Cruise & Maritime Azores Ship Visit

I was recently invited to have a look round the the Azores whilst it was docked in Avonmouth, Bristol. As Avonmouth is only 20 miles from me I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. My first impression of the Azores was how small it was in comparison to other cruise liners.This not being a bad thing as not everyone wants to travel on a ship that offers a capacity of 3000 plus.The Azores carries 550 passengers when full and has been sailing from Avonmouth all summer. As an adult only ship with the average age of between 60-70 everything on board is on a smaller scale and feels intimate. Outside it offers a small unheated pool surrounded by a seating area. Along with a dart board for any keen dart players that may be on board.

There are 5 lounges and bars including the Calypso Show Lounge. Here you will find British and international entertainers. As I was only on here during the day I didn’t get to experience the entertainment.  I got the impression if you didn’t arrive early you may struggle to get a seat as it wasn’t that big. Alternatively in the main bar area there is a grand piano where you will get to hear live music.

We ate in the main restaurant and there was plenty to choose from, seafood starters, Beef medallions for main followed by the best creme brulee i’ve ever tasted.

 Main Restaurant 

Other amenities included a spa , shop, library card and bridge room. A fitness with a few machines is also available.

Our tour of the cabins began with the Owners Presidential Suite with ocean view and balcony. This was very spacious and comprises of two rooms, a lounge area with a 3 seater sofa. The bathroom had marbled flooring and it’s own whirlpool. The suite is exclusively located behind the bridge within an officers crew area.

The cabin that stood out for me was the De Luxe Suite with ocean view. This was such a good size and also has a balcony. It is tastefully decorated and has an airy feel about it. This comes with it’s own jacuzzi.

The superior twin inner was not what I expected, it is one of the largest cabins types on board. It can comfortable sleep 4 adults , two lower beds and two pullmans which are hardly noticeable when stowed away. If passengers are not clostraphobic then they certainly wouldn’t be disappointed choosing this cabin type. All cabins have televisions offering music channels, movies, news information channels, a fridge and a personal space. One thing that I did noticed in each of the cabin’s is what good amount of cupboard space there is.

 Inside Cabin

Cruise & Maritme would appeal to all types.  It’s perfect for clients who do not want to fly and also and added bonus for some that they are adult only. For single passengers they only get charged an extra 25% for single cabins, which compared to most is very reasonable. They are developed for the British market and offer interesting, original itineraries. As for the Azores it will be replaced at Avonmouth by the Marco Polo as it is heading for a mini make over. From the beginning of next year it will known as Astoria.