P&O Azura

I was lucky enough have an invitation for the VIP Agent Overnight on the Azura when she launched in April 10. Ship : 115,000 tons, 3,100 passengers and 1226 crew Billed as Family-friendly larger ship First impressions are that the Azura is a beautiful ship and the public areas are very stylish and sophisticated. Azura is identical layout to Ventura which launched the previous year with a few differences: Exclusive open-air spa terrace (more of that later) Indian fine dining restaurant created by Michelin starred chef Atul Kochhar Alfresco Cinema Very first single staterooms in the P&O fleet I was given a JA grade balcony (number R501) which was ideally placed midship of Riviera deck next to the midship stairs. Features a walk in wardrobe which gives a little more privacy if required. No sofa in these cabins, but two chairs. Interactive TV. Small balcony also with 2 chairs, a table and footstool. Tea and coffee making facilities in the cabin Riveria deck from mid ships to aft has an overhang which will limit sun for most of the day. A and B decks slightly affected by this overhang to some extent too meaning the sun has to be lower in the sky to catch the rays from your balcony. C deck balconies are deeper but a the cabins above can look down on you. D deck deluxe balconies - larger with sofa plus a table and 2 chairs. 2 Televisions and bath/shower The Retreat One of the best areas on the ship in my opinion is the Retreat. This is an exclusive, open air terrace offering affresco treatments and access to the Oasis Pool which is a tranquil, relaxing area. Wicker sun loungers and cabbanas all sheltered under a canopy. I loved this area. A Spa Stateroom Package is available on JD and OD grades and Superior Deluxe Stateooms (AA-CC). Currently the supplement is £249 pp for 3-7 night cruise and £299 pp for 8-15 night cruise and £349 pp for 16 or more night cruise. For this you receive extras in your cabin such as welcome gifts and upgraded stateroom amenities and access to the Retreat, the Oasis Pool and Thermal Suite (the number of passes depends on the duration of your cruise). You will enjoy priority service and a luxurious collection of spa treatment, events and gifts. Also, you'll be invited to a number of exclusive spa stateroom experiences. For passengers who have not booked one of Azura's Spa Stateroom's, use of the spa area is charged at £6 per half day and £12 for full day (price at time of writing and subject to change). Included in this charge is the use of the pool, Retreat and Thermal Suite. Dining : Evening in the Oriental /Peninsular or Meridian Restaurants - either Club or Freedom Dining Speciality Restaurants - Seventeen and Sindhu at a supplement The Glass House , a modern wine bar with food and wines selected by Olly Smith (supplement payable) Buffet Restaurants - Verona and Venezia Poolside pizzeria, grill and ice cream and Java cafe The Reef Children's/Teen Club Very impressive and lots of facilities, some of the best I have seen. Lots of computers, massive TV for movies, cushions on the floors. For the teens their own mini 'cocktail' bar, juke boxes and dance floor. Table hockey and basketball courts etc. Children and teens will be well catered for here. Other items worth a mention: Lovely 3 - tier theatre 3 pools but none with cover Casino - medium in size Overall a nice ship and great for families and those looking for a Spa experience in the Retreat. If you need any further information please do feel free to contact me.