difranco

I booked direct so had to go back direct. Initially booked a GTY and was quoted “may get an obstructed view but cabin size and furniture would be the same as all ocean view cabins”. Not an issue as the view wasn’t a priority on this cruise. After receiving our cabin number after 2 days which stated 99% obscured and much research I complained I was never informed I could receive a cabin with no sofa and table. I stated this was misrepresentation and I wanted a full refund. Also there are no photos of these appalling cabins on the Azamara website. They do state configuration may vary but no mention of omission of furniture. After being told there were no other cabins they miraculously found 5 on deck 4 mid ships. I had to pay an additional fee but was offered $300 OBC which wasn’t originally part of the GTY deal. An annoying hassle but fortunately we were going to purchase the ultimate drinks package which will be covered by the OBC. Our first time in 6 booked cruises with Azamara that we went direct. Not a great experience as the agents seemed disinterested in providing information and all sounded like they were in their living rooms. Sign of the times no doubt.

After much debate and informative feedback on this board, we have moved to a 05 category for a small fee but with OBC which nearly covers the fee. As some have said these cabins are not fit for purpose for a relaxing holiday, however, they would be ideal for solo travellers and should be priced with no surcharge. That would be a win win. Marriage saved.

Received cabin 6034 on a GTY. Has anyone sailed in this cabin in the past and if yes can you confirm if there is a 2 person sofa as shown on the Azamara website.

Unfortunately the quality of the complimentary wines has deteriorated to jugging status with exception of the sparking French Cremant. This necessitates a 2 grade jump to the Ultimate drinks package at $23.95 to find acceptable wines. After 5 Azamara cruises I have finally been forced to buy this package to save my taste buds. 1 bottle of Whispering Angel a day and you’re in profit. Just my personal view.

Having earned complimentary nights with Azamara I am finding it difficult to use them on future bookings due restrictions. Azamara website and reservation team members have conflicting views. Please could anyone post any recent experience with utilising this reward and what you were allowed to use them against. For example, nights on discounted cruises / pre or post cruise hotels / onboard expenses (drink and dining packages) etc. Hopefully not a reward that is in name only.

Nothing new really, we had temperature checks at embarkation in Monaco way back in 2009. Steaming hot day with beads of sweat on our foreheads. Passenger’s were actively running chilled water bottles over their forehead before nearing the dreaded heat gun.

Boarding Onward tomorrow in Monaco and currently in an airport hotel checking cruise mapper to see how she is progressing. For some reason today’s port of call Corsica seems to have been replaced with Genoa. Was this due to high winds and Corsica having unseasonally low temperatures of 9C/-3C today. Can anyone onboard confirm the reason or has the ship limped to Genoa with a technical issue. No point asking Azamara as we will be back home before we get an answer and probably not a coherent one.

Is boarding from 1200hrs back on the menu in Europe or are you restricted to the times offered when completing online check in. 1330 to 1730hrs in 30 minute intervals. Has anyone boarded during September and October. What is the earliest that anyone has boarded ?

Can anyone confirm if the 30 minute boarding window offered when checking in online is rigid or are we back to the pre covid check in procedures where you can board for lunch. The only times left for the “Wellness Check” are 1500 onwards. As there is no requirement for pier side testing and most other information is obtained online, I’m at a loss as to why the check in times are back on the menu. My transfer to Monaco is booked for 5th November and it’s timed for a midday arrival. Any information is welcome or it will be give it a try at 1200hrs or drop bags off then lunch in the port (at my expense).

I agree having lived in France. Service compris means exactly that. Loose change is the norm. On board in public areas sets a dangerous precedent. Over the years I have seen individuals trying to create a pecking order at the bar by flashing the cash. Usually backfires when fellow cruisers read them the riot act. On past Seabourne cruises I have seen restaurant and bar managers giving passengers a ticking off for overtly laying cash on the bar. What next, a bell. As other posters have quoted, look after those who do the jobs we hate, starting with the vacuum toilet.

Shame you have to jump two categories to get a more palatable wine offering. However, if your a beer fan you only have to jump one category. I think it’s time to simplify the beverage package to complimentary or superior. Increase the fares to include complimentary wi-fi as well. All these current add ons cheapen the product. A 20% fare increase for a top level fully inclusive product would be welcomed by some quarters. That includes all specialty dining venues without the gratuity walk of shame at the end of the evening.

Will those with human rights values shun the brand if the deal goes through.