The Astor, part of Germany-based Transocean Tours, has had a history of various ownerships and operators. Featuring a capacity for more than 600 passengers, the MS Astor ship is smaller than traditional cruise liners. However, it boasts adequate cabins and spacious decks. The food gets Astor excellent reviews, and the ship itself offers traditional cruising amenities and recreation opportunities. Originally built in 1987, the Astor doesn't have all the glam and glitz of today's state-of-the-art cruise liners, but it does offer a pleasurable cruising experience through good food, entertaining shows and fine dining.
Ship Highlights
- Lots of deck space
- Range of culinary options
- Popular with older German vacationers
- Operates worldwide
- Five bars
Cuisine
Dining options vary between fine dining with set seatings, and buffets. Because Transocean Tours caters mainly to seniors in the German and British markets, there is a focus on fine dining with dress codes. The two restaurants, Sitzungen/Nichtraucher, offer a varying selection of international and local fare designed to please a range of palettes.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Nightlife onboard the Astor offers a variety of choices in terms of bars, lounges and discos. Check out the Hanse Bar, Lido-Bar, Übersee Club, Captains Club or the Astor Lounge for drinks, dancing or relaxation: it's all up to you. There's also a small casino area onboard, but gambling is not really a focus on the Astor.
Cabins
The Astor's cabins are average sized, providing adequate storage and living space. Included in all staterooms are minibars, private bathroom, satellite TVs, radios, hair dryers, and even bathrobes and slippers to keep you cozy at night. Choose from indoor or outdoor cabins or suites.
Recreation
You'll find the standard recreational amenities here, nothing too surprising. There's a pool, fitness center, library and boutique, all standard but adequate for cruiser's enjoyment. The wellness center features a sauna, solarium, beauty salon and massage rooms. In case of illness, there is a small hospital on board. Take part in poolside activities, visit the small casino, take in a show, or go for a run on one of the treadmills.
Onboard Fees
Standard fees exist on the Astor cruise ship, such as photos, hospital visits, casino gambling, boutique purchases and alcohol. Most everything is included in the overall price, but for the aforementioned aspects, you will pay out of pocket.
Taking the Kids
Since Transocean Tours caters mainly to the older crowd, you won't find too many small children onboard the Astor ship. Activities are provided to accommodate children should the need arise.
The Astor provides a satisfying, traditional cruising experience, one that you will enjoy if you're not into the glitz and glamour of the newest ships out there. You'll find great food, good company, plenty of things to keep you busy when not on an excursion, and comfortable cabins. There's lots of deck space, allowing passengers to move about freely and not feel cramped. And since you won't see more than 600 passengers on any one cruise, there is an intimate atmosphere on this boat that you don't often see on the super cruise liners.
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