Monarch Classic Cruises

John · 10-14-2007, 04:25 PM

Monarch Classic Cruises was launched at the beginning of July 2006 under close direction and with the continuous and sustained efforts of powerful, well known figures of the international shipping and the tourist markets, the aim being to restore a quality, high-level cruise product to the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean market, corresponding with those which have reemerged on an international level over the last five years.

In keeping with the business strategy and philosophy of Monarch Classic Cruises, the Line will operate in the Aegean using mid-sized ships best suited to the environment of the Greek archipelago and respecting the restrictions of the small islands which do not have the facilities to cater to the needs of large numbers of tourists in a timely manner.

• Mid-size ships, carrying up to 800 guests, with high level hotel standards and personal, friendly service from our experienced crew catering to all guests.
• Guest / crew ratio of the almost ideal 2:1 ratio and attention to every detail makes the cruise a unique memory.
• Since we take care of all the details, our guests can relax and enjoy their holidays.
• Carefully selected excursion programs at ports of call give our passengers an introduction to Greek culture and history.
• Monarch Classic Cruises guests experience for a few days the uniqueness that is the Greek islands.

John · 10-14-2007, 04:27 PM

The M/V Ocean Monarch is a true classic; her subdued elegance and attentive service create an intimate and relaxing environment for our passengers.

With 232 spacious and well appointed suites and cabins, accommodations on board are the last word in comfort.

Each cruise offers a full onboard entertainment program in conjunction with carefully planned itineraries and enriching shore excursion programs to ensure the total cruise experience.

Ship’s Specifications

Tonnage: 15.800 tons
Length: 532,70 ft. / 162.36 m.
Breadth: 70,01 ft. / : 21.30 m
Draft: 25,50 ft. / 7.77 m.
Cruising Speed: 15.5 knots
Stabilizers: Yes
Air Conditioning: Throughout
Passenger Decks: 7
Electrical current: 220 V/AC
Swimming Pools: 1
Admiral’s Lounge: 480 seats
Aquarius Lounge: 70 seats
Restaurant Montreux: 370 seats
Deluxe Cabins: 29
Standard Cabins: 203
Passenger Capacity: 518
Number of Crew: 250
Satellite TV in all cabins

Public Areas and Facilities

Bridge Deck

Neptune Bar 50
Swimming Pool / Jacuzzi

Promenade Deck

Gym / Spa
Beauty Salon / Sauna

Panorama Deck

Piazza Vino 80
Rendezvous Bar 48
Library 20
Aquarius Lounge 70
Restaurant Montreux 370
Admiral’s Lounge 480
Boutique / Casino / Photoshop

Pacific Deck

Reception Desk / Purser’s Office
Cruise Office / Shore Excursion Office
Mediterranean Deck Medical Facility

John · 10-14-2007, 04:28 PM

This regal lady of the waves is an imposing figure wherever she goes and is the ideal base from which to explore the Greek Islands on either a three or four day cruise.

With elegant and subtle colours and tones throughout, she is also the perfect setting for every kind of onboard activity from enjoying a melody in the Piano Bar to testing lady luck at the casino.

Thanks to our impeccable service and friendly atmosphere this mid-size ship will fast become home and fellow guests your friends.

The Ocean Countess has undergone major refurbishment during winter 2005/2006, with new cabin furnishings, carpeting and wall coverings in addition to televisions (with satellite reception) being installed and the telephone system upgraded. All suites have been totally refurbished.

The gymnasium has been reconstructed, the swimming pool area renewed, and a dedicated buffet area installed for those who prefer to dine casually by the pool.

All public rooms including the dining room have been refreshed and many art works added to enhance the ship’s warm, friendly atmosphere.

Our highly trained staff look forward to welcoming you and making sure your cruise is a trip to remember.

Ship’s Specifications

Tonnage: 17,593 tons
Length: 163m (537 ft)
Breadth: 23m (75 ft)
Draft: 6.20m (20,30 ft)
Cruising Speed: 17 knots
Stabilizers Brown AEG
Air Conditioning Throughout
Passenger Decks: 6
Electrical current: 220 v / 110v 60Hz
Swimming Pools: 1
Main Lounge: 400 seats
Lounge/Disco Bar: 170 seats
Piano Bar: 125 seats
Dining Room: 487 seats
Deluxe Cabins: 58
Superior & Standard Cabins: 342
Passenger Capacity: 800
Number of Crew: 350

Public Areas and Facilities

Ouranos Deck Piano Bar 125
Pool Bar / Swimming Pool / Fitness Center

Hera Deck Sirenes Main Lounge 400
9 Muses Lounge/Disco Bar 170
Photo Shop / Casino

Apollo Deck Restaurant 487
Cinema/Theatre 117
Library / Children’s Play Room / Spa

Venus Deck
Reception Desk / Pursers Office / Excursion Office
Cruise Office / Beauty Salon / Duty Free

Dionysos Deck Medical Facility

John · 10-14-2007, 04:30 PM

Built in Sainte Nazaire, France, the Blue Monarch has the elegant lines of a classic cruise ship and can host up to 500 passengers. Her vast deck space and two pools are a delight to sun seekers and ideal for strolls at sea.

With her yacht-like size and personal service provided by our crew, each cruise is a unique experience. The Blue Monarch becomes home within a few short days, and thanks to our intimate surrounds, fellow guests become fast friends on this matchless voyage.

Prior to her current cruising season, the Blue Monarch underwent major refurbishment and is the ideal vessel for your 7-day cruise to Turkey and the Greek Islands. Her intimate size and highly trained staff make you feel at home in no time and with all the facilities you could want, there’s plenty of time for pampering.

By day visit some of the most historically and culturally rich ports of the Mediterranean or stay on board and relax by one of the two pools. By night enjoy the diversity of International cuisine, the fun of live entertainment, the thrill of gaming at the casino or the quiet relaxation of your favorite liqueur.

Ship’s Specifications

Tonnage: 11,429 tons
Length: 150.10 m
Breadth: 21.0 m
Draft: 6.32 m
Cruising Speed: 16 knots
Stabilizers Sperry Gyrofin
Air Conditioning Throughout
Electrical current 110V 60Hz
Deck Space: 2,508 m²
Pool Area: 1,007 m²
Swimming Pools: 2
Lounge: 350 seats
Dining Room: 276 seats
Cinema - Theatre: 110 seats
Deluxe Cabins: 33
Superior & Standard Cabins: 209
Passenger Capacity: 452
Number of Crew: 230

Public Areas and Facilities

Jupiter Deck Fitness Room

Apollo Deck Main Lounge 350
Verandah Sunrooms 10
Beauty Salon / Spa / Duty Free / Casino / Photoshop

Venus Deck Cinema – Theatre 110
Disco Lounge 60
Hospital

Dionysos Deck Dining Room 276
Reception Desk / Pursers Office

catom · 06-03-2008, 02:07 PM

We are thinking about taking a cruise in the Blue Monarch in Nov. We are from Southern California and have been on a few cruises - Hawaii, Mexico, Carribean - always on a large ship.

Would like to hear from anyone who has taken this cruise with any comments good or bad to help us with our plans.

levans · 06-28-2008, 02:46 PM

My husband and I are taking the Blue Monarch in Oct. and I have looked high and low for reviews. If you have any lead, please post them.

**Ally** · 06-28-2008, 02:53 PM

Welcome to the family Catom & Levans

Sadly there seems to be a bit of a shortage of reviews for this ship/company...not sure if it is down to the nationalities that they aim their cruises towards or what it is. I have yet to see anything good or bad posted on the net....I can only assume by that the lack of bad things (which are ALWAYS posted) means that the cruises are perfectly enjoyable.

It is very unusual to have a cruise line that hasn't had anything said about it, hopefully that will change very soon....even if it is just a bad review

Edited to add...

"golden fleece" cruise - Royal Olympic World Renaissance - Epinions.com

6 year old review, same ship but different name/operator done on a consumer site.

**neil** · 10-09-2008, 06:23 PM

It has been report on another website that the name of this cruise company could be changed for 2009.

It is thought it is due to a name clash with the Monarch airline.

**neil** · 12-11-2008, 06:25 PM

The latest news is that Monarch Classic Cruises and Golden Sun Cruises could be joining forces for 2009 under the name of Modern Classic Cruises.

Golden Sun Cruises is connected with Louis Cruises and in 2008 operated the Louis Cruises ship Aegean Pearl .

In 2008 Monarch Classic Cruises operated the cruise ships Ocean Countess and Blue Monarch plus the Ocean Monarch which is now sailing for Classic International Cruises as Princess Daphne.

A new ship is expected to be sailing for Modern Classic Cruises from March 2009 !!

This is the 19,095 grt ex Superstar Gemini which was built in 1992 as Crown Jewel.

At present she carries 696 passengers and had been sailing for the Spanish company Vision Cruises.

Photo of her below in her Star Cruises colours.

Locarno · 12-12-2008, 07:43 AM

Hi Neil,
interesting news. Last I heard is that ISP/CLIPPER Miami, had chartered the Clipper Jewel to a Russian outfit? where can I find a link to the news regarding "Modern Classic" having chartered her ?
Thank you much
Locarno