Azamara reneges

[bphman]

Sounds like Azamara is changing the deal. Specialty restaurants will now carry a cover charge for all but full suite guests. Also, no butlers except for full suite guests as well. Is this a sign of things to come? Moving upscale but not quite. Maybe I should reconsider in view of the increased fare?

[Marie-Claude]

Sounds like Azamara is changing the deal. Specialty restaurants will now carry a cover charge for all but full suite guests. Also, no butlers except for full suite guests as well. Is this a sign of things to come? Moving upscale but not quite. Maybe I should reconsider in view of the increased fare?

Where did you get this information from?

MC

[Welland]

Where did you get this information from?

MC

 

Posted in Cruise Critic News today, January 19.

It's been a few weeks since Azamara announced that it was going to be renamed Azamara Club Cruises, with more in-depth itineraries and a more inclusive product. Now, further details of the new-look, two-ship line have trickled out at a press conference held last week in London.

 

We already reported that Azamara's president, Larry Pimentel, intends to "slow the ships down," which means more nights in port. Pimentel also announced last December that the "nickel and diming" onboard would end. Starting in April, cruise fares (which are rising as much as 20 percent) will include wine with dinner, basic gratuities, self-service laundry, mineral water and coach shuttles in some ports.

 

What else does Azamara have in store? Here are a few tidbits from the event:

 

No more butlers -- unless you're in a suite: Until now, every cabin has come with butler service, although there has been criticism, some on the Cruise Critic message boards, that these butlers are little more than glorified cabin stewards. Now, butlers will receive formal training at butler school in England -- but will only serve the passengers in suites or above.

 

A cover charge for the speciality restaurants: This one's a bit ironic for a line that's going more inclusive. At the moment, all passengers get two nights of complimentary dining in Aqualina and Prime C, the two alternative dining venues (three nights for suite passengers). From April 1, suite passengers can eat in these restaurants as often as they like, at no charge, while everybody else pays $15 a head. Reservations will be first come, first served.

 

Sport and shopping ashore: In line with the industry trend for hiking and biking in port, some tours will be quite ambitious, including cycling to the next port and catching up with the ship there. And despite the more immersive cultural tours announced back in December, there will be no shortage of shopping ashore, however high-brow the excursion: "We will even have special tours for collectors," said Pimentel. "I don't care how sophisticated people are -- they still want to see the shops."

 

"Brochures” without prices: From now on, all new prices will be on the Azamara Web site only. A lavish "destination guide" (we've been told not to call it a brochure) was revealed, containing striking photography provided at no cost by five art students who were taken on a Mediterranean cruise, let loose with cameras and given credits in the back of the book. In a pocket in the back, there's a giant, fold-out chart that tells you where each ship is and when.

 

A possible new tie-up with a spa brand: The spas are run by the ubiquitous Steiner at the moment, but like all arrangements, this one will be up for renewal at some point. "Let's just say we have a current contract with them," Pimentel said, perhaps hinting that he's got an open mind about working with a different provider in the future.

 

A new ship? "If we fill the ships at the right rate, it will be an enticement to take new tonnage," Pimentel hinted. "I would just say, stay tuned." Azamara would not go the same way as rival Oceania Cruises (the existing ships of which are sisters to the Azamara duo) and build larger. "The same size or smaller," is what Pimentel has his eye on.

 

Finally, more Brits! Pimentel said that 44 percent of the line's passengers were currently "international" (meaning, from outside the U.S. or Canada). "I predict that there will be more international guests than Americans within two years," he said, echoing a statement made by Royal Caribbean's CEO Richard Fain last year, suggesting that more than half the line's passengers would be "international" within two years. "The UK represents 14 percent of our business and I fully expect it to be our second-largest market. I wouldn't be surprised if 25 to 30 percent of our passengers were British in the next couple of years."

 

To this end, Azamara is increasing its staffing in the U.K., stepping up its effort with specialist cruise travel agents (so check with your agent for promotions and ship visits) and taking the unusual route of providing prizes for charity auctions, which, Pimentel said, gets the product in front of a suitably wealthy audience.

[Andy]

Hi Everyone !

 

To call this a "renege" is curious. I do not see it that way at all. It's called evolution. Companies seek to improve their product all the time. Azamara must be very confident, they are taking the company in a better direction. Time will tell.

 

I feel it should be pointed out, for the loss of "Butlers" in categories below Suites, you aren't losing much. Other than Suites, which have a real Butler... most of us felt they were always Cabin attendants in a Butler uniform. This has been a topic of discussion on this board, since Day 1. I know. I've been here since Day 1. Azamara has realized this, and are changing their classification. IMHO, this is an excellent decision.

 

While they are adding a 15.00pp charge for Specialty Dining for Non-Suites, it amounts to an additional 10.00pp, per meal, as they are dropping the current 5.00pp gratuity. IMHO, it's still a bargain, as the Specialty Dining is outstanding. You would pay hundreds of dollars for a similar land-based Dining experience.

 

Many new items are being added, including improved port calls, paid gratuities, shuttles in some ports, house wines, soda, bottled water and specialty coffees. If you would like to read Cruise Critic's article, on Azamara's December annoucement, please click here : http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=3583

 

I realize threads like this get started, as most are unhappy with price increases. I ask you, who actually likes prices increases ? I know I don't :). However, pricing can always change, up or down, depending on demand. Much of that will depend, on the economy, and if Azamara will deliver on the enhanced product. In fairness to Azamara, before we pass judgement, I believe we should wait until after the new enhancements debut on April 1st, and hear from passengers that have sailed on Journey or Quest.

 

Let's hope the April passengers will have great things to say about the New Azamara. Stay Tuned !

[Welland]

Hi Everyone !

 

To call this a "renege" is curious. I do not see it that way at all. It's called evolution. Companies seek to improve their product all the time. Azamara must be very confident, they are taking the company in a better direction. Time will tell.

 

Thanks Andy for your input on this. Firstly, let me state that I personally never used the terminology "renege". I was only replying to the original poster.

 

If my post sounded harsh, the point that I was trying to state was that we have cruised with Azamara seven times since it's inception. We absolutely love it and were somewhat disappointed when the latest announcement was made. As past loyal guests we personally feel that they are going in a very different direction. Yes, companies are in business to make a profit. However, profits continue to rise when loyal customers continue to return.

 

I hear what you are saying that we must take a wait and see approach. I agree somewhat. We've been told that Azamara has been given a two year timeframe to turn things around. Guess time will tell. I just hope that we will still have the opportunity to cruise in Azamara with the wonderful staff we have come to know and love so much.

[WooKeef]

Hi Everyone !

 

To call this a "renege" is curious. I do not see it that way at all. It's called evolution. Companies seek to improve their product all the time. Azamara must be very confident, they are taking the company in a better direction. Time will tell.

 

I feel it should be pointed out, for the loss of "Butlers" in categories below Suites, you aren't losing much. Other than Suites, which have a real Butler... most of us felt they were always Cabin attendants in a Butler uniform. This has been a topic of discussion on this board, since Day 1. I know. I've been here since Day 1. Azamara has realized this, and are changing their classification. IMHO, this is an excellent decision.

 

While they are adding a 15.00pp charge for Specialty Dining for Non-Suites, it amounts to an additional 10.00pp, per meal, as they are dropping the current 5.00pp gratuity. IMHO, it's still a bargain, as the Specialty Dining is outstanding. You would pay hundreds of dollars for a similar land-based Dining experience.

 

Many new items are being added, including improved port calls, paid gratuities, shuttles in some ports, house wines, soda, bottled water and specialty coffees. If you would like to read Cruise Critic's article, on Azamara's December annoucement, please click here : http://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=3583

 

I realize threads like this get started, as most are unhappy with price increases. I ask you, who actually likes prices increases ? I know I don't :). However, pricing can always change, up or down, depending on demand. Much of that will depend, on the economy, and if Azamara will deliver on the enhanced product. In fairness to Azamara, before we pass judgement, I believe we should wait until after the new enhancements debut on April 1st, and hear from passengers that have sailed on Journey or Quest.

 

Let's hope the April passengers will have great things to say about the New Azamara. Stay Tuned !

Hello Andy!

I have a few question you may be able to answer with regards to the changes. I have read two articles posted by Cruise Critic with regards to these changes. One says that "Wine with dinner will be inclusive", while the other states "house wines, soda, bottled water and specialty coffees will no longer incur an additional charge." Is it only at dinner or across the board?

Also, I was led to understand that port transfers were included...I inquired to arrange for a transfer to the Rome Airport at the end of my cruise...it is $91...:eek:. Needless to say they better have a uniformed driver ready with breakfast:) :D:p

[Albert Ross]

Also, I was led to understand that port transfers were included...I inquired to arrange for a transfer to the Rome Airport at the end of my cruise...it is $91....

 

I understood the 'port transfers' were at the various ports of call, not at the beginning or end of the cruise. So in ports like Livorno where the town is a few km away, they will take you to the town centre.

 

It was always said since the announcement that the suites were free to dine in the restaurants, and everyone else pays $15pp. It is still a cheap deal IMHO.

[Andy]

Hello Andy!

I have a few question you may be able to answer with regards to the changes. I have read two articles posted by Cruise Critic with regards to these changes. One says that "Wine with dinner will be inclusive", while the other states "house wines, soda, bottled water and specialty coffees will no longer incur an additional charge." Is it only at dinner or across the board?

Also, I was led to understand that port transfers were included...I inquired to arrange for a transfer to the Rome Airport at the end of my cruise...it is $91...:eek:. Needless to say they better have a uniformed driver ready with breakfast:) :D:p

 

Hi Wookeef !

 

I have to believe that (as Albert stated) the shuttles will likely be very short distance transportation while in port. I'd be surprised if they are referring to transportation to and from the airport. I do not read it that way.

 

As for the wine, sodas, water etc... I've read the articles several times, and I do not see a definitive answer. I will see what I can find out. If I can get an answer, I will post it here.

[BGSS]

Andy,

 

You miss an important point. What you are willing to pay in a restauant is irrelevant, since you already have a free meal. How much are you willing to pay for a better meal is the revelent amount. This the marginal cost. But you do not know for sure that the meal that you are willing to pay for is better than the free one. It may not be. The probability of this occurring should enter into your calculations.

 

Azamara tried to charge for these restaurants when they first began the company. It did not work. They rescinded those fees and then imposed the suggested $5.00 gratutity. It appears that new management has forgotten that experiment and are trying again. It seems to me to be a very strange decision by management who purports to be trying to reduce the nickel and diming.

[Andy]

Andy,

 

You miss an important point. What you are willing to pay in a restauant is irrelevant, since you already have a free meal. How much are you willing to pay for a better meal is the revelent amount. This the marginal cost. But you do not know for sure that the meal that you are willing to pay for is better than the free one. It may not be. The probability of this occurring should enter into your calculations.

 

Azamara tried to charge for these restaurants when they first began the company. It did not work. They rescinded those fees and then imposed the suggested $5.00 gratutity. It appears that new management has forgotten that experiment and are trying again. It seems to me to be a very strange decision by management who purports to be trying to reduce the nickel and diming.

 

Hi BGSS !

 

I dont think I've missed the point at all. If you dont want to pay for Specialty Dining, nobody is forcing you to. Most every Cruse line offers alternative dining for a fee. Whether we like it or not, this concept is here to stay, and will expand in coming years - you can take that to the bank.

 

As for whether Specialty Dining is a better meal... it's hard to debate, as the topic of food is very subjective. What I might love, you might hate. With that said, the overwhelming majority of Azamara guests have said that both Prime C and Aqualina are outstanding. I will let past comments speak for themselves.

 

As with any change, I doubt it's etched in stone. If you are unhappy with it, let Azamara know. Also, you can always enjoy the cuisine in the Main Dining Room, The Buffet and Breezas in the evening. Who knows ? If the feedback is negative, perhaps Azamara will reconsider it again at some point.... but I do not feel it's very likely. Time will tell.

[Andy]

Hi Wookeef !

 

Here are the answers to your questions. I hope this helps !

 

- Complimentary House Wine will be offered during lunch & dinner.

 

- Complimentary Soda, Coffee, & Bottled Water will be offered throughout the day.

 

- Complimentary shuttle bus services will be offered to/from port communities where available.

[WooKeef]

Hi Wookeef !

 

Here are the answers to your questions. I hope this helps !

 

- Complimentary House Wine will be offered during lunch & dinner.

 

- Complimentary Soda, Coffee, & Bottled Water will be offered throughout the day.

 

- Complimentary shuttle bus services will be offered to/from port communities where available.

 

Thanks andy for the clarification. Of course, I had no definite plans to drink wine all day:p:p.

[BGSS]

Hi BGSS !

 

I dont think I've missed the point at all. If you dont want to pay for Specialty Dining, nobody is forcing you to. Most every Cruse line offers alternative dining for a fee. Whether we like it or not, this concept is here to stay, and will expand in coming years - you can take that to the bank.

 

As for whether Specialty Dining is a better meal... it's hard to debate, as the topic of food is very subjective. What I might love, you might hate. With that said, the overwhelming majority of Azamara guests have said that both Prime C and Aqualina are outstanding. I will let past comments speak for themselves.

 

As with any change, I doubt it's etched in stone. If you are unhappy with it, let Azamara know. Also, you can always enjoy the cuisine in the Main Dining Room, The Buffet and Breezas in the evening. Who knows ? If the feedback is negative, perhaps Azamara will reconsider it again at some point.... but I do not feel it's very likely. Time will tell.

 

 

Andy: You still missed the point. I never mentioned being forced to pay, you did. I simply was remarking that your comparison to meals costing hundreds was incorrect. I was just pointing out a more correct way to make this economic decision to pay extra.

 

You admit that only a majority think that Prime C and Aqualina are outstanding. Therefore, some do not. Thus, a non zero probability of a meal inferior to the free one exists. This should be taken into account.

 

I never suggested I was unhappy with Azamara's decision. I question the decision from a business perspective.

[Andy]

Andy: You still missed the point. I never mentioned being forced to pay, you did. I simply was remarking that your comparison to meals costing hundreds was incorrect. I was just pointing out a more correct way to make this economic decision to pay extra.

 

You admit that only a majority think that Prime C and Aqualina are outstanding. Therefore, some do not. Thus, a non zero probability of a meal inferior to the free one exists. This should be taken into account.

 

I never suggested I was unhappy with Azamara's decision. I question the decision from a business perspective.

 

Hi BGSS !

 

We will just have to agree to disagree. No need to debate it with you. That's the beauty of Cruise Critic. We are all welcome to share our opinions.

[GeorgesGal]

To WooKeef -My sister and I sailed on the Quest in May of '08 and were determined not to spend close to a hundred dollars each just to get to the port for a cruise that we paid more than 4K for.

 

Since we had stayed six days pre-cruise in Rome, I had done research re the TRAIN! The cost was only 7 euros each way, a really great deal leaving us more $$ to spend on what we considered more important, and it was a wonderful experience - if we try to forget about the theft of my sister's purse (we chased the thief through the train, finally caught up with him and retrieved the purse intact!). We purchased the train tickets from Trenitalia via their web site.

 

We had a true adventure on a clean train and saw some lovely countryside to boot. From the train, it was a short taxi to the ship and boarding. On the return, we also took the train since we were also staying in Rome post cruise. No excitement on the return ride, though!

 

And for the record, we are in our late 60's..... you don't have to be kids to take chances and return with great memories!:D:D:D

[WooKeef]

To WooKeef -My sister and I sailed on the Quest in May of '08 and were determined not to spend close to a hundred dollars each just to get to the port for a cruise that we paid more than 4K for.

 

Since we had stayed six days pre-cruise in Rome, I had done research re the TRAIN! The cost was only 7 euros each way, a really great deal leaving us more $$ to spend on what we considered more important, and it was a wonderful experience - if we try to forget about the theft of my sister's purse (we chased the thief through the train, finally caught up with him and retrieved the purse intact!). We purchased the train tickets from Trenitalia via their web site.

 

We had a true adventure on a clean train and saw some lovely countryside to boot. From the train, it was a short taxi to the ship and boarding. On the return, we also took the train since we were also staying in Rome post cruise. No excitement on the return ride, though!

 

And for the record, we are in our late 60's..... you don't have to be kids to take chances and return with great memories!:D:D:D

 

I am glad I am not the only one to have a pickpocket attempt on the train in rome!:p:p And age is only a number!

[new salt]

- if we try to forget about the theft of my sister's purse (we chased the thief through the train, finally caught up with him and retrieved the purse intact!). We purchased the train tickets from Trenitalia via their web site.

 

 

Are you lasses available for hire as bodyguards?

 

New Salt

[volleyballmom87]

Good for you Girls! I think I would have chased the thief also.;) The idea of replacing another drivers license makes me crazy. Replacing a passport is less of a hassle.