From quest. A few thoughts

[Jade13]

Jan. My friend nonrev1 is correct. What made me return to Azamara was that warm and fuzzy on board experience. It is totally absent this cruise. The cutbacks are obvious to me as well. Few smiles on the faces of the staff. I would call this an unhappy ship.

 

Oceania is clearly my intended home. Bob and I both agree that we prefer it and we are trying Seabourn too

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

 

That is too bad. It doesn't sound like Azamara.

Edited September 29, 2014 by Jade13

[mauicruiser]

We have become Quest junkies! In the past 3 years have done 9 cruises on Quest. Are booked again in January. Quest personnel have always been friendly and helpful, eager to please. Perhaps because we are friendly and appreciative of their efforts. When we came Onboard our last trip, many of the staff remembered our names and greeted us warmly. We remembered many of their names too.

As to the Amazumara Evenings..they have been creative and well done. Loved the jousting match in Sete, France followed by a wonderful buffet of local cuisine and French champagne and the concert in the caves on Gibralter followed by fireworks! Guests raved about the evenings. It was chilly at both but ship provided blankets. Unique events that hopefully will continue as we found only a few fuddy dud dies stayed Onboard. We are looking forward to the Amazumara evening at a Festival in Yangon.

Yes, the internet is slow but isn't the reason to travel to experience the world for real instead of the internet?

After years of cruising including a cruise around the world our motto is "Quest Is Best!"

[no fuss travel]

If you look back, almost all of Pacheco's comments about Azamara have been negative. She clearly prefers Oceania and spends a great deal of time "dissing" Azamara. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, I agree. However it's not necessary to continuously try to tear down one line or another. If you don't like the cruise line,just don't sail on it. We didn't like our experiences on Oceania, so we just stopped going on it. But I didn't keep writing all kinds of negative things on the Oceana board. Just move on.

 

I had to go back and count. Roughly 30% of the comments were positive (and very positive) and 70% negative (some just slightly negative). Most of her comparisons were to the other Azamara ship rather than other lines, with the exception of 3. Of the 3, one, the tacky art sales applies to most cruise lines, so you can't really call that a criticism of Azamara. She has made very positive comments about the CD and the captain, more than once and yes she has repeated a couple of the negative comments more than once, but on the whole has given a balanced review based on her opinions. IMO, most people can find something they were not happy about on every cruise they go on. Nothing is perfect, and if everything was perfect, it would be boring. She is enjoying her cruise, and yes on the Oceania board, she does make negative comments as well, when she is not happy about something. No different than here. Each cruise one goes on will give you a different experience and since no two people are alike (thank goodness) they will have different opinions.

[excitedofharpenden]

If you look back, almost all of Pacheco's comments about Azamara have been negative. She clearly prefers Oceania and spends a great deal of time "dissing" Azamara. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, I agree. However it's not necessary to continuously try to tear down one line or another. If you don't like the cruise line,just don't sail on it. We didn't like our experiences on Oceania, so we just stopped going on it. But I didn't keep writing all kinds of negative things on the Oceana board. Just move on.

I agree. Time to move on I think.

 

Phil

[kikki21]

There is always room service breakfast on Azamara too if you are getting up early to get out and about and they do serve hot food! We tended to do that rather than get up and get ready for the day on our Greek islands cruise in June and it was a great start to the day - breakfast on board our balcony! :)

[Jade13]

There are so many deficiencies on this cruise

Tacky art auctions

Mdr is never open for breakfSt or lunch. Cutbacks

Fruit is awful

Mood is somber

Listened to orchestra last night. They need to practice other than saxophonist who was the star

Everything done on the cheap. Even the comment cards are cheaply done

 

Bedding needs to be refreshed

The self service buffet is a germ factory

 

Free wine is mostly undrinkable and I'm not that picky.

 

Yes. You can go hiking with the captain. That's not why I cruise

 

I recommended Azamara to friends based on my last cruise. They booked for next summer. I am going to try to get them to cancel. I know they will not be happy

 

My husband who never complains is complaining

 

You can't have a top tier cruise line without a financial investment

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

 

 

Has it been confirmed that the MDR is actually open every day for breakfast, just not early?

 

I actually think that is a valid issue. While we do not eat breakfast in the MDR, and also eat very early in order to leave the ship as soon as we dock or ship is cleared, there clearly is a lack of seating in the buffet, so another venue would benefit everyone.

 

Pacheco, Sorry this cruise is not to your liking and will be your last Azamara cruise. Glad you found something that you like better.

Edited September 30, 2014 by Jade13

[Phxazzcruisers]

Has it been confirmed that the MDR is actually open every day for breakfast, just not early?

 

I actually think that is a valid issue. While we do not eat breakfast in the MDR, and also eat very early in order to leave the ship as soon as we dock or ship is cleared, there clearly is a lack of seating in the buffet, so another venue would benefit everyone.

 

Pacheco, Sorry this cruise is not to your liking and will be your last Azamara cruise. Glad you found something that you like better.

 

Yes, it has officially been confirmed. The MDR IS OPEN FOR BREAKFAST !!!

[pacheco18]

I loved my first Azamara cruise. Read my review. It was posted here. Very positive. Favorable comparison to Oceania.

 

Based on that cruise I booked a b2b

 

This cruise is different

Awful IMO

This line has gone downhill in a year

I will always post my honest opinion.

I don't expect any of you to agree and I don't care if you agree or not

 

It is what it is and for us it is terrible. We cannot wait to disembark

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

[Lottie A]

We all get that you are really not enjoying this Azamara cruise Laraine and I'm very sorry for that, as you were so looking forward to the itinerary. I felt much the same about my poor Oceania experience and it has put me off trying them again, although it may be a possibility in 2015, as Quest is chartered for many months.

Its sad that you have decided that Azamara isn't for you as it limits your choice of your preferred R class ships but if that's how you feel, then of course, it is the correct decision for you and I respect that. However, we had an absolutely wonderful cruise on Quest a month ago, with none of the problems that seem to have affected you....so again, I hope you respect our opinion that Quest and the crew were up there with the best for us just a few weeks ago. We are looking forward to Journey in about five weeks too.

 

However, I do want to clarify one point, because you clearly stated that the MDR on your cruise was not open for breakfast and we have been told by Bonnie and Deirdre, after checking directly with Quest, that it most definitely is open. Was this a timing issue for you, as some of us may have thought that you were off the ship early and the MDR was opening a bit later, so you might have missed it. Of course, it will also be open for lunch on sea days. I love my MDR Eggs Benedict so this is an important issue for me. I would also ask if you have spoken to the Hotel Director on board with your issues? It is only fair to give Azamara the opportunity to put things right.

[Phxazzcruisers]

I loved my first Azamara cruise. Read my review. It was posted here. Very positive. Favorable comparison to Oceania.

 

Based on that cruise I booked a b2b

 

This cruise is different

Awful IMO

This line has gone downhill in a year

I will always post my honest opinion.

I don't expect any of you to agree and I don't care if you agree or not

 

It is what it is and for us it is terrible. We cannot wait to disembark

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

 

We respect your opinion, and are sorry you are having a bad cruise. What I don't understand is why one of your main complaints about the MDR not being open for breakfast is not factual. It has been confirmed that it is now and always will be open for breakfast. I do not always agree with others postings, but I do respect their opinions when the facts are legitimate.

Again sorry you did not enjoy your cruise

[pacheco18]

I wrote a lengthy review on my comment card. I received a voice mail

 

Just had the French buffet. Food good but they know nothing about tarte tatin. Custom grilled ribeye was terrific

 

Two staff in mosaic were fighting. Again. How could this be?

 

 

I rate food better than before but breads and desserts below par

 

It really doesn't matter what I think. It is one opinion. People will sAil the line they like. Different strokes

 

I am shocked by the difference between my two cruises. It is what it is. Lots of choices for us all

 

 

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

[CintiPam]

I wrote a lengthy review on my comment card. I received a voice mail

 

Just had the French buffet. Food good but they know nothing about tarte tatin. Custom grilled ribeye was terrific

 

Two staff in mosaic were fighting. Again. How could this be?

 

 

I rate food better than before but breads and desserts below par

 

It really doesn't matter what I think. It is one opinion. People will sAil the line they like. Different strokes

 

I am shocked by the difference between my two cruises. It is what it is. Lots of choices for us all

 

 

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

 

I am very sorry to hear that you have not enjoyed your cruise. Although we only have sailed twice (so far) on Azamara, both times on Quest, we really enjoyed our experience, and our itinerary last year was similar to that you have on this cruise.

 

Enjoy your land trip time in Italy (we had a great one day visit to Volterra in May), and I wish you better luck with your next cruise!

Edited October 1, 2014 by CintiPam

[pickypicky]

It's a shame that your cruise is so terrible. Sorry that you have wasted time and money. I'm interested, as are others, to know about the MDR breakfast hours...your report conflicts with others. Will you let us know what is truly the case?

[ellbon]

funny after 23 cruises i ahve no idea when breakfast is served outside my cabin .but i thought it was like 7 or 730 in the MDR and like 630 in the buffet. guess it is just not important enough to notice

[Phxazzcruisers]

It's a shame that your cruise is so terrible. Sorry that you have wasted time and money. I'm interested, as are others, to know about the MDR breakfast hours...your report conflicts with others. Will you let us know what is truly the case?

 

As stated by several, including myself by experience, and Azamara Quest via phone from Customer Service, breakfast is served in the MDR at 7:30 or 8:00. It varies between these times, unless they are doing a big brunch in the MDR.

[pully8]

booked to travel on this ship fairly soon really hope to have a positive experience. this thread is not encouraging but time will tell.

 

appreciate facts rather than opinions so will continue to read with interest.

[Andy]

I'm interested, as are others, to know about the MDR breakfast hours...your report conflicts with others. Will you let us know what is truly the case?

 

Hi Pickypicky,

 

If you scroll up to post #48 on this thread, Bonnie (Azamara's CBO) has confirmed that the MDR is open for breakfast. I'd hope that would put any concerns to rest.

 

Hope this is helpful !

[Andy]

Hi Everyone,

 

As a reminder, if you see an inappropriate post, **PLEASE** do not get into a battle with the member. It adds nothing to the thread, and rarely ends well :)

 

Please use the ALERT TRIANGLE , which gets my immediate attention. FYI, my alerts are forwarded to my desktop, laptop, tablet and cell phone (yes, I take alerts seriously !) - so I generally resolve any issues within moments of receiving the alert.

 

Please... help me help you. The Alert feature is always your best option. As always, if you have any questions, kindly email me by clicking on the link below.

 

Thanks very much for your understanding.

Edited October 1, 2014 by Host Andy

[Spursgirl]

booked to travel on this ship fairly soon really hope to have a positive experience. this thread is not encouraging but time will tell.

 

appreciate facts rather than opinions so will continue to read with interest.

 

Here's my fact. We sailed on Quest September 1st. We had an outstanding cruise. This was my 9th time on this ship. Each time I have had a wonderful time and did not want to leave.

 

Was everything absolutely perfect on all of those cruises? No, there were tiny niggles as there are every day in our regular lives. If it bothered me enough I mentioned it to Guest Relations or the HD and can say that in every single case the issue was sorted out quickly and with a smile.

 

And as some on this board know, on one Quest cruise last year they went far beyond what any reasonable person would expect to make me happy.

 

I am sure you will have a great time when you sail Quest. I am one who definitely thinks that 'Quest is best!'

[TrulyBlonde]

Have you sailed on Oceania?? You may just change your mind like Pacheco18 and I have.

[Lottie A]

Have you sailed on Oceania?? You may just change your mind like Pacheco18 and I have.

 

Well, l won't be changing my mind anytime soon and I have sailed on Oceania and had a disappointing cruise. The food was good, but I would say only slightly better than Azamara, not much in it at all. We had a lovely Suite but then....I only sleep and shower there.

What made the cruise so disappointing for us was that it was like a ghost ship after 10:30 pm. Everyone, apart from ourselves and a few lively Americans in the Casino headed to bed after the show. Also the entertainment, in particular the pianist and the CD were awful. The Captain and officers were invisible and there were some very rude passengers on board who spoke to the crew in a manner that was very patronising. I am in no hurry to book an Oceania cruise again and MUCH prefer Azamara. Hazel does actually want us to book Oceania in 2015 as Quest is charted for so long and I'm considering it but still a bit reluctant, as I really did not rate Oceania that well. We will see, but if I do book it will be with an open mind.

 

I might add that I also often cruise with Silversea and a few months ago I did a Crystal cruise. All wonderful cruises with fab food, luxurious suites and beautiful ships......and the company wasn't bad either....:D :D :D but, I still would choose Quest as my favourite ship.

 

I hope terrier won't mind me posting a link to his Azamara v Oceania review but it makes for interesting reading.

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2078091

[TrulyBlonde]

My 2nd cruise with AZamoldy is well detailed if anyone wants to do further research. We personally do not socialize, use cruise as floating hotel, up early to tour, have never gone to casino or shows, healthy and fresh food is important (we never gain weight on a cruise) enjoy a nice bottle of wine and our privacy. Probably an unusual couple (young and retired also) and seeing the world and unpacking once is why we cruise. The quality of our surroundings is important. On O Regatta for Alaska in May 2015 and Silversea (1st time) next Sept after canceling AZ.

[Spursgirl]

Have you sailed on Oceania?? You may just change your mind like Pacheco18 and I have.

 

I hope to sail on Oceania in 2015. Marina and Riviera look beautiful ships. Expect to have a wonderful cruise with them also.

[SUFTUM]

pacheco18, have you come across any mold yet? Has it potentially been cleared?

There were lots of post around June time when another CC member posted about the mold issue?

[Lottie A]

My 2nd cruise with AZamoldy is well detailed if anyone wants to do further research. We personally do not socialize, use cruise as floating hotel, up early to tour, have never gone to casino or shows, healthy and fresh food is important (we never gain weight on a cruise) enjoy a nice bottle of wine and our privacy. Probably an unusual couple (young and retired also) and seeing the world and unpacking once is why we cruise. The quality of our surroundings is important. On O Regatta for Alaska in May 2015 and Silversea (1st time) next Sept after canceling AZ.

 

Ahhhh....that explains it. We each have VERY different opinions of what makes a "good cruise"! Each to his own and all that! No mould in any of our Azamara cabins ever.....and between us, we have had quite a few, haven't we Hazel? :D

 

Enjoy Alaska....its wonderful, but likely to be still rather cold in May and I am also likely to be on a Silversea ship in Sept 2015, just not sure which one yet. It's quite different from Azamara or Oceania and I do love the formal nights.