Azura Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We are not natural cruisers but liked the itinerary of Kirwall, Lerwick, 4 days in Iceland, Belfast and finally Cobh.
We had taken advantage of the "free parking" at Southampton as we live in the North of England and chose not to spend a day on a coach. Dropping the car at the designated gate and time was very well organised. After queuing for approximately 10 minutes we were shown where to park. We unloaded luggage and it was taken to the ship quickly by a porter, leaving us to check in (all luggage was in cabin by the time we got there).
The checkin hall was very busy and appeared a little disorganised but we got through very quickly with the staff on the check in desk being very friendly and efficient.
Cabin Review
Clean, well equipped, plenty of space, attentive cabin steward.
Port Reviews
Kirkwall
We were able to walk from the ship,berth into Kirkwall, this took over 30 minutes (not the advertised 20) although frees shuttle bus was available
Lerwick (Shetland Islands)
Had to get the tender to get to shore. We took an excursion to north of the island in the morning and sent the afternoon in Lerwick. Lerwick was very busy as 2 cruise ships were in port.
Isafjord
Vigur Isalnd was our chosen tour - spectacular bird life - boat trip of about 40 minutes on fast boat, spotted a whale. Birds include Puffins, Arctic Terns, Eider Ducks, Storm Petrels etc - highly recommended but only lasted 31/2 hours.
Belfast
We caught the shuttle bus into,the city, took a ride on the hop on hop off bus, walked along the waterfront and visited City Hall - great day out.
Cobh (Cork)
Took the train to FOTA Island to visit Fota House - very peaceful with beautiful gardens and arboretum- Irish National Heritage property. After getting back to Cobh visited the village up where it seems the town had really made an effort to welcome the cruise visitors.