We are seasoned cruisers, sampling many lines. We Booked Azamara strength of a very enjoyable cruise on its sister line, Celebrity, that we enjoyed immensely. We looked forward to a more intimate ship. Our travel arrangements made by Azamara were rather chaotic, their agent did not make himself known to quite a large party of us, resulting in us having to split up and search for him. Even worse arrangements for transport to hotel, where no room was available. I would recommend that travellers make their own arrangements to the ship when travelling with Azamara.

Embarkation was difficult as we had to queue for quite some time in the heat. It was so hot inside the port hall that I felt quite faint and needed to be helped to a seat. Our stateroom was very well appointed, with smaller balconies that Celebrity Silhouette class. Not enough room for a lounger. Looks of storage space though. The furniture on board ship was beginning to show its age. The main dining room was dark, for some reason the lights were always dimmed at night. The waiters and Dining room staff were always very cheerful and attentive. Being a small ship, the entertainment is quite restricted but everyone did their best to put on good shows. I found the shore excursions to be good value when booked before setting sail. One gripe is that of restricted restaurant opening hours. It's not much fun returning from an excursion hungry only to find no food available.

Disembarkation was disappointing and the arrangements we made with Azamara for a day room in order that we might see the sights of Rio did not materialize. This is another reason to travel to and from the ship independently. Read more