We Are Together Again As We Enter A New Year / Exploring Aeoteroa Aboard Azamara Quest / By Kavita Lala / luxurytravelmag

On a recent ocean voyage through New Zealand on Azamara Quest, Kavita Lala discovers how cruising is back with a vengeance.

The shock of the cold droplets from the geysers makes me take a step back. Looking at the steaming thermal springs, I am mesmerised by the bursts from the geysers which seem to be getting angrier by the minute. I am at a shore excursion at Tauranga, one of the ports we’ve stopped at, as part of my Azamara Quest cruise itinerary.

As a first-time cruiser, I am not sure what to expect and, before departure, I am wondering how I will keep myself entertained. I need not worry as I soon find out there is plenty to do on this cruise.

Azamara Quest is a beautiful, mid-sized ocean liner cruise ship that offers an upscale experience for its guests. The staff are friendly and attentive, always willing to help with any request or concern. The ship offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness centre, games room, cabaret lounge and several restaurants and bars. It encapsulates all the liveliness and fun of a big ship with the warmth and personal touch of a smaller ship.

I board during the second leg of a 17-night voyage between Australia and New Zealand, embarking on day 10 in Wellington. Boarding is a breeze and after checking in with my fellow travel companions, a group of other travel media, we are booked in for a special experience known as the Aza-mazing evening, which is a surprise shore experience included on every Azamara itinerary. In this case, it is held at the Wellington Opera House where we are treated to a spectacular performance by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.

Staterooms and suites

While we stayed in a Club Verandah Stateroom, for the most luxurious accommodations on board get in early to book the best suites on the ship – including the Club World Owner’s Suite or Club Ocean Suites. Our Club Verandah was comfortable with a queen size bed, balcony, lounge, and a mini bar.

Room service

What can I say, I love my room service — and on board, I was not disappointed. Complimentary room service was available until late hours. After a busy day on the ship and enjoying the entertainment, you may just need a club sandwich to wind down – and the crew obliged with a smile, night after night.

The white night

I don’t generally participate in themes, but the white night is easy to dress for. And oh, what a night it is! The energy is electric and before I know it, we are dancing to the band. The live food stations on the white night are my highlight, being a foodie. From freshly cooked mussels to made to order crepes, it’s hard to fault. The variety is enormous, from all fresh seafood, all meats, salads, pastas, cheeses, desserts and bottomless drinks. Everyone seemed to have a really fun night.

Public spaces

One of the standout public spaces for me on Azamara Quest is the Living Room, which is located on Deck 10. This space is cosy, with an inviting lounge area that features comfortable seating, plush sofas, and armchairs. The Living Room is the perfect place to relax with a book, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. On Deck 10 is also the Card Room, where you  can play games like Scrabble, 1000-piece jigsaws or attend Bridge lessons.

Another great public space on the ship is the Discoveries Lounge, which is located on Deck 5. This lounge features a large dance floor, a full-service bar, and live music in the evenings. It’s also an ideal place where you can unwind after a day of exploring, and it’s a great spot to socialise and meet other guests.

One of the most popular public spaces on Azamara Quest is the pool deck, which features two pools and several hot tubs. It’s here where you can soak up the sun and take in the stunning views of the ocean. The top deck also features a running track which is a great for the early risers to take their walk.

Performances are hosted most nights in the Cabaret Lounge, opposite The Den, where you can sip on a signature cocktail before heading across to the show. A fitness centre, located on Deck 9, is well fitted with modern equipment. It’s here where you can attend group fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates most mornings.

Overall, the public spaces on Azamara Quest are well designed and offer plenty of options where I can relax, socialise and have fun. The ship’s elegant decor and the attentive service of its crew create a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.