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Cruise lines: trend to all-inclusives?
Passengers on Azamara Club Cruises find free sodas and wine with meals included in the cost. There’s also free specialty coffees and even gratuities.
The three-year-old cruise line, which changed its name from Azamara Cruises last fall, has taken a new direction under new leadership last summer.
Besides changing its orientation from a "deluxe" line to an "upmarket" one, it decided not to charge for the extras. The cruise line also offers shuttle buses in port where possible, and
English butler service for suite guests, who also receive complimentary dining in the specialty restaurants, Prime C and Aqualina.
The changes took effect recently for the 694-passenger Azamara Journey’s 10-night cruise from Miami.
Whether or not other cruise lines adopt the practice, it has so far been well received by passengers.
"Azamara is now being viewed by my clients as a true value proposition with the inclusive offerings as well as the shifting of itineraries to allow for more overnight stays," said Chuck Flagg, a Georgia-based travel agent.
By David Wilkening
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