BACKGROUND My husband and I are in our early thirties. We have been on 8 other cruises. We've sailed on RCCL, Carnival and Norwegian. RCCL has always been our favorite, but we loved Azamara just as much!

EMBARKATION We had a ride to the pier so it was very easy for us. As soon as we pulled up a porter was there to take our bags. Check in was a breeze it literally took five minutes. From there we went out to a bus that brought you to the ship. The bus ride was about 2 minutes. We entered mid-ship deck four and were greeted by staff and handed champagne. The whole check in process was the fastest we've ever experienced. Overall we were up at the buffet 15 minutes after arriving at the pier. (The rooms were not going to be ready until 1:00 so they said to go up to the buffet area for lunch.)

STATEROOM Having the Sunset Veranda at the back of the ship was great. The balcony was a nice size and it had two chairs and a table big enough to have breakfast on. The room had fresh flowers and fresh fruit everyday. You received one complimentary bottle of water also. There was a refrigerator stocked with soda that you had to pay for if you used anything. The bed was comfortable and you could just tell the linens were new. There was a flat screen TV on the wall so you could watch TV in bed and also if you were sitting on the loveseat. You can also view your account, book excursions, order room service, etc. from the TV. Each room also had robes and slippers, which was a nice touch. The bathroom was a typical cabin bathroom. There was enough storage space. In the evening we received some type of treat. One night chocolate covered strawberries, one night chocolate truffles, etc. That was better than a chocolate left on your pillow! Read more