We recently returned from our fourth Azamara Cruise, the "7 Night Costa Brava to Cinque Terre Voyage" in May, 2015. We departed from Barcelona, Spain, and ports of call included Palamos, Spain; Sete, France; St. Tropez, France; Calvi, Corsica (France); Portovenere, Italy; Monte Carlo, Monaco, and Nice, France. This was the shortest cruise we had been on, and definitely one of the busiest.

Early registration (11:30 am) enabled our travelling companions to go back on shore for more sightseeing. Although the cabins were not ready that early, the registration process was completed efficiently and there was no mob of passengers. This is a great feature of Azamara.

Having spent two days in Barcelona, we were ready to relax aboard the Journey while we waited for our cabin to be readied. We enjoyed our complimentary sparkling wine and signed up for the Dining Package. This is a three dinner package at the two specialty restaurants, Prime C and Aqualina. Being only a 7 night cruise, with an Azamara Evening and White Night on 2 of the 7 nights, this package was very popular, and filled quickly. We were able to book the evenings we wanted, but had to adjust our plans to suit the dining times available. There are two seatings in the specialty restaurants; the first is at 6 pm, and the later one is booked quickly. The next time we go on a 7 night cruise we may not take the dining package. We only ate in the dining room one night, and that was a shame. Read more