We passed up the opportunity to sail to the Antarctica when we cruised around South America several years ago and regretted it. So prior to touring Peru, we chose make up for that. Without needing to step onshore for three times the price, we picked Azamara cruise line rather than the larger ships. Also due to the size of the ship, we were hoping it would get closer to the beauty than the larger ships. The experience itself was delightful, from the moment we were greeted by our taxi and personally escorted into the terminal. Once onboard, that level of service continued and was definitely a touch above other lines we've been on. The only time service dropped off was crossing the Drake Passage during which staff seemed to be affected by their first rough seas due to lack of crew members resulting in the Maitre de waiting tables. Even then, there was nothing to complain about.

Obviously, it was too cold for the pool, or much time outside on the windy decks, but whenever the captain would slow down or pivot for viewing, everyone was there with cameras ready. This was the longest we've been onboard a ship without going ashore, and we definitely won't do that again, but the Antarctica is impossible to get to without the sea days. The fitness room was small but efficient and made the time pass while exploring this region. The onboard lectures were not really about the nature and wildlife we would be experiencing, but more about conservation efforts in the area. The lunar eclipse occurred while sailing and they had flown in a NASA expert to narrate on deck that night for those interested in watching it.

The nightly entertainment was standard for a cruise, but the theater seating is not angled causing difficulty in visibility. Rather than spending time locating a decent seat, we enjoyed the nightly music in the Living Room lounge. With spectacular viewing opportunities during the day, this lounge was crowded and noisy so we would spend the days in the Den only a couple steps to the outside decks close by. At night, the Living Room had a talented band, 3 Aces Trio, which played nightly and kept the dance floor full, even with the ship movement. Read more