Sara Macefield

Freelance journalist specialising in the cruise industry, writing for the Telegraph, Mail and Times, plus trade titles. Loves exploring the world by water.

Articles

Five essential things to know before you board an Azamara cruise ship

1 week ago | telegraph.co.uk | Sara Macefield

1. Where does Azamara Cruises sail? As Azamara's fleet has grown, so has the scope of its sailings. The line covers all the world's continents, including Antarctica - though as its ships hold more than 500 guests, they are not permitted to stop there. What marks out Azamara Cruises is its regular evening departures at 8 pm or later.
Five essential things to know before you board an Azamara cruise ship

1 week ago | yahoo.com | Sara Macefield

If ever there was a truly boutique cruise line, it is Azamara Cruises, whose four virtual carbon-copy ships exude country house bonhomie – thanks to their compact size and sprinkling of classically elegant touches. Bridging the gap between the most luxurious six-star lines and the market’s premium players, Azamara styles itself as premium-plus, by corralling drinks and gratuities into fares.
Clients concerned about crowds in Alaska? This could be the ship for them

2 weeks ago | ttgmedia.com | Sara Macefield

ao linkMost read features TTG Media Limited. Place of registration: England and Wales. Company number 08723341. Registered address: 2-6 Boundary Row, London, SE1 8HP We use cookies so we can provide you with the best online experience. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Click on the banner to find out more.
The murky reason why cruise ships are registered in obscure countries

3 weeks ago | telegraph.co.uk | Sara Macefield

However, this isn't the first time industry observers have heard such threats, and it was pointed out that any policy aimed at the cruise industry would ensnare cargo shipping too, as the industries are so entwined and cruising makes up just a tiny proportion. Steven Wieczynski of Stifel Financial, which provides investment banking analysis, was reported as saying: "We have seen this story play out before.
From Cornwall to Qatar, these are the world's next cruise ship hotspots

1 month ago | telegraph.co.uk | Sara Macefield

"It's an exciting time for cruises in the region as it's still relatively new," said Celestyal's chief commercial officer Lee Haslett. "Cruising offers a unique way to explore multiple countries in one trip and Doha and the United Arab Emirates are perfectly positioned for this and for guests looking for winter sun."Even the world's cruise capital, Florida, isn't resting on its laurels, with Miami, Port Canaveral and Port Tampa Bay adding new multi-million pound terminals.
‘The hallmarks of these fjords are their history and remoteness’

1 month ago | ttgmedia.com | Sara Macefield

ao linkRecommended For YouMost read features TTG Media Limited. Place of registration: England and Wales. Company number 08723341. Registered address: 2-6 Boundary Row, London, SE1 8HP We use cookies so we can provide you with the best online experience. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Click on the banner to find out more.
Marella Voyager ship review: From buttons that summon champagne to a speakeasy bar

1 month ago | cruiseandtravel.co.uk | Sara Macefield

From buttons that summon champagne to a speakeasy bar, the quirky fifth addition to Marella’s feet offers five-star hospitality in spades. Marella Cruises is as reassuringly British as the fish and chips served on its ships, with innovative twists that give it a distinctive flavour – and these are perfectly embodied in its newest debutante, Voyager.
The Islands of the Eastern Caribbean

1 month ago | cruiseandtravel.co.uk | Sara Macefield

With its beautiful crystal-clear waters and simply idyllic island hideaways, the Caribbean has proved irresistible to seafarers since it was discovered by Christopher Columbus in the 15th century. English, Spanish and French explorers followed in his footsteps in search of New World treasures.
Holidays to Japan have never been more popular

2 months ago | telegraph.co.uk | Danielle Demetriou |Ronan O'Connell |Adrian Bridge |Sara Macefield

Our insider expert reveals her ultimate two-week itinerary around the Land of the Rising SunCloud-brushing skyscrapers, flashing neon and seas of salarymen. The rhythmic whisk of matcha in the stillness of a tatami mat tea room. The dancing hands of a sushi chef slicing sashimi on a cypress wood counter. Decadent quantities of world-class powder snow. Steam rising from a hot spring onsen bath. And the list goes on. Japan has long been a timeless haven of colourfully unique experiences.
these are Asia's most affordable destinations, with five-star stays for £50

2 months ago | telegraph.co.uk | Ronan O'Connell |adrian bridge |Sara Macefield |Emma Boyle

As prices in the former budget favourite continue to rise, a new breed of Asian destination is taking its placeBali is no longer Asia's cheapest seaside destination, with better value provided by beach resorts in Vietnam, Thailand and other parts of Indonesia. Since the pandemic, this tropical Indonesian island has seen prices soar, especially for accommodation and shopping. Bali remains hugely popular, regardless, receiving a whopping 16 million visitors across 2024, including domestic tourists.