Phoenix Reisen’s Artania offers a compelling blend of classic maritime charm and modern amenities. This mid-sized ship, accommodating up to 1,200 passengers, caters primarily to German-speaking guests, though English-speaking travellers can enjoy its offerings with some basic German knowledge. With its welcoming reception areas, diverse dining options, engaging entertainment, comfortable accommodations, and attentive hospitality, Artania delivers a holiday that balances leisure and exploration.
The guest experience on Artania is defined by its blend of classic cruise traditions and modern comforts. Passengers appreciate the spacious all-outside cabins and the attentive service that creates a sense of community. The ship’s German-centric focus may limit English-language services, but crew efforts bridge language gaps. The walkaround promenade and generous open deck spaces encourage leisurely strolls and scenic relaxation. Recent refurbishments, including a 2024 drydock adding balconies and redesigning the Artania Restaurant, keep the ship fresh, though some areas retain a slightly dated charm. Guests often praise the relaxed atmosphere and the ship’s ability to visit unique destinations.
Guests aboard Artania can anticipate a holiday that combines relaxation with engaging activities. The ship’s mid-sized design allows access to unique ports, offering a more intimate cruise experience. Expect leisurely days lounging by one of two pools or whirlpools, participating in sports or creative classes, or unwinding in the spa. Dining is flexible, with options for formal multi-course meals or casual buffets, and the entertainment programme fills evenings with shows, music, or quiet drinks. While the German-speaking focus means menus and announcements are primarily in German, the crew’s attentiveness ensures English-speaking guests feel included.
Reception Areas: An Elegant Welcome
The reception area, located in the two-level lobby on Deck 5, greets guests with an airy, open design featuring light-filled arcades and elegant decor. The space is both functional and inviting, with a central desk staffed by multilingual crew members ready to assist with bookings, queries, or onboard advice. Adjacent to the lobby, the Pazifik Lounge offers plush seating and panoramic windows, ideal for a coffee or cocktail while enjoying sea views. The area serves as a social hub, with occasional live music or dance sessions creating a warm, communal atmosphere.
Dining: Culinary Choices for All
Artania’s dining options cater to a range of tastes across three main venues, all included in the cruise fare. The Artania Restaurant and Vier Jahreszeiten Restaurant, with a combined capacity of 900 seats, offer flexible seating and multi-course menus featuring international and German-inspired dishes, with complimentary table wine in the evenings. The Lido Restaurant, a buffet with 280 seats, provides casual dining with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, from fresh rolls to hearty mains. Pichler’s, a speciality restaurant introduced in a 2024 refurbishment, serves refined regional cuisine, with outdoor dining on the Lido Terrace in good weather. Seven bars, including the Casablanca Lounge for intimate concerts and Harry’s Bar for live music, complement the dining experience. Dietary needs are accommodated with advance notice, ensuring a tailored experience.
Entertainment: A Mix of Leisure and Activity
Artania’s entertainment programme keeps guests engaged with a variety of performances and activities. The Atlantik Show Lounge hosts nightly shows, including musicals, cabaret, and guest lectures, with tiered seating for clear views. The Casablanca Lounge offers intimate evening concerts, while the Havanna Club provides a lively space for dancing and cocktails. Daytime activities include shuffleboard, table tennis, and darts on the Sports Deck, alongside creative classes like painting or photography. The cinema screens films, and the Jamaica Club library offers a quiet retreat for readers. The Wellness Area, with its sauna, steam bath, and small seawater pool, provides relaxation, complemented by fitness classes in the gym.
Accommodation: Spacious and Scenic
Artania’s 600 all-outside cabins, spread across eight decks, range from 15–16 square metres for standard oceanview cabins to the 50-square-metre Royal Suite with a private balcony. All cabins feature panoramic windows or balconies, satellite TVs, adjustable air conditioning, minibars, safes, and hairdryers, with bathrooms updated in 2024 to include modern showers. Junior Suites and Suites offer additional space with sofa beds and large wardrobes, while four wheelchair-accessible cabins ensure inclusivity. The Phoenix Gold Service, available in select categories, includes perks like priority embarkation, a welcome bottle of champagne, and complimentary internet access. A 2024 refurbishment added 96 new balcony cabins, enhancing the ship’s appeal.
Hospitality: Warm and Personalised
The crew of 537 on Artania fosters a familial atmosphere with attentive, professional service. Cabin stewards maintain tidy accommodations and handle requests promptly, while bar and restaurant staff engage guests with friendly conversation. A German-speaking doctor staffs the onboard infirmary, with medical services available for a fee. Guests with dietary needs can discuss requirements at a dedicated meeting, ensuring personalised care. The Phoenix Gold Service, included in higher cabin categories, offers extras like a sparkling wine welcome, priority excursion information, and complimentary spa treatments. The Wellness Area’s massage and beauty services add a touch of indulgence to the onboard experience.
Standout Features
Artania’s standout features include its all-outside cabins, ensuring every guest enjoys a sea view, and its mid-sized design, enabling visits to smaller ports. The Atlantik Show Lounge delivers high-quality performances, while the Wellness Area’s spa and sauna offer a tranquil escape. Pichler’s speciality restaurant provides a refined dining experience, and the Sports Deck’s activities, like shuffleboard and darts, add variety. The classic stern with sheltered seating and the walkaround promenade deck appeal to maritime enthusiasts, while the 2024 addition of new balcony cabins and larger windows in the Lido Restaurant threw more light on the subject.
