After a quarter-century break from cruising, I embarked on a P&O Cruises voyage around the Canary Islands and Madeira with a friend, anticipating a familiar holiday but discovering a completely transformed experience. My last cruise was over 25 years ago, and my companion, Paul, was a first-timer, initially filled with dread due to seasickness fears and the notion of constant movement. We boarded the Azura in Santa Cruz, Tenerife, following a chartered flight from Gatwick, ready to embrace winter sunshine, relaxation, and exploration.
Planetary Excursions and Breathtaking Landscapes
Our journey began with an excursion to Mount Teide in Tenerife, where we experienced a stark contrast between winter snow underfoot and warm sunshine on our skin. A bumpy cable car ride to the summit of the 3,715-metre volcano led us to crisp, crunching snow, just minutes after walking on ashen, molten rock in a lunar-like landscape. Our guide noted unusual rainfall and snowfall, enhancing the breath-taking scenery. Each destination offered unique adventures, with excursions setting this cruise apart, as seasoned travellers advised.
Exploring Volcanic Wonders and Local Flavours
On Gran Canaria, a two-hour guided walk around a volcano edge mixed ash, molten rock, and thriving greenery, followed by a vineyard visit for local wines and cheeses. In Lanzarote, we toured Timanfaya National Park, where a 40-minute bus ride through eruption-shaped terrain led to geothermal demonstrations, including cooking chickens with volcanic heat. These experiences made us feel as if we had stepped onto another planet, blending natural wonders with cultural immersion.
Life Onboard: Luxury, Relaxation, and Endless Options
Sea days between destinations allowed recovery and exploration of the Azura, one of P&O's largest liners with over 1,500 cabins across 14 decks. Amenities included five pools, a gym, spa, casino, theatre, and multiple restaurants and bars. Paul's seasickness fears proved unfounded, and we indulged in hours at the modern gym and the adult-only spa, featuring a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and treatments—a welcome escape from bustling decks.
Dining Delights and Nightlife Adventures
The dining options were impressively varied, with highlights like the sophisticated Epicurean for fine dining and black-tie evenings, offering beautifully presented, exceptional-tasting dishes in a luxurious setting. Other standouts included Sindhu, a stylish Indian eatery; the Beach House with Caribbean and Mexican dishes, such as fillet steak served on a lava rock; and The Oriental, blending British and global cuisines. This variety extended to nightlife, with opportunities to explore onboard entertainment after dinner.
A Converted Perspective on Cruising
The cruise's diversity—from dining and excursions to relaxation and activities—converted us into enthusiasts. It caters to all preferences and budgets, whether mixing fine dining with extravagant tours or buffets with independent island exploration. Options ranged from poolside lounging and spa visits to gym workouts, quizzes, casino games, and sports. Perfect for couples, friends, and families, it allows everyone to tailor their holiday. I certainly won't wait another 25 years for my next cruise, having discovered a modern, adaptable travel experience.
