I am today off Azamara's 7 day Singapore to Bali cruise, 14-21 January, 2018. Azamara Journey is a fine ship, almost a twin to Oceania's Nautica, with good food and excellent, cheerful, service. Cabin 6042 was fine for me on my own but would have been a real squeeze for two (my wife sat this one out as she does not like hot, sticky weather!).

The nuts and bolts of the cruise all worked well, starting with an efficient boarding process in Singapore. Service in the main dining room was excellent and I never had to wait to be seated, sharing with others at a table of six. The food was good, taking into account that they are preparing food for hundreds of people. Given the short nature of the itinerary, I did not use either of the two speciality restaurants. If I had to name one food item at which Azamara excel, let it be their cookies; as soft as delicious as Princess but of a smaller, more modest dimension.

I made it to Borobudur, which was the overriding reason for choosing this itinerary, and it was magical. However, the manner of our getting there left me perplexed and questioning whether Azamara understands the concept of 'responsible tourism'. Read more