Explore Azamara Cruises in depth — discover the fleet, onboard experiences, destinations, and what makes this boutique cruise line unique. Enjoy a humanized, SEO-optimized guide with FAQs and travel insights.
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🚢 The Azamara Fleet: Boutique Ships Built for Exploration
Azamara offers a distinctive cruise experience with a fleet of four mid-sized luxury ships — each one designed to get you closer to the heart of a destination. Unlike massive ocean liners, Azamara ships carry just around 700 guests, allowing for a more personalized journey and access to ports that larger ships simply can’t reach.
1. Azamara Journey
Built: 2000
Gross Tonnage: 30,277 GT
Passenger Capacity: 694
Crew: 390
Overview: Azamara Journey was the first ship in the fleet and is known for its upscale charm, warm ambiance, and world-class service. It features redesigned staterooms, fine dining, enrichment programs, and entertainment tailored to adult travelers seeking cultural immersion. It regularly visits ports in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
2. Azamara Quest
Built: 2000
Gross Tonnage: 30,277 GT
Passenger Capacity: 710
Crew: 410
Overview: Almost identical to her sister ship, the Azamara Quest is celebrated for her relaxed onboard vibe, gourmet cuisine, and deep cultural excursions. She is ideal for travelers who prefer fewer crowds, longer port stays, and experiences that go beyond traditional tourism.
3. Azamara Pursuit
Built: 2001
Gross Tonnage: 30,277 GT
Passenger Capacity: 702
Crew: 408
Overview: Acquired in 2018, Azamara Pursuit opened up even more exotic destinations for the line, including South America, the Middle East, and Africa. She is elegantly updated, offering premium accommodations, immersive shore excursions, and a strong focus on the regions she explores.
4. Azamara Onward
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Built: 1999
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Gross Tonnage: 30,277 GT
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Passenger Capacity: 690
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Crew: 408
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Overview: Formerly the Pacific Princess, this ship was relaunched as Azamara Onward in 2022. The ship features upgraded decor, improved technology, and introduces the exclusive Atlas Bar. Azamara Onward blends classic cruising with modern luxury in a refined, smaller-ship setting.
🧭 What Sets Azamara Apart?
Azamara is not about flashy waterslides or massive malls at sea — it’s about slow travel, deep connection, and luxury without pretension. Here’s why it’s in a league of its own:
🌍 1. Destination Immersion®
Azamara’s signature feature, Destination Immersion®, means longer stays, more overnights, and night touring. Guests can enjoy local food, culture, music, and landmarks well after other cruise lines have sailed away.
🍷 2. Inclusive Amenities
Unlike many cruise lines that upsell every little detail, Azamara includes:
Gratuities
Select spirits, beers, and wines
Shuttle service to and from ports (where available)
Self-service laundry
Cultural evenings (AzAmazing Evenings®)
🎭 3. Cultural Events & Experiences
Each cruise includes AzAmazing Evenings®, complimentary, one-of-a-kind shore events like opera performances in historic cities or cultural shows in open-air amphitheaters.
🛳️ 4. Small Ship Advantage
Azamara ships are mid-sized — small enough to slip into lesser-known ports like Amalfi, St. Tropez, or Kochi, but large enough to provide high-end facilities, multiple restaurants, and evening entertainment.
🍽️ 5. Culinary Excellence
Dining is a highlight aboard Azamara. From specialty restaurants like Prime C (steakhouse) to Aqualina (Italian fine dining), plus casual options, food is globally inspired and locally sourced whenever possible.
🧘 6. Wellness & Relaxation
Onboard amenities include a spa, fitness center, yoga and meditation classes, and tranquil lounges. The pace is slower and more relaxed — perfect for rejuvenation.
🛌 Onboard Experience: Life at Sea with Azamara
Accommodations are cozy yet elegant, with a mix of interior, oceanview, veranda, and suite options. Club Suites offer added perks like butler service and priority embarkation.
Entertainment includes live music, local performers brought onboard in certain ports, and intimate stage shows in the Cabaret Lounge. There’s no Broadway-style glitz here — just soulful entertainment and enrichment talks.
Service is personal, with many crew members remembering guest names. It’s a warm, club-like atmosphere where you feel more like a guest at a private retreat than a passenger.
Guests are generally well-traveled adults, many of whom are repeat cruisers who value education, culture, and connection over nightlife or family activities.
🌐 Most Popular Itineraries
Mediterranean Jewels
Southeast Asia Discovery
Norway & Northern Lights
South American Treasures
Caribbean with Extended Stays
Azamara specializes in longer itineraries (7 to 18 nights) with multi-country visits, often in off-the-beaten-path ports.
❓ Top FAQs About Azamara Cruises
Is Azamara considered luxury?
Yes, Azamara is considered a luxury cruise line, but it offers a more casual and less formal atmosphere than ultra-luxury lines.
What’s included in the fare?
Gratuities, select alcohol, shuttle buses, self-service laundry, onboard events, and some cultural experiences are included.
Are there activities for children?
Azamara is geared toward adults, and there are no kids’ clubs or youth programs. It’s not a family-focused line.
What is the average age of passengers?
The average age ranges from 55–75, with most guests being retired or experienced travelers.
How formal is Azamara?
The dress code is “resort casual.” Think slacks, sundresses, and collared shirts. No tuxedos or ball gowns are required.
Are shore excursions worth it?
Yes, Azamara’s shore excursions are curated and often offer deeper insights into local cultures, including wine tastings, culinary tours, and UNESCO site visits.
Can I dine anytime?
Open-seating dining means you can dine whenever you wish during operating hours. Specialty restaurants require reservations.
What is an AzAmazing Evening®?
A complimentary event hosted on most voyages — such as private performances in historic venues — that showcase local culture.
Does Azamara sail to remote destinations?
Yes, their small size allows them to reach remote ports like Komodo Island, Iceland’s fjords, and the Greek Isles.
Is Wi-Fi free on Azamara?
Wi-Fi is available at an additional cost, although some promotions may include it.
