We had a very enjoyable holiday aboard Azura, with fantastic, not too hot weather, and interesting ports. We didn't get to know any of our fellow passengers well, but those we spoke to were very pleasant and good company and there seemed to be fewer people making comparisons with other cruise lines and cruise holidays. There were quite a few largish family groups and lots of children (middle of the summer holidays) who, from what I saw, were very well behaved and credits to their parents. The captain was personable and whilst not a highly visible presence, was around the ship from time to time and friendly. Crew were generally polite, cheerful and helpful. Azura's a nice enough ship, but I didn't fall in love with her. Here is my take on various aspects of our cruise.

Embarkation

20-30 minute queue before we were able to unload luggage (not a problem for us). Pleasant, efficient parking attendants and embarkation team. Whole embarkation process took maybe 30 minutes and we were soon lunching in the buffet. No general announcement of cabin availability, or announcement of groups of cabins as on Aurora last year, so it was only through overhearing other pax saying cabins were available that we knew we could go and drop off our hand luggage. Read more