azamara cruise lines

Best Azamara Cruises

Read Best Cruises Methodology

Find Cruises

Call to plan a cruise: 1-833-468-6732

with a cruise advisor

Azamara Pursuit

Comparable in size and available amenities to its older sister ships,  Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey , Azamara Pursuit launched in August 2018 and was last refurbished in 2021. With a maximum capacity of 702 guests and 408 crew members, Azamara Pursuit maintains a low crew-to-passenger ratio, guaranteeing individualized service for travelers.

Pursuit boasts plenty of dining variety across its seven restaurants and cafes, from an Italian-inspired specialty restaurant to an alfresco grill with a grab-and-go frozen yogurt station. Other onboard features include a pool, a spa, a fitness center, a library, multiple lounges and retail shops.

The ship's staterooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, minibars and 24-hour room service, plus extra perks, such as welcome fruit baskets and turndown treats. Meanwhile, suite guests enjoy even more extras, including 240 minutes of free internet access, complimentary seating in the ship's specialty restaurants and butler service.

No matter the cabin class, all Azamara passengers on cruises lasting seven or more nights receive complimentary access to one cultural experience in port, known as AzAmazing Evenings.

Azamara Pursuit's itineraries feature stops across Europe, South America and the Mediterranean. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: If relaxing with a good book is part of your cruise fun, the Azamara Pursuit’s Drawing Room is the destination. Bring your own reading material or browse the onboard library collection. Enjoy comfortable seating in a cozy atmosphere at this quiet refuge aboard the ship. – Angela Minor, Contributor

Azamara Onward

Formerly Princess Cruises ' Pacific Princess, Azamara Onward made its debut under the Azamara  brand in May 2022 after an extensive refurbishment. With a maximum capacity of 684 passengers and 408 crew members, the ship has a low crew-to-passenger ratio. Past passengers have said the ship provides great service thanks to the ample amount of staff on board. 

Onward features five dining venues – including two specialty eateries – offering cruisers a variety of dining options, from vegetarian cuisines to steak and seafood. The ship also boasts several bars and lounges, including Atlas Bar, which is exclusive to Onward. Atlas Bar offers artisanal cocktails inspired by the destinations the ship visits. Onward also features retail shops, a fitness center and a spa. 

As far as accommodations go, staterooms are equipped with 40-inch flat-screen TVs, 24-hour room service and USB ports to charge your devices. Past cruisers have mentioned they wish the staterooms were a little more spacious.  Suite guests receive extra perks such as 240 minutes of complimentary internet access, English butler service and complimentary in-room spirits. 

No matter the cabin class, all Azamara passengers on cruises lasting seven or more nights can enjoy one complimentary cultural experience in port, known as AzAmazing Evenings. Through this program, travelers can visit the ruins of Pompeii on a Mediterranean cruise or learn the importance of biblical sites on a tour of Galilee and the town of Nazareth. 

Azamara Onward's itineraries feature stops across the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, the Mediterranean, the Panama Canal, the South Pacific and Australia.   

Azamara Quest

Like its sister ship, the  Azamara Journey , Quest appeals to travelers seeking an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. According to recent cruisers, the 702-passenger vessel is small enough to provide individualized service (thanks to its excellent crew-to-passenger ratio) but large enough to offer seven dining venues, including two specialty restaurants. The ship underwent a refurbishment in 2021; the remodel added modern amenities, furnishings and European linens. There are now a number of large staterooms and suites with verandas, so guests can get picturesque views while sailing.

The ship's staterooms include flat-screen TVs, minibars and 24-hour room service. Suites offer additional perks, such as 240 free internet minutes and complimentary seating at the ship's specialty dining restaurants. Cruisers can also spend time at the spa and fitness facilities, which previous passengers described as modern and comfortable.

Onboard entertainment includes seminars and wine tastings, among other enrichment programs. At night, passengers can sip cocktails in The Den lounge. On top of all that, itineraries that are seven or more nights include a complimentary night experiencing local culture in a port, known as AzAmazing Evenings.

Azamara Quest's itineraries feature stops across the Mediterranean, Europe, Africa and South America. 

Azamara Journey

The 702-passenger Azamara Journey   attracts travelers who like large-ship amenities and enriching onboard programs (think a guest lecture series, culinary demonstrations and sommelier-led wine tastings) without the crowds. Plus, with 408 crew members on board, Journey offers a higher level of personalization than a megaship. While staterooms are appointed with minibars, flat-screen TVs and modern decor, suites include extras such as 240 free internet minutes and complimentary seating in the ship's specialty dining restaurants. 

Cruisers have plenty of food options to choose from, including seven restaurants, cafes and lounges – all of which recent guests praise. Journey also offers a vegan menu for passengers who follow a plant-based diet. The ship offers a complimentary cultural immersion program on sailings of seven or more nights (known as AzAmazing Evenings), entertainment options like live theatre shorts and Broadway entertainment, a spa and a fitness center. Journey was revitalized in early 2016 to include updated technology and a refreshed interior. 

Azamara Journey sails to multiple ports across the world, from the Middle East to Europe to the Caribbean.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Discover a variety of ports of call on the Azamara Journey, which creates a destination immersion experience. Itineraries include famous destinations combined with stops at lesser-known ports, often with an overnight stay along the way. – Angela Minor, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Review: Azamara Onward

Reviewed by Ramsey Qubein

What is the line? Azamara

Name of ship? Onward

Passenger occupancy? 684

Itinerary? Monte Carlo to Ravenna and Bologna, Italy

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for? Azamara’s distinction is that its fleet of four smaller ships can visit less-frequented ports and stay longer in port, sometimes even overnight. Appealing to travelers who have sailed to the big destinations, Azamara ships instead explore places like Zadar, Croatia, and Brindisi, Italy. I discovered that locals in these ports were especially excited to see cruise ships visiting—sometimes they would be at the port to wave as the ship sailed away. Azamara also offers several late-evening departures on each itinerary, which allows people to have dinner in town or take longer excursions during the day. For example, we stayed later in Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), since it is a possible stop on the itinerary and quite far from the port.

What you won’t find on Azamara is formality and an air of “stuffiness.” This is the line for those that appreciate the good things in life, but also don’t want to overpay for services they don’t value. In other words: You can leave the tuxedo at home, but you’ll still be able to enjoy that glass of top-label bubbly in style.

Tell us about the ship in general Built in 1999, this ship spent most of its time serving for Princess Cruises before joining its three other (nearly identical) sister ships with Azamara. It underwent significant renovation in 2022 and also introduced some new concepts to the cruise line. The former library and card room is now a lounge serving craft cocktails made with all the verve and panache of a big-city bar. It’s a chic space that has passengers on board buzzing (literally and figuratively). The look of public areas is Old World, with mahogany wood furnishings, colorful carpeting, brass fixtures, and an elegance you might find on one of the original ocean liners. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t contemporary spaces, too, like the dining rooms and the pool deck with live music.

Who is onboard? Azamara passengers are generally in their 50s or older; many are retired and travel frequently. Interestingly, despite the fact that Azamara has only four ships, fellow passengers are incredibly loyal and sail with the brand on most of their cruises. When asked why they keep coming back, the answer is clear: It’s all about the smaller ports, the casual luxury without the fuss, excellent repeat cruiser deals, and staff who remember you year after year. In fact, when I boarded, several fellow passengers were running up to crew members, giving them big hugs and asking about their families. It immediately set the tone that small-ship cruising is something special.

Describe the cabins This is an older vessel, and it’s hard to fix the “bones” of a ship, even with a remodel. As a result, cabins can seem compact, but there is still enough space for a sofa and desk in the corner. Beds are really comfortable with cushioned mattresses, plump pillows, and a duvet. The ship has inside cabins, standard window cabins facing outward, some with balconies, and several suite categories.

My Balcony cabin provided the perfect place to enjoy room service breakfast or watch the scenery. The cabins can seem dim with their dark color scheme, but there are plentiful USB ports for charging devices as well as power outlets by the desk. I liked how the bottled water was replenished twice a day, and the refrigerator, stocked with minibar items, still had space for me to store snacks I bought on shore. The petite bathrooms are functional, with shelf space and plenty of towels; the showers, however, are small, and the curtains feel a bit “old school.” I found the water pressure to be excellent though.

Taking a peek into the suite categories on another hallway, I noticed a more modern sensibility. Premium cabins and suites enjoy butler service and other bonuses like afternoon tea brought via trolley to the room each day, complimentary laundry and minibar options, and larger bathrooms with tubs. For those who want more space and appreciate modern design, these are a good choice. While the cabins aren’t the most modern at sea, they offer everything you need. If you’re looking for the maximum amount of space, book the Club World Owner's Suites, which have separate living and sleeping areas. Act fast as they book up months—and sometimes years—in advance.

Tell us about the crew Repeat Azamara passengers will tell you that there is one thing that keeps them coming back: the crew. With 408 staff members on board, the service never lacks for anything with a ratio of one crew member for almost every two passengers.

What food and drink options are available on board? There are seven dining options on Azamara Onward. At the main dining room, Discoveries, guests can enjoy a la carte dishes throughout the day, from a menu that often takes inspiration from specialties from the destination. The dining room is open seating, and all meals come with complimentary wine, beer, and spirits. Impressively, there is a rotating vegetarian and vegan menu that mirrors many of the locally inspired dishes on the main menu. These plant-based dishes are part of the line’s overall redesign of its food program, taking into account guests’ changing preferences. I’m mostly vegetarian myself, and I liked that I had so many options beyond a boring pasta dish, as is common on other lines.

My personal favorite, though, is Windows Cafe. As its name suggests, it is wrapped with windows on one of the top decks, and there is an outdoor dining area. Buffets include fresh salads, pizza, sandwiches made to order, a carving station, and local and international choices. Each evening, the menu carries a different theme, from Thai to Mexican to Indian. This is a more casual way to enjoy dinner at your own pace, and you have great views from almost every seat. There’s also a pool grill making burgers and grilled dishes in addition to a salad bar.

The two specialty restaurants are Aqualina for Italian fare and Prime C, which focuses on top-shelf steak and seafood dishes. Both have a modest surcharge, but it’s nice to have additional options on a longer cruise. There is also a charge for the premium beverage package, but there is always complimentary wine, beer, and select spirits on offer. That seemed to be enough for most of the people I chatted with during my sailing.

One of my favorite evening rituals on the cruise was heading to The Living Room on the top deck at the front of the ship to enjoy tapas and a glass of wine. Bands perform here before dinner and later in the evening. This is where most guests go for a nightcap, and on some evenings, the dance floor got pretty busy.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting? Yes, and it’s the real deal. From massage and beauty treatments to a hair salon and even acupuncture, this is one of the most popular places on the ship. There is a sauna in the changing rooms; a separate plunge pool and sun deck are reserved for guests in premium cabins. A personal trainer is on hand in the fitness center, and there are also several yoga and fitness classes on offer throughout the cruise. While I didn’t work out often, the windows provided motivation to burn some calories, especially on the sea days.

Activities and entertainment Instead of Broadway-style shows, Azamara’s entertainment team is on the small side. But, they have big personality and talent, as evidenced by their evening performances. There are also visiting entertainers like comedians and musicians each evening, and DJs and bands sometimes play by the pool. Other than the jogging track or occasional activities like card games and handicraft activities, there isn’t much else in the way of onboard diversions. And that’s the way guests like it, choosing instead to relax with a book, play a game of shuffleboard, take a dip in the pool, or make conversation with fellow passengers. Don’t miss afternoon tea each day, and the occasional wine or Champagne tastings.

How was the experience for families? Children are a rare sight on Azamara, but occasionally, multi-generational families travel together. But this is not the cruise line for young travelers that cannot entertain themselves.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out? The ship had a perfect position in Monte Carlo to capitalize on views. My favorite ports, however, were the smaller ones, like Zadar and Sibenik in Croatia. I was unfamiliar with both cities, but quickly fell in love with their Old Towns, seafront promenades, and the welcoming people who were eager to ask about our ship and itinerary. In Italy, the southern city of Brindisi was my favorite stop, since it was a new destination for me. In all three cities, I chose to wander on my own, and the onboard concierge always had a convenient map with directions on how to best explore each place.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise? In addition to teaming up with the World Wildlife Fund, the cruise line is working to assure that shore-excursion partners also operate sustainable businesses. The line works to source ingredients like fruit and seafood locally, rather than flying it in from far-flung destinations.

Anything we missed Azamara offers several special events on every cruise that are complimentary for all guests. For the AzAmazing Evening, every passenger receives an invitation to a special event on shore; on my sailing, we attended an outdoor opera and aperitif tasting in an Italian fort near Rome. It was truly special. There is also a White Night buffet on the pool deck with all kinds of food stations and live music. Guests are encouraged to don all white and dance the night away. Since my sailing, Azamara has announced they want to do more of these events on every sailing, including bringing local performers on board while the ships are in port.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking. With Azamara, you can expect visits to interesting ports, more time on shore, and complimentary experiences that are hard to recreate yourself, like the AzAmazing Evening I had in an old fort near Rome. If you have been wanting to try a small-ship cruise, but prefer not to pay the hefty prices of the bigger luxury names, this is a great stepping stone that bridges the gap between mainstream and upscale cruising.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Azamara Cruises
• Azamara Cruises from California
• Azamara Cruises from Florida
• Azamara Cruises from Anchorage
• Azamara Cruises from Miami
• Azamara Cruises from Seward
• Azamara Cruises from San Juan
• Azamara Cruises from Vancouver
• Azamara Cruises from London
• Azamara Cruises from Barcelona
• Azamara Cruises from Venice
• Azamara Cruises from Amsterdam
• Azamara Cruises from Lisbon
• Azamara Cruises from Athens
• Azamara Cruises from Copenhagen
• Azamara Cruises from Civitavecchia
• Azamara Cruises from Sydney
• Azamara Cruises from Hong Kong
• Azamara Cruises from Singapore
• Azamara Cruises from Dubai
• Azamara Cruises from Auckland
• Azamara Cruises to Caribbean
• Azamara Cruises to Barbados
• Azamara Cruises to Puerto Rico
• Azamara Cruises to San Juan
• Azamara Cruises to St. Lucia
• Azamara Cruises to St Martin / St Maarten
• Azamara Cruises to France
• Azamara Cruises to Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur
• Azamara Cruises to Spain
• Azamara Cruises to Catalonia
• Azamara Cruises to Barcelona
• Azamara Cruises to Italy
• Azamara Cruises to Campania
• Azamara Cruises to Lazio
• Azamara Cruises to Taormina
• Azamara Cruises to The Netherlands
• Azamara Cruises to Portugal
• Azamara Cruises to Lisbon
• Azamara Cruises to Croatia
• Azamara Cruises to Russia
• Luxury Azamara Cruises
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Azamara Journey Deck Plans & Reviews

Azamara Journey

Activities & entertainment

• Dance Classes
• Enrichment Lectures
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes
• Hot Tubs (2)
• Jogging Track
• Shuffle Board
• The Drawing Room
• The Sanctum Spa *
• The Sanctum Spa Terrace *
• Cabaret Lounge
• Live Nightly Music
• Onboard Movie Screenings
• The Patio - Casual
• Windows Café - Casual
• Discoveries Bar - Clubby Bar
• Spirits - Cocktail Bar
• Mosaic Café - Coffee Bar
• Discoveries Restaurant - International
• Aqualina Specialty Dining - italian *
• Swirl & Top - Low-fat Yogurt
• Pool Bar - Pool Bar
• Sunset Bar - Pool Bar
• Prime C Specialty Dining - Steakhouse *
• The Living Room - Tapas
• Excellent 29
• Very Good 13
• Terrible 11
• All languages ( 72 )
• English ( 70 )
• German ( 1 )
• Spanish ( 1 )

Upcoming itineraries

Azamara Cruises Launches New 2025 and 2026 Voyages

• April 14, 2024

Azamara Cruises announced its newest itineraries for 2025 and 2026, including new ports of call and a 79-night voyage that circumnavigates South America, according to a statement. 

“We’re thrilled to be bringing our guests to 8 new ports of call in 2025 and 2026, from Scarborough, capital of the small island of Tobago, to Pointe des Galets on the beautiful French island of Réunion,” said Michael Pawlus, head of itinerary planning at Azamara Cruises.

“As longer trips continue to trend with our guests, we’ve also added a Grand Voyage that brings guests all the way around South America and Caribbean sailings that guests can combine for more immersive island travel without any days at sea.”

The 79-night Grand Voyage sails roundtrip from Miami exploring destinations all around South America. Guests looking for longer itineraries can also book back-to-back Caribbean sailings to spend up to 14 days exploring each Caribbean island with 0 days at sea.

Azamara’s new ports of call for 2025 and 2026 itineraries include:

• Santa Marta, Colombia
• Maizuru, Japan
• St. Pierre, Martinique
• Celukan Bawang, Bali, Indonesia

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Azamara Cruises ship

For a line with just a few ships, Azamara Cruises offers a wide range of itineraries.

The Miami-based brand's four nearly identical vessels — Azamara Quest, Azamara Pursuit, Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward — are often on the move from continent to continent to offer an ever-changing array of sailings to many of the world's most famous destinations.

These include at least a few (and sometimes a lot of) sailings every year in Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Australia and Africa.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Now, Azamara also is offering lengthy world cruises that include a near-complete circling of the globe, with one scheduled for 2024 and another set for 2025.

Among its many offerings, Azamara has a particularly large footprint in Europe, with all four of its vessels spending at least some time each year in the region. Nearly two-thirds of all itineraries listed on Azamara's schedule are to the Mediterranean, the Baltic and Northern Europe.

The line also sends at least one of its ships every year to Asia and Australia for a stay lasting a few months, and it offers several cruises each year along the coasts of South America and around South Africa.

Azamara's deployment to North America is relatively light, as the brand focuses more on destinations representing farther-from-home trips for Americans. The line has just three cruises scheduled in the Caribbean for the next year.

Azamara ships sail everything from short, four-night cruises along the French Riviera to 155-night globe-circling voyages. But unlike mass-market lines, the company does not offer many sailings of six or fewer nights. Between now and late 2025, the line has only six shorter voyages on its schedule.

Here are our picks for the five best Azamara cruise destinations.

The Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is the big focus for Azamara, accounting for about half of all departures on its schedule.

Most of Azamara's Mediterranean trips range from seven to 16 nights, although it occasionally offers shorter voyages. These itineraries include sailings focused specifically on the Western Mediterranean or Eastern Mediterranean and some that include stops across both.

Typical of the latter is the line's nine-night Islands of the Med itinerary from Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens) to Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome). The one-way sailing includes stops in Turkey, Crete, Malta, Italy and France.

Azamara is particularly known for offering Mediterranean sailings that focus intensively on a single country. The line's eight-night Croatia Intensive Voyage, for instance, offers four calls in Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split, Sibenik and Zadar), as well as a single stop in nearby Montenegro.

In the Mediterranean, the line's main hubs are Piraeus; Civitavecchia; Istanbul; Chioggia and Fusina, Italy (both near Venice); Barcelona; and Nice, France.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruises for every type of traveler

Northern and Western Europe

While not as big for Azamara as the Mediterranean, the overlapping regions of Northern Europe and Western Europe account for a significant portion of the line's sailings during the summer months.

From June to early September, the line offers a dozen or more departures across the two regions that last from seven to 17 nights. Azamara typically doesn't offer short cruises in the region.

Some sailings focus on the Baltic region with stops in multiple countries. Typical of this sort of sailing is the line's 15-night Baltic Intensive itinerary out of Copenhagen, which includes port calls in Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland and Sweden.

Related: The ultimate guide to Azamara cruise ships and itineraries

But, as in the Mediterranean, Azamara also is known for sailings in Northern Europe and Western Europe that focus heavily on a single country. The line offers an 11-night France Intensive voyage, for instance, that visits six different destinations across northern and western France. A 13-night Spain Intensive itinerary is similarly focused.

For Northern Europe and Western Europe cruises, Azamara uses a wide variety of ports as hubs, including Dublin; Southampton, England; Bordeaux, France; Amsterdam; and Oslo, Norway.

South Africa

Azamara is one of a handful of major cruise lines that sends a vessel to South Africa every winter for sailings along the country's coast.

In most cases, the voyages — all out of Cape Town — are 12 nights in length, though Azamara sometimes offers slightly longer voyages in the region. They typically focus almost exclusively on South African ports and allow for excursions to many of South Africa's most famous wildlife sanctuaries.

A typical 12-night sailing in the region, for instance, will call at the South African ports of Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban, East London and Mossel Bay, plus a single call outside of South Africa at Maputo, Mozambique.

The trips usually take place between December and February.

Related: Guide to Azamara Cruises' Azamara Circle loyalty program

Additionally, Azamara usually offers longer sailings between the Canary Islands off the coast of West Africa and Cape Town at the start and end of its South Africa cruise season. The trips typically last 18 nights and include stops in Senegal, Gambia and Namibia along the African coast, as well as the British-controlled island of St. Helena.

Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Azamara usually sends one of its four ships to Asia, Australia and New Zealand every winter for sailings out of such cities as Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney and Auckland, New Zealand.

The line also typically sends a second ship on an around-the-world cruise during the winter that includes segments in Asia, Australia and New Zealand, resulting in two of the line's ships sailing in the region. (See more on Azamara's world cruises below.)

In both cases, the vessels offer a relatively wide mix of itineraries, never staying in the same region for too many voyages in a row.

Typical of the Asia itineraries Azamara has on its schedule for the next two years is a 15-night voyage between Hong Kong and Singapore with multiple stops in both Vietnam and Thailand.

A typical Australia and New Zealand cruise is a 14- to 16-night trip focusing heavily on New Zealand. A 16-night itinerary offered by the line includes stops at eight places in New Zealand: Bay of Islands, Napier, Tauranga, Wellington, Nelson, Picton, Christchurch and Dunedin. A visit to New Zealand's Milford Sound is also on the schedule, as is a visit to the Australian island state of Tasmania and Eden, Australia.

Related: Everything you need to know about Azamara Cruises cabins and suites

Longer itineraries that combine visits to Asia, Australia and New Zealand into a single sailing include a 21-night voyage from Sydney to Hong Kong. This sailing includes stops in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Palau and the Philippines.

Azamara typically offers one world cruise each year, and it's often one of the longest and most destination-intensive world cruises offered by any line.

For both 2024 and 2025, for instance, Azamara is sending one of its four ships on a voyage around the world lasting more than five months — specifically, in both cases, 155 nights. That's more than 40 nights longer than the world cruises offered by several of Azamara's competitors (though not as long as the epic world cruises offered by one of Azamara's closest competitors, Oceania Cruises ).

Both of Azamara's upcoming world cruises include a nearly full circling of the world, but they are not true around-the-world sailings.

Kicking off on Jan. 5, 2024, in Fort Lauderdale, the 2024 world voyage brings a westbound routing that includes calls in North America, South America, Australia, Asia and Europe before ending on June 9, 2024, in Barcelona.

Related: 10 epic around-the-world cruises that will check off all your bucket list travel destinations

Azamara's 2025 world voyage begins on Jan. 6, 2025, in San Diego and follows a westward route across the Pacific to Australia, Asia and Europe before ending on June 11, 2025, in Southampton.

Bottom line

Despite its small size, Azamara offers a diverse array of itineraries in cruise destinations around the world, from North America to Asia. You'll find the most choices among Azamara itineraries in Europe, followed by Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Africa and South America. The line also offers some of the longest, most destination-intensive world cruises in the business.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your 1st cruise

• Cruise Lines

Azamara Cruises

Cruise search.

About Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises are an upscale vacation experience for guests who dream of immersing themselves in new and exceptional cruise destinations. Bespoke itineraries feature longer visits in each port, more overnight stays and exclusive events. Local cultures are celebrated and deeper insight is gained of the wonderful places visited throughout each journey. These exciting itineraries can often be combined with unique overland packages which are rarely offered by other cruise lines.

Azamara is able to truly focus on destinations, in part, because their ships are smaller they are able to get into many ports inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Captivating onboard enrichment programs are specifically designed to further enhance each guest's cruise experience. Destination experts provide lively and informative lectures, classes and programs covering a wide variety of relevant topics.

With a maximum of 700 guests, Azamara's ships provide an intimate cruise experience. Impeccable service, gourmet dining and a warm and inviting atmosphere are among the many pleasures awaiting travelers.

Suites and staterooms are serene and polished, the perfect foundation for sweet dreams. Plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, wireless internet access, flat screen televisions and many other amenities are among the indulgences waiting for guests.

Azamara's fine regional cuisine and world-class wine cellars will delight even the most particular palates. Guests will discover their perfect food for every mood and port. Haute cuisine, comfort food, healthy choices and decadent desserts are all on the various menus. Sommeliers will gladly introduce you to the perfect pairings and global vintages both during your meals and Wine Corner gatherings. Whether you choose to dine in the main restaurant with open seating or one of the specialty restaurants, every meal is a culinary masterpiece. Vegans will be thrilled with the menu just for them!

Challenge yourself and others in various tournaments including darts and trivia. Brush up on your skills with an Art or Bridge Instructor, take an e-learning class such as digital photography or kick up your heels at a line dancing class. Self-care is incredibly important, focus on your overall wellbeing with a selection of pampering services in Azamara's world class Sanctum Spa. Take your health routine to the next level group fitness classes including sunset yoga on deck, Pilates and cycling as well as nutrition classes, personal training and more.

Call now or book online to receive exclusive rates, special deals and extra amenities on your next Azamara cruise.

Featured Azamara Cruise Deals

• Azamara Pursuit

• Azamara Quest

• Azamara Onward

Azamara Cruise Ship Profiles, Deck Plans and Public Areas

• Azamara Journey

Azamara Cruise Highlights

Amenities The amenities of an Azamara Cruise abound. All guests boarding an Azamara cruise will receive complimentary gratuities, specialty coffee and teas, bottle water and soft drinks, transfer shuttles in ports where available, wine with lunch and dinner, and an onboard concierge. Suite guests will also receive complimentary dining in the specialty restaurants and butler service in their suites.

Destinations Unique destinations are truly a strong suit of Azamara. They include many ports where other cruise lines simply do not call on. When designing their itineraries, Azamara includes longer stays and many more overnights. The goal is to allow guests to really immerse themselves into a city, to learn its culture and its history, sample local foods and discover many of the hidden treasures that await them.

Shore Excursions The destinations are everything on an Azamara cruise. The shore excursion programs offered by Azamara allow guests to embrace each port in-depth by taking them to the heart of each port, exploring local cultures, savoring exotic flavors and redefining the way one views the world.

Gourmet Dining Dining onboard Azamara is a culinary delight. The gourmet menus include classic favorites combined with regional favorites. Guests can choose to dine in the main restaurant with open seating or in one of Azamara's specialty restaurants, Aqualina, inspired by the cuisine of Italy, or Prime C, serving prime beef and fresh seafood.

Intimate Ships Azamara's beautiful and intimate ships, Azamara Journey, Azamara Onward, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Quest each accommodate 702 guests or fewer. Their size is perfectly suited to provide guests with direct access to smaller and unique ports. An immersive cruise experience, country-club ambiance and impeccable service are evident from the moment you board. These ships exude sophisticated style and are brimming with luxurious amenities, desired services and delightful spaces that seamlessly provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Enrichment Programs Azamara's onboard enrichment programs further enhance the opportunities for guests to make the most of the ports that they visit. Each port is highlighted by a destination expert providing in-depth knowledge highlighting the history, culture, cuisine, etiquette, art and more. Throughout the cruise the guests can also polish their skills in other areas such as digital photography, Microsoft classes and more.

Special Cruise Offers

Royal Caribbean Cruises 60% OFF ALL Guests + Kids Sail FREE + FREE GRATUITIES OR Onboard Credit

Norwegian Cruises Up to 5 FREE Offers + Up to $1,700 Cash Back

Holland America Cruises 50% OFF Signature Beverage Package, Specialty Dining, Shore Excursions & Wi-Fi

Princess Cruises: FREE GRATUITIES + FREE Beverage Package + FREE Wi-Fi +

Celebrity Cruises 3 FREE Amenities + Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Featured Cruise Deals

Other cruise options.

• Last Minute Cruise Deals
• View Land Tours
• View Golf Vacations
• Shop by Destination
• Shop by Cruise Line
• Cruise From Port Near You
• Holiday Sailings
• Luxury Cruises

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER SAVINGS

• Forgot Password?

Often cruise lines offer special rates that cannot be displayed to the general public. By registering with Cruise.com you will be able to view these special rates and offers.

Register with Cruise.com to get access to:

• Exclusive Rates
• Special Amenities

Login to Your Account

There was an error! Please re-enter your credentials and try submitting the form again.

Reset Your Password

Please enter the email associated with your account so that we may send you a link to reset your password.

An email was sent to the address provided with instructions on how to reset your password.

Oops! There was an error with the email you provided.

Guide to Azamara Cruises’ Azamara Circle loyalty program

MSN has partnered with The Points Guy for our coverage of credit card products. MSN and The Points Guy may receive a commission from card issuers.

Like most cruise lines, Azamara Cruises has a branded loyalty program, Azamara Circle, which allows frequent cruisers to maximize their travel investment by earning points for each night they sail with the brand. As passengers earn points, they move up the ranks of five loyalty tiers, earning additional perks and amenities — including onboard discounts, free cruise nights and access to exclusive parties.

This article breaks down the program, from earning points to what each loyalty level offers and which cabin category bookings will allow you to punch above your weight in terms of perks.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s  cruise newsletter.

Ways to earn points

Azamara’s points-earning system is fairly straightforward. The line has eight cabin categories, each of which earns passengers a certain number of points per night they cruise.

• Club Interior (2 points)
• Club Oceanview (3 points)
• Club Veranda (5 points)
• Club Veranda Plus (6 points)
• Club Continent Suites (8 points)
• Club Spa (18 points)
• Club Ocean (18 points)
• Club World Owner’s Suites (18 points)

Note that the number of points you’ll receive depends on the cabin category you booked rather than the category you end up with. If you’re upgraded to a higher-level cabin, you won’t receive a higher number of points.

Because Azamara’s ships do not have accommodations for solo cruisers , anyone traveling alone must pay two cruise fares, as all cabins are designed for double occupancy. Therefore, all solo passengers will receive double points for each night of their voyage.

Program tiers and benefits

There are five tiers in the Azamara Circle loyalty program:

• Adventurer (1-149 points)
• Explorer (150-299 points)
• Discoverer (300-749 points)
• Discoverer Plus (750-2,999)
• Discoverer Platinum (3,000-plus points)

Adventurer is the easiest level to obtain, as you reach it after just one sailing, meaning your benefits will kick in on your second voyage. (To enroll, you must create an account with Azamara.)

All loyalty tiers receive 10% off select voyages once per quarter, free internet minutes based on tier level, discounts and upgrades on Hertz car rentals, the services of a loyalty ambassador and onboard host, a members-only happy hour on each sailing, exclusive email updates, future cruise credits of $300 per cabin for each referral who books with the line and beverage package discounts. Additional perks and specifics for each tier are below.

Unlike the first level of most other cruise lines’ loyalty programs, cruisers at the Adventurer level earn some valuable savings in addition to the ones already mentioned:

• 5% off future cruises booked on board
• Savings on future voyages in the form of up to $300 in onboard credit (when  you book future cruises on board during the first half of your cruise) and a 50% reduced deposit
• 30 free minutes of Wi-Fi or 20% off an unlimited internet package (more if staying in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart below)
• 10% off signature spa treatments
• 5% discount on the line’s Ultimate Beverage Package

Many other cruise lines reward passengers with free cruises only after they have reached the highest loyalty tier. However, Azamara begins awarding free cruise nights to passengers when they hit the Explorer level and each subsequent level thereafter. That means passengers can enjoy further savings on top of percentage discounts when they book cruises from Explorer level onward.

Cruisers can reach Explorer level in as few as nine nights (or five nights if traveling solo) if they stay in one of the three top-level cabin types. Explorer perks include:

• Two free cruise nights (must redeem within 12 months on sailings of seven nights or longer)
• Savings on future voyages in the form of up to $300 in onboard credit (when you book future cruises on board during the first half of your cruise) and a 50% reduced deposit
• 60 free minutes of Wi-Fi or 35% off an unlimited internet package (more if staying in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart below)
• Free laundry service for one bag of items per cabin per seven-night sailing (two bags if booked in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart below)
• 15% off signature spa treatments
• 10% discount on the line’s Ultimate Beverage Package

You can attain the Discoverer tier after 17 nights (or nine nights if traveling solo) in one of the three highest-level cabins. Discoverer-level cruisers receive:

• Four free cruise nights (must redeem within 12 months on sailings of seven nights or longer)
• 6% off future cruises booked on board
• 90 free minutes of Wi-Fi or 50% off an unlimited internet package (more if staying in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart below)
• 20% off signature spa treatments
• 15% discount on the line’s Ultimate Beverage Package
• Priority check-in at select ports
• Exclusive onboard get-together

Each level of the loyalty program is entitled to free Wi-Fi minutes, depending on tier level. However, those staying in Club Veranda Plus cabins or higher will receive more, based on a combination of cabin type and loyalty level, according to the following chart — even if they’ve only reached Adventurer status.

Additionally, passengers at Explorer level or higher will receive two bags of complimentary laundry service if booked in any of the cabin categories listed on the chart below.

Royal Caribbean Group sold Azamara to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm based in New York, in early 2021. Effective Feb. 1, 2023, the line’s loyalty program is no longer reciprocal with those of former sister brands Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises .

The elite level that makes a difference

The Discoverer Plus level is one that spans the largest number of points, making it the first level at which cruisers can earn enough to take a weeklong sailing almost completely free. Six nights are awarded when this level is first reached, along with three additional nights at 1,500 points and another three at 2,250 points.

Azamara Circle members at this level are entitled to:

• Six free cruise nights, plus three additional nights at 1,500 points and 2,250 points (must redeem within 12 months on sailings of seven nights or longer)
• 7% off future cruises booked on board
• 120 free minutes of Wi-Fi or 75% off an unlimited internet package (more if staying in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart above)
• Free laundry service for one bag of items per cabin per seven-night sailing (two bags if booked in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart above)
• 25% off signature spa treatments
• 20% discount on the line’s Ultimate Beverage Package

Best elite perk

Discoverer Platinum is Azamara Circle’s highest level of loyalty. It’s the only tier that, when reached, rewards cruisers with enough nights for a completely complimentary sailing of at least a week in length. However, apart from the initial four additional free cruise nights, free Wi-Fi and an extra 5% discount on the Ultimate Beverage Package, this tier doesn’t offer much that’s different from what you’ll receive at the Discoverer Plus level.

Discoverer Platinum amenities are:

• 10 free cruise nights, plus three additional nights every 750 points after reaching Discoverer Platinum status (must redeem within 12 months on sailings of seven nights or longer)
• 10% off future cruises booked on board
• 150 free minutes of Wi-Fi or a free unlimited internet package (more if staying in a Club Veranda Plus cabin category or higher; see chart above)
• 25% discount on the line’s Ultimate Beverage Package

Bottom line

Because Azamara is a premium line, it’s no surprise that its loyalty program offers passengers quite a bit more discounts and opportunities to earn free cruise nights than mainstream lines.

There are marked differences between Azamara Circle tiers, but cruisers hit the sweet spots when they achieve at least the Discoverer Plus level.

Because joining the program requires minimal work — just a registration — there’s no reason not to join, as the perks can add up over time, especially if you plan to cruise with Azamara regularly.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act, and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What’s a cruise cabin guarantee, and will it save you money?
• What’s the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise news
• Cruise Industry

Azamara introduces maiden ports in 2025-2026 winter cruises

Azamara Cruises has unveiled its winter sailings for 2025 and 2026, introducing visits to 8 maiden ports and lesser-known destinations accessible only to smaller ships.

The new itineraries by Azamara feature a Grand Voyage that circumnavigates South America, along with back-to-back Caribbean sailings eliminating any sea days. Each sailing includes multiple Extended Destination Days, allowing travelers ample time for exploration without feeling hurried.

Responding to guest preferences for longer trips, Azamara offers a 79-night Grand Voyage commencing and concluding in Miami Florida , offering immersive experiences across South America. Additionally, the Caribbean itineraries prioritize port days, enabling guests to book consecutive sailings and spend up to 14 days discovering the vibrant cultures of each Caribbean island with no days at sea.

Among the maiden ports on Azamara's 2025 and 2026 itineraries are:

Santa Marta, Colombia : Positioned between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, Santa Marta boasts colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and rich indigenous cultures.

Maizuru, Japan : Located along the scenic coast of Kyoto Prefecture, Maizuru served as a strategic naval base in the Meiji era. Today, visitors can explore its historical sites and museums, experiencing the diverse flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine against the backdrop of the Maizuru mountains.

St. Pierre, Martinique: Once devastated by a volcanic eruption in 1902, St. Pierre now features intriguing ruins, vibrant Creole culture, colorful architecture, and scenic coastal vistas.

Celukan Bawang, Bali, Indonesia : A picturesque port town, Celukan Bawang offers lush landscapes, tranquil beaches, and vibrant markets for exploration, providing travelers with a serene escape immersed in traditional Balinese culture.