Quite a long report from our recent Azura Cruise.
Embarkation day.
Early start from Lancashire at 05:45 but this made for an easy trouble free journey down to Southampton. Sunny morning with some mist which promised a warm day later.
Dropped car off at 10:20 arrived at Mayflower for 10:45 and were directed straight in to check in desk, through security and into priority embarkation area which was a surprise as although we have priority embarkation we are not in a suite and this is usually reserved for Lingurian members and suite pax. We were on board for 11:30 and directed into the Meridian restaurant. This must be the earliest we have ever been on board. In the Atrium were various departments promoting their products and services. The retreat area has reduced the price considerably. There are 2 packages havailable. For £100 per couple you can have unlimited access to the thermal beds and saunas, and for £200 per couple you can use the retreat every day although a bed in the sun is not guaranteed. The retreat pool is now available to all adults. We debated on whether to purchase the retreat package but decided as we had a balcony we would probably not get full use out of it.
The champagne was flowing well and it was a lovely hot and cold buffet lunch. We booked the glasshouse taster menu, and 2 Sindhu dates. Priority cabins were announced at 12:40 and we were sat in the sun on our B deck balcony. The balcony feels very small compared to our usual C deck balcony but at the getaway price we paid, a real bargain.
The luggage arrived after about 10 minutes and we were all unpacked by 13:30.
Alex our very young cabin steward introduced himself and brought us some ice. A G & T sat in the sun just made the day perfect. Finally we were on holiday.
We saw Oceana set sail at 16:00ish and we followed Ventura at around 17:00.
We have decided to eat in Verona tonight to make the most of the views from up there. We are hoping it will be quieter up there the 1 st night.
It was quieter in Verona but there was still a queue at 18:20. We managed to get a table for 2 by a window. Delicious meal with wonderful views.
After dinner we wandered round the atrium looking at the stunning dance dresses and shoes which are on show as this is a Strictly come Dancing themed cruise.
Laura Benne is the CD and she introduced the rest of her team in the theatre and outlined the extra events planned for the SCD theme. We spotted Russell Grant on board so no doubt he will be dancing or judging the passenger competition.
Unusually there are 2 sets of dancing instructors on board. One teaching Ballroom/Latin and the other Sequence. Ola and James Jordan along with Craig Revel Horwood will be joining the cruise later, along with a very special guest (drum roll please)…..Azura's God mother. Darcey Bussell. There will be 2 shows on the last two nights which will be ticketed events.
Headliners performed Destination dance but having seen it a number of times we left the theatre and went for a dance in Malabar. The cocktail of the day was Caribbean Cruise. Peter's band which are our favourite band to dance to were playing. By 22:00 we decided to call it a night. It had been a long but very exciting day.
1st Sea Day
Another cloud free day and the sea is like glass.
There is lots going on around the ship starting at 09:30 in Manhattan with CD Benne explaining how the SCD competition will work. Although we enjoy dancing we will not be entering this but are interested in finding out all about it. There are 2 dance classes this morning as well as a cookery demo, art class, port talks, deck games, spa talks, art class and gallery tour, bingo and the guest speaker is Pete Finlay lecturing on Concorde. All that before Noon.
SCD: The dance teachers will be teaching the steps to a dance in the morning lesson, then practising again in the afternoon session. At the end of the afternoon session 2 couples will be chosen to go forward to the semi final, and then one couple will perform in the final show. They are not necessarily looking for the best dancers but people who can dance a little, and have bags of personality.
The other dance instructors are teaching a different sequence dance every day. They are not really sequence teachers so are just teaching the popular dances.
Dance sport International are on board selling shoes and dance wear which are VAT free. I had my eyes on a pair of black satin shoes with sparkly buckles. They were soooo comfortable that I just couldn't resist buying them.
The sun finally reached our balcony at 3 pm and it was very hot.
It was the 1st formal night and the Captains welcome on board party. Captain Julian Burgess is the Master of Azura and is very friendly and talkative. He gave an amusing speech. There are only 450 P&O newcomers on board.
A few moaners on board but easy to spot and avoid. We have heard that Azura is just a very large ferry which made us laugh, and another couple who said it is nothing like the Aurora to which we replied no it isn't thank goodness. Their face was a picture.
We ate our evening meal in the Meridian restaurant. The food was excellent with a large choice on the menu including Lobster, duck, sea bass and chicken. very hard to choose and the always available are back on if nothing on the main menu appeals. My favourite of port marinated Stilton finished the meal off nicely.
The Captains Ball was held in the Atrium. We had thought as it was a SCD cruise that one of the larger venues would be used for the balls. There are lots of dancers on board as you would expect from a cruise with a dancing theme. The Atrium was packed and lots of unhappy dancers who couldn't get a seat or do much dancing. Not sure why the larger venues are not being used or why the SCD cruises are not being held on the Oriana which has a fabulous dance floor.
There was a male vocalist in the playhouse and Neil Diamond tribute act in Manhattan. The cocktail of the day was Hurricane. We did try to go to the late show but after a night of dancing and drinking decided to retire to the cabin. We lose one hour tonight as clocks are put forward one hour to Spanish time.
Second Sea Day.
Another Sunny day as we cruise down the North Western coast of Spain. We are nearing Portugal so making good progress. A few waves today but still cannot feel any movement on board.
I ate breakfast in the MDR as the special today is scrambled eggs with smoked salmon. I can already feel the pounds creeping on.
We had a lazy morning wandering around the decks and taking photos of some of the SCD costumes in the Atrium.
We went to the Oasis pool by the Retreat. You access it from the spa area and it is now available for all adults to use. They have however removed all of the sun beds that were by the pool and the only place to sit is on the wooden boards. This is the only adult only pool on the ship as the terrace pool is now for families. The Coral pool is adult only for 2 hours early morning and early evening.
After lunch in the MDR we had a go at the SCD quiz. We scored higher than yesterday but to say we are fans of this programme we still did not reach double figures.
The sun arrived on the balcony at 3pm. Wow it was so hot. We are on freedom dining so decided to make the most of it and we ate later than normal in the Verona again. Another excellent meal. The lasagne in there is one of the best I have ever tasted.
The headliners were performing Blame it on the Boogie but we decided
to go to the Planet bar for a cocktail and to watch the sun setting over the horizon. The cocktail of the day was Berried Treasure which is too sweet and sickly for me so I opted for the Planet Bars Margherita. It was so peaceful up there and the sunset did not disappoint. Next we went to see a comedian in the Manhattan. I do not normally enjoy the comedians on board the ships but this one was was exceptionally funny without being blue. Very Northern sense of humour and I have only heard very good comments about him. If you get chance to see Gerry Graham he is one not to miss. Unfortunately he is not on again this cruise it was a one off performance.
Another great day on board Azura.
Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
-
Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
3rd Sea Day.
We have just turned the Northern corner of Portugal and are now heading Easterly towards the Mediterranean.
It was quite chilly on deck but I found a sheltered spot on the wooden benches near the retreat. Lots of moaning going on there by the pax who had purchased the package. It appears that they have sold more packages than there are sun beds, so some pax had to sit on the wooden benches with us plebs who hadn't bought the package. I can see their point but it appears that you have to get up early and queue to get a bed in the sun.
Leisurely lunch in the MDR then we sat on the balcony reading for the rest of the afternoon until it was time to get ready for dinner and our first smart jacket required night.
Before dinner the SCD dance instructors gave a demonstration of their Latin dances. We managed a front row seat in the Atrium which are like gold dust as there are so few of them. Bathe show was excellent and Teresa had 3 changes of outfit.
After dinner we stayed in the Atrium for the dancing. The other choices were Steve Tandy Comedian in the Playhouse, or the game show Deal or No Deal in Manhattan. The Atrium was very busy for the dancing but a great atmosphere.
When we returned to our cabin our invites to the Baltic/Ligurian lunch had arrived. This is to be held on the next sea day.
Tomorrow is our first port of call Cartagena in Spain.
Cartagena - Spain
Another beautiful sunny day. The wind had dropped and we we were ready to disembark for 9am. Lots of pax already off the ship but the shops don't open until 10am.
I needed hairspray as I had forgotten to bring it and the shop on board only has the cheapo stuff that goes sticky. We found a farmacia which surprisingly didn't sell it but knew a shop that did. We were escorted there by a young lady who did not speak English but appeared to enjoy her stroll in the sun away from the shop.
We then found a bar with free WIFI and had a couple of drinks whilst catching up on e mails and messages from our family. The bar owner also didn't speak English but with my 'muy poco habla espanol' he managed to direct us to the local Spar where we purchased the necessities. After a bit of handbag shopping we found our favourite Tapas bar El Barril. After a local beer, and a couple of Tinto Veranas with Tapas we indulged in a local coffee made with the local liquor Cuanta tres, a glass of the liquor and a liquor chocolate. We were handed a voucher at the port for the coffee and liquor which with the voucher only cost 2 euros. Bargain. After that lot we staggered back to the ship. It is an early departure this afternoon all on board for 3 p.m
Tonight we will be eating in the Indian buffet but I think the Spanish Siesta is where I am heading now.
The Indian buffet was very busy last night. It is such a shame that the restaurant is no longer decorated in the Indian theme. The tables were not set, and the crew were in their normal working uniforms. It used to be such a fantastic atmosphere in there but now it is just an Indian buffet. The food was very good but it was just a meal rather than a dining experience.
There was plenty of choice of entertainment tonight. We decided on the early evening dance date in the atrium, as it is much quieter early on and we managed quite a few dances. The cocktail of the day - Strawberry Daiquiri. After all the walking round Cartagena and the dancing I think I had enough exercise.
We went to the Manhattan to see Peter white as Kenny Rogers. A tribute act we hadn't seen before. Absolutely fantastic and probably the best look alike/ sound alike we have seen. The problem with this bar is that it gets so full that pax get in there very early to get a decent seat. It started at 21:30 and at 20:30 when we arrived it was already 90% full.
We had intended going from Manhattan to the Playhouse to see the 2 nd show of Ben Makisi but after the exertions of the day the cabin was as far as we got.
We have a relaxing sea day tomorrow with the Peninsular luncheon at midday.
Sea day
A few clouds around this morning but no doubt the sun will burn them off. There appeared to be a bit of movement last night but today the sea is very calm again.
Baltic lunch today and we had a lovely table hosted by the HR manager Amanda. All the pax were from the North of England and it gelled really well. The wine flowed freely and the food was fabulous as usual but there is a new menu coming out soon. Benne had thought it was for today but not to be. Something to look forward to on our next cruise in a few weeks time.
Time for a Siesta now. It is still cloudy but when the sun shines it is on our balcony.
The choice of evening entertainment was, Headliners -New York City Rhythm, Rob Linacre vocalist in the Malabar, and Anthony Scott a Scottish comedian in Manhattan. The formal night ball was in the Atrium. Once again the Atrium was busy for the dancing. The early session is quieter but as the cruise progresses more pax are attending this session to get some dancing in. It has a fantastic atmosphere in there with so many pax standing on the upper levels of the atrium watching the dancers on the floor. By midnight the majority of pax had left leaving the serious dancers the floor to themselves.
The cocktail of the day - Piña Colada.
Tomorrow is Messina in Sicily.
We have just turned the Northern corner of Portugal and are now heading Easterly towards the Mediterranean.
It was quite chilly on deck but I found a sheltered spot on the wooden benches near the retreat. Lots of moaning going on there by the pax who had purchased the package. It appears that they have sold more packages than there are sun beds, so some pax had to sit on the wooden benches with us plebs who hadn't bought the package. I can see their point but it appears that you have to get up early and queue to get a bed in the sun.
Leisurely lunch in the MDR then we sat on the balcony reading for the rest of the afternoon until it was time to get ready for dinner and our first smart jacket required night.
Before dinner the SCD dance instructors gave a demonstration of their Latin dances. We managed a front row seat in the Atrium which are like gold dust as there are so few of them. Bathe show was excellent and Teresa had 3 changes of outfit.
After dinner we stayed in the Atrium for the dancing. The other choices were Steve Tandy Comedian in the Playhouse, or the game show Deal or No Deal in Manhattan. The Atrium was very busy for the dancing but a great atmosphere.
When we returned to our cabin our invites to the Baltic/Ligurian lunch had arrived. This is to be held on the next sea day.
Tomorrow is our first port of call Cartagena in Spain.
Cartagena - Spain
Another beautiful sunny day. The wind had dropped and we we were ready to disembark for 9am. Lots of pax already off the ship but the shops don't open until 10am.
I needed hairspray as I had forgotten to bring it and the shop on board only has the cheapo stuff that goes sticky. We found a farmacia which surprisingly didn't sell it but knew a shop that did. We were escorted there by a young lady who did not speak English but appeared to enjoy her stroll in the sun away from the shop.
We then found a bar with free WIFI and had a couple of drinks whilst catching up on e mails and messages from our family. The bar owner also didn't speak English but with my 'muy poco habla espanol' he managed to direct us to the local Spar where we purchased the necessities. After a bit of handbag shopping we found our favourite Tapas bar El Barril. After a local beer, and a couple of Tinto Veranas with Tapas we indulged in a local coffee made with the local liquor Cuanta tres, a glass of the liquor and a liquor chocolate. We were handed a voucher at the port for the coffee and liquor which with the voucher only cost 2 euros. Bargain. After that lot we staggered back to the ship. It is an early departure this afternoon all on board for 3 p.m
Tonight we will be eating in the Indian buffet but I think the Spanish Siesta is where I am heading now.
The Indian buffet was very busy last night. It is such a shame that the restaurant is no longer decorated in the Indian theme. The tables were not set, and the crew were in their normal working uniforms. It used to be such a fantastic atmosphere in there but now it is just an Indian buffet. The food was very good but it was just a meal rather than a dining experience.
There was plenty of choice of entertainment tonight. We decided on the early evening dance date in the atrium, as it is much quieter early on and we managed quite a few dances. The cocktail of the day - Strawberry Daiquiri. After all the walking round Cartagena and the dancing I think I had enough exercise.
We went to the Manhattan to see Peter white as Kenny Rogers. A tribute act we hadn't seen before. Absolutely fantastic and probably the best look alike/ sound alike we have seen. The problem with this bar is that it gets so full that pax get in there very early to get a decent seat. It started at 21:30 and at 20:30 when we arrived it was already 90% full.
We had intended going from Manhattan to the Playhouse to see the 2 nd show of Ben Makisi but after the exertions of the day the cabin was as far as we got.
We have a relaxing sea day tomorrow with the Peninsular luncheon at midday.
Sea day
A few clouds around this morning but no doubt the sun will burn them off. There appeared to be a bit of movement last night but today the sea is very calm again.
Baltic lunch today and we had a lovely table hosted by the HR manager Amanda. All the pax were from the North of England and it gelled really well. The wine flowed freely and the food was fabulous as usual but there is a new menu coming out soon. Benne had thought it was for today but not to be. Something to look forward to on our next cruise in a few weeks time.
Time for a Siesta now. It is still cloudy but when the sun shines it is on our balcony.
The choice of evening entertainment was, Headliners -New York City Rhythm, Rob Linacre vocalist in the Malabar, and Anthony Scott a Scottish comedian in Manhattan. The formal night ball was in the Atrium. Once again the Atrium was busy for the dancing. The early session is quieter but as the cruise progresses more pax are attending this session to get some dancing in. It has a fantastic atmosphere in there with so many pax standing on the upper levels of the atrium watching the dancers on the floor. By midnight the majority of pax had left leaving the serious dancers the floor to themselves.
The cocktail of the day - Piña Colada.
Tomorrow is Messina in Sicily.
-
Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Continued
Messina -Sicily
We last visited here on the Adonia about 18 months ago. We had debated whether to do a trip further afield but I really wanted to see the astronomical clock again at noon. None of the trips arrive back in time to see this.
We were a little late docking but were off the ship for 10am and wandered round the shops and found a cafe bar which advertised free WIFI. I think this was a con to get people in because I couldn't get on no matter how many times I tried. We moved across to another bar and got on no problem. It was actually a much nicer bar, with a very friendly waiter.
Messina looks very tired and unloved in the centre. Lots of Graffiti and the traffic is scary. The cars stop at the Zebra but the motorbikes just keep going. Very hairy. I think next time we visit here we will venture further afield.
At 11:45 we made our way to the square to see the clock. It was heaving as the MSC ship was also docked today. Lots of Italian people around. The clock is having some renovation work done and was about 5 minutes slow. The lion roared and the cock crowed, and at the end the crowd clapped. It must be an Italian thing to clap a clock.
We returned to the ship for a light lunch and a bottle of rosé wine on the balcony. It was a little cloudy today but the sun kept showing through the light cloud.
The captain announced some good news for tomorrow. We were supposed to be at anchor in Corfu but he has managed to secure a berth until 11 am. This means we can disembark and will only need to return to the ship by tender. I am impressed with this Captain as he keeps everyone informed on a daily basis.
This afternoon is a fashion show by Dance Sport International. Now again as this is an SCD cruise how on earth the entertainment team thought that the Atrium would be large enough to hold the amount of pax wanting to see this is beyond belief. The theatre is empty and the Atrium is so crowded it is impossible to see anything. I gave up trying to find somewhere. I was tempted to take root in the glass lift and keep going up and down.
Tonight is Smart jacket required and we are eating in the glass house. It is the taster menu and includes wine with all of the different courses.
The cocktail of the day is my favourite -Long beach iced tea.
The Glass house meal was a wonderful dining experience. Each course is presented and explained by the restaurant manager, and the wine is explained by the bar manager. We ate smoked salmon with a glass of rosé iced cuvée, fillet steak with a glass of Perez Cruz, various cheeses with another red, and spiced pineapple with elderflower ice cream was served with the white iced cuvée. Coffee and strawberry Bon bons finished the meal. Everything was exquisitely presented and well worth the £30 cover charge.
We finished the evening dancing in the Atrium to Peters band and a relatively early night as we lose an hour again tomorrow for Corfu.
Corfu
I awoke this morning feeling a little groggy. I think the rich food and wine from last night is the probable cause.
The morning skies look promising for a sunny day on the Island of Corfu. Last year we were cruising with friends who had friends living on Corfu. They met us at the port gates and gave us a tour of island before taking us to their house, then to a beach restaurant for lunch. This year we will be wandering around the centre and hopefully revisiting some of the places pointed out to us last year.
We disembarked the ship early and got on the first shuttle into the old town. All the shops and bars were open. We were amazed how expensive everything was in the shops. I presume because of the Greek economy that prices have risen so dramatically. It has been the hottest day of the cruise so far and found the easiest way to cope with it was ¼ hour walking/sightseeing followed by an hour in a bar in the shade. This is how we spent our day in Corfu. Lots of bars around but as there were 5 ships in today all were very busy.
We were back on board for mid afternoon and after a light lunch I went for my first swim of the cruise. It was extremely hot on deck as there was little breeze around. Lots of pax soaking up the sun and also lots of towels on beds doing the same.
We have just booked another cruise on board. Garry has been wanting to visit the North Cape for a while now but I have always preferred to cruise South. I have finally given in because the price had dropped to less than £50 per day for an outside cabin on Oriana. We will only have 7 weeks at home before we set off again. I really need to start the diet now!
Tonight is Tropical night and hopefully it will be warm enough out on deck.
Other entertainment tonight is 'An Audience with Russell Grant' in the Playhouse, Azura Orchestra in Malabar, and Ricky Zalez another vocalist also in Malabar. There is Bingo on at 8 pm in Brodies, I have never known Bingo to be held in an evening before. The Manhattan lounge has been left free presumably so that the Tropical party can be moved there if necessary.
Once again the Dancers are left with the Atrium even though the Manhattan is likely to remain empty.
The cocktail of the day is Planters Punch.
We were very late leaving Corfu so after a leisurely dinner in the MDR, we went to the planet bar where the views of Greece and Albania were just spectacular.
We spent the rest of the evening in the Atrium dancing but as it was Peters Bands night off the atmosphere in there just wasn't the same. The dance instructors are lovely people and fantastic dancers but his choice of music to dance to is dire.
The tropical party was in full swing when we got up to deck 15. Lots of pax there but so very windy. We didn't last long before we decided to call it a night. We gain an hour back tomorrow but it is an early start in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik.
We were up very early and the sun was on the balcony. Once again the scenery was amazing as we sailed past Montenegro and Serbia. The views were too good to miss so we breakfasted on the balcony.
It is a short stay here today as we have to be back on board for 14:30.
We got off the ship on the first shuttle at 08:15 which we are so pleased we did. By 09:30 Dubrovnik was heaving. We had walked the walls on a previous stop here and we went on the cable car last year. We wandered around the sea front area looking at the different yachts and boats in the harbour area. We found the market and purchased some local produce, figs, honey coated nuts and some ripe strawberries to go with the champagne we will drink whilst sailing into Venice tomorrow morning. We had a couple of drinks at a local bar and just people watched and soaked up the atmosphere. There are 6 ships in today which is far too many for this walled town. After a drink or two we sampled the ice cream delicious and only 1 euro 50 for a huge scoop.
By this time it was very hot and heaving with people.
It took us 15 minutes to actually get out of the main gate to the shuttle bus. There are 2 Italian ships in and I never realised just how rude some of the Italians can be, pushing and shoving even though there was nowhere to go. A couple with 2 young children were really struggling to stop them getting crushed. Quite a frightening experience. It was easy to spot the p &o shuttle bus and many had had the same idea as us and were heading back to the ship.
The rugby match is now playing on the sea screen and lots of Rugby fans are singing and cheering around the pool. Great atmosphere so I hope the Lions win.
Fabulous sailaway from Dubrovnik and after lunch on the balcony with a bottle of Rosé wine we had a lazy afternoon.
We ate in the MDR and once again the food was excellent. There was even Brie on the cheeseboard.
The evening entertainment was the headliners vocalists in Manhatten, with Jet Set playing in Malabar, and a Cellist in the Playhouse. Peters band is back in the Atrium. The Cocktail of the Day - Caribbean Cruise.
Tomorrow is Venice, the highlight of the cruise. The champagne is chilling ready for the early morning sail in. The commentary starts at approx 7am.
Messina -Sicily
We last visited here on the Adonia about 18 months ago. We had debated whether to do a trip further afield but I really wanted to see the astronomical clock again at noon. None of the trips arrive back in time to see this.
We were a little late docking but were off the ship for 10am and wandered round the shops and found a cafe bar which advertised free WIFI. I think this was a con to get people in because I couldn't get on no matter how many times I tried. We moved across to another bar and got on no problem. It was actually a much nicer bar, with a very friendly waiter.
Messina looks very tired and unloved in the centre. Lots of Graffiti and the traffic is scary. The cars stop at the Zebra but the motorbikes just keep going. Very hairy. I think next time we visit here we will venture further afield.
At 11:45 we made our way to the square to see the clock. It was heaving as the MSC ship was also docked today. Lots of Italian people around. The clock is having some renovation work done and was about 5 minutes slow. The lion roared and the cock crowed, and at the end the crowd clapped. It must be an Italian thing to clap a clock.
We returned to the ship for a light lunch and a bottle of rosé wine on the balcony. It was a little cloudy today but the sun kept showing through the light cloud.
The captain announced some good news for tomorrow. We were supposed to be at anchor in Corfu but he has managed to secure a berth until 11 am. This means we can disembark and will only need to return to the ship by tender. I am impressed with this Captain as he keeps everyone informed on a daily basis.
This afternoon is a fashion show by Dance Sport International. Now again as this is an SCD cruise how on earth the entertainment team thought that the Atrium would be large enough to hold the amount of pax wanting to see this is beyond belief. The theatre is empty and the Atrium is so crowded it is impossible to see anything. I gave up trying to find somewhere. I was tempted to take root in the glass lift and keep going up and down.
Tonight is Smart jacket required and we are eating in the glass house. It is the taster menu and includes wine with all of the different courses.
The cocktail of the day is my favourite -Long beach iced tea.
The Glass house meal was a wonderful dining experience. Each course is presented and explained by the restaurant manager, and the wine is explained by the bar manager. We ate smoked salmon with a glass of rosé iced cuvée, fillet steak with a glass of Perez Cruz, various cheeses with another red, and spiced pineapple with elderflower ice cream was served with the white iced cuvée. Coffee and strawberry Bon bons finished the meal. Everything was exquisitely presented and well worth the £30 cover charge.
We finished the evening dancing in the Atrium to Peters band and a relatively early night as we lose an hour again tomorrow for Corfu.
Corfu
I awoke this morning feeling a little groggy. I think the rich food and wine from last night is the probable cause.
The morning skies look promising for a sunny day on the Island of Corfu. Last year we were cruising with friends who had friends living on Corfu. They met us at the port gates and gave us a tour of island before taking us to their house, then to a beach restaurant for lunch. This year we will be wandering around the centre and hopefully revisiting some of the places pointed out to us last year.
We disembarked the ship early and got on the first shuttle into the old town. All the shops and bars were open. We were amazed how expensive everything was in the shops. I presume because of the Greek economy that prices have risen so dramatically. It has been the hottest day of the cruise so far and found the easiest way to cope with it was ¼ hour walking/sightseeing followed by an hour in a bar in the shade. This is how we spent our day in Corfu. Lots of bars around but as there were 5 ships in today all were very busy.
We were back on board for mid afternoon and after a light lunch I went for my first swim of the cruise. It was extremely hot on deck as there was little breeze around. Lots of pax soaking up the sun and also lots of towels on beds doing the same.
We have just booked another cruise on board. Garry has been wanting to visit the North Cape for a while now but I have always preferred to cruise South. I have finally given in because the price had dropped to less than £50 per day for an outside cabin on Oriana. We will only have 7 weeks at home before we set off again. I really need to start the diet now!
Tonight is Tropical night and hopefully it will be warm enough out on deck.
Other entertainment tonight is 'An Audience with Russell Grant' in the Playhouse, Azura Orchestra in Malabar, and Ricky Zalez another vocalist also in Malabar. There is Bingo on at 8 pm in Brodies, I have never known Bingo to be held in an evening before. The Manhattan lounge has been left free presumably so that the Tropical party can be moved there if necessary.
Once again the Dancers are left with the Atrium even though the Manhattan is likely to remain empty.
The cocktail of the day is Planters Punch.
We were very late leaving Corfu so after a leisurely dinner in the MDR, we went to the planet bar where the views of Greece and Albania were just spectacular.
We spent the rest of the evening in the Atrium dancing but as it was Peters Bands night off the atmosphere in there just wasn't the same. The dance instructors are lovely people and fantastic dancers but his choice of music to dance to is dire.
The tropical party was in full swing when we got up to deck 15. Lots of pax there but so very windy. We didn't last long before we decided to call it a night. We gain an hour back tomorrow but it is an early start in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik.
We were up very early and the sun was on the balcony. Once again the scenery was amazing as we sailed past Montenegro and Serbia. The views were too good to miss so we breakfasted on the balcony.
It is a short stay here today as we have to be back on board for 14:30.
We got off the ship on the first shuttle at 08:15 which we are so pleased we did. By 09:30 Dubrovnik was heaving. We had walked the walls on a previous stop here and we went on the cable car last year. We wandered around the sea front area looking at the different yachts and boats in the harbour area. We found the market and purchased some local produce, figs, honey coated nuts and some ripe strawberries to go with the champagne we will drink whilst sailing into Venice tomorrow morning. We had a couple of drinks at a local bar and just people watched and soaked up the atmosphere. There are 6 ships in today which is far too many for this walled town. After a drink or two we sampled the ice cream delicious and only 1 euro 50 for a huge scoop.
By this time it was very hot and heaving with people.
It took us 15 minutes to actually get out of the main gate to the shuttle bus. There are 2 Italian ships in and I never realised just how rude some of the Italians can be, pushing and shoving even though there was nowhere to go. A couple with 2 young children were really struggling to stop them getting crushed. Quite a frightening experience. It was easy to spot the p &o shuttle bus and many had had the same idea as us and were heading back to the ship.
The rugby match is now playing on the sea screen and lots of Rugby fans are singing and cheering around the pool. Great atmosphere so I hope the Lions win.
Fabulous sailaway from Dubrovnik and after lunch on the balcony with a bottle of Rosé wine we had a lazy afternoon.
We ate in the MDR and once again the food was excellent. There was even Brie on the cheeseboard.
The evening entertainment was the headliners vocalists in Manhatten, with Jet Set playing in Malabar, and a Cellist in the Playhouse. Peters band is back in the Atrium. The Cocktail of the Day - Caribbean Cruise.
Tomorrow is Venice, the highlight of the cruise. The champagne is chilling ready for the early morning sail in. The commentary starts at approx 7am.
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Continued
Venice
Another beautiful day with a few fluffy high clouds.
We are enjoying our complimentary champagne from P & O and the strawberries we purchased from Dubrovnik yesterday. What a wonderful start to our day in Venice.
The sail in was as memorable as ever. A very quiet still sunny Sunday morning with Venice in the background. We passed the Bridge of Sighs which no longer has the boarding up but the building at the front of St Mark's square is being renovated so the advertising boarding has moved there so still spoils the photos.
We have just docked in the main port for Venice. No sign of any protesters as yet. The Captain has informed us that there is a protest arranged for today starting at the Piazza Roma and finishing at the Port. It is expected to be peaceful and friendly but some disruption to Vaporetta services. We have a trip booked to see the islands of Murano and Burano. The two Italian ships that were in Dubrovnik yesterday are here in Venice today. I am pleased that we have a trip booked and won't have to witness the scenes from yesterday.
The boat trip was very interesting as the tour guide pointed out all of the buildings and canals of interest. It took about ¾ hour to reach the Murano Glass Factory. We were split into 2 groups to see the 2 examples of the glass being blown. The first was a vase with a handle and the second a horse. Amazingly the horse took approx 2 minutes to make from a blob of glass.
The lady talking about the demo put a piece of paper in the vase and it immediately set on fire it was so hot. Generally if the factory was working the glass would be put in special coolers but it was left on the side and exploded before I could take a photo of it. We then walked round the shop but the prices were far more expensive than in the centre of Venice. It was interesting though to see the different shapes and colours of the glass.
Next stop on the Tour was Burano. This was a lovely little island full of character and different coloured houses. We would have liked much more time there. We would rather have missed Murano completely and had 3 hours here. I bought some jewellery which was far less expensive than Murano even though it is Murano glass. We only had time for a quick drink and snack then we had to be back on the boat. There were some lovely little restaurants but we will have to save these for our next trip to Venice.
On returning to the ship there were lots of police around in their boats and on water scooters but very few protesters around. A few signs up saying No to cruise ships in Venice Lagoon but nothing to worry about.
Another wonderful day in Venice.
We sail out at 6 pm and tonight we are eating in Sindhu.
Cocktail of the day is - Fun on the beach.
Sail out was delayed because of the protesters. Police were escorting each ship out of the port area.
Our meal in Sindhu was excellent as per usual. It was menu A so for those that know Sindhu the desert was the spiced chocolate pudding. This must be the best desert served anywhere. The outside is slightly crunchy, followed by the sponge flavoured with chocolate and cinnamon then the runny chocolate inside. This is served with an orange sorbet and small tangy orange slices to contrast the sweet chocolate. This is a definite when 'Harry met Sally' moment.
We started sailing away during our coffee. Some of the security staff stood outside the window blocking our view of the sail out. Raol our waiter must have been feeling very brave and asked them to move along a bit which was very good of him. I hope he didn't spend a night in the brig. Some of those security staff are a bit scary especially the female ones.
We are having an early night as it has been a long and busy day. We have both caught the sun as we were on the top deck of the tour boat, and the sea breeze masked the strength of the sun.
Sea day tomorrow when the Captain has promised an update regarding our arrival in Malta and how the late sailing today will impact on it.
Sea day
We awoke early to clear skies. I intend to spend most of the day on deck. I love these 17 night cruises. We still have another week on board before we reach Southampton.
After the cloudless early morning the clouds gathered. The hardy amongst us sat it out through some drizzle and were rewarded by the sun at 10 am. Now absolutely glorious with a slight breeze to keep the temperature bearable. There has just been a food and drink demo followed by a food and beverage quiz. I got15 correct but the winner of the dinner for 2 in Sindhu or 17 scored 16.
The Cocktail of the day - Piña Colada, perfect when sitting on deck in the sun.
The clouds came back at lunch time as did the drizzle so I retired back to the cabin. Within 10 minutes the full sun was on the balcony and it was still there when we went to dinner.
Our 3 rd formal night and the ladies night ball. This Is the first time we have been on a cruise to Venice that does not have a masked Venetian Ball. The shops on board were selling the masks yesterday but no ball.
We went to the early dance date with Peters band, and then left the ball early as we wanted to see the Chapman Brothers who had been highly recommended. They were brilliant singing Soul and Motown hits so full of energy. Absolutely brilliant. I hope they are on again this cruise.
Malta tomorrow and as our departure from Venice was delayed we will be late arriving in Malta. The Captain is hoping to be docked before midday and has extended the stay until 7 pm.
Malta
Another glorious early morning. We are still sailing down the heel of Italy. Very sunny on deck with a cooling breeze. Fantastic sailing weather.
The captain made good time and we docked earlier than 12 noon. We were off the ship quickly and on our war to the battlements. Last time we were here it was a hike up to town but now there is a lift. It costs 1 euro to go up and free to come back down. We arrived at the battlement with 1 minute to spare and watched the midday guns going off. They always prime 2 of the cannons in the unlikely event one fails. A wise decision today as the first one failed. Blue flags are raised to alert the harbour that the gun had failed and it would be one minute past noon when the gun is fired. This time it worked perfectly.
We then wandered around the town of Malta, purchasing some souvenirs and other essentials for our 2 sea days to Gibraltar. Malta is a lovely centre with many historic buildings and the people are friendly. We found a basic bar with fantastic views close to the battlements on our way back from town. Free WI Fi in all this area.
We noticed the prices in the Duty free shop were very reasonable and certainly comparable to prices in Gibraltar without the need to carry it a long way back to the ship.
We ate dinner in the Verona trattoria as we departed at 7 pm and the view from there was stunning. It is such a narrow harbour and also very exposed.
Before sailaway we had been watching some small boats shaped like gondolas. Some had 4 oarsmen and others 2 plus a cox. The strange thing was that half the oarsman were sat down rowing with their back in the direction they were going and the other half were stood up rowing facing the direction they were going. They must have been practising for a race.
Dinner was once again excellent. Garry started with the mushrooms and then had the steak cooked on larva rock. I had the special prawn starter which was mouthwateringly good. 8 butterfly prawns griddled, followed by tuna steak. We both had the Tiramisu for desert.
After dinner we went to the Manhattan to see Maxine Mazumder as Dusty Springfield. She was excellent and will be back on as Lulu later on in the cruise.
Cocktail of the Day - Planters Punch.
We now have 2 sea days before our final port of call Gibraltar.
Venice
Another beautiful day with a few fluffy high clouds.
We are enjoying our complimentary champagne from P & O and the strawberries we purchased from Dubrovnik yesterday. What a wonderful start to our day in Venice.
The sail in was as memorable as ever. A very quiet still sunny Sunday morning with Venice in the background. We passed the Bridge of Sighs which no longer has the boarding up but the building at the front of St Mark's square is being renovated so the advertising boarding has moved there so still spoils the photos.
We have just docked in the main port for Venice. No sign of any protesters as yet. The Captain has informed us that there is a protest arranged for today starting at the Piazza Roma and finishing at the Port. It is expected to be peaceful and friendly but some disruption to Vaporetta services. We have a trip booked to see the islands of Murano and Burano. The two Italian ships that were in Dubrovnik yesterday are here in Venice today. I am pleased that we have a trip booked and won't have to witness the scenes from yesterday.
The boat trip was very interesting as the tour guide pointed out all of the buildings and canals of interest. It took about ¾ hour to reach the Murano Glass Factory. We were split into 2 groups to see the 2 examples of the glass being blown. The first was a vase with a handle and the second a horse. Amazingly the horse took approx 2 minutes to make from a blob of glass.
The lady talking about the demo put a piece of paper in the vase and it immediately set on fire it was so hot. Generally if the factory was working the glass would be put in special coolers but it was left on the side and exploded before I could take a photo of it. We then walked round the shop but the prices were far more expensive than in the centre of Venice. It was interesting though to see the different shapes and colours of the glass.
Next stop on the Tour was Burano. This was a lovely little island full of character and different coloured houses. We would have liked much more time there. We would rather have missed Murano completely and had 3 hours here. I bought some jewellery which was far less expensive than Murano even though it is Murano glass. We only had time for a quick drink and snack then we had to be back on the boat. There were some lovely little restaurants but we will have to save these for our next trip to Venice.
On returning to the ship there were lots of police around in their boats and on water scooters but very few protesters around. A few signs up saying No to cruise ships in Venice Lagoon but nothing to worry about.
Another wonderful day in Venice.
We sail out at 6 pm and tonight we are eating in Sindhu.
Cocktail of the day is - Fun on the beach.
Sail out was delayed because of the protesters. Police were escorting each ship out of the port area.
Our meal in Sindhu was excellent as per usual. It was menu A so for those that know Sindhu the desert was the spiced chocolate pudding. This must be the best desert served anywhere. The outside is slightly crunchy, followed by the sponge flavoured with chocolate and cinnamon then the runny chocolate inside. This is served with an orange sorbet and small tangy orange slices to contrast the sweet chocolate. This is a definite when 'Harry met Sally' moment.
We started sailing away during our coffee. Some of the security staff stood outside the window blocking our view of the sail out. Raol our waiter must have been feeling very brave and asked them to move along a bit which was very good of him. I hope he didn't spend a night in the brig. Some of those security staff are a bit scary especially the female ones.
We are having an early night as it has been a long and busy day. We have both caught the sun as we were on the top deck of the tour boat, and the sea breeze masked the strength of the sun.
Sea day tomorrow when the Captain has promised an update regarding our arrival in Malta and how the late sailing today will impact on it.
Sea day
We awoke early to clear skies. I intend to spend most of the day on deck. I love these 17 night cruises. We still have another week on board before we reach Southampton.
After the cloudless early morning the clouds gathered. The hardy amongst us sat it out through some drizzle and were rewarded by the sun at 10 am. Now absolutely glorious with a slight breeze to keep the temperature bearable. There has just been a food and drink demo followed by a food and beverage quiz. I got15 correct but the winner of the dinner for 2 in Sindhu or 17 scored 16.
The Cocktail of the day - Piña Colada, perfect when sitting on deck in the sun.
The clouds came back at lunch time as did the drizzle so I retired back to the cabin. Within 10 minutes the full sun was on the balcony and it was still there when we went to dinner.
Our 3 rd formal night and the ladies night ball. This Is the first time we have been on a cruise to Venice that does not have a masked Venetian Ball. The shops on board were selling the masks yesterday but no ball.
We went to the early dance date with Peters band, and then left the ball early as we wanted to see the Chapman Brothers who had been highly recommended. They were brilliant singing Soul and Motown hits so full of energy. Absolutely brilliant. I hope they are on again this cruise.
Malta tomorrow and as our departure from Venice was delayed we will be late arriving in Malta. The Captain is hoping to be docked before midday and has extended the stay until 7 pm.
Malta
Another glorious early morning. We are still sailing down the heel of Italy. Very sunny on deck with a cooling breeze. Fantastic sailing weather.
The captain made good time and we docked earlier than 12 noon. We were off the ship quickly and on our war to the battlements. Last time we were here it was a hike up to town but now there is a lift. It costs 1 euro to go up and free to come back down. We arrived at the battlement with 1 minute to spare and watched the midday guns going off. They always prime 2 of the cannons in the unlikely event one fails. A wise decision today as the first one failed. Blue flags are raised to alert the harbour that the gun had failed and it would be one minute past noon when the gun is fired. This time it worked perfectly.
We then wandered around the town of Malta, purchasing some souvenirs and other essentials for our 2 sea days to Gibraltar. Malta is a lovely centre with many historic buildings and the people are friendly. We found a basic bar with fantastic views close to the battlements on our way back from town. Free WI Fi in all this area.
We noticed the prices in the Duty free shop were very reasonable and certainly comparable to prices in Gibraltar without the need to carry it a long way back to the ship.
We ate dinner in the Verona trattoria as we departed at 7 pm and the view from there was stunning. It is such a narrow harbour and also very exposed.
Before sailaway we had been watching some small boats shaped like gondolas. Some had 4 oarsmen and others 2 plus a cox. The strange thing was that half the oarsman were sat down rowing with their back in the direction they were going and the other half were stood up rowing facing the direction they were going. They must have been practising for a race.
Dinner was once again excellent. Garry started with the mushrooms and then had the steak cooked on larva rock. I had the special prawn starter which was mouthwateringly good. 8 butterfly prawns griddled, followed by tuna steak. We both had the Tiramisu for desert.
After dinner we went to the Manhattan to see Maxine Mazumder as Dusty Springfield. She was excellent and will be back on as Lulu later on in the cruise.
Cocktail of the Day - Planters Punch.
We now have 2 sea days before our final port of call Gibraltar.
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Continued
Sea Day
A beautiful sunrise this morning. Very strong winds though so not sure how it will feel on deck.
I think we found one of the best places on deck sheltered from the wind. Once led on the sun bed I couldn't feel the wind only the hot sun. During the early morning there were some long thick patches of cloud but by late morning it was wall to wall sunshine. At 3 pm I decided that I had probably had enough sun so gave my bed up to another pax who had not got up as early as us to grab a good bed in the sun.
It is the Black and White formal night and the Peninsular cocktail party. We are spoilt for choice for entertainment as the Entertainment team have decided to put the passengers strictly come dancing semi final/ final competition on in the Manhattan at the same time as the Black and White Ball with Peters Band in the Atrium. The Chapman brothers are performing their final show in the theatre. Surely the dance competition should be held during the day but of course it is cheap entertainment. Not sure how this will work as there are 2 shows one at 21:30 and the other at 23:00.
The Cocktail of the Day - Long Beach Iced Tea.
It was a great night on board. We went to the 6 pm cocktail party when the name if the new ship was discussed but the Captain gave no hints other than mentioning the Canberra to great applause. I think it was a Red Herring as he did say it is a closely guarded secret. He did confirm that there would be a ballroom on board and again the crowd roared approval. He did not say how large this ballroom was going to be.
We ate in the MDR and once again the meal was perfectly cooked. The food on this cruise has been excellent thanks to the executive Chef Neville Heredia and his galley crew. The service in Freedom dining has also been excellent even though we have never had the same table 2 nights running. The crew cant do enough for us and always make time to chat. We have never felt rushed or felt that the service was too slow.
The ball was quieter than normal as many pax went to see both SCD shows so there was plenty of room to dance. We went to the late SCD show. During the cruise pax have entered into competitions to win a place in these semi finals. 10 couples have been chosen by the dance instructors 5 couples for each show. We heard that the first show had been won by a couple dancing Tango. The late show dances were Samba, Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba and Jive. Very mixed abilities but all did really well in front of a packed Manhattan. There were 4 judges- Richard and Theresa the dance instructors (classed as 1 Judge), James Cussak the purser, Maxine Mazumder tribute act singer and the Captain.
The couple dancing the waltz were certainly the best dancers and scored the highest with the panel and the couple dancing the Rumba got the 2nd highest score. It was up to the audience to decide who went through to the final and the sexy Rumba won the loudest applause. The couple who won were amazed as I think all of the contestants had thought that the waltz would be the winning dance.
The final is after Gibraltar when Craig Revel H boards the ship.
Sea Day before Gibraltar.
Another beautiful sunrise and the wind that plagued us yesterday has disappeared. Very hot on deck and sun beds were at a premium. I was out very early and by 11:30 I gave my bed up and sought the sanctuary of our balcony which today is the shade. It was very pleasant for a couple of hours. At 2 pm I decided to try to find a bed and sit in the sun for a while. Luckily the bed I had given up was again available. Feeling well and truly toasted by 4 pm I left the sun worshippers to it.
Jacket required tonight and we ate in the MDR. Another delicious meal.
The entertainment has had everyone confused. Pax thought it was a magician in the theatre when it was a classical musician. We heard many had walked out which had spoilt the performance for those that had gone to hear this musician.
We have never known so many errors in the Horizon newspapers. Of course they may not be errors but a last minute change of plan. Benne makes daily announcements about the entertainment but somehow neglected to mention the changes in the evening entertainment.
We went to the early evening dance date in the Atrium and only heard there that the prof dance demo had been moved to there from the Malabar at 10pm. Crazy as lots of the dancers were waiting in the Malabar for it to start. Once it was announced they rushed back to the Atrium but is was standing room only by then. We nearly lost our seat a few times as we were up dancing and even though drinks were on the table jacket and bags on the seats some pax still tried to take the seats.
The dance demo was Latin again as Richard the dance prof said that the Atrium floor was so large he wouldn't be able to cover it all in the ballroom dances.lol. Lots of applause at this tongue in cheek comment.
Cocktail of the Day - frozen Margherita. Yum yum.
Sea Day
A beautiful sunrise this morning. Very strong winds though so not sure how it will feel on deck.
I think we found one of the best places on deck sheltered from the wind. Once led on the sun bed I couldn't feel the wind only the hot sun. During the early morning there were some long thick patches of cloud but by late morning it was wall to wall sunshine. At 3 pm I decided that I had probably had enough sun so gave my bed up to another pax who had not got up as early as us to grab a good bed in the sun.
It is the Black and White formal night and the Peninsular cocktail party. We are spoilt for choice for entertainment as the Entertainment team have decided to put the passengers strictly come dancing semi final/ final competition on in the Manhattan at the same time as the Black and White Ball with Peters Band in the Atrium. The Chapman brothers are performing their final show in the theatre. Surely the dance competition should be held during the day but of course it is cheap entertainment. Not sure how this will work as there are 2 shows one at 21:30 and the other at 23:00.
The Cocktail of the Day - Long Beach Iced Tea.
It was a great night on board. We went to the 6 pm cocktail party when the name if the new ship was discussed but the Captain gave no hints other than mentioning the Canberra to great applause. I think it was a Red Herring as he did say it is a closely guarded secret. He did confirm that there would be a ballroom on board and again the crowd roared approval. He did not say how large this ballroom was going to be.
We ate in the MDR and once again the meal was perfectly cooked. The food on this cruise has been excellent thanks to the executive Chef Neville Heredia and his galley crew. The service in Freedom dining has also been excellent even though we have never had the same table 2 nights running. The crew cant do enough for us and always make time to chat. We have never felt rushed or felt that the service was too slow.
The ball was quieter than normal as many pax went to see both SCD shows so there was plenty of room to dance. We went to the late SCD show. During the cruise pax have entered into competitions to win a place in these semi finals. 10 couples have been chosen by the dance instructors 5 couples for each show. We heard that the first show had been won by a couple dancing Tango. The late show dances were Samba, Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba and Jive. Very mixed abilities but all did really well in front of a packed Manhattan. There were 4 judges- Richard and Theresa the dance instructors (classed as 1 Judge), James Cussak the purser, Maxine Mazumder tribute act singer and the Captain.
The couple dancing the waltz were certainly the best dancers and scored the highest with the panel and the couple dancing the Rumba got the 2nd highest score. It was up to the audience to decide who went through to the final and the sexy Rumba won the loudest applause. The couple who won were amazed as I think all of the contestants had thought that the waltz would be the winning dance.
The final is after Gibraltar when Craig Revel H boards the ship.
Sea Day before Gibraltar.
Another beautiful sunrise and the wind that plagued us yesterday has disappeared. Very hot on deck and sun beds were at a premium. I was out very early and by 11:30 I gave my bed up and sought the sanctuary of our balcony which today is the shade. It was very pleasant for a couple of hours. At 2 pm I decided to try to find a bed and sit in the sun for a while. Luckily the bed I had given up was again available. Feeling well and truly toasted by 4 pm I left the sun worshippers to it.
Jacket required tonight and we ate in the MDR. Another delicious meal.
The entertainment has had everyone confused. Pax thought it was a magician in the theatre when it was a classical musician. We heard many had walked out which had spoilt the performance for those that had gone to hear this musician.
We have never known so many errors in the Horizon newspapers. Of course they may not be errors but a last minute change of plan. Benne makes daily announcements about the entertainment but somehow neglected to mention the changes in the evening entertainment.
We went to the early evening dance date in the Atrium and only heard there that the prof dance demo had been moved to there from the Malabar at 10pm. Crazy as lots of the dancers were waiting in the Malabar for it to start. Once it was announced they rushed back to the Atrium but is was standing room only by then. We nearly lost our seat a few times as we were up dancing and even though drinks were on the table jacket and bags on the seats some pax still tried to take the seats.
The dance demo was Latin again as Richard the dance prof said that the Atrium floor was so large he wouldn't be able to cover it all in the ballroom dances.lol. Lots of applause at this tongue in cheek comment.
Cocktail of the Day - frozen Margherita. Yum yum.
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Continued
Gibraltar
We woke later this morning and missed the sunrise which apparently was spectacular. I managed to get a photo as we approached Gib.
Quick breakfast then off the ship before 9am. We called at the Cafe Just Deserts for a coffee and the free WI Fi. This is in the shopping centre next to BHS. It is run by a British lady who is very friendly and happy for you to use her WIFI.
Once the shops opened we had our list and bought our duty free goods. A quick wander around, priced up the new ipad 4 which was only about £25 cheaper than Amazon so didn't bother with that. We were back on ship and sat in the sun before many had even got off. The queues to get back on later on were incredible and so pleased we did it that way. These half day calls are often like that.
The sun was on our balcony so we made the most of it and ate lunch there.
Very hot today again with no breeze.
Short stay here as we sailaway at 1 pm and it is the Great British sailaway. I didn't think the sailaway was as busy as normal but it was extremely hot up there. We enjoyed a glass of champagne and joined in the singing and dancing. Benne announced that Liam the Deputy CD has today been promoted to P & O s newest Cruise Director. Well done to him but in our opinion there are others who deserve it more who have worked for the company longer. Matt and Dominic spring to mind and I do hope that there was more than one position going and that they haven't missed out.
Craig, James, Ola and Darcey have boarded and gave everyone a photo opportunity at the sailaway party. They left after about 20 minutes with the excuse that they needed time to practice but they are now in the Glass House enjoying lunch.
We spent the afternoon on the balcony reading and relaxing. We were honoured that a large school of Dolphins put on some entertainment for us.
We are eating in Sindhu tonight and have just been to the Glass House to purchase a bottle of Perez Cruz to take with us.
Cocktail of the day - Hurricane.
Dinner in Sindhu was delightful again. Fishy night for me scallops followed by the grilled prawns as it was menu B.
Last night just for a change we went dancing in the Atrium. Not much atmosphere as it was just to the dance instructors music.
2 rumours going round he ship yesterday. Rumour 1 - Neil Oliver was seen boarding the ship in Gib. Rumour 2 - Peters band disembarked in Gibraltar. I really hope that rumour 1 is true and rumour 2 is a load of tosh.
Peters Band is shown as playing in the Atrium tomorrow according to the Horizon. Fingers crossed.
Sea day sailing up the Portuguese Coast.
The weather is very disappointing today. I had thought we would at least have had today in the sun but it is very cloudy outside.
An audience with Craig R H is on in the theatre this morning. Over ½ hour before he comes on and the theatre is 90% full already. With ¼ hour to go it is standing room only and very little of that. If there was a fire or an emergency there would be no chance of getting out. The entertainment staff are noticeable only by their absence once again. There is no member of staff here at all supervising this chaos. Arguments are breaking out between pax. Unbelievable. I have just never witnessed anything like this before on a ship. If the weather had been better outside then it probably would not be as busy as it is, but advertising this as a SCD cruise then trying to cram in all the SCD entertainment in the last 2 days is probably the main cause.
The Audience with Craig was very entertaining but he did keep forgetting he was on a family ship and Benne had to remind him as there were children in the audience. The show ran over time and the final question was from a lady who asked him what tips he would give amateur dancers. His reply was quite short and went something like, just get up on the dance floor, enjoy it, do your best and don't f** k it up. Benne just didn't know what to say or where to put herself. The audience were too shocked to react for a short pace of time then dissolved into laughter. Not sure if Benne will be wanting to interview him again or at least not in the morning slot. He would probably make a great late night speaker.
We lunched on the balcony as the sun was reasonably hot and we were sheltered from the wind. We had purchased a bottle of Rosé wine in Malta which was excellent. It is called G7 and is a merlot grape. Note to self must stock up on this when next in Malta. The dolphins entertained us again with their antics. They just love to show off and we love to see them.
The weather improved during the afternoon and 10 minutes before Darcey's turn to be grilled by Benne, the entertainment team managed to be proactive for the first time this cruise. An announcement was made that due to the popularity of these SCD interviews Darcey's would be shown live on the cabin TVs. The interview went very well, not quite as entertaining as Craig's but very interesting. It appears that Darcey only started ballet classes because she was knock kneed and her Mother thought it would straighten her legs out.
This was our last formal night and should have been the Parade of the Chefs. This was cancelled because of the SCD shows on in the theatre. The fact that we have had 5 formal nights on this cruise why it did not occur to any of the management team that this was going to clash and to alter the date of the Parade of the Chefs leaves me speechless.
The Azura vocalists performed in the Atrium before and after dinner. There were about 50 of them and they put on a really good show.
The Cocktail of the Day - Martini Royale.
It was after the choir had performed, whilst we were waiting for the dancing to start that we heard some bad news. At first we thought it was ship gossip but it was confirmed by the dance instructors. For those of you that love dancing or even just watching the dancing on Azura in the Atrium will understand that Peter's Band make the Atrium the buzzing place it is in the evening. They have just been told that their contract is not being renewed and in future it will be the duo from the Planet bar singing in the Atrium.
This news has put a real damper on the end of our cruise. Peters band has been part of the Azura since day 1. We have done 6 cruises on Azura and only once was Peter's Band on leave and the difference it made was remarkable. It will have the same effect as not renewing Caravan's contract on Aurora. We have one more cruise booked on Azura at Christmas this year but as dancing is such a big part of our cruise this may be our last one on this ship.
Final Sea Day
We awoke to a very gloomy morning. Grey and overcast and now certainly feels as though the holiday is over. Just the packing to do this morning after breakfast.
Packing mostly done and the afternoon weather is looking a bit brighter.
After lunch in the MDR we watched An Audience with James and Ola. They were very amusing. When Benne went to the questions from the audience she was not pleased that none of her entertainment team were there to pass the mike out to pax. Very embarrassed she had to leave her guests on the stage to pass her mike to the pax herself. The message obviously got out to her team as 2 Ents officers arrived very quickly.
It was the last session of the Bingo with the jackpot at nearly £1500.00. I decided it was worth a punt of £15 for a book of tickets. Unusually it was held in the Malabar, the last afternoon of Bingo is usually in the Theatre. When I reached Malabar I realised there was a Classical pianist performing so I found a seat at the back to listen to his last few pieces. Unfortunately a lot of other Bingo players were not as polite and decided to barge into Malabar during his performance to find seats. It was extremely rude and unfair on the pax who had gone to listen to this talented performer. The last part of his performance was completely ruined by the chattering and disruption of passengers. This is another example of the lack of forethought by the ents staff. The Malabar was extremely busy for this last session and I have no doubt that 85 % of the pax had not been to any other session on the cruise but as tickets have to be purchased from the casino in advance they must have known how many pax to expect.
I was only waiting for one number but sadly it didn't come out. The jackpot was shared by 2 winners.
We had tickets for the 8:30 show in the theatre for the Strictly Come Dancing show. It was absolutely brilliant. James and Ola did 5 fantastic show dances including the Charleston. Craig compared and Darcey along with the others judged the pax competitors who danced the Argentine Tango. It really was a superb show and as we had queued from early in the evening we had prime seats. A fantastic end to what has been a great cruise.
After the show we went to the atrium to dance to Peters band. It was very sad saying goodbye to Peter as we have known him since the Azura was launched and have enjoyed many evenings dancing to his music. We have his e mail address and we will keep in touch with him. I just hope P & O see the big mistake they are making before he is snapped up by another cruise line.
Gibraltar
We woke later this morning and missed the sunrise which apparently was spectacular. I managed to get a photo as we approached Gib.
Quick breakfast then off the ship before 9am. We called at the Cafe Just Deserts for a coffee and the free WI Fi. This is in the shopping centre next to BHS. It is run by a British lady who is very friendly and happy for you to use her WIFI.
Once the shops opened we had our list and bought our duty free goods. A quick wander around, priced up the new ipad 4 which was only about £25 cheaper than Amazon so didn't bother with that. We were back on ship and sat in the sun before many had even got off. The queues to get back on later on were incredible and so pleased we did it that way. These half day calls are often like that.
The sun was on our balcony so we made the most of it and ate lunch there.
Very hot today again with no breeze.
Short stay here as we sailaway at 1 pm and it is the Great British sailaway. I didn't think the sailaway was as busy as normal but it was extremely hot up there. We enjoyed a glass of champagne and joined in the singing and dancing. Benne announced that Liam the Deputy CD has today been promoted to P & O s newest Cruise Director. Well done to him but in our opinion there are others who deserve it more who have worked for the company longer. Matt and Dominic spring to mind and I do hope that there was more than one position going and that they haven't missed out.
Craig, James, Ola and Darcey have boarded and gave everyone a photo opportunity at the sailaway party. They left after about 20 minutes with the excuse that they needed time to practice but they are now in the Glass House enjoying lunch.
We spent the afternoon on the balcony reading and relaxing. We were honoured that a large school of Dolphins put on some entertainment for us.
We are eating in Sindhu tonight and have just been to the Glass House to purchase a bottle of Perez Cruz to take with us.
Cocktail of the day - Hurricane.
Dinner in Sindhu was delightful again. Fishy night for me scallops followed by the grilled prawns as it was menu B.
Last night just for a change we went dancing in the Atrium. Not much atmosphere as it was just to the dance instructors music.
2 rumours going round he ship yesterday. Rumour 1 - Neil Oliver was seen boarding the ship in Gib. Rumour 2 - Peters band disembarked in Gibraltar. I really hope that rumour 1 is true and rumour 2 is a load of tosh.
Peters Band is shown as playing in the Atrium tomorrow according to the Horizon. Fingers crossed.
Sea day sailing up the Portuguese Coast.
The weather is very disappointing today. I had thought we would at least have had today in the sun but it is very cloudy outside.
An audience with Craig R H is on in the theatre this morning. Over ½ hour before he comes on and the theatre is 90% full already. With ¼ hour to go it is standing room only and very little of that. If there was a fire or an emergency there would be no chance of getting out. The entertainment staff are noticeable only by their absence once again. There is no member of staff here at all supervising this chaos. Arguments are breaking out between pax. Unbelievable. I have just never witnessed anything like this before on a ship. If the weather had been better outside then it probably would not be as busy as it is, but advertising this as a SCD cruise then trying to cram in all the SCD entertainment in the last 2 days is probably the main cause.
The Audience with Craig was very entertaining but he did keep forgetting he was on a family ship and Benne had to remind him as there were children in the audience. The show ran over time and the final question was from a lady who asked him what tips he would give amateur dancers. His reply was quite short and went something like, just get up on the dance floor, enjoy it, do your best and don't f** k it up. Benne just didn't know what to say or where to put herself. The audience were too shocked to react for a short pace of time then dissolved into laughter. Not sure if Benne will be wanting to interview him again or at least not in the morning slot. He would probably make a great late night speaker.
We lunched on the balcony as the sun was reasonably hot and we were sheltered from the wind. We had purchased a bottle of Rosé wine in Malta which was excellent. It is called G7 and is a merlot grape. Note to self must stock up on this when next in Malta. The dolphins entertained us again with their antics. They just love to show off and we love to see them.
The weather improved during the afternoon and 10 minutes before Darcey's turn to be grilled by Benne, the entertainment team managed to be proactive for the first time this cruise. An announcement was made that due to the popularity of these SCD interviews Darcey's would be shown live on the cabin TVs. The interview went very well, not quite as entertaining as Craig's but very interesting. It appears that Darcey only started ballet classes because she was knock kneed and her Mother thought it would straighten her legs out.
This was our last formal night and should have been the Parade of the Chefs. This was cancelled because of the SCD shows on in the theatre. The fact that we have had 5 formal nights on this cruise why it did not occur to any of the management team that this was going to clash and to alter the date of the Parade of the Chefs leaves me speechless.
The Azura vocalists performed in the Atrium before and after dinner. There were about 50 of them and they put on a really good show.
The Cocktail of the Day - Martini Royale.
It was after the choir had performed, whilst we were waiting for the dancing to start that we heard some bad news. At first we thought it was ship gossip but it was confirmed by the dance instructors. For those of you that love dancing or even just watching the dancing on Azura in the Atrium will understand that Peter's Band make the Atrium the buzzing place it is in the evening. They have just been told that their contract is not being renewed and in future it will be the duo from the Planet bar singing in the Atrium.
This news has put a real damper on the end of our cruise. Peters band has been part of the Azura since day 1. We have done 6 cruises on Azura and only once was Peter's Band on leave and the difference it made was remarkable. It will have the same effect as not renewing Caravan's contract on Aurora. We have one more cruise booked on Azura at Christmas this year but as dancing is such a big part of our cruise this may be our last one on this ship.
Final Sea Day
We awoke to a very gloomy morning. Grey and overcast and now certainly feels as though the holiday is over. Just the packing to do this morning after breakfast.
Packing mostly done and the afternoon weather is looking a bit brighter.
After lunch in the MDR we watched An Audience with James and Ola. They were very amusing. When Benne went to the questions from the audience she was not pleased that none of her entertainment team were there to pass the mike out to pax. Very embarrassed she had to leave her guests on the stage to pass her mike to the pax herself. The message obviously got out to her team as 2 Ents officers arrived very quickly.
It was the last session of the Bingo with the jackpot at nearly £1500.00. I decided it was worth a punt of £15 for a book of tickets. Unusually it was held in the Malabar, the last afternoon of Bingo is usually in the Theatre. When I reached Malabar I realised there was a Classical pianist performing so I found a seat at the back to listen to his last few pieces. Unfortunately a lot of other Bingo players were not as polite and decided to barge into Malabar during his performance to find seats. It was extremely rude and unfair on the pax who had gone to listen to this talented performer. The last part of his performance was completely ruined by the chattering and disruption of passengers. This is another example of the lack of forethought by the ents staff. The Malabar was extremely busy for this last session and I have no doubt that 85 % of the pax had not been to any other session on the cruise but as tickets have to be purchased from the casino in advance they must have known how many pax to expect.
I was only waiting for one number but sadly it didn't come out. The jackpot was shared by 2 winners.
We had tickets for the 8:30 show in the theatre for the Strictly Come Dancing show. It was absolutely brilliant. James and Ola did 5 fantastic show dances including the Charleston. Craig compared and Darcey along with the others judged the pax competitors who danced the Argentine Tango. It really was a superb show and as we had queued from early in the evening we had prime seats. A fantastic end to what has been a great cruise.
After the show we went to the atrium to dance to Peters band. It was very sad saying goodbye to Peter as we have known him since the Azura was launched and have enjoyed many evenings dancing to his music. We have his e mail address and we will keep in touch with him. I just hope P & O see the big mistake they are making before he is snapped up by another cruise line.
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Final post
Southampton
Back in Southampton and the weather is overcast but at least it is not raining. We have priority disembarkation at approx 08:30. The pax self disembarking are already off and on their way home.
We have had a wonderful cruise and have been well looked after by Alex our attentive cabin steward, the food and the service in the restaurants has been excellent.
The only part of our cruise questionnaire we felt we couldn't give excellent to was the entertainment team. Benne does a wonderful job and is brilliant with the entertainers on board. The sail aways from the ports were high energy and entertaining. The interviews she did were very good but for whatever reason she just does not seem to have the back up of her team. We felt that everything was a 'Done Deal' with out much thought going into the impact of the themed cruise. It is as though the theme was an after thought. Hopefully before the next SCD cruise on Azura, changes will be made and comments from passengers listened to. Azura is a far different ship when Neil Oliver is Cruise Director.
The Azura is not the right ship for a strictly cruise. The theatre show last night was fantastic but the amount of dancers on board because it was a strictly cruise were far too many for the Atrium to cope with. No effort was made by the Ents team to sort this out even though on one night the Manhattan had nothing going on and often Malabar just had the resident group singing in there. This was the only disappointing aspect on what was a fabulous cruise and once we had accepted that if we wanted to dance we needed to get there early before the atrium got too crowded we tried not to get involved in the pax who wanted to moan about it. It wasn't going to do any good and we were not going to let it spoil our holiday.
We are on the Motorway on the way back to Lancashire after an early disembarkation at 08:20. No priority for the luggage which as this has not worked for us in the past is no great hardship. It took about 10 minutes to locate our luggage so not bad at all. No Customs Officers present so straight through. We had used someone recommended on this site to park our car. This worked out excellently and within 5 minutes of being through the customs area Glen was there to meet us to drive us the 10 minute journey to his house to collect the car. We were on the road and on our way just before 9am. Excellent service so if any one would like his contact details please PM me.
We arrived home at 13:30 after a 20 minute comfort break at Stafford Service Station. There is an M & S there and we usually buy a sandwich and a drink and eat it outside in the garden area. There is now a sign up saying that everything purchased from the store cannot be eaten on the premises. Not sure if this is new or we have just not noticed it before.
All unpacked and first wash on. Back to work tomorrow.
We are looking forward to our next cruise on Oriana which is to the North Cape in August. Any tips on what to pack for a North Cape cruise would be very welcome. Will I really need thermals and boots in August?
Southampton
Back in Southampton and the weather is overcast but at least it is not raining. We have priority disembarkation at approx 08:30. The pax self disembarking are already off and on their way home.
We have had a wonderful cruise and have been well looked after by Alex our attentive cabin steward, the food and the service in the restaurants has been excellent.
The only part of our cruise questionnaire we felt we couldn't give excellent to was the entertainment team. Benne does a wonderful job and is brilliant with the entertainers on board. The sail aways from the ports were high energy and entertaining. The interviews she did were very good but for whatever reason she just does not seem to have the back up of her team. We felt that everything was a 'Done Deal' with out much thought going into the impact of the themed cruise. It is as though the theme was an after thought. Hopefully before the next SCD cruise on Azura, changes will be made and comments from passengers listened to. Azura is a far different ship when Neil Oliver is Cruise Director.
The Azura is not the right ship for a strictly cruise. The theatre show last night was fantastic but the amount of dancers on board because it was a strictly cruise were far too many for the Atrium to cope with. No effort was made by the Ents team to sort this out even though on one night the Manhattan had nothing going on and often Malabar just had the resident group singing in there. This was the only disappointing aspect on what was a fabulous cruise and once we had accepted that if we wanted to dance we needed to get there early before the atrium got too crowded we tried not to get involved in the pax who wanted to moan about it. It wasn't going to do any good and we were not going to let it spoil our holiday.
We are on the Motorway on the way back to Lancashire after an early disembarkation at 08:20. No priority for the luggage which as this has not worked for us in the past is no great hardship. It took about 10 minutes to locate our luggage so not bad at all. No Customs Officers present so straight through. We had used someone recommended on this site to park our car. This worked out excellently and within 5 minutes of being through the customs area Glen was there to meet us to drive us the 10 minute journey to his house to collect the car. We were on the road and on our way just before 9am. Excellent service so if any one would like his contact details please PM me.
We arrived home at 13:30 after a 20 minute comfort break at Stafford Service Station. There is an M & S there and we usually buy a sandwich and a drink and eat it outside in the garden area. There is now a sign up saying that everything purchased from the store cannot be eaten on the premises. Not sure if this is new or we have just not noticed it before.
All unpacked and first wash on. Back to work tomorrow.
We are looking forward to our next cruise on Oriana which is to the North Cape in August. Any tips on what to pack for a North Cape cruise would be very welcome. Will I really need thermals and boots in August?
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ChesterfieldJohn
- Senior Second Officer
- Posts: 537
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Chesterfield
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
What a brilliant report and how nice to see that you enjoyed all the cruise.
Hope you have got another one soon
John
Hope you have got another one soon
John
Cruising is for everyone
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Marlin 48
- Cadet
- Posts: 30
- Joined: February 2013
- Location: Doncaster Yorks
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi Sue, we were on your cruise and thought it brilliant and the clock in Messina outstanding. As far as the North Cape is concerned not been quite that far in Norway but went to Svarlbard a couple of years ago in July and it was freezing.
Martin
Martin
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JenniC
- Ex Team Member
- Posts: 968
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Surrey
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
As always Sue a great report and looks like you had a great time - how the ents team are a bit better on our cruise 
Jenni
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ChesterfieldJohn
- Senior Second Officer
- Posts: 537
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Chesterfield
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
We were on Aurora in April, we did Venice on this, wonderful place we thought, but the problem with the entertainments team we felt was that it had been cut back to far.JenniC wrote:As always Sue a great report and looks like you had a great time - how the ents team are a bit better on our cruise
This meant that there were not enough staff to fulfill all the duties they needed to.
John
Cruising is for everyone
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Gill W
- Senior First Officer
- Posts: 4897
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Kent
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your report.
I board Azura 11 weeks today, and I can't wait.
Was pleased to hear that Liam has been promoted to CD, he seems like a nice young chap. (Although have heard good reports of Dominic too)
Thank you very much for posting.
I'll be taking my iPad with me, so will be writing my reports as I go, so should be able to post my experiences when I get back.
I board Azura 11 weeks today, and I can't wait.
Was pleased to hear that Liam has been promoted to CD, he seems like a nice young chap. (Although have heard good reports of Dominic too)
Thank you very much for posting.
I'll be taking my iPad with me, so will be writing my reports as I go, so should be able to post my experiences when I get back.
Gill
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Manoverboard
- Ex Team Member
- Posts: 13014
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Dorset
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
A great read Sue and most informative, many thanks for that 
Can't wait, I do hate that phrase, to read your Worldie Segment report
" We booked the glasshouse taster menu, and 2 Sindhu dates, had Freedom Dining and a Getaway price ", does it get any better I ask myself ?
ps ... I have calculated your alcohol intake during this cruise at 117 litres
Can't wait, I do hate that phrase, to read your Worldie Segment report
" We booked the glasshouse taster menu, and 2 Sindhu dates, had Freedom Dining and a Getaway price ", does it get any better I ask myself ?
ps ... I have calculated your alcohol intake during this cruise at 117 litres
Keep smiling, it's good for your well being
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Somergirl
- Able Seaman
- Posts: 25
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Somerset
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi Sue
What a great report, it has helped me relive this wonderful cruise. I agree with most of your comments. I dont dance myself but am a big Strictly fan and I enjoyed all the special entertainment.
Most passengers were lovely but some were so rude, we watched a film before James and Ola's interview and people started coming into the theatre about 1/2hr before it finished, not a problem, but they then talked loudly and pushed pass where we were sitting three times before finally settling themselves down. I supposed you are always going to get some difficult! people when you think how many are on board.
I thought the food and service was excellent. Our table went to Sindu once and the Italian restaurant twice, the cook your own steak was one of the best steaks I have ever had, and yes I agree with your comments about the chocolate pudding in Sindu. I did notice they were still offering bookings for Sindu and 17 right up to the end of the cruise, last time I was on Azura in the Caribbean they were both fully booked in the first couple of days.
I really enjoyed all the ports of call, in Messina I did a trip to Taomina, it took about 1hr by coach and is a lovely place to visit I would fully recommend it. Cant wait to visit Venice again, I am considering a fly cruise on Ventura next year so that I can return. Loved Dubrovnik but have to agree it was too crowded, we walked the walls fairly early but so many people pushing and shoving it was very difficult for a family or the elderly. After a nice iced coffee sitting in the sun we walked to the right of where the shuttle bus droped us and found a very quiet park area overlooking the sea and with some lovely views.
I had a table for 6 in the Penninsular restaurant, we were all single and had a great time, we all gelled really well and met for breakfast, lunch pre dinner drinks and also spent some time together ashore.
Thank you for the great report, I love reading them. Hope you enjoy your next cruise, I look forward to hearing all about it.
Somergirl
What a great report, it has helped me relive this wonderful cruise. I agree with most of your comments. I dont dance myself but am a big Strictly fan and I enjoyed all the special entertainment.
Most passengers were lovely but some were so rude, we watched a film before James and Ola's interview and people started coming into the theatre about 1/2hr before it finished, not a problem, but they then talked loudly and pushed pass where we were sitting three times before finally settling themselves down. I supposed you are always going to get some difficult! people when you think how many are on board.
I thought the food and service was excellent. Our table went to Sindu once and the Italian restaurant twice, the cook your own steak was one of the best steaks I have ever had, and yes I agree with your comments about the chocolate pudding in Sindu. I did notice they were still offering bookings for Sindu and 17 right up to the end of the cruise, last time I was on Azura in the Caribbean they were both fully booked in the first couple of days.
I really enjoyed all the ports of call, in Messina I did a trip to Taomina, it took about 1hr by coach and is a lovely place to visit I would fully recommend it. Cant wait to visit Venice again, I am considering a fly cruise on Ventura next year so that I can return. Loved Dubrovnik but have to agree it was too crowded, we walked the walls fairly early but so many people pushing and shoving it was very difficult for a family or the elderly. After a nice iced coffee sitting in the sun we walked to the right of where the shuttle bus droped us and found a very quiet park area overlooking the sea and with some lovely views.
I had a table for 6 in the Penninsular restaurant, we were all single and had a great time, we all gelled really well and met for breakfast, lunch pre dinner drinks and also spent some time together ashore.
Thank you for the great report, I love reading them. Hope you enjoy your next cruise, I look forward to hearing all about it.
Somergirl
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Bobbie
- Cadet
- Posts: 73
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: UK
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi Sue
Thanks for a very interesting and detailed report. I haven't been on Azura yet, but it sounds as it there is lots going on - what a pity the Ents team weren't up to scratch. I must say I've noticed these past couple of years that some of the Ents officers don't seem to be of the same calibre as they used to be, there are some I've wondered how on earth they got the job!
My next cruise is a SCD themed cruise on Oceana, not chosen for the theme (as you know, I was on the first ever SCD cruise) but for the itinerary. As the dance floor on Oceana is tiny I am expecting it to be pretty crowded, as on your cruise. I hope P&O will learn some lessons and do their best to improve things - but I'm not holding my breath!
Thanks for a very interesting and detailed report. I haven't been on Azura yet, but it sounds as it there is lots going on - what a pity the Ents team weren't up to scratch. I must say I've noticed these past couple of years that some of the Ents officers don't seem to be of the same calibre as they used to be, there are some I've wondered how on earth they got the job!
My next cruise is a SCD themed cruise on Oceana, not chosen for the theme (as you know, I was on the first ever SCD cruise) but for the itinerary. As the dance floor on Oceana is tiny I am expecting it to be pretty crowded, as on your cruise. I hope P&O will learn some lessons and do their best to improve things - but I'm not holding my breath!
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi Mob slight exaggeration on the alcohol intake but I did cut down on our return home and went without any from Monday until Friday. It was quite difficult as going back to work was stressful but I managed it. I do wonder how people go on when on a World Cruise. I think we will have to be sensible and have alcohol free days and nights.Manoverboard wrote:A great read Sue and most informative, many thanks for that
Can't wait, I do hate that phrase, to read your Worldie Segment report
" We booked the glasshouse taster menu, and 2 Sindhu dates, had Freedom Dining and a Getaway price ", does it get any better I ask myself ?
ps ... I have calculated your alcohol intake during this cruise at 117 litres
Sue
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi Somergirl,
Shame we didn't have a meet up from this site to put faces to names. A few who post on cruise critic met in the Planet bar and it was nice to see them around the ship during the cruise. We met some lovely people but as you say some quite rude ones as well.
Sue
Shame we didn't have a meet up from this site to put faces to names. A few who post on cruise critic met in the Planet bar and it was nice to see them around the ship during the cruise. We met some lovely people but as you say some quite rude ones as well.
Sue
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oldbluefox
- Ex Team Member
- Posts: 11331
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Cumbria
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Sue, I have just read your report and thoroughly enjoyed it. We have done this cruise a couple of times before albeit not on Azura so it was fascinating to reminisce on places we had visited before and to pick up information about a different ship. Many thanks for posting it.
As for North Cape I would recommend you do take something very warm, hats and gloves. Admittedly we were there in May and it was cold but we had also been to Svalbard, and although it was a lovely sunny day the wind coming down from the North was icy and went through everything we had on, and that was in August. I hope you enjoy the experience as much as we did.
As for North Cape I would recommend you do take something very warm, hats and gloves. Admittedly we were there in May and it was cold but we had also been to Svalbard, and although it was a lovely sunny day the wind coming down from the North was icy and went through everything we had on, and that was in August. I hope you enjoy the experience as much as we did.
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Thanks OBF. Something warm it is then. Hat gloves scarf and boots just in case.
Not our normal type of holiday but looking forward to it very much.
Sue
Not our normal type of holiday but looking forward to it very much.
Sue
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Dancing Queen
- Senior First Officer
- Posts: 3819
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Derbyshire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
What a great review Sue, having done this itinerary a couple of times it was certainly nice to re-live it.
Jo
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Belle53
- Cadet
- Posts: 84
- Joined: May 2013
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi sue
Brilliant report, really enjoyed reading it. We are on Azura in August doing this itinerary so it was very informative. Really looking forward to reading your next report .
Brilliant report, really enjoyed reading it. We are on Azura in August doing this itinerary so it was very informative. Really looking forward to reading your next report .
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oldbluefox
- Ex Team Member
- Posts: 11331
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Cumbria
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Sue, what I really want to know.......................
Is Ola as lovely as she appears on TV? (The lads told me to ask you!!!)
Is Ola as lovely as she appears on TV? (The lads told me to ask you!!!)
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Manoverboard
- Ex Team Member
- Posts: 13014
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Dorset
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Indeed it was but there is a problem looming so I would suggest that you cut down on the iceSuekersh wrote:Hi Mob slight exaggeration on the alcohol intake ...Manoverboard wrote:... I have calculated your alcohol intake during this cruise at 117 litres
On our Worldie segment in 2012 we had a bottle of wine only on Formal and Select Dining nights otherwise we had a 500mls carafe but no iced water, we also had a Spanish measure G&T in the evening and a few Becks / alco Ginger Beers during the day .... however, we avoided the cocktails altogether and neither of us put on a pound.
So you see ... it has to be the ice
Keep smiling, it's good for your well being
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Suekersh
Topic author - First Officer
- Posts: 1562
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: Lancashire
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
OBF,
I hate her. She looks fantastic, has a great personality, and a hunk for a husband.
Sue
I hate her. She looks fantastic, has a great personality, and a hunk for a husband.
Sue
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ChrisB
- Third Officer
- Posts: 136
- Joined: January 2013
- Location: West Sussex
Re: Azura Strictly Come Dancing Cruise
Hi Sue. A great report. It took me back to the whole 17 days. I did look for you in the Meridian (Navy spotted trousers) on embarkation day but unfortuneately did not see you. It was a great cruise. The food and entertainment was great.
Regards
Chris
Chris