Our Journey to Cape Town & First Impressions of Azamara Quest

Our Journey to Cape Town & First Impressions of Azamara Quest

We kicked off our adventure on Tuesday, January 14, flying out of Atlanta (ATL) to Istanbul (IST) on Turkish Airlines. Since we had a long layover in Istanbul, we opted to stay at the YotelAir inside the airport. One of the best things about this hotel is that you don't have to go through passport control to access it. You can easily move in and out of the hotel for food and amenities, making it a great option for short layovers. The rooms are clean and compact, offering a comfortable bed and shower—perfect for freshening up before you resume your journey.

After a few hours of rest, we continued our journey on Turkish Airlines from Istanbul to Cape Town. Upon arrival in South Africa on Thursday, we encountered some challenges with our car transfer. Unlike other destinations where car service is seamless, our experience here was subpar. The company blamed others for everything.  The bottom line:  they were not on time, had poor communication about where to meet, and ultimately sent a driver who was not prepared in a smaller than required vehicle. The lady picked us up in flip-flops, jean shorts, and a sleeveless shirt—not exactly the professional attire we expected. To make matters worse, she arrived in a four-door,base very small Mercedes, despite us specifying in advance that we had four large pieces of luggage and needed a van. The ride to the port was cramped, and the driver spent the entire time arguing.   When we finally arrived, we found out we were at the wrong port—the location had changed that morning. Since Azamara does not have an app, they had stationed crew members and a shuttle to take us to the correct terminal. That was a pleasant surprise.  Way to be proactive Azamara!

Once at the correct port, we went through security and were directed to Deck 5, The Cabaret Lounge, for check-in. Check-in was a multi-step process: they scanned our passports, registered our method of payment, and assigned us to our respective deck for embarkation. Unfortunately, our check-in agent had trouble with my  passport, scanning it multiple times. We thought everything was fine, but later discovered there was an issue. Somehow she deleted my registration and registered Scott twice. I did not exist. After the Muster Drill, we headed to Guest Services and spent an hour getting the problem resolved. Thankfully, the staff were diligent in fixing the error and ensuring I was properly checked in as a guest.  At the end of the day, this was a minor inconvenience.

This was our first Azamara cruise, and there was not a lot available about what to expect online.  So, after we got everything straightened out we went to our cabin.  That is when they give you a PLETHORA of information.  We had multipage booklets describing each port, excursions that were available at each port, maps for each port of call to preplan our outings, and more.  There also was a small card that was an overview with dates and times for each port, as well as when the Azamazing Evening, and the Dress White Party.  That is also where we were provided the Insider.  The Insider comes out each evening for the next day and it provides detailed information by the hour for ALL the activities on the ship that day.  THERE WAS SO MUCH TO DO.  There is so much to do that they produce a television show daily, letting folks know about all the activities and reviewing the Insider!

There were health workshops, including skin analysis, acupuncture, weight loss, foot analysis and more; expert talks regarding our destinations; trivia, including pub quizzes, musical trivia, and themed trivia; live musical performances, from intimate piano settings to full theatrical productions.  And, yes, of course, there were parties and there was dancing.  It looked like we were going to have to break out our shuffle:  bounce, bounce, double bounce…..

Having gathered our materials together, we went to schedule our specialty dining.  You can do this at any time during the voyage, but, if you are interested in their Chef’s table or are trying to get specific times or nights, we always recommend doing this as soon as you get onboard.  They had two tables set up (which was more than enough).  We waited maybe 2-3 minutes and then had everything scheduled within 5 minutes more.  It was very well organized.  The entire process was expedited.

Next, we headed to the Sail Away Party on the pool deck. The atmosphere was lively with a live band playing all the fun music people love. After enjoying the festivities, we went to our room (6007) to unpack and get settled. One thing we really appreciated about Azamara is that when they say they are leaving, they leave on time—no waiting around!

Little did we know that Azamara does multiple sail away parties–not just on embarkation day!  So, whenever they held one at a port, it really was fun and added a lot of vibrancy to the cruise experience.

Back to the cabin for a quick unpacking. Scott started to feel unwell. We suspect it was a combination of exhaustion from 24 hours of travel and the rough waters around the Cape of Good Hope, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. We both decided to rest a little before dinner.  Well, Scott rested, while Sean broke out the computer to make some reservations.

That evening, we opted for the Main Dining Room. As soon as we sat down and ordered drinks, I noticed Scott turning more and more green by the minute. It became clear he wasn’t going to make it through dinner, so we headed back to the room. I gave him some Dramamine and encouraged him to relax. Since he wasn’t up for eating out, I decided to test the room service. Let me tell you—it was phenomenal! We always order room service on different cruise lines to compare quality, and Azamara’s was by far the best. Everything arrived hot, fresh, and cooked to perfection.  This was already a stark difference to several cruise lines.  Moreover, room service is included.  You can order from a standard menu, but you can also order things from the main dining room.  Room service quickly became a favorite.

Sean with Louis the Hotel Director   Sean with Captain Dario & Louis

Quick tip: During the first couple of days, let your servers know what drink package you have; that is, identify if you have the standard, premium, or ultimate package. This helps them understand what brands you may be expecting and makes the service smoother.  

Quick tip:  Azamara pricing includes everything but wifi.  So, at the very least, you will have the standard package, which includes beer, wine, and cocktails.  The quality of the drinks were such that we didn’t realize we weren’t ordering top shelf at first for at least two days!

Quick tip:  Gratuities are included in the fare. However, you should feel free to tip someone who has been helpful and certainly recognize them for exceptional service where possible.

Despite the initial hiccups, our adventure was just beginning, and we were looking forward to what lay ahead on this Azamara Quest journey!

Friday, January 17 - Sea Day

I woke up early and let Scott sleep in while I went to grab some coffee at Mosaic, Azamara's coffee bar.  The coffee bar has light bites available all through the day.  It stays busy all day, but it's a great spot to relax. After coffee, I attended a photography class–we needed to learn tips and tricks to take better photos on our phones before we went on safari.

Then, I attended an expert discussion on the upcoming ports and South Africa.  They gave us an amazing overview of South Africa, educated us about the 12 official languages, explained the geography, historical perspectives, and more.

I then walked past the Cafe and thought lunch!!!

Since it was a sea day, lunch options included the Main Dining Room (12:00-1:30 PM), The Windows Café (Noon-2:30 PM), or The Patio, which is by the pool and serves some amazing food like grilled burgers, lamb burgers, turkey burgers, grilled chicken, fresh fish and more (Noon-4:00 PM).  They also had a salad bar area, soft serve, and more.  We decided on Windows Café, where the main meat was fresh roasted turkey that they carved right before our eyes. There were plenty of other meat options, sides, salads, sandwiches, and desserts.

In the afternoon, we attended a South African Wine Tasting at Prime C, Azamara’s steakhouse restaurant. For $25 per person, we sampled two reds and two whites while learning about their origins.  We learned about the geography of the different regions and the wineries.  It was a fantastic way to explore South African wines.  This was done as a part of their cultural immersion series.

After the tasting, we opted for some pool time to relax. A quick note—since Azamara does not have an app, you need to carry The Insider, their version of the daily events program, with you. You can also get it at any time from Guest Services on Deck 4 or almost any area where the crew is stationed as they can print it out for you.

Later, we attended the LGBTQIA meet-up. There weren’t many people there, but we assumed most guests weren’t aware of it since it was still early in the trip.  Again, keep in mind that people only learned about the meetup when they went to their room and found the Insider.  So, many folks didn’t know about it.

For dinner, we had prearranged our specialty restaurant nights on embarkation day, and tonight was our reservation at Aqualina, Azamara’s Italian restaurant. The food and service were excellent.  This restaurant became our favorite on the ship.

After dinner, we headed to The Den for live entertainment and a cocktail before calling it a night. The band was great, and was quickly followed by a DJ.  A relaxing end to a wonderful sea day!

Saturday, Jan 18 - Another sea day - today Azamara did a Saturday brunch in the main dining room. There were so many different stations from made-to-order pasta, omelets/eggs, waffles/pancakes, fruit, desserts, carving stations, and so much more. The food was amazing.  Amazingly, the Hotel Director, Cruise Director, Managers of the Salon and everyone comes out and serves your food!  Plus, they had live music!  It was a wonderful start to the day.  

Then, we set up our photo session with the ship photographers. Quick note - we do suggest that everyone purchase the destination photo package as it has around 800 photos from all the ports you visit, plus you can upgrade to have photos of you on the ship at dinner, special events, etc. It is so worth the price. 

After that, we opted for pool time as it was 90+ degrees Fahrenheit. The pool is small but is more than adequate for the size of the ship.  Plus, there were two hot tub/whirlpools–one on each side of the pool.  

Dinner tonight was at Prime C, the steakhouse. We started out with our appetizers of tuna tartare and tempura shrimp, and Korean BBQ chicken, and both were great. Scott got the Caesar salad, he did not like it, and I got the lobster bisque, since I am a New York native, I found it lackluster. Scott decided on the 12 oz ribeye for dinner with sides of hasselback potato and creamed spinach. Scott's steak was very fatty, but the taste was good, the hasselback potato was a little bland, so he asked for fries. I ordered the 8 oz filet with mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts. For dessert, we chose the scotch whiskey cake and cinnamon donuts –both were great.  We left a little disappointed, but this was the only meal we left disappointed in the 25 days (aka 75 meals)we had on the ship. In other words, we needed to get over it.  That means the disappointment rate for food/meals was 1.3%.  That is better than at home. lol.

Sunday, Jan 19 - Durban

Today we arrived in Durban, and the weather was sunny. We were so pleased to have been given VIP status and got to really experience all areas of the ship.  It also allowed us to go to Prime C for a specialty breakfast treat.  We were one of four tables!

At Prime C, you can order essentially everything and anything you want for breakfast.  They are happy to oblige.  This took a little getting used to as they expected you to know that you could order anything and everything, not just the few items listed on the menu. The menu was meant to prompt your order.  

We did not plan an excursion for Durban, so we took the free shuttle provided by Azamara that took us to Ushaka Marine Park, a short 10-minute ride from the port. There is so much to do there—swim with sharks, stingrays, and enjoy the ocean right behind the park. There are also restaurants, including McDonald's if you want a Big Mac, lol.

I had gone to town researching the place and found he could swim with sharks. Scott wouldn’t do it.  He said that bears and sharks don’t really mix.  I was going to prove Scott wrong. I was put in a cage with a snorkel mask and lowered into the shark display, where he could see these amazing creatures up close. There were all types of sharks. They also take pictures and a ten minute video of you as well. The pricing for this, with the pictures and videos included, added up to around $30 USD—so worth it!

We went back to the ship to grab some lunch, and today we tried The Patio.  Afterwards, we toured the spa.  They have an area called The Sanctum, where spa suite guests can have their own area for sunbathing and a whirlpool tub. We had a $250 spa credit we had to use–the pressure was intense.  Scott ultimately opted for a lime and ginger salt scrub and massage, and then we both got a mani/pedi. The White Party was that evening so we were making sure we were ready.

The Azamara's White Party takes place on the pool deck and is not to be missed. Guests dress in white—now, you don't have to dress head to toe in white, but they do encourage you to wear some white. They set up an amazing buffet where they grill steaks, lamb chops, grilled lobster tails, chicken, sausages and more.  Then there are carving stations, made to order pasta stations, made to order gyros, shrimp cocktail, prime rib, sushi, salads, more cheese and meats, and two tables of desserts.

The highlight, though, is the local entertainment they bring onboard. Since we were in South Africa, they brought in Zulu dancers who performed an amazing 45-minute show. Then, the entertainment cast performed songs that everyone knows and loves. This all takes place around the pool deck.

Quick note: The best seats are to arrive at the White Night early and get a front table, or go up to deck 10 and look over to see the entertainment. The only downfall here is that you have to go up and down the stairs with your food–and Deck 10 can sometimes be a little windy.

Monday, Jan 20 - Richard's Bay

Today we arrived in Richard's Bay. We started the day with breakfast at the buffet on Deck 9 before heading to the Cabaret Lounge on Deck 4 to receive our stickers, which indicated our assigned bus for the excursion. Our chosen adventure for the day was a visit to a Zulu Village.

The journey to the village took about an hour, but it was well worth the trip. We were guided through the village, where we got an immersive look into traditional Zulu life. We watched demonstrations showcasing various aspects of daily life, followed by an authentic wedding ceremony featuring traditional dances and mock fighting. We were even invited to join in, attempting the high-kicks that are an integral part of their dance style. The experience concluded with tea, coffee, and scones before we headed back to the ship.  Can you guess which of us was more successful in the high kicks?  The first 15 people to email the answer to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and/or post a comment get an additional $25 on their next journey with us.

Upon our return, we grabbed lunch at Windows Cafe, the buffet area, before stopping by Mosaics for coffee and, maybe, a Baileys on the rocks. Later, we met up with Viola and Kiran, the ship's photographers, for a photo shoot onboard.

For dinner, we dined in the main dining room. The menu changes daily, but they also offer staple dishes such as NY strip steak and shrimp cocktail. After dinner, we decided to unwind at the Atlas Bar, located in The Den, for cocktails before calling it a night.

The Atlas Bar on Azamara Cruises offers a sophisticated and intimate setting for guests seeking an elevated cocktail experience. Found on select ships, such as the Azamara Onward, this chic venue features handcrafted cocktails like the Smoked Old Fashioned and the Atlas Martini, made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients. Designed with modern elegance, the Atlas Bar provides plush seating and ambient lighting, creating the perfect atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploration. With its curated selection of bespoke beverages and an exclusive vibe, it’s a must-visit destination for travelers who appreciate top-tier mixology and refined social spaces.  In other words, this was like a home away from home.

Tuesday, Jan 21 – Richard’s Bay

We overnighted in Richard’s Bay, so this morning we woke up and headed to the breakfast buffet for a quick meal before our excursion.

Today's adventure took us to the St. Lucia Wetlands, where we enjoyed a boat ride to see hippos in the wild, as opposed to in the shower where we see hippos daily.   It was incredible watching these massive creatures with just their eyes peeking above the water’s surface. Along the way, we also spotted a variety of birds, lizards, and even a couple of crocodiles.

After returning to the ship, we went through immigration to get our passports stamped before heading to another Sail Away Party on the pool deck. Azamara does it right—the Patio area was transformed into a buffet with freshly grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, plus fries, salads, fruit, and desserts.

Later, we made our way to the Atlas Bar to enjoy drinks from our favorite bartender, Ruby. The specialty cocktails here are amazing, and of course, we had to try a few.

In the evening, we attended the LGBTQ+ meet-up, where Assistant Cruise Director Nicholas invited us to join him for dinner in the main dining room. After dinner, we made our way up to The Living Room on Deck 10 for live music, followed by ABBA Night, where the dance floor was absolutely packed!

Wednesday, Jan 22 – Day at Sea

We love sea days, and today was all about relaxing and enjoying the ship! We started the morning with breakfast at the buffet before spending the day hopping between different events, including trivia, Clue, and more.

In the evening, we stopped by the Atlas Bar, where Ruby worked her magic and crafted us some pre-dinner cocktails. 

Dinner tonight was at Aqualina, where we enjoyed another fantastic meal.

To end the night, we made our way to The Living Room to enjoy live music and dancing before calling it a day.

Thursday, Jan 23 – Another Day at Sea

This morning, we had the incredible opportunity to tour the ship.  After a quick room service breakfast,  we started at the bridge, where we met Captain Dario—he was so gracious and kind, even giving us a glimpse into his personal quarters!

Next, we toured the kitchen, where we learned that about 90% of the food is made fresh onboard, including the salad dressings and most sauces other than basic condiments.  The pastry section, meat prep areas, massive coolers, and freezers were impressive. We discovered that fresh produce is stocked every seven days, and the freezer holds enough food for three months!  

From there, we explored the laundry area, where the industrial-sized washers and dryers were mind-blowing. They even have a machine press that folds and irons sheets and tablecloths! Finally, we toured the mechanical area—the true heart of the ship. It’s incredible to see how a ship is truly a floating city.

For lunch, we dined in the main dining room, where they had a Dim Sum buffet. Later in the day, we did another photo shoot on the ship before heading to Prime C for dinner.

Now that we were familiar with the menu, dinner was amazing! We even ordered some off-menu items, and they happily accommodated us. A huge shoutout to Arjinel, our server at different events and functions. Every time he saw us, he greeted us warmly with, "Mr. Sean, Mr. Scott, what can I get you?" – truly top-notch service!

Friday, Jan 24 – Port Elizabeth
Safari Day! Today, we ventured to Pumba Safari Game Reserve for an unforgettable safari experience. Upon arrival, we were greeted by Pumba—the warthogs!

This three-hour tour was a dream for any wildlife lover. We saw:

• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Meerkats
• Hippos
• Rhinos
• Zebras
• Cape Buffalo
• Various antelopes

We also had the chance to learn about Africa’s Big Five—elephants, rhinos, Cape buffalo, and lions. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see a lion or leopard today, but we did spot a lioness from a distance.

After the safari, we returned to the ship, freshened up, and boarded a bus to attend Azamara’s Azamazing Event.

What is an Azamazing Event? If you’re on a 7-day or longer cruise, Azamara hosts a special cultural experience in one of the ports.

Tonight’s event took place at The Feather Market, a historic building once known for its ostrich feather trade in the 1800s. We were treated to an incredible 45-minute show featuring Zulu dancers and singers in traditional costumes. It was a perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day in Port Elizabeth!

After the event  concludes, Azamara bused us back to the ship where we had a band waiting and performing outside while we boarded!  Servers greeted us with champagne to welcome us back as the band, dressed in black tie, played us on.  We were then encouraged to go upstairs to Windows for special late night buffet, which included all your favorite finger foods!!!

Saturday, Jan 25 – Port Elizabeth
We overnighted in Port Elizabeth. Today’s shore excursion was the Penguin Island Cruise. We arrived at the dock, but the organizers were not well-prepared, causing a delay of about 45 minutes. To pass the time, we were given a lecture on conservation and Elon Musk. After that, we were led to the boat, but as about 30 people crowded onto the floating dock, we were told to "take your time" because, during a previous outing, 20 people had fallen into the water. However, no efforts were made to prevent the dock from becoming overcrowded.

The three-hour cruise, as described, was supposed to take us to Penguin Island, with a chance to see dolphins, sharks, and more. Unfortunately, this was not the case. Instead, we spent the entire cruise searching for dolphins and only spent 23 minutes passing by Penguin Island. By the time we returned to the dock at noon—an hour later than scheduled—we were still looking for dolphins. Then, we were delayed further as they attempted to sell us their calendars before allowing us to disembark. We did complain to the Shore Excursion team and showed them the tour description, which the supplier provides to Azamara.  Azamara agreed that this was not correct and requested a refund for us from the supplier. We did receive a partial refund. For those who have not seen dolphins previously, this would have been a great outing.  It should have been advertised as a dolphin watch though.

Back on the ship, we enjoyed another Sail Away BBQ lunch. Today's spread included hamburgers, hot dogs, southern fried chicken, pork ribs, suckling pig, a baked potato bar, nacho bar, mac and cheese, fries, corn on the cob, and an array of desserts. Dinner tonight was at Aqualina, where, once again, the food was incredible. We met a couple from Wales who were celebrating their 50th anniversary and kindly offered us a piece of their anniversary cake. They were wonderful company and a pleasure with whom to spend time.

Sunday, Jan 26 – Mossel Bay
Today, we arrived in Mossel Bay for our shore excursion at the Botanical Garden Safari. Our guide was fantastic and made sure we saw as much as possible during our 2.5-hour tour. We were able to spot a variety of animals, including a lion and a lioness crossing the road—such a thrilling experience! The one elusive member of the Big Five, the leopard, remained out of sight, though.

As we left the safari, I started talking to Scott about extending our trip by doing a back-to-back 12-day cruise as Azamara really wanted us to do so. I really had to work on convincing him (not….I asked one question and he answered yes thirty minutes later).

After returning to the ship, we joined in another Sail Away BBQ party. Tonight, we had the pleasure of dining at Prime C, where we enjoyed a Chef's Table experience with a French-inspired menu. The meal was extraordinary, a perfect end to another unforgettable day.

Monday, Jan 27 – Cape Town
Today, we were scheduled to be in Cape Town for an 8-hour city tour. However, Mother Nature had different plans for us as the winds were too strong, and we had to stay out at sea. We were truly impressed by how quickly the entire team adapted and organized alternative events with no prior notice. It was incredible to see their flexibility and dedication.

We enjoyed the buffet lunch today, and afterward, we headed back to the room to start packing our bags, as we were able to extend our cruise with a back-to-back booking. The crew came up with a clever way to make it happen, charging us as if we were on the same cruise.

For dinner tonight, we dined at the Main Restaurant with some friends. The meal was lovely, though I must mention that the sommelier, Silas, could use some improvement in his service. He seemed to focus more on guests who purchased a bottle of wine rather than those of us who had it included with dinner. Scott tried his first order of snails.

Tuesday, Jan 28 – Cape Town – Disembarkation Day
We arrived in Cape Town later than expected, but we did make it. Since we were doing a back-to-back cruise, we were told to leave everything in the room, have breakfast, and then head to guest services around 9 AM. There, they would provide us with a new room key as we had to switch rooms. We moved to an ocean view cabin, 4024. Afterward, we were free to explore the ship or head out to Cape Town.

We chose to get off the ship and find a drugstore to pick up some items we needed, now that we were staying for a second leg of the cruise. One thing I forgot to mention during the shore excursions or when disembarking: the Captain and upper management were always present on the dock, ensuring that guests were taken care of. Disembarkation day was no different—The Captain was there, saying goodbye to everyone and making sure everyone had what they needed.

This level of care and attention is unlike anything we've experienced in our travels. It was a magical and amazing cruise through South Africa, and we can't wait for part 2 to begin!

Back-to-Back Cruise – Azamara Quest – Tuesday, January 28 – Cape Town – Embarkation Day
We re-boarded the ship and headed up to Deck 9 for the buffet. At first, we were the only ones on board, so it was nice and quiet. Afterward, we mainly spent the day relaxing and taking it easy. We went to the pool, where we shared the space with just six other guests. It was a peaceful afternoon.

We stayed for the Sail Away Party to enjoy the live band, which again played a great mix of music everyone loved. Dinner tonight was at the Main Restaurant, and our server, Edwin, was exceptional. Afterward, we went to the Quest Variety Show, which was very entertaining. The shows typically last 45 minutes to an hour, offering a fun way to wind down the evening.

Wednesday, January 29 – Day at Sea
Today, we started off by attending Bingo. Now, I know Bingo might not be the first thing you'd think of, but you could win a cruise, so why not give it a shot? After that, we went to the main dining room for lunch, which we thoroughly enjoyed.

The afternoon was spent working, as we had some tasks to take care of. Dinner tonight was with the new Assistant Cruise Director, Astrid. It was great getting to know her a bit better.

After dinner, we headed to The Cabaret Lounge for the Captain's Toast. This is a Welcome Aboard Toast where the Captain thanks everyone for choosing to sail with Azamara, and also introduces the entire Upper Management Staff. A quick shoutout to Louis, the Hotel Director—he is everywhere on the ship! I swear, he never sleeps. His dedication and hard work make such a difference, and he truly does an amazing job.

We stayed for the show afterward and then headed to bed for the night, feeling content after another great day at sea.

Thursday, January 30 – Port Elizabeth
Today, we docked in Port Elizabeth, and already it was clear this itinerary was a bit different from the last one. While we still visited the same ports, the experiences were shaping up to be unique. We got up early for a visit to the Amakhala Game Reserve. Upon arrival, they were running about 20 minutes late, which wasn’t a great sign, but we carried on.

At the lodge, we had a quick restroom break and were greeted with a refreshing apple juice and grenadine welcome drink. The safari itself was quite rough—the roads weren’t really roads but more like navigating through ditches. Despite the rough ride, we were fortunate to spot a variety of Big 5 animals, though the elusive leopard remained out of sight. However, we did have an incredible close encounter with lions, which were only about five feet away from us.

Afterward, we made our way to the area where lunch was set up. Unfortunately, they weren’t quite ready for us, and we had to wait another 20 minutes. It was also a bit unusual that the reserve invited guests staying on the property to join us for lunch, making it a bit crowded.

Once we were back on the ship, we got ready for the Azamazing Event. They treated us like VIPs, so we made sure to attend the event at The Feather Market. While we had seen the show the previous week, we didn’t want to be rude and skip out since Azamara had given us the VIP tickets. To my surprise, I was pulled on stage to dance with the Zulu dancers—yes, there’s video and photographic evidence!

After the event, we returned to the ship, and Deck 9's Windows Café had set up a late-night buffet with a variety of post-event food like burger bites, fries, pizza, and corn dogs. It was a great way to end the evening after such an eventful day!

Friday, January 31 – Day at Sea
Today, we decided to attend a presentation by Sara Martinez, the Future Voyages Sales Director, about some incredible cruises available from 2025 to early 2027. We were able to pick out a few truly amazing options, which we’ll share more details about soon.

After the presentation, we headed to the main dining room for brunch. As usual, there was so much delicious food, it was hard to stop eating! We spent the afternoon working on group bookings for upcoming trips.

Dinner tonight was at the main restaurant, where we enjoyed another fantastic meal. It was a relaxing and productive day at sea, making it the perfect end to the week.

Saturday, February 1 – Port Elizabeth
Today, we embarked on an adventure to Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve, where we would spend the night. After a two-hour bus ride from the port, we arrived at Thanda and were greeted by two Land Rover safari jeeps ready to take us to the lodge. As we drove through the reserve, we immediately started spotting a variety of wildlife.

Once we arrived at the lodge, we were treated to an incredible sit-down lunch, with the chef personally explaining our options. After lunch, we were shown to our accommodations—yes, our own house for the night! We were staying in House Number 9, and as we walked there, we were surrounded by nyalas and other antelope.

The house was absolutely stunning. It had a spacious living room area, complete with a fireplace, fresh fruits, and snacks. The bar was also set up, and if we didn’t like the selection, they’d change it for us, and it was all included. Though we were in a malaria-free zone, the bed was surrounded by mosquito netting as a precaution. The bathroom featured two sinks, a huge tub, and both an indoor and outdoor shower. Stepping onto the deck, we found a plunge pool, a sitting area, and a fire pit—all within our private 2,000 square-foot house.

We took a quick 30-minute break to relax before heading out on our safari. During the safari, we saw elephants, rhinos, zebras, buffalo, giraffes, warthogs, and so much more. Afterward, we returned for dinner, where a buffet was set up along with grilled chicken, oxtail, and warthog sausage.

As night fell, we were escorted back to our house, as the animals were more active after dark. We jumped into the plunge pool to cool off and enjoy the serenity of nature around us. After a shower, we headed to bed early, as our wake-up call was set for 4:15 am for our morning safari.

Sunday, February 2 – Safari Morning
We got up at 4:15 am for our early morning safari at 5 am. This safari didn’t disappoint—we saw more animals, including two cheetahs. After a two-hour safari, we returned for a breakfast buffet, which was just the start. We then enjoyed a made-to-order hot breakfast.

After breakfast, we quickly packed up our things, as we needed to meet our bus at 10 am for the two-hour ride back to the port. Once we arrived back at the ship and went through immigration, we headed straight to Deck 9 for the Sail Away BBQ Party. After enjoying the party, we went back to our room to relax for a couple of hours.

For dinner, we chose the buffet on Deck 9, which had a special theme for the night—Greek Night. We enjoyed all the traditional Greek dishes and wrapped up a truly memorable day.

Monday, February 3 – Day at Sea

We started our day by heading to Bingo, hoping to win that free cruise—hey, why not, right? After trying our luck, we decided to grab lunch on The Patio, enjoying the relaxing atmosphere and delicious food.

The rest of the day was all about enjoying the ship. We spent some time soaking in the relaxation and luxury of the Azamara Quest. From exploring the onboard amenities to simply unwinding, it was the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. The crew continues to impress us, and we truly appreciated the warmth and service. It's days like this that make you appreciate the little things—like a peaceful afternoon on deck, enjoying the sea breeze and just taking it all in.

Tonight, we attended a VIP Reception in the Cabaret Lounge, where we had cocktails and mingled with fellow guests. It was a great opportunity to meet some fantastic people and chat about our incredible trip so far. The evening then continued with a delightful dinner at Aqualina, which never disappoints with its amazing menu. Then we went back to the Cabaret Lounge for this evening's entertainment which was a musical history of songs in the movies. The cast did a truly amazing job. 

Tuesday, February 4 – Durban
Since we had already explored Durban on a previous visit, we decided to spend the day on the ship, enjoying the pool area and relaxing. It was a nice change of pace, with plenty of time to unwind and soak up the sun. Jerome, one of the amazing servers we'd encountered at different meals, took excellent care of us once again. He always adds that extra special touch to our dining experiences.

Tonight was White Night on Azamara, an event  with which we were already familiar. We got to the venue early and secured a great table up front to fully enjoy the festivities. The atmosphere was vibrant, and everyone was dressed in white, creating a truly stunning scene. White Night is a signature Azamara event that brings together guests for a night of celebration with music, dancing, and a beautiful dinner. It’s always a highlight of our cruises and tonight was no exception.

Dinner was, as usual, exceptional—each course was better than the last. The White Night menu was thoughtfully prepared, and the service was top-notch. There’s something about the ambiance during White Night that makes the evening feel extra special. The live entertainment, combined with the delicious food and the festive atmosphere, made for an unforgettable night on board. It’s always a great way to connect with fellow cruisers and celebrate the journey in style.

Wednesday, February 5 – Day at Sea
Another beautiful day at sea, and it was the perfect opportunity to enjoy some poolside relaxation. With temperatures in the upper 80s to near 90, the weather couldn’t have been better. The sun was shining, and the sea breeze kept everything comfortable, making it an ideal day to just unwind.

For lunch, we headed to The Patio and enjoyed a delicious burger and nachos. Simple, yet satisfying, and a great way to fuel up before the afternoon.

Tonight's dinner was at Prime C, one of the specialty restaurants aboard Azamara. As usual, the meal was outstanding, with exceptional service and top-quality food. It's worth mentioning that if you're booking specialty restaurants, there may be an upcharge, and the pricing can vary based on the group size and package you select. However, one thing to keep in mind is that, unlike the main dining room, you may not always be able to sit with others in specialty dining. It's something to consider if you're planning to meet new people on board or are in a large group. But that doesn’t take away from the amazing dining experience, which was, as always, worth every bite!

Thursday, February 6 – Day at Sea
It was a wonderfully lazy morning for us on this sea day. We decided to take it easy and ordered breakfast to the room, enjoying a peaceful start to the day. After a relaxed morning, we headed to the lunch BBQ. While the food was good, we both agreed that the buffet today offered a wider selection and better options, so we opted for that instead.

Tonight, dinner was at Aqualina, where the cuisine continued to impress. The service was top-notch, and we enjoyed a delicious and leisurely meal in the beautiful ambiance of the restaurant.

A quick tip for those sailing with Azamara – the TV in your room displays the menu for the main dining restaurant, and it gets updated daily. It’s a helpful way to preview your options and decide where you want to dine ahead of time!

Friday, February 7 – Mossel Bay

Today, we were supposed to explore Mossel Bay, but unfortunately, the ocean swells were too strong, making it unsafe for tendering. While it was disappointing to miss this port, Azamara once again showed their flexibility by making quick adjustments to the day's programming.

In The Den, they hosted a Great British Pub experience, complete with fish and chips, which we, of course, had to sample. After that, we headed to The Patio for a more substantial lunch.

With the unexpected sea day, we took advantage of our VIP access to The Sanctum, a private retreat normally reserved for Spa Suite Guests. We spent the afternoon relaxing in the pool and hot tub, unwinding in pure bliss for several hours. Sometimes, an unplanned day of relaxation is exactly what you need!

Then we stopped by the Photo area to say goodbye to our new friends. When you are on a small boat you see the crew all the time as these two amazing Azamara Photographers are truly amazing. 

Saturday, February 8 – Cape Town

Our journey concluded in the breathtaking city of Cape Town, and we had an exciting day planned to see as much as possible! Our private driver was waiting for us just outside the ship, ready to take us on a Cape Town in a Day tour.

Table Mountain

Our first stop was the iconic Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Thanks to our front-of-the-line tickets, we bypassed the long queues and boarded the rotating cable car, which gave us 360-degree views as we ascended to the summit. Once at the top, we took in jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. We spent time exploring the various lookout points before heading back down for our next adventure.

Cape of Good Hope & Cape Point

Next, we drove to the Cape of Good Hope, the southwesternmost point of Africa. The rugged coastline, crashing waves, and scenic cliffs made for an awe-inspiring sight. We then continued to Cape Point, where we took a funicular up to the historic lighthouse that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The views were absolutely stunning!

Boulders Beach – Penguin Colony

A trip to Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without seeing the famous African penguins at Boulders Beach! These little guys were waddling around and posing for pictures, completely unfazed by visitors. It was amazing to observe them up close in their natural habitat.

Bo-Kaap Neighborhood

Our last stop before heading back to the ship was the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, known for its vibrant, colorful houses and rich history. This area, originally home to Cape Town’s Cape Malay community, has a fascinating blend of cultures and traditions. We took some photos of the bright facades and admired the unique character of the area.

Back on the ship, Azamara treated us to a South African buffet on the pool deck, a perfect way to cap off an unforgettable journey. After dinner, it was time to pack up, as our suitcases had to be outside our door by 9 PM for disembarkation.

What an incredible adventure this cruise has been!

Sunday, February 9 – Disembarkation Day & Exploring Cape Town

It was bittersweet to say goodbye to our Azamara adventure, but our time in Cape Town wasn’t quite over yet!

Seal Island Boat Tour

After disembarking, we arranged for a private driver to take us across to the opposite side of the Cape to board a boat to Seal Island. This 45-minute cruise was an absolute delight, with hundreds of seals lounging on the rocky outcrop and playful baby seals splashing around in the water. Watching them interact in their natural habitat was well worth the trip!

South Africa’s Winelands & Big Cat Sanctuary

Next, we made our way to Stellenbosch, one of South Africa’s most famous wine regions. Our guide took us to a winery with a rescue animal sanctuary, and this turned out to be an unexpected highlight! We got to see white tigers, black leopards, leopards, lions, lionesses, and Bengal tigers. And just like that—the elusive leopard was checked off our Big 5 list!

Lunch & Wine Tasting at Spier Wines

For lunch, we visited Spier Wines, a renowned winery in Stellenbosch. Their Picnicery restaurant was the perfect place to relax with delicious chicken salad sandwiches, potato salad, fruit, and chips, all paired with a bottle of their Prosecco. And since it was a warm day, we treated ourselves to some refreshing gelato for dessert!

Hyatt Regency Cape Town – A Unique Stay

After an incredible day of adventure, we returned to Cape Town for a night at the Hyatt Regency Cape Town, located in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood. What we didn’t realize beforehand was that, as a Muslim-friendly hotel, alcohol was only served on floors 2 and 10 (by the pool). 

We were shocked at the amount of security at the hotel.  Then, we discovered that the President of South Africa was staying in the room next door to us.   

With a $100 Virtuoso food and beverage credit, we originally planned to eat at the main restaurant, but the advertised buffet wasn't available. Instead, we opted to dine at the pool bar, though service was slow (over 25 minutes), and the food we received didn’t quite match what was on the menu.  For a virtuoso hotel, this was somewhat disappointing.  That said, the room was great. 

As this was a Virtuoso preferred hotel, they upgraded our room and we had a full suite.  It gave us great views of the neighborhood, and we could easily access the pool and bar areas.  At night, we even could hear the neighborhood marching band pass as we were having dinner. This is a great hotel in an excellent location, but eat dinner elsewhere—breakfast, however, is amazing!!!! 

Monday, February 10 – Goodbye, South Africa & Hello, Istanbul!

It was time to bid farewell to South Africa as we headed to the airport for our 12-hour flight to Istanbul.  Arriving at the airport early, we went to the gate.  As there are very few lounges, there is a lounge to which you can purchase daily access, Bidvest Premier Lounge.  It was around R300, which was about $16.40 US.  We were able to relax and have unlimited food and drink.

Tuesday, February 11 – Arriving in Istanbul & Checking into The Ritz-Carlton

With flight patterns the way they are, it worked out better for us to do a one-day stopover in Istanbul.  We arrived in Istanbul at 7 AM, where we were met outside the terminal and whisked away in a Vito Van to the Ritz-Carlton Istanbul.

The security at the hotel was next level—every vehicle was greeted and checked with a mirror wand underneath the car before proceeding. At the entrance, staff greeted us personally, took care of our luggage, and welcomed us in true luxury fashion.

Although our room wasn’t quite ready, as Virtuoso guests, we received a complimentary upgrade and were invited to enjoy breakfast in the Club Lounge. Just as we were savoring our meal, the Concierge Manager came over to inform us that our room was ready—talk about impeccable service!

Luxury at Every Turn

When we arrived in our upgraded room, we were welcomed with fresh fruit and candy, a thoughtful touch. We took a short nap, then headed back to the Club Lounge for light bites before exploring the hotel.

• Indoor Pool & Spa – We spent time at the beautiful indoor pool and checked out the full-service spa & hammam.
• Afternoon Tea – A true Turkish delight, we indulged in scones, Turkish delight, and more sweet treats.
• Surprise Goodies – Every time we left our room, we returned to new surprises—chocolates, a framed welcome letter with pictures of us, and even an extra room cleaning!

• Pre-Dinner Drinks & Fine Dining – Before dinner, we enjoyed a cocktail in the Club Lounge and then dined at the hotel restaurant, using our $100 food & beverage credit.

By the time we returned to our room, the turn-down service had been completed with slippers by the bed, chocolates on the pillows, and the covers folded back.

The Ritz-Carlton Istanbul truly knows how to elevate hospitality!

Wednesday, February 12 – Exploring Istanbul & Heading Home

Our last day in Istanbul started early as we met our guide for a visit to Topkapi Palace.

Topkapi Palace – A Glimpse into Ottoman Royalty

Once the imperial residence of Ottoman sultans, Topkapi Palace is a stunning complex filled with ornate courtyards, opulent chambers, and historical treasures. Home to the famous Harem, the Imperial Treasury, and sacred relics, this UNESCO World Heritage Site gave us a fascinating look into the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire.

After exploring, we were dropped off at Istanbul Airport for our flight to Atlanta, where we received a business class upgrade—a perfect way to end the trip!

Flying Business Class on Turkish Airlines

Flying business class on Turkish Airlines was a luxury experience from start to finish:
✈️ Seats 1A & 1B – Spacious, lie-flat seats for ultimate comfort.
👨‍🍳 Onboard Chef – A personal chef came by with dinner menus, allowing us to choose our entrée.
🍽️ Trolley Service – A selection of appetizers was offered, and we could try as many as we wanted.
🥖 Historic Bread – Served with the meal, we learned it’s the oldest bread in Anatolia—and it was delicious!
🍰 Dessert Trolley – A tempting spread of Turkish sweets to pick from.
🎬 Entertainment & Rest – After our meal, we watched movies or slept in fully reclined seats.
🍳 Pre-Landing Meal – Two hours before landing, we were served another gourmet meal.

We landed in Atlanta, picked up our car (thanks to SpotHero for affordable parking), and headed to our final stop—the Thompson Hyatt Buckhead.

A Rocky Stay at Thompson Hyatt Buckhead

Our check-in experience wasn’t smooth—the front desk couldn’t process our card manually, delaying everything. By the time we got settled, the restaurant had closed, so we couldn’t use our $100 food & beverage credit. Instead, we grabbed food from a drive-thru.

The next morning, we addressed the payment issue, and while they originally promised a free stay and free parking, we were charged anyway. We contacted the hotel and they confirmed they were refunding the charges.  Instead, they charged us a second time.  So,  we filed papers with Virtuoso and Hyatt Prive.  Guess what?  Within 24 hours of Virtuoso involvement, the issue was resolved.  Again, Virtuoso provides so much value to our clients by way of amenities and customer service.  We are grateful for them.

Finally, we drove home, reflecting on what an incredible journey we had through South Africa & Istanbul! 

OUR TAKE AWAY

AZAMARA CRUISES IS AMAZING!!!   This is a great cruise line for those who want a culturally immersive trip with long port stays.

TURKISH AIRWAYS can be a great option!  Plus, it has one of the best stopovers in the industry.

Virtuoso Amenities are amazing!  No matter what, when you stay at a virtuoso hotel, you will enjoy amazing customer service, plus lots of amenities.  We literally got cheaper rates than had we booked online on expedia!  Plus, our rooms came with tremendous value:  complimentary early check in, complimentary late check out, complimentary upgrades, a welcome amenity, plus, in this case, $100 of food and beverage credit at the hotel!  These amenities saved us many times and helped us considerably in our journey.  Moreover, with Virutoso’s help, our dispute was resolved immediately.

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