Quest review 03-29-08

[Gadgetguru]

Embarkation was very quick. We were met by an attendant and helped us to our cabin to drop off our carry-ons. The cabin was not cleaned yet but we boarded around noon.

 

We then went up for lunch at the Breezes and the food was good. Silverware and napkins are on the tables. No trays you just get your plates and then to a table. One thing that we like is when you have a tray they have a placemat on them and we us them on the table so that you do not have to place your silverware on your plate or on the table. Had no problems getting something to drink waiters would ask what you would like and would bring it back to you. Bar staff was not to be found unless you asked, this was a nice thing.

 

We then went to our cabin and unpacked our carry-ons and met our room attendant in the hall, Maria, later we met our butler Antonio. Our luggage came in time to have it unpacked before muster.

 

We had set up lunch for 36 of our group on the first sea day and our Meet and Mingle was setup for the second sea day at 11:30 in the Drawing Room (Library) . Most of the senior staff did attend with the exception of the Captain. An invitation was sent out from the list that I gave Captains Club Hostess.

 

We did not use any of the ships excursions but when we had some port changes the ships staff went out of their way to contact our tours and help change our meeting places. Our port changes were due to high winds.

 

We are somewhat cabin rats so we did not participate in the activities like trivia or any of the games so I can not compare how they are. It was so nice not to have smoking in the casino. It did not help with the winnings but made it nicer to give them our money.

 

We did use the T-pool almost everyday; one thing that they could improve on is that they should replace the towel covers on the loungers. The water temp was very hot a couple of days. This is one of the perks that come with the penthouses and the royal suites.

 

The food was excellent in all dining, we only ate dinner one night in Breezes the food was good, but it was as they were closing and we had to collect all our food and then sit down to eat, other than that it was very good and it was our fault that we were so late. We ate all our breakfasts in our cabin served by our butler. Food was good but not always warm. Lunch we ate all over never had any problems. Dinner we ate at Discovery’s four times the food was always very good but the service was literally 50/50. One time we sat for quite a while with dirty dishes not cleared and water glasses not filled even after asking for more water and ice tea. We ate most of our meals in Prime C and Aqualina, service and food was very good. Even one night the waiters in the Aqualina served us like on Celebrity by having three of the waiters serve us at the same time. To be fair the Discovery’s restaurant did have a heavy turn over of new staff that was in training, so I hope our experiences were not the normal.

 

Our cabin attendant was a cabin attendant we hardly saw her on the ship maybe just in passing in the hall. Our room was cleaned and kept in good condition. Our butler was a butler, one of the best, if not the best that we have ever had. Now with that said when he was off on a few afternoons and he had someone cover his duties it was not up to the same standard so I can see why the reports about the butlers can vary.

 

We did have soot on the balcony it was cleaned each morning. Also there was vibration at higher speeds. This was not a bother for us but it was there. This also was in the aft.

 

One thing that was suggested and sent in, also by our butler, is that the lounge chairs on the balcony do not have any type of a cushion on them. Our butler did get some of the towel covers from the spa and that helped but they really need a cushion.

 

Overall it was an excellent cruise, excellent food, very good staff, and most of all, we had great group of Cruise Critics friends.

 

If I can answer any questions, please ask and I will try to answer as soon as I can.

[Bodger]

We then went to our cabin and unpacked our carry-ons and met our room attendant in the hall, Maria, later we met our butler Antonio. Our luggage came in time to have it unpacked before muster.

 

 

Our cabin attendant was a cabin attendant we hardly saw her on the ship maybe just in passing in the hall. Our room was cleaned and kept in good condition. Our butler was a butler, one of the best, if not the best that we have ever had. Now with that said when he was off on a few afternoons and he had someone cover his duties it was not up to the same standard so I can see why the reports about the butlers can vary.

 

 

We too had Maria and Antonio taking care of us. I would say that it was a sign of how well they worked together and both did their jobs that you saw Maria mostly in passing. They communicated well and Maria would get in and clean your cabin while you were away. Antonio's job was to be more visible in order to provide his services. (He kept us stocked with chocolate chip cookies!)

 

They are both very nice people and took good care of us. It sounds like you had a good time.

 

Bodger

[cruisinscots]

Thanks for your review.

 

We are due to sail on the Quest in 3 weeks, can't wait.

 

One quick question, is there still a charge for Prime C and Aqualina? I read somewhere they had changed the policy.

 

Thanks

 

Gordon.

[LMKohler]

We also had Antonio and Maria and they were both excellent. We are usually up early and out of the cabin, and with only one exception in 14 days, our cabin was cleaned on our return, by no later than 9:00 am and usually earlier.

 

I wish I had known about the chocolate chip cookies:D

[LMKohler]

Gordon -- the only charge for the specialty restaurants is a $5.00 per person gratuity.

[Gadgetguru]

Thanks for your review.

 

We are due to sail on the Quest in 3 weeks, can't wait.

 

One quick question, is there still a charge for Prime C and Aqualina? I read somewhere they had changed the policy.

 

Thanks

 

Gordon.

 

Gordon -- the only charge for the specialty restaurants is a $5.00 per person gratuity.

 

Gordon,

It is true that they have changed the policy, the gratuity is a suggestion and was worth it in my opinion. Also the tasting menu is at no charge as well. The only one that is charged is the wine pairing and we did not try it so I can not comment on it. After cocktails before dinner and then to have four glasses of wine with the paring:eek: even if we would have tried it we may not have remembered it:D

 

Bob

[IowaCruisers]

Hi Gadgetguru,

 

Nice review - your sailing had a great number of Cruise Critics, didn't it?

 

On our 3/1 Panama Canal sailing, I thought the Tastings Menu and the Wine Pairings were one and the same, and the charge was in place. Do you mean we could have ordered the tastings menu alone? We ate in Aqualina 3 times, and were never told of this option, so I'm wondering if something has changed, or if I just misunderstood. I would have loved to try the tastings menu, but didn't want to pay the $$ for it (I can't remember how much it was).

 

Brenda

[kuddles 2008]

We did have soot on the balcony it was cleaned each morning. Also there was vibration at higher speeds. This was not a bother for us but it was there. This also was in the aft.

 

 

Do you mind my asking what suite you were in? How big is the tub?

 

Thanks for the review - I can hardly wait.

[Gadgetguru]

Hi Gadgetguru,

 

Nice review - your sailing had a great number of Cruise Critics, didn't it?

 

On our 3/1 Panama Canal sailing, I thought the Tastings Menu and the Wine Pairings were one and the same, and the charge was in place. Do you mean we could have ordered the tastings menu alone? We ate in Aqualina 3 times, and were never told of this option, so I'm wondering if something has changed, or if I just misunderstood. I would have loved to try the tastings menu, but didn't want to pay the $$ for it (I can't remember how much it was).

 

Brenda

 

My understanding was that you could order from either side of the menu and the only thing that would be charged was the wine pairing. We ordered from both sides but did not order just the tasting, but added things from it.

 

We had a good turn out, at least 50 Cruise Critics.

 

Bob

[Gadgetguru]

We did have soot on the balcony it was cleaned each morning. Also there was vibration at higher speeds. This was not a bother for us but it was there. This also was in the aft.

 

 

Do you mind my asking what suite you were in? How big is the tub?

 

Thanks for the review - I can hardly wait.

 

We were in 7119, it was wonderful! The tub was good size for one, the jets were nice after a day of snorkeling and walking. The one thing is it is the shower also and it is a good step over and into it. This could be a problem for someone with disabilities.

 

Bob

[cruisinscots]

Gordon,

It is true that they have changed the policy, the gratuity is a suggestion and was worth it in my opinion. Also the tasting menu is at no charge as well. The only one that is charged is the wine pairing and we did not try it so I can not comment on it. After cocktails before dinner and then to have four glasses of wine with the paring:eek: even if we would have tried it we may not have remembered it:D

 

Bob

 

Hi Guys

 

Thanks for your comments, looking forward to the 10th May.

 

Gordon

[katiebeth]

Dear Gadgetguru,

 

Thank you for taking the time to post. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed your cruise on the Quest. We will be in 7119 on the June 21st sailing from Athens to Rome.

 

I see that you have sailed on Celebrity's 'M' class ships on prior cruises. We have sailed the Infinity, Millennium, and Constellation. Our favorite is the Constellation. We have been on her twice and the service, crew, and condition of the ship are all outstanding.

 

This will be our first experience on a smaller ship. We are looking forward to a little more upscale experience as well as the country club casual attire (also no set dining times).

 

Do you now have a preference for either the smaller or larger ships based on your experience on the Quest? (or are they just two different experiences) I am sure there are pros and cons to both.

 

You had mentioned some vibrations, but how was the overall movement of the ship? I am a little concerned about seasickness. We are hoping for smooth waters in the Med. in June.

 

The reviews for Azamara seem to be getting better and better. It sounds like the service and food are terrific!!

 

Welcome home and thanks for posting.

 

Nancy

[Andy]

Hi Gadgetguru !

 

Thanks very much for your excellent review. I am happy to hear you had a great time on Quest, and Welcome Home !

[Gadgetguru]

Dear Gadgetguru,

 

Thank you for taking the time to post. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed your cruise on the Quest. We will be in 7119 on the June 21st sailing from Athens to Rome.

 

I see that you have sailed on Celebrity's 'M' class ships on prior cruises. We have sailed the Infinity, Millennium, and Constellation. Our favorite is the Constellation. We have been on her twice and the service, crew, and condition of the ship are all outstanding.

 

This will be our first experience on a smaller ship. We are looking forward to a little more upscale experience as well as the country club casual attire (also no set dining times).

 

Do you now have a preference for either the smaller or larger ships based on your experience on the Quest? (or are they just two different experiences) I am sure there are pros and cons to both.

 

You had mentioned some vibrations, but how was the overall movement of the ship? I am a little concerned about seasickness. We are hoping for smooth waters in the Med. in June.

 

The reviews for Azamara seem to be getting better and better. It sounds like the service and food are terrific!!

 

Welcome home and thanks for posting.

 

Nancy

 

Nancy,

 

We did not like the open dining and prefer the set times. We like to meet in the martini bar before dinner, when everyone is on a different schedule, it is harder to arrange to get together.

We finally setup times with most of the people of our group to meet in the Looking Glass Lounge, it was about the only place to meet everyone because the martini bar outside Discovery is small, at least it is if you are meeting a large number of people 15-20 at the same time. Most of the time the Looking Glass worked out ok, it was very dark in there, but we figured out that we could ask them to set the lights to number four.

Sometimes when they had music it would be too loud to be able to have conversations. The few times that we did go to Discovery’s there were lines and there was quite a wait for dinner.

 

As for the vibration it was noticeable but did not bother us, as we have had this with other ships in the past. The movement was not any worse than what I would expect with a smaller ship.

 

I think that I like both, larger ships at least M class and I like the smaller R class. They are very different is some ways, if you like lots of activities and things like bingo Azamara may not be for you. You are not going to get announcements in your cabin unless it is very important, like the port you were going to has changed because of weather.

 

We also missed the formal nights, but I did bring sports coats and ties and did wear them and was not alone.

 

 

Bob

[Gadgetguru]

By the way you can have 40 people in your cabin for cocktail parties;) :D

[szdiver]

Bob: Great review - sounds like you had a blast......glad to have you back.

[LMKohler]

Our experience was a little different. We have been on the M class ships almost exclusively. We actually changed our entire way of doing things on Quest. Instead of late seating on Summit, we actually ate at 6:00 or 6:30, requested the same table and same waiter in Discoveries, and with one exception we were always accomodated. That left us time to do things (entertainment, casino, martini tastings, etc.:p ) after dinner. We also found that our group of six would meet earlier for drinks. Just a completely different experience for us and we loved it.

 

We did not miss formal nights which I thought we would. The casual dress code was wonderful. My husband brought no ties and one jacket that he didn't wear. I brought no dresses, just slackes, fancy blouses, knit tops, etc.

 

We were in 7121 next to 7119 -- you will love Antonio and Maria. Our balcony had a small amount of soot once or twice but was cleaned immediately. There was a vibration at higher speeds but it didn't bother us.

 

We are booked on Constellation next year -- I hope I have not been spoiled by our experience on Quest and enjoy it as much as we enjoyed Summit;) but only time will tell.

 

Bottom line is we would love to go on Quest or Journey again:)

[Gadgetguru]

Our experience was a little different. We have been on the M class ships almost exclusively. We actually changed our entire way of doing things on Quest. Instead of late seating on Summit, we actually ate at 6:00 or 6:30, requested the same table and same waiter in Discoveries, and with one exception we were always accomodated. That left us time to do things (entertainment, casino, martini tastings, etc.:p ) after dinner. We also found that our group of six would meet earlier for drinks. Just a completely different experience for us and we loved it.

 

We did not miss formal nights which I thought we would. The casual dress code was wonderful. My husband brought no ties and one jacket that he didn't wear. I brought no dresses, just slackes, fancy blouses, knit tops, etc.

 

We were in 7121 next to 7119 -- you will love Antonio and Maria. Our balcony had a small amount of soot once or twice but was cleaned immediately. There was a vibration at higher speeds but it didn't bother us.

 

We are booked on Constellation next year -- I hope I have not been spoiled by our experience on Quest and enjoy it as much as we enjoyed Summit;) but only time will tell.

 

Bottom line is we would love to go on Quest or Journey again:)

 

 

 

I do not think you will be disappointed by the Connie.

[Sparkle 123]

Bob

Thanks for the great review. Thats my only concern about Azamara is the lack of formal nights and the open seating, we do like to have the same waitstaff and table mates but I guess it will make a change to try open seating, we would probably request a table for 2 as I couldnt be bothered to do the introductions routine every night!

Not that we have anything booked on Azamara as yet, but I do have my eye on a nice little 7 night Eastern med itinerary next May, just dont tell Andy!!!;)

Lisa

[Gadgetguru]

Dear Gadgetguru,

 

Thank you for taking the time to post. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed your cruise on the Quest. We will be in 7119 on the June 21st sailing from Athens to Rome.

 

I see that you have sailed on Celebrity's 'M' class ships on prior cruises. We have sailed the Infinity, Millennium, and Constellation. Our favorite is the Constellation. We have been on her twice and the service, crew, and condition of the ship are all outstanding.

 

This will be our first experience on a smaller ship. We are looking forward to a little more upscale experience as well as the country club casual attire (also no set dining times).

 

Do you now have a preference for either the smaller or larger ships based on your experience on the Quest? (or are they just two different experiences) I am sure there are pros and cons to both.

 

You had mentioned some vibrations, but how was the overall movement of the ship? I am a little concerned about seasickness. We are hoping for smooth waters in the Med. in June.

 

The reviews for Azamara seem to be getting better and better. It sounds like the service and food are terrific!!

 

Welcome home and thanks for posting.

 

Nancy

 

Nancy,

 

I really think you are going to have a wonderful time.

 

Bob

[Gadgetguru]

Bob

Thanks for the great review. Thats my only concern about Azamara is the lack of formal nights and the open seating, we do like to have the same waitstaff and table mates but I guess it will make a change to try open seating, we would probably request a table for 2 as I couldnt be bothered to do the introductions routine every night!

Not that we have anything booked on Azamara as yet, but I do have my eye on a nice little 7 night Eastern med itinerary next May, just dont tell Andy!!!;)

Lisa

 

Lisa,

 

Andy will not hear it from me. :) I know he will love it.

 

Bob

[LMKohler]

Bob -- thanks for the vote of confidence for the Connie:D -- I see you have been on her a few times:p I've heard great reviews about her. Since she is essentially identical to Summit I'm sure we will feel right at home.

 

Lucy

[Bozo]

Embarkation was very quick. We were met by an attendant and helped us to our cabin to drop off our carry-ons. The cabin was not cleaned yet but we boarded around noon.

 

We then went up for lunch at the Breezes and the food was good. Silverware and napkins are on the tables. No trays you just get your plates and then to a table. One thing that we like is when you have a tray they have a placemat on them and we us them on the table so that you do not have to place your silverware on your plate or on the table. Had no problems getting something to drink waiters would ask what you would like and would bring it back to you. Bar staff was not to be found unless you asked, this was a nice thing.

 

We then went to our cabin and unpacked our carry-ons and met our room attendant in the hall, Maria, later we met our butler Antonio. Our luggage came in time to have it unpacked before muster.

 

We had set up lunch for 36 of our group on the first sea day and our Meet and Mingle was setup for the second sea day at 11:30 in the Drawing Room (Library) . Most of the senior staff did attend with the exception of the Captain. An invitation was sent out from the list that I gave Captains Club Hostess.

 

We did not use any of the ships excursions but when we had some port changes the ships staff went out of their way to contact our tours and help change our meeting places. Our port changes were due to high winds.

 

We are somewhat cabin rats so we did not participate in the activities like trivia or any of the games so I can not compare how they are. It was so nice not to have smoking in the casino. It did not help with the winnings but made it nicer to give them our money.

 

We did use the T-pool almost everyday; one thing that they could improve on is that they should replace the towel covers on the loungers. The water temp was very hot a couple of days. This is one of the perks that come with the penthouses and the royal suites.

 

The food was excellent in all dining, we only ate dinner one night in Breezes the food was good, but it was as they were closing and we had to collect all our food and then sit down to eat, other than that it was very good and it was our fault that we were so late. We ate all our breakfasts in our cabin served by our butler. Food was good but not always warm. Lunch we ate all over never had any problems. Dinner we ate at Discovery’s four times the food was always very good but the service was literally 50/50. One time we sat for quite a while with dirty dishes not cleared and water glasses not filled even after asking for more water and ice tea. We ate most of our meals in Prime C and Aqualina, service and food was very good. Even one night the waiters in the Aqualina served us like on Celebrity by having three of the waiters serve us at the same time. To be fair the Discovery’s restaurant did have a heavy turn over of new staff that was in training, so I hope our experiences were not the normal.

 

Our cabin attendant was a cabin attendant we hardly saw her on the ship maybe just in passing in the hall. Our room was cleaned and kept in good condition. Our butler was a butler, one of the best, if not the best that we have ever had. Now with that said when he was off on a few afternoons and he had someone cover his duties it was not up to the same standard so I can see why the reports about the butlers can vary.

 

We did have soot on the balcony it was cleaned each morning. Also there was vibration at higher speeds. This was not a bother for us but it was there. This also was in the aft.

 

One thing that was suggested and sent in, also by our butler, is that the lounge chairs on the balcony do not have any type of a cushion on them. Our butler did get some of the towel covers from the spa and that helped but they really need a cushion.

 

Overall it was an excellent cruise, excellent food, very good staff, and most of all, we had great group of Cruise Critics friends.

 

If I can answer any questions, please ask and I will try to answer as soon as I can.

Great review Bob glad you enjoyed this cruise I will refer back to this review if I ever want to go on this ship

Thanks Bob

[orchestrapal]

Gadgetguru:

Which cabin type were you in? I'm wondering if all of the lounge chairs are sans pads. We will be in a Royal suite and make a lot of use of our balcony and it would be nice to have comfortable lounges.:confused:

[grammy anny]

Hi Gadgetguru

Thank you for taking the time to write a review of the Azamara Quest.

We are sailing a week from today from Rome. We are so looking foward to this cruise.

I have some questions I hope you don't mind answering.

Does the ship have a laundry?

We are in cabin 7041. Do these cabins have showers and tubs?

Did they have entertainment in the evening?

Thank you

Ann