Nordic - Iceland

[meow!]

We have started to write our report (to be continued through the next couple of weeks) on our Nordic - Iceland voyage aboard the Azamara Journey, which was very similar to the one on Oceania Marina two months ago in July. We will make some comparisons between Azamara and the Oceania R ships in some aspects, those of you interested are invited to read it:

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1482473

 

"The Journey is an R ship just like the Oceania Regatta and Nautica which we had been on. In short, the Journey is like an Oceania R ship with a Celebrity flavour. The food, bedding and the service (which varied depending on whom you met) were good, though perhaps a shade less refined than on Oceania. The atmosphere was perhaps even more relaxed than Oceania, which was welcomed. Unlike Oceania in 2008 (which could have now changed), soft drinks, dinner wine and tips were included, and shuttles were provided at a number of ports. On the whole, Azamara is slightly more economical than Oceania while providing a well acceptable product."

[meow!]

A relevant paragraph from the above link:

 

At present, from what we can surmise based on information on the web (and this is necessarily based on “intuitive approximation” as it is far too complex to gather all the data and estimate the effects of the vast number of variables), Azamara is perhaps on the whole 15% cheaper than Oceania. Both cruise lines have their own pluses and minuses. Oceania calls itself “upper premium” and is in our opinion, a shade more refined in its food (regular restaurants) and bedding. Presumably, it has also introduced limited free drinks (soft drinks, bottled water) and included tips. Azamara has better orange juice, and provides free shuttles in many ports (presumably also a new development). Both cruise lines are casual (no formal nights), with Azamara passengers being even more so than Oceania; have restricted smoking, few children on board and emphasize the itinerary. They are still the closest competitors for the niche market for those who want a comparatively small ship [referring to R ships] atmosphere. Our feeling is that for those who are happy to pay the extra 15% and are used to Oceania, it is a worthwhile product, but for those who would like to save 15% for other things (such as land excursions, souvenirs, etc.), Azamara is plenty good enough and enjoyable. The deciding factor should be the itinerary you want and the time slot you want, between the two lines.