Although I had cruised before, it wasn't until I embarked on an educational trip around Spain with Fred Olsen Cruises in 2022 that I was reminded of some of the great benefits.
It was eye-opening, highlighting the convenience and value for money they provide and the opportunity to explore multiple destinations, especially when you find the right ship for your preferences.
When my husband, Paul, and I found ourselves with a rare opportunity last autumn for our first extended holiday together since before having children, we were eager to make the most of it.
Opting for a smaller ship adventure to warmer climates, with the promise of exploring several intriguing new destinations, seemed like the perfect fit for us.
We opted for Azamara as our cruise line of choice and eagerly booked their 10-night voyage aboard the Journey ship, set to embark from Athens to Israel in mid-October. However, due to the unfortunate events of early October and the unfolding conflict in Gaza, the itinerary had to be swiftly revised.
The new route offered us the opportunity to explore more of both Greece and Turkey, presenting us with first-time visits to destinations such as Syros, Thessaloniki, Ephesus, Bodrum, Santorini and Heraklion. Additionally, we were excited to revisit Athens and Istanbul, cities that we hadn't explored in quite some time.
Booking rather late meant limited flight options, so we found ourselves flying from Luton to Athens with Wizz Air.
With a capacity of just 700 passengers, the ship was designed for an intimate experience. However, due to the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the events in the Middle East, particularly impacting American travellers, there were numerous late cancellations.
Consequently, the ship was only half full, which only enhanced the fantastic service provided by the Azamara crew.
The friendly staff went above and beyond, and we were particularly impressed by the attentive waiter service. Furthermore, the menu offered an excellent variety of delicious dishes every night.
As part of the Azamara package, passengers are treated to an 'Azamazing' evening, during which they disembark for a complimentary local experience. Ours was a classical concert set amidst the breathtaking amphitheatre at Ephesus.
Back onboard, the 'White Night' event was an absolute blast! Guests dined al fresco on deck, serenaded by the resident band and entertainment staff who succeeded in getting everyone up and dancing the night away.
Our booked shore excursions included a guided tour of Athens to marvel at the Acropolis; and in Istanbul, we ventured to see the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
However, both experiences were tempered by the crowds of tourists, resulting in considerable time spent queuing. Nonetheless, our knowledgeable guides made the most of the waiting time by regaling us with fascinating insights into the history of the sites.
Santorini was our favourite destination with its breathtaking scenery, charming, whitewashed villages and panoramic views overlooking the Caldera. To top it off, we were treated to a unique experience cruising across this stunning area aboard a luxurious Caldera catamaran.
We had a fabulous time. The weather was glorious throughout, and while we were initially disappointed about the change in itinerary, we understood the constraints faced by the cruise line.
With limited time to reroute the ship and limited port options, the outcome could have been far less favourable.
Azamara went above and beyond, demonstrating their excellence in handling unexpected situations and a great service. This experience reinforced the importance of selecting the right-sized ship and service to cater to the clientele's needs, amidst the multitude of options available in the cruising world.
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