The Azamara difference

Paul Motter · #1 (**permalink**) January 11th, 2010, 10:55 PM

Exactly when do the new Larry Pimintel changes take effect at Azanara? Are they already in place?

Katzenjammer · #2 (**permalink**) January 12th, 2010, 07:11 PM

My understanding is that they are already in place - and the new name of the company is "Azamara Club Cruises"

Here are some of the changes:

complimentary coffee, soda and bottled water throughout the ship to complimentary house wines poured at lunch and dinner.
In addition, gratuities for housekeeping and dining staff are included as is free shuttle service in port when offered.

lulu48 · #3 (**permalink**) January 12th, 2010, 11:51 PM

I believe they start in April

BettyBooper · #4 (**permalink**) January 13th, 2010, 10:18 AM

These changes sound great. I love the Azamara ships and sailed on the Journey a year ago. The service was great and the food was really good, especially in the Aqualina restaurant. It will be great to have the tips included in the fare. This will make it closer to a luxury line rather than a regular cruise.

I just wonder if I will be able to afford it after the changes are put in place.

BB

Katzenjammer · #5 (**permalink**) January 13th, 2010, 11:32 AM

But is it worth the extra money. I have sailed on Oceana and Rennasaince and I didn't see any difference, except I didnt get as much email. I hear these are the same ships - so are they going to raise the prices much or this supposed to make them more competitive with Oceana?

Paul Motter · #6 (**permalink**) January 13th, 2010, 11:59 AM

I think the prices will be competitive with Oceania which tends to sell out all its cruises. They have a very loyal base that stuck with them from the old Renaissance days.

I have not seen Azamara, but I have certainly seen the ships many time. I wish them luck, Larry Pimentel has a lot of experience with creating a luxury product.

Manuel · #7 (**permalink**) February 6th, 2010, 03:51 PM

Those changes sound good to me.

I will have to sail on Azamara in the near future.

TM

Paul Motter · #8 (**permalink**) February 10th, 2010, 09:54 PM

Manuel...

I haven't been on Azamara but I ahve been on the same ships and I always have a great cruise on them. They are small but efficient, with excellent food. The cruises are very port intensive and so you get tro see a lot.

Cruises for travelers, I call them. The opposite of Oasis, which I still like in a different way.

Manuel · #9 (**permalink**) May 1st, 2010, 12:22 AM

Paul, I loved the Oasis, but there are itineraries that Azamara can do that a larger ship can not do. That is the beauty of cruising. There many choices out there and everyone should be able to find something that they can enjoy.

TM