I just returned from a wonderful Seminar at Sea aboard the Azamara Journey. We sailed from San Juan to New York. It was a unique itinerary which blended beautiful beach ports with the sophistication of Bermuda and the magic that is New York City!
We had overnights in St. Thomas….very walkable touristy downtown right from the dock and of course many beach activities to enjoy around the island.
We hiked, kayaked and snorkeled (and saw sea turtles!) in St. John which is still low key and has lovely beaches. The ‘White Night’ Dinner on deck while moored in front of St. John’s was outstanding in every way….from the awesome staging of the pooldeck to look like a taverna, to the festive and well thought out menu, the enthusiastic staff, and the music.
The view of the island lights ashore and the warm Caribbean evening kept you on deck to enjoy the full evening.
Virgin Gorda was just one lush and gorgeous scene after the next. Beautiful serene bays dotted with dozens of sailboats.
Bermuda – As quaint and charming as anticipated! We cycled through picturesque neighborhoods with the sea always in view, and boated into pristine coves. Bermuda is 21 miles long and just about a mile wide so it is easy to access. Hamilton, the busniess hub, also has unique shops and restaurants. Stunning homes front the endless shorelines. All have white roofs to accomodate their own water collection systems, as water is a limited resource on Bermuda. The houses are all painted in a wide variety of pastel and vibrant colors! We were there Easter weekend, and took in the annual Passion re-enactment in the town of St. Georges. The cast consisted of at least fifty locals in costume from the five village churches. The procession was accompanied by the Salvation Army band, along with vocalists from the local choirs. The event lasted for two hours and traveled through the town…making stops staged at each churchyard.
Then – New York City. Sailing into the harbor past the Statue of Liberty on a clear sunny morning was the highlight. We sailed right up to our berth at Pier 88 in the heart of the city!
Azamara The Journey carries about 650 guests, it has an intimate feel and a “country club casual” atmosphere on board. Many lovely dining options, quality entertainment, gym, spa, pool, lovely deck space. All staff, including officers are friendly and ready to engage on any subject. Azamara prides itself on prime docking space in ports of call. In Hamilton, Bermuda we were right in the heart of town…it could not have been more central. And it was also impressive to witness the skills of the captain and crew manipulating the ship in and out of dock.
We cycled on the World’s Smallest Drawbridge (Bermuda)
Journeys Viaggio 
Leave a Reply