Wining and Dining Down Under

By Azamara Club Cruises on Wednesday, February 03, 2016

Recently, we checked a big item off our travel bucket list: cruising to Australia and New Zealand. The Azamara Quest made her maiden voyage Down Under earlier this year, and so far our guests love this unique destination! Travel expert Scott Eddy joined us for a 16-Night voyage. “It’s been at the top of my bucket list for quite some time,” Scott said.

The voyage embarked from Sydney before cruising to other ports in Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Scott’s favorite ports were Napier and Picton.

The Azamara Quest docked in Sydney, Australia.

Scott in Tasmania - he said it's one of the most beautiful places he's been!

Cruising the breathtaking Milford Sound.

Sailing into Picton, New Zealand.

Sheep strike a pose in Dunedin, New Zealand.

Catching the sunrise in Tauranga.

“I love wine, so my favorite spots were when I toured the Marlborough and Hawkes Bay regions of New Zealand. It not only had amazing wine, but the scenery was flawless.”

Photos from several winery visits and tours.

Scott also enjoyed the incredible wine and food offered onboard the Azamara Quest. He attended three different Chef’s Table dinners and a caviar tasting and indulged in a bit of bubbly.

Photos from Chef's Table Dinners. French, Italian and Californian menus are offered.

Breakfast with a view in Sydney.

Breakfast with a view in Tasmania.

Lunch on the veranda.

Lobster tail served onboard.

Key Lime Pie served onboard.

Tasting caviar.

Which bottle of champagne to open first?

Believe it or not, Scott had never heard of Azamara Club Cruises before joining us for a voyage!

“Like most travel experiences, it’s the hidden gems that are the truly great times,” Scott said. “Azamara goes above the call of duty on all levels. Especially the staff – they are really incredible and are always thinking of all your wants and needs before you can.”

Grabbing a selfie with Captain Carl, a great guy.

Scott had some incredible onshore experiences during his voyage. But he was surprised to find that time spent onboard was just as pleasurable.

“Normally ‘days at sea’ are boring and looooong, but the days at sea on this voyage didn’t really feel like them, we always had things to do and had fun.”

Bingo with a side of bubbly.

One of many incredible sunrises witnessed onboard.

Scott even met up with fellow travel expert Lee Abbamonte during the voyage!

Two of the most influential experts in travel!

Has Scott’s journey on the Azamara Quest inspired you to explore Australia and New Zealand? The Azamara Quest will remain in Australia for the rest of February before sailing on to Asia. Follow us on Instagram to see updates!

Next year the Quest’s sister ship, Azamara Journey, will make her maiden call to the region. Check out these voyages:

Already planning for 2018 travel? The Azamara Journey will return to Australia then, too. View voyages here.