When choosing a Cruise it’s just as important to choose the right ship as it is to consider the destinations you would like to visit.

I first Cruised back in the 80’s onboard P&O’s iconic S.S. Canberra and have many fond memories of the grand old Dame; she attracted a loyal following and I recall people in tears when she was scrapped, but that was over 20 years ago and the cruise industry has grown and diversified significantly since then.

We booked various categories of Cabin depending on budget. We chose a Superior Balcony located at the rear of the ship. I was quite impressed with the interior being a good size and the balcony was not overlooked from the Decks above. With the lifts nearby, the Upper Decks, rear pool, kid’s clubs and restaurants were all within easy reach. All cabins onboard are decorated in autumnal shades and come with complimentary White Company toiletries. The beds & pillows are very comfortable and a turn down service with chocolates on your pillow every night is a nod to a bygone age of travel. Many people ask about mid-ship locations, but I don’t believe it’s so important on these huge ships built with such good stabilisers, we certainly didn’t experience any adverse motion.

We chose ‘Any Time’ dining which allowed us to arrive at the restaurant in our own time. If there wasn’t a table large enough straight away we were given a ‘buzzer’ and there was rarely more than 15 minutes wait. One of the Cocktail Lounges “Malabar” was very convenient to relax in before dinner, and drinks were not overpriced. With a Sparkling Mojito made with Prosecco instead of soda at around £6.50, a Bombay Sapphire G & T for under £5, and a bottle of wine for dinner from around £16, we were pleasantly surprised.

There are several dining options. Fine dining Restaurants carry a supplement and we dined at Sindhu; a modern Asian Restaurant and at The Epicurean; in very exclusive surroundings with a flair for dramatic presentation. Both were as good as any you would find on land and with supplements of around £20 to £30, this afforded us a great culinary experience.

The Buffets on the upper Decks serve everything from breakfast, to midnight snacks, afternoon tea and kiddies tea, a constant source of food for the peckish!! The Pizzeria on deck was very tempting as was the Grab & Go facility – everywhere you go you are served with smile!

There were four Formal nights on our 14night Cruise and I would say the great majority chose to wear evening gowns & Black Tie – with a Marco Pierre White Menu to accompany the finery!

I have cruised on many other Ships including the Ultra Luxury All Inclusive Ships & whilst Azura is not for everyone she’s a great all-rounder and our family holiday was a great success!

Sue Alexander

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