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Azamara Quest Transatlantic Cruise March 2013


Ahhhh…..   The sound one makes when content.  Writing to you from on board the Azamara Quest as she makes her way from Florida to Spain into Seville for Holy Week; docking right in the heart of Seville less than 1 mile from the Great Cathedral there. 

Carrying a bit less than the 700 passengers she is designed for, it has been fantastic in every way!  Such a joy to have no lines, exquisite cuisine and service, fantastic entertainment and more, all while mingling with a delightful mix of like-minded travelers from all over the world.

Check-in was a breeze as we walked right up to one of the attentive reception agents who was immediately available – NO wait whatsoever, a fantastic indication of what was in store for us!  After a quick and efficient check-in we were on board in a few seconds, greeted warmly with Champagne and smiles.

This first day Azamara had attentive staff strategically placed in the various outlets such as spa, internet services and land excursions standing by and readily available to assist with your planning and knowledge about these ever so important parts of cruising.  Staff remained ever so attentive and diligent throughout the cruise.

A very efficient start, low key and almost understated, as there are ample areas on board for the 600 ish cruisers to watch the disembarkation from Miami as we glided past vibrant South Beach, about to embark on a 13 day journey “across the pond”.

~The colors, patterns and materials used throughout the entire ship blended together so well; the ship itself an objet d art of great beauty~

My travel companion Pamela and I were assigned a lovely ocean view cabin with a large picture window, on Deck 4 stateroom 4056.  Beautifully appointed with a  luxurious extra comfy bed, small sofa, stocked mini bar, safe, desk and ample closet & drawer space.  A well-designed bathroom with a good sized shower and everything one needs, with high-end toiletries and soft fluffy towels.  Our cabin attendants kept everything spotless and provided discreet turn-down service, with fresh fruits & chocolates, and replenishing our ice bucket.  It is about halfway through the cruise, and we have not once heard any bothersome noises from above, below or outside or cabin, even being so close to the main lobby.  The solid construction throughout, and the heavy tight-fitting door kept our stateroom blissfully quiet.  Of course, as is the case on all cruises you do hear a bit of a hum from the constantly working engine, as well as some sound of the waves alongside.  For me, the waves sound like those at the beach, which along with the gentle swaying of the ship relaxes and soothes me in a cocoon of comfort!

The Quest underwent a $20 million renovation just a few months ago; bringing a “lighter and fresher” look.  Soft furnishings such as carpets, drapes, towels, mattresses, sheets and comforters, and deck chairs were replaced.  Lighter colors throughout, beautiful wood highly polished and gleaming marble. The art on-board was a masterful blend of fantastic photographs and original art, with tasteful sculptures and full murals strategically placed . 

~PASSENGERS ON BOARD TRANSATLANTIC & REPOSITIONING CRUISES ARE TYPICALLY VERY WELL-TRAVELED AND DOWN TO EARTH PEOPLE WHO REALLY ENJOY MINGLING WITH OTHERS AND SHARING EXPERIENCES.  CONVERSATIONS ARE INTERESTING & OFTEN~

A Transatlantic cruise offers many relaxing days at sea, of course.  On board this beautiful ship were a wide variety of interesting people from all over the world.  Majority being from the US, Canada and the UK, however there was a mix of travelers from over a dozen countries on 4 continents; from Australia to Luxembourg!  Friendships were formed easily, conversation flowed, and this is even without any ship sponsored event or activity. 

Speaking of, to ensure there is fun for all the ship has all sorts of activities, events and games.  Here is a sample:  morning stretch, body conditioning, wake-up quiz trivia, Mac users group, several different  bridge players get-togethers for various levels of experience, cooking demo, visual trivia, intro to acupuncture, Pictionary, dance class, battle of the sexes, lost at sea challenge, jewelry design, wine tasting, Wii sports, bingo, Pilates, yoga, guess that song and more!  Think this is enough to keep you busy all week?  Well, this is actually the events between 8 am and 5 pm on just one day!  The enrichment series on this cruise was a delightful mix of the world of “Interviewer of the Stars” – socialite Reba Merril, and Professor Stephen Wessley.  Each held regular discussions of their areas of expertise, with Professor Wessley conducting fascinating multimedia presentations on subjects pertinent to the areas we are visiting.  Reba delighted the eager audience with her up close and personal tales of Hollywood from the inside!

There are of course all sorts of live music and shows, even during the day such as the jazz brunch and harpist at tea time.  The evening gets going with full Broadway style shows, fantastic chanteuses, feature films and more such as magic and other acts.

~THE AZAMARA QUEST MAY BE THE “PERFECT” SIZE; LARGE ENOUGH WITH A MULTITUDE OF OPTIONS AND PUBLIC SPACE ON BOARD, AND TO SAIL SMOOTHLY, YET SMALL ENOUGH TO VISIT SPECTACULAR PORTS THAT SHIPS EVEN SLIGHTLY LARGER CAN’T~

So much to write about, however in keeping with customary blog length protocol I am wrapping this segment up!  Stay tuned for more; the destinations and, let’s see, oh yeah, the food onboard!!  It has been fantastic in both regards.  Our first stop in Bermuda was delightful, our ship size allowing us to dock right in centrally located Hamilton.

 The food has been amazing, gastronomically extraordinary in all regards!  Check out next week’s blog for more!!   Happy travels…



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