We had heard so much about how impressive Azamara was and, after several cancelled cruises due to Covid and the war in Ukraine, we were really looking forward to the "South Africa Intensive" cruise. First, the positive: the service cannot be faulted. It really is impeccable.

That being said, the rest was less impressive. A few days before sailing, we were advised that we had been upgraded -- without having requested it -- to a Club Ocean suite! Well, our excitement was quickly dispelled when we realized that we were at the very front of the ship. 4 of the nights at sea were quite rough and we felt every swell hanging on to the bed and popping motion sick pills. On sea days the wind wind made using the generous balcony impossible. Our room also happened to be directly bove the theatre so we were treated to th noise of the performances and the rehearsals as well. This "gift" of an upgrade was certianly NOT a s it seemed. Again, though, the butler and tyhe room steward were amazing.

As a "perk" of the suite, we had unlimited access to the specialityrestyaurants which varied their menus little if at all; so, again, that was hardly a real gift. Read more