CRUISE SHIP REVIEW Index

ZAMBOANGA CITY - The Maxim Gorkiy, a German-operated luxury liner carrying some 500 European tourists, recently docked at the Zamboanga port for a sightseeing stopover.

"Having Zamboanga chosen as one of the cruise ship's ports of call indicates that tourists feel confident regarding the peace and order condition of the city," said City Mayor Maria Clara Lobregat, in a local report.

The visitors visited popular historical and tourists sites, such as Fort Pilar, Rio Hondo, Pasonanca Park, the Yakan Waving Village and La Vista del Mar, a popular beach resort. Late last year, about 400 international tourists aboard the MV Astor, another European cruise ship, also visited the city. (GEM)

MV Astor

CRUISE SHIP REVIEW

Index: All Ship Reviews

Independent, unbiased ratings and reviews to help you choose the right ship.
by Douglas Ward

Maxim Gorkiy
Phoenix Seereisen

Score:		69.2 (possible 100)

Ship Accommodation Food Service Cruise Total	Score Achieved 16.7 6.85 14.4 14.95 16.35 69.2	Score Possible 25 10 20 20 25 100
Size:		Midsize (501-1000 passengers)
Length (feet/meters):		638.8/194.72
Gross Tonnage:		24,981
Registry:		Bahamas
Former name(s):		Hanseatic, Hamburg
Entered service:		March 1969/January 1974
Total crew:		340
Officers:		Russian/Ukrainian
Passenger capacity:		650
Cabins (total):		326
Cabins (single occupancy):		2
Cabins (with private balcony):		0
Cabins (wheelchair accessible):		0

Suitable for
Older adults who enjoy a traditional ship; mostly German-speaking cruisers, typically over 55.

Accommodation
The ship has 18 cabin categories. Most cabins are generally quite spacious. Many have wood panelling and trim, and comfortable décor. Bathrooms are large and have full-sized bathtubs in all but 20 cabins; there is plenty of room for toiletries. Most cabins have portholes.

Deluxe cabins are very good, and have huge picture windows. In-cabin televisions broadcast Russian and German programs.

Occupants of a suite or one of the top five cabin grades receives Phoenix VIP service, which includes flowers for the cabin, a separate check-in desk, and priority disembarkation.

Dining
All three restaurants are located low down in the ship, but they are cheerfully decorated, and were modernized during a 1993 refurbishment. All operate with a single seating at assigned tables.

Moderately decent food is served. Excellent lager is always available, and wine served at lunch and dinner is included in the cruise fare. More choice and better presentation would be appreciated.

Service is attentive and courteous, though it is somewhat hurried. Cushions would be a welcome addition to some of the banquette seating.

What's good
This sturdily constructed ship has a riveted hull, which is virtually impossible to find today. The public rooms have high ceilings. The solid feel and Old-World ambience are reminiscent of ships of yesteryear.

There is a generous amount of open deck space, and deck chairs have cushioned pads. The ship offers interesting, destination-intensive itineraries.

What's not so good
The hallways and some public rooms are a bit dark and somber.

Other comments
This ship, built for transatlantic service, is all-white, and has long, pleasing lines and exterior styling. The ship is easily identified by its platform-topped funnel, which is designed to disperse smoke away from the open decks aft. Maxim Gorkiy is generally well maintained. A large basketball court is located aft of the funnel.

Public rooms are handsome and well-designed, and passenger flow is good. A generous amount of wood paneling was used in construction; most of it still looks good, though some refinishing is needed in some areas.

Décor is dark and somewhat dull, though it is quite relaxing.

The show lounge, which is decent enough, is too small and has insufficient seating. The stage and lighting facilities could also be improved. The gymnasium is small and much equipment needs updating. The ship has two relaxing winter gardens with large ocean-view windows, and an indoor swimming pool.

This older ship does not have the most modern facilities, but it provides a very good cruise experience in comfortable, elegant, traditional surroundings, at a modest price. Its aimed particularly at German-speaking travelers who appreciate good value and well-planned, destination-intensive itineraries. The friendly and attentive service staff is Russian and Ukrainian. Port taxes, insurance, and gratuities are included.

Phoenix Seereisen has, over the years, attained almost cult status among its passengers. The company provides a consistently fine, very popular product for those seeking a casual cruise experience among friendly cruisers who enjoy life. The currency on board is the Deutschmark.

Accessibility rating: C
(A = very good; B = good, with minor obstacles; C = significant obstacles; D = poor accessibility)
It would be possible—though not particularly recommended—for a wheelchair user to negotiate the ship. Not all decks and public rooms are accessible, particularly some of the outdoor decks.

Cruising areas
Around-the-world cruises; various worldwide itineraries.

500 Europeans visit Zamboanga City