New dining room and bar menus have been requested

[HudandPug]

We too have a cruise booked with Azamara and are having 2nd thoughts. Like you we will lose our deposits if we cancel. So sad to see such negative vibes for our, up to now, favourite cruise line.

Do let us know what you think of Oceania, it is one we are looking at too.

 

We are sailing on the quest for a massive bucket list event the Monaco GP. Just a pity that Azamara has not organised an azamazing event to match the reason for this 4 days cruise ;)

 

The cabins have been selling for huge prices and only suites are left costing over £5000. Next year we are sailing on Journey for more experiences and our 30th anniversary so whatever happens nothing can top the cruises for us. I just want to know what whiskies they will have on board and not just the inc. Also what food because I am a fussy mare :)

 

Yvonne

[English Tim]

In the UK Azamara is being sold as being 'all inclusive' ..... So why on earth would an 'all inclusive' brand need to have a beverage package? I am not getting good vibes here. :-(

 

My wife and I have just booked our first Azamara cruise. We did so specifically based on the all inclusive nature. If it turns out not so inclusive, it will be our last.

 

Last year we had a great time on RSS Voyager and are considering our first Seabourn voyage.

 

It is vital that companies offer what they advertise, if they want repeat business. The internet is very powerful and bad news travels much faster than good.

[HudandPug]

This is a list of spirits that are in the classic booze package as shown if you want to purchase for gifts, so expect they will emerge as the all inc.

Any takers to add or subtract from this list and lets see if we can get the whole list ;)

 

Classic - Dewars

Classic - Johnnie Walker Red

Classic - Jim Bean,

classic - Canadian Club

Classic - Jameson

Classic - Beefeaters

Classic - Tanqueray

Classic - Gordons

Classic - Gilbeys

Classic - Bacardi Silver

Classic - Myers Dark

Classic - Captain Morgans

Classic - Absolut

Classic - Smirnoff

Classic - Gilbeys Vodka

[English Tim]

I have just called the UK call centre to enquire if cocktails are included. Judging by the initial response, I suspect some members of staff aren't aware of the change in policy.

 

The lady told me she assumed cocktails would be included, as do I, but I'd like a definitive answer.

 

What a way to run a business!:confused:

[NC&KY]

I have just called the UK call centre to enquire if cocktails are included. Judging by the initial response, I suspect some members of staff aren't aware of the change in policy.

 

The lady told me she assumed cocktails would be included, as do I, but I'd like a definitive answer.

 

What a way to run a business!:confused:

Surely you did not expect to get an answer that way! :confused: Bill clearly said two days ago that an answer would not be forthcoming before early next week. See post #32 on this board.

[mara01]

We're assuming standard gin & tonics/Bacardi & coke etc. are included but what about cocktails such as margheuritas and piña coladas? Hope Bill comes back with good news!:)

[marinaro44]

This is what appeared in Bill Leiber's BIG ANNOUNCEMENT posting:

 

Our decision to include select spirits, wines and international beers was to enhance the onboard experience by making the beverage ordering process significantly more convenient, while delivering more value to our guests. Also, it is a common offering in the up-market and luxury sectors of our industry.

 

Program details:

§ Here are examples of some of the spirits, wines and international beers that will be offered:

Spirits: Call brands

- Rum - Appleton, Bacardi

- Vodka - Finlandia, Smirnoff

- Tequila - Cuervo Gold, Sauza Gold

- Scotch - Cutty Sark, J&B, Johnny Walker Red

 

 

I would point out to Azamara's decision-makers--who appear not very decisive at all on this issue--that on the "upmarket and luxury" cruise line called Regent we were able to order things like sparkling wine, Bellinis, daiquiris, negronis, pina coladas, Campari and sodas, and the like with no upcharge. So if they really intend to "enhance the onboard experience by making the beverage ordering process significantly more convenient, while delivering more value to our guests," they'll need to do the same. Else the regulars from the "upmarket and luxury" cruise lines will utter a condescending "hmph" and go elsewhere.

[English Tim]

Surely you did not expect to get an answer that way! :confused: Bill clearly said two days ago that an answer would not be forthcoming before early next week. See post #32 on this board.

 

Yes, I read it, but expected the UK reservations dept to know details about what they are selling!:(

[Dunelm]

I can understand why some cruisers want to have their cake--oops cocktails--and drink them, too. Have you considered, though, how people like me and my husband might feel? We are very much looking forward to cruising with Azamara and to the smaller ship experience; however, we are moderate drinkers--a glass or two of wine at the most in one day. Some might say that we are not getting our "money's worth," but I do not. To be on Azamara is our choice. I guess I am just surprised by the number of people who appear to be dissatisfied with a drinks package that may not be "premium," and that may not include everything. Is this a case of getting what we pay for?

[marinaro44]

I can understand why some cruisers want to have their cake--oops cocktails--and drink them, too. Have you considered, though, how people like me and my husband might feel? We are very much looking forward to cruising with Azamara and to the smaller ship experience; however, we are moderate drinkers--a glass or two of wine at the most in one day. Some might say that we are not getting our "money's worth," but I do not. To be on Azamara is our choice. I guess I am just surprised by the number of people who appear to be dissatisfied with a drinks package that may not be "premium," and that may not include everything. Is this a case of getting what we pay for?

In fact, many of us were quite happy with the "old" policy of wine with meals and anything else extra cost.

 

But if Azamara makes a big fuss about "inclusive standard spirits" and then limits it to whiskey and water, soda, ice or straight, it does nothing for those of us who might like a real cocktail. The fact that the liquor to be poured is not "premium" is of no matter to me, but I would like a pina colada by the pool or a Campari and soda before dinner. Drinks like these are included on the "upmarket luxury" cruise lines Azamara is apparently trying to emulate.

[mzk90]

Cannot see why you could order a vodka, or a pineapple juice etc, yet they would stop you having a pina colada! Won't it be much like their alcohol package offer on their sister brands, i.e. you get cocktails if made with house brands?

[marinaro44]

Cannot see why you could order a vodka, or a pineapple juice etc, yet they would stop you having a pina colada! Won't it be much like their alcohol package offer on their sister brands, i.e. you get cocktails if made with house brands?

I don't see why it shouldn't be. Yet, you'd think now that we're four months from the announcement of this new "inclusive" policy, they would tell us. And it wouldn't be such a difficult decision t make.

[gosport11]

maybe i should take a cocktail shaker and set a little table up and get the people to bring the ingredents one at a time.:):D

Even if you dont drink a lot of alchol the virgin cocktails,water,sodas and fresh fruit drinks soon add up,when we upgrade to a drinks package on Celebrity we find that 60% of the bill is on soft drinks from coffee to bottled water( 4 bottles a day):eek:

[May B]

maybe i should take a cocktail shaker and set a little table up and get the people to bring the ingredents one at a time.:):D

Even if you dont drink a lot of alchol the virgin cocktails,water,sodas and fresh fruit drinks soon add up,when we upgrade to a drinks package on Celebrity we find that 60% of the bill is on soft drinks from coffee to bottled water( 4 bottles a day):eek:

 

Soft drinks and juices and specialty coffees are all complimentary already on Azamara.

 

Watch out for the new Nespresso, though.

[Dunelm]

Okay--I have a question: Why are most of the comments about cocktails and alcohol costs coming from the British? I am curious because I am British, have lived in the States for several years, am presently living in the UK, and have noticed some cultural differences even when cruising. On ships that have mostly Americans, the casino is often crowded. On ships with a majority of Brits, the bars are crowded. Do Brits just like to drink more and party more? Are Americans bigger gamblers? I am just curious.;)

[gosport11]

Okay--I have a question: Why are most of the comments about cocktails and alcohol costs coming from the British? I am curious because I am British, have lived in the States for several years, am presently living in the UK, and have noticed some cultural differences even when cruising. On ships that have mostly Americans, the casino is often crowded. On ships with a majority of Brits, the bars are crowded. Do Brits just like to drink more and party more? Are Americans bigger gamblers? I am just curious.;)

Just go to a town centre on a saturday night and see the people,seriously we can now gamble 24-7 dont have to travel maybe miles to go to a resort most high st book makers now have high end slots in them,in our high st we have 3 bookies so gambling is no big deal but cheap drink :):);)

[Dunelm]

Just go to a town centre on a saturday night and see the people,seriously we can now gamble 24-7 dont have to travel maybe miles to go to a resort most high st book makers now have high end slots in them,in our high st we have 3 bookies so gambling is no big deal but cheap drink :):);)

 

Actually, I see a lot of people drinking in town centres in England these days. But, I get your point. Thanks for replying.

[jo-b]

Okay--I have a question: Why are most of the comments about cocktails and alcohol costs coming from the British? I am curious because I am British, have lived in the States for several years, am presently living in the UK, and have noticed some cultural differences even when cruising. On ships that have mostly Americans, the casino is often crowded. On ships with a majority of Brits, the bars are crowded. Do Brits just like to drink more and party more? Are Americans bigger gamblers? I am just curious.;)

 

 

And this is the reason we would avoid like the plaque the Celebrity offer of "free" drinks packages on ex UK cruises. As a sweeping generalisation the Brits would try and get "good value" out of the free drinks!

[HudandPug]

And this is the reason we would avoid like the plaque the Celebrity offer of "free" drinks packages on ex UK cruises. As a sweeping generalisation the Brits would try and get "good value" out of the free drinks!

 

Oh dear! have you experienced your fellow countryfolk being out of their trees on celebrity? Not nice I am sure!

 

When it is part of an all inclusive cruise the pressure to get your moneys worth does not apply. However, when you have paid a considerable amount for a beverage package or been induced by all you can drink plus balcony upgrade, onboard credit etc(alcoholic or not), human nature expects, that you will want to get your moneys worth or why buy the package or the cruise?

 

I don't think that azamara client base is about that, its about relaxation, ease, friendship and longer days off track in ports, or long relaxing sea days without butlins style entertainment. Yes guilty, I have never gone to a single show on any ship so far. I would be more than happy if there was non, but happy vibrant social bars/cafe's, very important!

 

;)

[Lindy028]

Oh dear! have you experienced your fellow countryfolk being out of their trees on celebrity? Not nice I am sure!

 

When it is part of an all inclusive cruise the pressure to get your moneys worth does not apply. However, when you have paid a considerable amount for a beverage package or been induced by all you can drink plus balcony upgrade, onboard credit etc(alcoholic or not), human nature expects, that you will want to get your moneys worth or why buy the package or the cruise?

 

I don't think that azamara client base is about that, its about relaxation, ease, friendship and longer days off track in ports, or long relaxing sea days without butlins style entertainment. Yes guilty, I have never gone to a single show on any ship so far. I would be more than happy if there was non, but happy vibrant social bars/cafe's, very important!

 

;)

 

Another one who would be happy to not have any 'shows' on board. We too have never been to a show on any of the cruises we have been on.

Good food, good wine, good company and some nice background music, from a classical guitar or indeed a harp, is our idea of heaven!

[HudandPug]

Another one who would be happy to not have any 'shows' on board. We too have never been to a show on any of the cruises we have been on.

Good food, good wine, good company and some nice background music, from a classical guitar or indeed a harp, is our idea of heaven!

 

Add a decent whisky and you describe my idea of heaven;)

[Joecors]

Oh dear! have you experienced your fellow countryfolk being out of their trees on celebrity? Not nice I am sure!

 

When it is part of an all inclusive cruise the pressure to get your moneys worth does not apply. However, when you have paid a considerable amount for a beverage package or been induced by all you can drink plus balcony upgrade, onboard credit etc(alcoholic or not), human nature expects, that you will want to get your moneys worth or why buy the package or the cruise?

 

I don't think that azamara client base is about that, its about relaxation, ease, friendship and longer days off track in ports, or long relaxing sea days without butlins style entertainment. Yes guilty, I have never gone to a single show on any ship so far. I would be more than happy if there was non, but happy vibrant social bars/cafe's, very important!

 

;)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

...introducing a rational contribution.

I drink very little alcohol, have travelled on Azamara since its inception from "no free" to "free" wine with lunch and dinner. At no time have guests at dinner, strangers to me, over indulged whether from the U.S. or the U.K. Not did the U.K. guests give the impression that they spent each week-end rolling around the gutter in their city centre.

You were correct Dunelm that the majority of contributors to this thread were U.K. based. Personally I think that there is dissatisfaction that nothing positive has been identified by Az. after the publication on Oct 1st by Bill Lieber of Azamara's "brave new world". 80% of this was devoted to, free alcoholic drinks and AzAzamara and as an afterthought at the very end of the thread the intention to increase prices was revealed. Just two weeks to go before its inauguration of these "amenities" no details of the package have been released. Oh! And by the way:-

 

"....new AzAmazing Evening, an immersive complimentary destination event ashore featured on every voyage"

 

...no longer applies to every voyage!

Maybe why U.K. contributors have been busy on this thread is because if they decide to abandon ship and look elsewhere for their cruising (not possible for those whose cruise starts on March 31st) they will loose their complete deposit; not , I believe applicable to U.S. cruisers who can cancel without such stringent penalties.

[hapicruisin]

Another one who would be happy to not have any 'shows' on board. We too have never been to a show on any of the cruises we have been on.

Good food, good wine, good company and some nice background music, from a classical guitar or indeed a harp, is our idea of heaven!

 

Couldn't agree more. We don't go to the shows as they are far too noisy. Tried one years ago but we have not bothered with any since.

[uktog]

Couldn't agree more. We don't go to the shows as they are far too noisy. Tried one years ago but we have not bothered with any since.

 

The Azamara shows have had a complete revamp over the last two years and if you look at reviews for the last year, many people are commenting positively on this change. Whilst the Celebrity main theatre shows may be noisy for some people on Azamara we have always found the volume to be right and also the AV team are carefully monitoring it throughout the show and as officers and others are walking around in the room, they give them feedback on the volume all the time.

 

You find on Azamara, the cruise director usually stays at the back throughout a show, whereas on Celebrity they just open the show, you see them walk along Level 5 off somewhere else for 40 mins and then come back to about 5 minutes before the end to close it, so there is a lot more monitoring on Azamara.

 

I for one would not cast my vote to do away with the on board shows and guest entertainers as we now enjoy them and have found the type of entertainers selected are just right for Azamara

 

Just goes to show what a tricky balance Azamara has to maintain, keeping us all happy!

[NC&KY]

I for one would not cast my vote to do away with the on board shows and guest entertainers as we now enjoy them and have found the type of entertainers selected are just right for Azamara

 

Just goes to show what a tricky balance Azamara has to maintain, keeping us all happy!

I absolutely agree. I know lots of people who think the shows are one of the best parts of the cruise experience. The reason my wife and I don't go has nothing to do with volume; we need lots of sleep, and to be ready for excursions the following day, we invariably "hit the hay" right after dinner every night. "They" told me as I got older I would need less sleep, so I guess I'm not old yet!:rolleyes: