I was fortunate to be aboard Azamara Quest last January r/t Buenos Aires, 18 days. I was traveling solo, which I will come back to shortly. Azamara will not be in Antarctica in 2014, but will be returning in 2015. I am seriously thinking about returning!

We did not "do" any landings, which we all knew in advance. For the passengers aboard, this was just fine! No Zodiacs, no watery boots; we were happy to stay aboard with our hot toddies on deck. I can assure you we saw as many or more whales than the other ships that were closer to shore. And penguins galore, on each and every iceberg! Sea lions, etc, etc., etc. Great naturalists aboard, with daily commentary from the bridge. And many special lectures (the equal of Crystal); especially enjoyed the multi- part Ernest Shackleton lecture series.

Now, about sailing solo. The single supplement was just 125% on this sailing, but more importantly was the way the crew made sure all was well with me. And, has been noted many times before, it was by far the friendliest crew I have ever experienced, in my many cruises, Regent and otherwise.

So, I will be leaving next week for an Athens-Dubai cruise (14 nights) aboard Azamara Journey. 125% single supplement, free air, 2 comp nights at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens... The ship has an overnight in Dubai, but I have added a 2 night package (very affordable ) from Azamara. Doesn't get much better than that!

We will have an "Azamazing" evening in Limassol, Cypress, which I will take because, hey, it's free....

I do like Oceania as well, but the crew there can't hold a candle to the staff (top to bottom, bottom to top) on Azamara.

I will gladly answer any questions any of you may have.

Donald aka cabinclass