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Wonderful Relaxing Cruise by
Jim P. from Orlando, FL Sailing date: Mar 2010Pros: Positive, professional, caring, happy attitude of all crew members Cons: Fairly small cabin size -- especially bathroom size We had a wonderful vacation on this ship. Do not expect big crowds of fellow passengers, long lines anytime on the ship, or a lengthy list of youth-oriented activities (no climbing walls, ice skating rinks, or wave machines). Do expect a warm, friendly, caring crew, excellent food, interesting ports where only small ships can go, and a relaxing environment. Ship QualityOf course, this is a much smaller ship than many today, but that was good in many ways -- not as much walking, not as many lines, etc. The decor was primarily an attractive dark wood -- elegant gentleman's club atmosphere. They effectively used the space availabe to them and included almost every feature of a larger ship on a smaller scale. Very pleasant. Dining/FoodOutstanding food variety, quality, and preparation. Open-seating was ideal the way they handled it -- no reservations required. Specialty dining rooms were not all that special. There was no additional fee to use these rooms, and I viewed it as just another, smaller dining area with food similar to that in the main dining room. Stateroom QualityStaterooms were small compared to many newer ships in this price range. The bathrooms were especially small. Decor and ambiance in the rooms was "nothing special," although comfort and cleanliness were outstanding. Ship Staff QualityCould not be better. The crew members were, without exception friendly, caring, and professional. In every way, they seemed to want all guests to have a memorable experience. All members were seemingly always smiling and happy. The ship's senior officers were always visible, mingling with guests, and available. Entertainment & ActivitiesOn a small ship, with no large auditorium, there were no large stage shows or "Broadway style" entertainment. The performers in this ship's "Cabaret" were entertaining and fun singers and musicians, with one excellent magician. The ship's band was the best I have seen on any cruise ship (I have cruised about 15 times). Entertainers were visible on the ship when not entertaining. Especially noteworthy was the enrichment lecturer, who was a genuine expert in the field on oceanography and meteorology -- we enjoyed his lectures immensely, and he was always available during the entire cruise to talk informally with all passengers.  12 out of 12 people found this review helpful.
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  The Absolutely Amazing Azamara Attitude by
Elizabeth B. from Palm Beach Gardens, FL Sailing date: Feb 2010Pros: It's too hard to choose - the serenity, the staff, the service, the joy of "letting go", etc. Cons: The evening entertainment was 3rd or 4th rate at best - very disappointing! Sparkling woodwork & brass...crisp linens...fluffy thick towels...food service was efficient...desk personnel were eager to assist...it was obvious that the service staff was very well trained & eager to please the guests...chefs were happy to create special orders...the Prime C specialty restaurant was great...there were no loud speaker announcements other than the Captain's daily noon update...the onboard shops were quite small but , for the most part, sufficient... Ship QualityThe perfect size - just under 700 passangers and everything is easily accessible...there were constantly staff cleaning, painting, sanding, etc., to keep up the ship's prostine appearance but somehow they were never intrusive...very, very well maintained in all aeras! Dining/FoodWe sailed on Azamara in 07 & the dining experience was awful in every aspect. What a major difference this trip. This time the food, service, presentation, quality, etc., etc. was outstanding...open seating is marvelous...having the choice of the 2 specialty restaurants is good although we much prefer Prime C to Aqualina. Stateroom QualityVery well layed out for a small stateroom (we had a veranda cabin on deck 7) but everything had it's place...needed a better, more readbale clock & certainly could have used a nightlight in the bathroom...shower was cramped but usable...decor bland but just fine. Ship Staff QualityWell trained, eager to please, good English skills displayed by everyone! Entertainment & ActivitiesThe few times I walked through areas where the activities staff were "holding court" they seemed to be talking down to guests...not impressed at all by their demanor nor their attitude.
The choice of entertainment in the cabaret was beyond terrible! 5 out of 5 people found this review helpful.
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A fabulous cruise by
A Traveler from Kirkwood, NY Sailing date: Feb 2009Pros: outstanding food, great orgainization of excursions, great entertainment, cleanliness of ship Cons: there were no cons the ship was maintained extremely well and was immaculate everywhere. It was very easy to find areas, easy to get the elevator when needed and the staff was so very friendly and helpful. The decor was very nice and there were fresh flowers in many areas. Ship QualityOur first cruise was on a larger ship, a different cruise line and it was much more difficult to embark and disembark for excursions. Dining/FoodThe food was fabulous and the variety unbelievable. The service was top notch and food was presented so beautifully. The staff was so organized and efficient. We were served in a manner that made you feel very "special". Stateroom QualityThe stateroom was very nice and very clean. There was sufficient closet and drawer space. The bed was very comfortable. There was storage under the bed. Our butler took very good care of the room. Ship Staff QualityRoom service was efficient and the staff was very accomodating. Entertainment & ActivitiesEach evening we received a newsletter with the schedule for the following day, this was convenient and the shows were early and late. There were enough activities for everyone. 
Collapse List of Ports
Gustavia, St. Barthelemywe snorkeled on the Odyssee Caraibes, the water was somewhat rough however it was very nice and the crew was wonderful, so helpful and friendly. They took very good care of everyone.
Don't Miss: Gustavia was very "charming" we walked and shopped St. John, U.S. Virgin Islandsthe snorkeling was wonderful, calm water and crystal clear, huge schools of fish and a wonderful variety
Don't Miss: snorkeling Basseterre, St. KittsThe scenic train ride and Brimstone Hill. Our narrator was very nice and informative telling us about the island history, people and life there. This excursion was very well organized and everyone takes such good care of the visitors.
Don't Miss: Brimstone Hill Frederiksted, St. Croixthe snorkeling was very nice calm water and crystal clear.
Don't Miss: snorkeling at Buck Island Virgin Gorda, B.V.I.the baths is a must see, however it was very crowded when we were there too many people as there were other cruise ships in port.
Don't Miss: the baths 121 out of 124 people found this review helpful.
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