. Elegant, all inclusive, excellent cabin and food. Not crowded would be my #1 favourite.
We very much enjoyed it
Really enjoyed this video. Very informative. Super video channel to watch.
Thanks so much Nicole
Azamara is truly the best value cruise. I hope they do not go broke as we love the ship crew and entertainment
Totally agree 🙂
The negatives sound like positives to me! No casino! No frantic, yelling daytime activities! Heaven - sign me up! Great review. We're looking at Azamara for a Norwegian Fjords cruise, because the itinerary looks so good.
If you do try Azamara, let us know afterwards how it went, we always like to hear?
In just 10 minutes into the video I am thinking this is my FAVORITE Ship of all so far!!! STUNNING🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
Wait until you get to the end of this video, and then watch Part 2...you'll think that even more!
Hi Bill, only recently discovered your channel, and have only cruised twice, but already can't wait for the next one!
The archive footage is fascinating - more or that when you get a chance please!
Thanks! Gareth
Hi Gareth, many thanks for your kind words. Will try to weave in archive footage a bit more!
I love seeing the comparison of what the cruise ships looked like before versus what they look like now.
Thanks Jennifer
Just finished our 5th Azamara cruise and completely agree with your remarks. It is how cruising should be, not a theme park at sea. 👍🏼
bravo!
Thanks for the video well done!! we are going on our first Azamara 12 days Eastern Caribbean, we are excited!!
I'm sure you are excited. Wishing you an amazing time!
Love your videos would love to see more!
So kind of you, thank you
I would love to see some footage of your cruise adventures 20 plus years ago, I have been cruising since the early '70s and still love it. These days, I stick to Viking, Oceania and Celebrity, although I have Regent in mind soon. Thanks so much for your very thorough and enjoyable videos.
Thank you Lou. That's a very good short list of favourite Cruise lines. Can't disagree with any of those!
@@ritzytravelguide Thanks, Bill.
Excellent information
We are currently looking at
Azamara v Seabourn v Explora.
Would love to find a comparison on these 3.
Eagerly awaiting you next vlog on Azamara.
Keep up the great work
BTW...we have sailed Several times on Oceania. No longer the same quality. Thus, why looking at the aforementioned cruiselines
@irishinusa1615 Hi there. Many thanks for your comments. Oceania is very much a direct competitor to Azamara. So interesting to note your thoughts on them
Interesting cruise line choices. The exact same as ours. We like the larger O ships, the 930 passenger Viking ships, and the Sky Suites on Celebrity. Azamara ships are too small for us, same as Oceania’s smaller four.
Hey! Thanks for the visual shout out! That's our thumbnail for the Celebrity Ascent! My late wife, Laura, would have been so proud to see that you used her thumbnail.
Hi Scott, did you have a similar thumbnail, to this?
@@ritzytravelguide not similar. It's the one you used. In the bottom, left corner of the thumbnail you chose for the Celebrity Ascent, you'll see Extraordinary Adventures written. That's us. Well, that was us. Now it's just me. 😞 😢
@@ritzytravelguide these are our Azamara tours...
ruclips.net/video/w3x-tYn8gXo/видео.htmlsi=NPIYMAMn4ghQ5FlD
ruclips.net/video/1mriUyESvSk/видео.htmlsi=oEvWGA-ndjG59jYK
@ScottStein1 Hi Scott, sorry I'm a bit confused. The thumbnail here is for Azamara Pursuit. Are you referring to a thumbnail for the Celebrity Ascent?
So sorry to hear about your wife.
Thank you for sharing those. You have a great selection of videos on your channel
I love that they convert the pool deck to dining for dinner, how fun!
Yes, they did that for the White Night. Great fun
Great review, thank you! Did not know about this ship!
@angelasofia7726 It's a great little ship!
Excellent video. We enjoyed watching the old videos, too
Thank you very much 😊
Thank you so much! I am adding Azamara to my cruise line list for 2026…knock on wood👍🏼
Hope you find a great itinerary!
Great review thank you. I especially enjoyed the archival footage!
Thank you Samuel!
Big fan of your videos and definitely would enjoy seeing your older footage! I loved becoming acquainted with the Azamara Pursuit and have put it on my cruise bucket list. I am a small ship enthusiast and especially appreciate that this ship is a one class only option. Thank you for the great coverage and the chuckles thrown in for free! ❤
You're very welcome Kathy. Yes, Azamara sounds like it might be well suited to you. It's a great Small Ship line
Hi Bill and I love this Video as well as you and your Lovely family. Please show more of your older trips. Sincerely Kimberly Gilmore Rochester NY
Hi Kimberly. Thanks so much. And yes, I will try to!
Bill I must say I have been very much enjoying your channel. We will be sailing on Celebrity next month. Thank you for sharing all of your cruise videos with all of us. Now you have us thinking about an Azamara cruise. You remind me a little bit of Jim Zimm. Wishing you and your wife many happy cruises in your future.
Many thanks for your kind words. Azamara is definitely worth considering, we really enjoyed our time aboard. Have a great cruise with Celebrity next month.
Great video! Love the old versus new with the footage of then and now of your cruises. Thanks for all your videos and recommendations 😊
Thank you so much, great to have you watching along with us!
Love the archive footage. Wow 👏👏
Thanks!
Love the flashback! Another fine posting here. And no day time activities? Yes!
Thanks Ronald!
I prefer mid sized ships with ZERO KIDS!! I go for the glorious food 🍱 Being a Solo traveller aged over 60, it will be great if all cruise lines offer Solo Cabins and not need me to haemorrhage lots more money 💰
Luv luv your videos and would love to see your older videos of past cruises.
Thank you so much for your kind comments!
Great summary and looks a well run ship and itinerary. Definitely going to consider after your overview. Keep up good work. Thanks.
Hi there, yes the ship is well run, and great fun
Really enjoyed your content!!
Thank you so much!
First time viewing you channel, and a delightful episode as an introductio. .
Hello, you are very welcome!
Brilliant video Ritzy Bill. Would love to see your historic cruise videos.
Please do upload them.
Thank you Marc!
YES more of the past footage!! Wonderful to see the changes and what the industry used to be. After this video, I think I'm going to be doing some research.....I'm sure those prices canNOT be "normal" and I don't know what I'd face as a solo traveler, but it seems to be seriously worth the time to investigate :-) Thank you so much for this amazing view!
Hi there Maria, great to hear from you. Azamara is running a few promotions at the moment. Take a look at their website, and they have a Deals section. And also a section on Solo Travellers
I loved the comparisons of the ship between 2005 and 2024. More of that, please-if you’re repeating ships.
Thanks David, will do!
Azamara looks like a lovely cruise line to sail with. The prices you pay for fares in England are so much cheaper than what we have to pay in Australia. Hardly any cruise ships call at Fremantle these days, so our cruising is very limited. Thank you for an excellent review. I'm looking forward to the next video.
Hi Joan, perhaps Azamara will buck the trend, and call at Fremantle
@@joanfreestone1707 I totally understand. We live in the center of Canada, so the cost of getting to any port is around a 1000.00 per person.
Love love love the same screen footage of the ship/ Ritzy Travel guide today and back then! Very unique, very niche. I’m not a big fan of the full videos of vintage cruising as I’m more interested in your specific journey and commentary. However, sprinkling of historic videos is AMAZING! Keep up the channel, we love it!
That's very kind of you to say, thank you so much!
I haven't taken a cruise on Azamara yet, but I do know a couple that has, and they enjoyed it thoroughly. The only thing they wished was different was the size of the bathrooms. Beyond that everything else was on par with the other luxury or premium lines. What they really liked was the longer port stays.
Hi there, yes the bathrooms are a little small. I should have mentioned it in this video. I have remembered to mention it in the 2nd Video, coming out in 2 days time!
That aside, we really enjoyed Azamara, a fabulous experience
Thanks Bill, after watching this inspiring video , my wife wants to really look into the Azamara cruises. And my wallet thanks you. 😂
Please show some of the videos from your old cruises. We really enjoy your channel. Keep them coming.
Thanks so much Norbert! I hope you and your wife enjoy Azamara too.
Watching this put me in a good mood and made me very hungry. Everyone looks like they're having a great time. Seems like these smaller, even older, ships have a lot going for them. I hate the fact that some prime areas are closed off to only suite occupants on some newer ships; I'd protest this trend by not booking them. Thanks for sharing the joy!
Hi there, so glad you enjoyed it. Yes, the Azamara Ships have a lot going for them!
Enjoyed your video and would definitely look at this cruise line!
It's getting a lot of things right!
Thanks Bill , very interesting....as usual.
Welcome, Alan
We love Azamara , we have been on Quest twice and Journey once, the small ships can get so much further , we went all the way into Ho Chi Minh City the sail away down the Saigon river was stunning , yes the showers are tiny and the conditioner is not recommended , but it’s a small gripe. We went in Aqualina twice and Prime C once, I agree main dining room is just as good 👍
Hi Yvonne, the sailaway down the Saigon River must have been fantastic! What an experience!
I enjoyed reminiscing about our recent cruise on the Pursuit. Our taste and yours match. Your video is well done. I would add that if one can swing the cost of the club continent suite, it’s worth it. The bathroom is much, much nicer. You can go to the speciality restaurants for no add’l charge and, yes, they are excellent. You get a personal butler who just does some extra things to make you feel even more pampered. Can’t wait until January when we board again. Maybe see you there?
Hi there, many thanks for your comments. Which exciting itinerary do you have booked for January?
Hello Bill. I do love your presentations. Seeing archive footage from days gone by are nice, because back then, we did not need Wi-Fi nor internet connections, or have a phone in our hands all day and night, and we weren't preoccupied with how MANY USB charging spots there were in the cabin and WHERE they were located, No ?? Getting rid of that dastardly shower curtain is still a challenge on many ships. I've heard varying opinions about the other Azamara ships over the past year. It seems Pursuit has been maintained very well.
One day, you must put together a "Who's Who" in shipping's past. With all the Classic Ships you and your wife have sailed on. That would be very cool indeed.
There were many classic ships back in the day, and the varied ports were more a plenty, in relation to the standard "Itinerary" you get on most ships today, unless of course you are on a small boutique ship sailing off the beaten path itineraries. Most ship don't visit many of the ports of yesteryear.
Hi Jeremy, many thanks for your comments.
Yes, over the coming months we are aboard quite a few modern ships, and I shall try to sprinkle in some footage from yesteryear too!
You pretty much much nailed it. We were on the Pursuit a few years ago. Food and service were great. What you didn't mention is we found the evening entertainment was a bit wanting. The onboard cast was only fair (and small) and there was only one other band on the ship. So every night it was them or the piano bar. They and the pianist were very good,but the sets were pretty much the same every night, so on a long trip, there's nothing to do by the end. You've just seen it all.
Wonderful fact filled presentation. you really do this very well . Sailing on the Journey around the greek islands three weeks tomorrow , so excitment is really building :)
I can well imagine! Have a fantastic Greek Cruise!
@@ritzytravelguide Cheers Bill.
I completely forgot to ask you how your cruise went, around the Greek Islands, on Azamara Journey. Did you have a good time?
@@ritzytravelguide It was simply wonderful. I would describe Azamara as "affordable low end luxury/ premium " . In terms of what you get in relation to what you pay. We had a balcony cabin midships. The cabin is functional with a petite shower. I enjoy a nice cool shower in the warm weather , so not good. The ship is showing signs of age . Its like being with an elderly friend, you ignore the wrinkles and enjoy the company. This was our fourth Azamara cruise . The food and service was excellent , entertainment was so-so. The grill area was good . We like the smaller ships we are both in our 60's so we dont enjoy large crowds of loud people . when you get to a "certain" age, you know what you like. :) I just adore reclining on a lounger looking at the sea day dreaming , not a care in the world . Then , its time for lunch , then tiffin , then a few drinks round the pool bar , then back to the cabin , shower change , glad rags on and a quick gin and tonic before dinner. Yes I know its hell ! :) We have pushed the boat out ( no pun intended ) and booked out first transatlantic cruise on Regent seven seas Mariner November 2025. So looking forward to a new expereince . Take care . regards John.
@theapprentice2298 Hi John, thanks so much for your reply and thoughts. I love your analogy: "...you ignore the wrinkles and enjoy the company". That is absolutely spot on! These ex Renaissance ships are getting on in age, but for the moment still have a lovely charm and character. Pair that with the ambiance and atmosphere aboard, and it's an enchanting combination.
Added to which I think the fellow passenger mix aboard are very much 'my type of people.' Active, broad minded adults, in a comfortable phase of life. But still very much able and wanting to give everything a good go. Living life to the full whilst you still can.
Azamara ships can't last forever, they are, after all, coming up to 25 years old. But as long as the ships have maintenance under control, the interiors are routinely refreshed and updated, and the standards and inclusions don't drop, I will happily continue to enjoy sailing with them.
As you correctly say, they are lower Luxury Level, with several ultra luxury lines above them. But I do love these quirky, fun little Azamara ships.
Have a fantastic time on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner, that should indeed be a treat!
Completely agree - love Azamara!!
One of our absolute favourites!
Loved this video. These ships were the original Renaissance branded ships. They called them R1, R2 etc. They went bankrupt and the ships were sold off.
Princess bought one and called her the Pacific Princess. We cruised on her a few times and loved the design and layout. It looked very much like the footage you showed from your 2005 on Hellenic cruise. Like you, we enjoyed the 700 only guests, which gave the ship a lovely feel.
Having not cruised on Azamara, you've sold it to us now, so we will see what's available in our part of the world in the southern hemisphere. Azamara does visit here in our Summer enroute to Asia.
We would love to see some footage from your previous cruising days. We all like to see how cruising used to be as well as what it's like now.
Thank you for your great vlogs and virtual cruises you take us on.
Happy cruising. 💃🕺
Hi Jill. Many thanks for your comments. Both myself and my wife thoroughly enjoyed this Cruise with Asmara.
Yes, I see that Azamara frequently spend part of the year in Australia. Sometimes with intrepid crossings across from Asia and Singapore!
Came back from Greece on the Journey and rebooked the next day!
Sounds like you must have had a fantastic time!
Nicely done Bill as is all of your work. Informative and very entertaining.
Love the vintage footage. Keep em coming.
Not sure if I missed it, but I didn’t hear about a spa/thermal suite. That’s usually a priority for my wife. Do they have one? Thanks, Jorge
Hi Jorge. Yes, Azamara does have a Spa Suite, with treatment rooms, a saltwater bath/pool, and separate deck. We didn't try it on this occasion, as we had nothing but port days!
Small correction at 8:30. The Aqualina restaurant is open for breakfast, but is limited to suite guests.
Thank you
The ship reminds me of the R-class Oceania Cruise we took in NOV 2023.
Yes, all from the same original stock. The ex Renaissance Ships from 1999 to 2002
@@christiandavis5014 It’s the same ship in a different livery.
As always, you created an excellent and informative video. With their pricing this is a wonderful choice for luxury small ship cruising. Hopefully, they can maintain their level of quality and service with these lower prices. 🙏
Many thanks indeed. Yes, I hope they can hold on to these great prices
i loved this information of this Azamara Cruise !i would love to find out more about this and their cruises that Americans can be accommodated with an airline package !
Hi, Azamara can be booked direct through their website, or a number of Travel Agents offer flight and cruise packages
We love Azamara, so much better than a RC cattle call. we have been on 6 and have 3 more booked!
Absolute Azamara pros!
🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦Toronto -
Wow !! ❤ your video
Makes me want to book now!!
Way better than Virgin cruise Reviews 🧐😳🧐
Very different to Virgin!
We did a Mediterranean / Greek Island cruise on Azamara Journey in 2010 for our 25th Anniversary. Azamara was my husband’s favorite. My favorite is Regent.
What makes you prefer Regent?
@@bz8047 In my opinion, Regent is one step higher than Azamara, and I consider Regent to be “luxury”. The food, service, staff, overall offerings on Regent were better than Azamara. I rate Azamara as “near luxury”. Of course we sailed on both before the pandemic and have not sailed on either after, so don’t know if they have been downgraded, as seems to be the case with all the lines.
I also use the escargot as my measurement of a good cruise ship main dining room.
They were nicely garlicky, and herby!
Great video, I go on cruises on a regular basis usually on Princess or Holland America this video has convinced me to book a cruise on Azamara. I am a widower so I sail as a solo cruiser, I would be curious to know if Azamara is a solo cruiser friendly cruise line. Both of you have great voices and the addition of music made this video fun and relaxing to watch!
Hi Matk, great to hear from you. Thank you for your kind comments. We saw several solo Cruisers aboard, and they were thoroughly enjoying themselves.
I love your videos
Thank you so much Rose
Great video Thank You! And Thank you for NO Fish-eye video.
Left the fish eye out just for you!
Can't guarantee that for the next one though!
Thank you Bill; we’ll get investigating Azamara cruises with a view to booking something in 2025. This year we selected SAGA Spirit of Adventure for a Norwegian Fjord cruise. It’s a similar size ship and very upmarket with everything included. Thanks again for your video.
Hi Geoff, your Saga Norwegian Fjord cruise sounds interesting. Do please let us know how it went. When you have a moment
Great Video! Azamara is our choice of cruise line . Since summer 22 , 3 x Pursuit, 1 x Quest and next September on the Onward. If you book your next cruise onboard you can book at your preferred TA rates with additional discounts and OBC. Last cruise we had an Oceanview cabin which was also surprisingly nice. The ships dock in the better dock facilities, for example in Malaga we docked right into town, and we sailed up the river to the centre of Sevilla. If not most shuttle busses are included in the fare. Just be aware the shore excursions are not the best, very expensive and low quality. We heard a lot of complaints about that. (The only ones)
Hi there. Many thanks for your insights. It's smaller size let's it dock much nearer the action in many ports!
I do agree with you about their pricing for excursions. We too noted their high prices, and didn't take an excursion with them for this reason.
I did an Iceland cruise on Azamara Journey in 2003 and I agree with just about everything you said in this video. The Journey is pretty much identical to the Pursuit and the overall ambience is refined and elegant. I loved the ship and the cruise and would really like to sail on Azamara again, preferably in a warm weather area. My package included laundry (wonderful) and one specialty dining meal (which I would not pay extra for as the food in general was wonderful). What stood out for me was the service. I had breakfast in my cabin every morning, and I even had it on the balcony in Reykjavík, which was wonderful. As a non drinker, it was great to have a bartender who came up with interesting and delicious nonalcoholic creations just for me. In contrast to your experience, on my cruise we had daily enrichment presentations by an academic and we learnt a lot about the places we were visiting. I chose not to participate in the White Night (indoors) as we were in rough waters in the Arctic and I was feeling a little queasy. The ginger candies provided were very helpful. It was wonderful to dock right in town in places like Isafjordur and walk on and off the ship at your leisure without having to be herded in large groups. One issue in 2023 (which thankfully did not affect my booking) was that Azamara was implementing a new computer system in 2023 and it did not go well. Many guests complained that their bookings, excursions, etc, were mishandled. I think their customer reputation took a hit as a result, which may explain why they are currently offering discounts. Assuming the computer issue has been rectified I would not hesitate to recommend Azamara for a relatively affordable luxury cruise.
Hi Gerard, thanks so much for your comprehensive thoughts and comments. Breakfast on the balcony in Iceland would have been visually stunning!
Agreed, the service aboard is excellent and friendly. It makes such a difference to the ambiance of a cruise.
I think you are right, their episode with talk of lost bookings possiblly might have given them a PR hit.
@@ritzytravelguide Thank you, my name is Gerarda. I am female.
@gerardacronin334 Apologies, thanks Gerarda.
Five years ago, we had a great cruise on the Azamara Quest. We upgraded to a suite. If we hadn’t, some tough points. Bathrooms in cabins are very small. The buffet was hit or miss for us and we couldn’t find seating on the wihite night event. It was overcrowded. The pricing was great. We had a great time and would go on Azamara again, but trying the Oceania Vista next. In the end, maybe we are paying a 10 to 15% premium for the Vista over Azamara, so expecting more.
Hi there. Many thanks for your comments. Interesting to hear your thoughts. Sycamore took over Azamara in 2021, so I'm thinking your experience was under the previous management, albeit it the same ship. And yes, the bathrooms in particular are small!
I knew you would love Azamara!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ha ha, we did! And in video 2 you'll see just how much! My wife really gets into the swing of things!
@@ritzytravelguide We have been on 5 or 6 times and Azamara is one of our favorite cruise lines. Another new one we did this past April/May was Atlas Ocean Voyages - we booked them again for this coming October. Really small ships at 196 passengers and ships are 2020+ builds. Swanky.
I have been eyeing up Atlas Ocean. They certainly do look swanky!
CCL didn't. Why did CCL sell out?
Yes, it was sold in 2021 to Sycamore for $200m. The rational given at the time was that RCCL wanted to focus on Silversea as its luxury brand
My family booked me, 77 year old Army veteran, into the Marriott Merlin Beach Resort with only an address written on a piece of paper and 16 hour flight ahead in my hand. Nothing more. I wanted to go to Italy. I knew nothing about Phuket, yet I quickly fell in love. Enjoy the happiness there.🦋
Very intriguing and very tempting. Some of those food offerings look jaw-droppingly good!
As for pricing, I'm wary of all-inclusive in some ways become what it means is that you are paying for everything, even if you don't or can't use it. Not a drinker? You are paying for drink whether you like it or not.
And the cost of flights to and from the ship are not included and can easily add another thousand quid for a couple. Factor that in and the quoted $180 pppn is unlikely to be attainable.
But, if you get what you pay for I would be happy. My definition of luxury is "lack of hassle".
Azamara is now on my radar. Thanks!
Very good points. My Wife isn't a drinker either, but loved the ready access to soft drinks, speciality coffee, up market tapas and kight bites around the clock, afternoon tea, and the special Gala events that are sprinkled throughout the week.
Absolutely love Azamara for the value. It is relaxed and laid back. Amazing service.
My only complaint is the internet is almost unusable and very expensive. They claim it is starlink but it is not even close to modern cruise internet speeds or usability.
Hi there, great to hear from you. Yes, totally agree with you on all your points.
The internet and wifi onboard is poor. We raised this issue with them whilst aboard. I think it is a widely known weak spot for them
No Casino? good, that thing is a stealth fee. Good on Azamara for not profiteering off her passengers like that.
Yup no Casino. They took it out and put in the Piano Bar 🎶 🎵
@@ritzytravelguide They CHOSE to remove the Casino and put a Piano Bar in its place? Even better. Thank you for this detail.
We did 25th anniversary cruise on Azamara Journey. It was absolutely the best... Only A deck chair collapsed when I was sun tanning. I was hit in the mouth. A few teeth were chipped. It was an unfortunate accident but reimbursement for chipped teeth was slow coming.
Wow, poor you, that must have hurt
Are there going to be more videos of celebrity infinity cruise in Greece? Seems like it stops at KUSADASI & EPHESUS this video🥲🥲🥲
Hi, many thanks for making contact. You know what, I think about this every week. I do hope to continue that Greek Series of videos from March 2024, but I am scratching my head a little, as to how to best do it. (As I still have many hours of unaired footage from that cruise.)
For some reason the Celebrity Infinity ship, and the Greek Ports didn't get the public imagination going! The viewing figures were far less than most other videos I have put out, and I don't know why.
I will have to go back to the drawing board, and think how to present the balance of the footage that I have of the Celebrity Infinity, and the Greek Cities. Then come back with a format that captures peoples imagination!
Just leaving the house now to fly to Rome and Join the Azamara Pursuit. Love Azamara.
Have a great cruise!
I appreciate the detail of the desserts. I am concerned about musty or mold smell on carpets or cabin, as my travel partner has a very sensitive olfactory system and have had to leave many hotels (some of which were five star).
For us the cabins were great. Very clean and fresh
Looks like my type of trip.
It's a lot of fun
Very nice video and commentary. Thank you. The single supplement is rather high on Azamara, but for those who don’t care, this looks like a lovely cruise experience. Solo inside or Oceanview cabins price out at US$575-$700 per night. I wonder if they ever offer reduced single supplements like Regent with their 25% supplement on some cruises?
Hi there, keep an eye out for special deals, as Azamara does run them. We managed to get a great price, by keeping a close watch!
We were sold until
THE DREADED SHOWER curtain. Almost got us😮😢
Excellent vlog, though . Thank you ❤️
Ha ha. Yes the shower curtain!
Azamara is our favourite 😊
It's a wonderful experience
Premiers here in Denver in 5 minutes! ❤🎉😊
Hello Denver!
Lack of daylight activities on this ship is an introvert dream.
Azamara, possibly more than most, really discounts their repositioning cruises. I see balconies available this November for under $100 / night. (Lisbon -> Miami, ppdo.) Obviously it's mostly sea days, that's out of peak, and you have to book flights. But that's an incredible price for a luxury trip under any circumstances.
Your absolutely right, I noticed that too. Almost tempted...
Hanging out for video 2.
Coming in 3 days!
Very nice video, great buffet selections.
The buffet was excellent!
Really liked the small ship luxury feel of Azamara Onward. Unfortunately everyone we met seemed to be a top trump cruiser who's only topic of conversation was about themselves and how much money they had or how many Azamara sea days. Really spoiled the experience. Will try again.
Hi, that's a shame. We didn't get that on our cruise, it was a really lovely, down to earth bunch. Perhaps you got unlucky
Just had dinner with a couple and discussed cruise lines. We both have been on Viking, and they have done Azmara. They said they like Azmara, but Viking food and service was better.
Bill - please more vintage video. Good for perspective. Our first cruise was in 1993 and there are RUclips vids of that ship. That ship was state of the art back then, it’s in the scrap heap now. BYW, Is your wife of Thai background? (If I can be so nosey…)
Hi there. Thanks for your suggestion of more vintage video. I shall sprinkle some more in over coming videos!
Yes, most ships from the 1990s are decommissioned. A lot of them in Alang, India.
I'm putting a video together, for release later in the year, ''Where Ships Go To Die.'
@@ritzytravelguide Norwegian Seaward was the ship. I believe scrapped near Turkey.
We love your videos..especially the food reviews.
But could you give more information on gluten free options as this is a deciding factor for us.
Looking forward to the next episode.
John and Gill.
Hi John & Gill, I'll scan my footage to see if I managed to catch the gluten free options. If I did, I'll gladly add it to the 2nd video. As an aside , we noted there were quite a few GF options available
That's great. Very much appreciated .
Thanks.
John and Gill.
Good job on the video. I'd be interested to watch you do a comparison of this Azamara experience to the experience on another R-Class ship, such as Oceania Sirena.
Hi Brad, I was thinking of doing exactly that, whilst I put together this video. But we haven't been on Oceania for a while. If we do, I'll put one out!
@@ritzytravelguide I'm taking my GF on Oceania Sirena in Dec. She'll be turning 60, plus she's put up with me for 10 years now, so I figure that deserves rewarding. It's also relatively well-priced, which is one reason I booked. A date to at least consider, although it might be impractical for you, as you're in the UK, I believe.
@BradWillis Have a great time on Sirena in December. We will be cruising around Asia at that time, but will be thinking of you on the other side of the world!
@@ritzytravelguide You as well. We did RCL from Shanghai to Japan and had a great time. Enjoy!
@BradWillis Thank you!
I would love to go
Definitely bust out the old videos. And I know this video was long already, but food is one of the most important things to me, so I would have liked to have seen more detail on the buffet breakfast & lunch and MDR breakfast & lunch.
More food coming up in Part 2!
Great video one question. My wife uses a mobile scooter and onboarding it was a ramped stairway. Does it have accessible balcony’s. Thank you looking forward to next video
Hi there John, glad you enjoyed the video.
Concerning accessible balconies: I believe so. Here is their official information :
www.azamara.com/our-ships/accessible-cruising/accessible-staterooms#:~:text=Adjustable%20height%20commode%20chairs%20(upon,Accessible%20balconies%20(selected%20staterooms)
@@ritzytravelguide that was fast much appreciated lots of info. Will start doin my homework 📚👍👍❤️
Have recently discovered, and subscribed to, your channel. Will seriously consider Azamara based on your video. However, my wife has a gluten intolerance. Does Azamara offer gluten free options in the buffet and restaurants ?
Hi, yes they do. And they are good at proving cuisine to guests needs
It will be great to see the difference from 2005 to 2025👍🏻☺️
Nice video
Would love to see you do an Oceania Ship....Marina or Vista:)
Hi Rebecca. We are potentially putting it on the list, for end of this year, or the beginning of next. Just trying to see whether there is a particular itinerary that takes our fancy!
@@ritzytravelguide Sounds good! We are doing Portugal, Morocco and Spain this November:)
@rebeccajohnson1571 What a fabulous itinerary. Wishing you an amazing time!
I had heard some questionable things about Azamara. But I'll take an auld jazz club or piano bar any day. I can sing with Vera Lynn, swing with Benny Goodman, and sink into Coltrane like no one I know. I'm 6'2" and solid. I can deal with a small stateroom if I must, but a cramped WC is a problem. Still very interested. Very, very.
We certainly enjoyed it. My Wife is pressing me to book again, at the end of the year!