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Who Owns Azamara Cruise Line

Published: January 5, 2024

by Pegeen Rey

Introduction

Azamara Cruise Line is a popular choice among travelers looking for an unforgettable cruise experience. With its commitment to providing luxury, personalized service, and immersive itineraries, Azamara has become a leading name in the world of cruising. This article will delve into the history of Azamara Cruise Line, explore its ownership, highlight its cruise ships and itineraries, discuss partnerships and alliances, and shed light on its future plans and expansion.

When it comes to cruising, Azamara stands out for its unique approach. The cruise line aims to create a boutique hotel-like experience on the high seas, catering to the discerning traveler seeking authentic and immersive experiences. From carefully crafted itineraries that span the globe to its commitment to exceptional service, Azamara is dedicated to going above and beyond to exceed guest expectations.

Azamara Cruise Line was founded in 2007, but its history can be traced back to a much earlier time. It emerged as a result of the Royal Caribbean Group’s effort to expand its presence in the luxury cruise market. The company saw an opportunity to create a cruise line that would differentiate itself by focusing on destination immersion and personalized experiences.

Since its inception, Azamara has carved a niche for itself by providing longer stays and overnight stays in ports, giving passengers the opportunity to explore each destination in-depth. This emphasis on destination immersion sets Azamara apart from other cruise lines, allowing guests to truly connect with the cultures, traditions, and people of the places they visit.

With its unique approach and dedication to customer satisfaction, Azamara Cruise Line has gained a loyal following of cruisers who appreciate its intimate ships, immersive itineraries, and outstanding service. In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the history, ownership, cruise ships and itineraries, partnerships, and future plans of Azamara Cruise Line.

History of Azamara Cruise Line

The history of Azamara Cruise Line dates back to 2007 when the Royal Caribbean Group decided to establish a new brand that would cater to the luxury cruise market. The company recognized a growing demand for cruise experiences that focused on destination immersion and personalized service, setting the stage for the birth of Azamara.

Azamara’s roots, however, can be traced back further to two other well-established cruise lines – Renaissance Cruises and Pullmantur Cruises. Renaissance Cruises, known for its small luxury ships, ceased operations in 2001. At the time, Royal Caribbean acquired eight of Renaissance’s vessels, two of which would later become part of Azamara’s fleet.

After acquiring the ships, Royal Caribbean proceeded to create a new brand that would embody the qualities it envisioned for a luxury cruise experience. In 2007, Azamara Club Cruises was launched, with the Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest as its initial ships.

Azamara set itself apart by offering longer stays in ports and overnight stays, allowing passengers to have a more immersive experience in each destination. The focus on destination immersion, combined with exceptional service, quickly gained the attention of travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic cruise experience.

In 2010, Azamara Club Cruises embarked on a rebranding phase to further refine its image and appeal. The company dropped the “Club” from its name and became simply Azamara, signaling its commitment to luxury and exclusivity.

Over the years, Azamara continued to expand its fleet and refine its itineraries, offering cruises to all corners of the globe. The cruise line introduced its third ship, the Azamara Pursuit, in 2018, further enhancing its capacity to cater to more passengers.

Under the leadership of its president and CEO, Carol Cabezas, Azamara focuses on delivering a personalized and intimate cruising experience. The company strives to create a sense of community onboard, fostering connections among passengers and crew members and ensuring that every guest feels valued and well-cared for throughout their journey.

Azamara has earned a reputation for its commitment to excellence, garnering numerous industry awards and accolades along the way. The cruise line’s dedication to offering unique itineraries and providing impeccable service has solidified its position as a top choice for luxury cruising enthusiasts.

Ownership of Azamara Cruise Line

Azamara Cruise Line is currently owned by Sycamore Partners, a leading private equity firm based in New York City. The acquisition of Azamara by Sycamore Partners took place in early 2021, marking a significant milestone in the cruise line’s history.

Prior to being owned by Sycamore Partners, Azamara Cruise Line was a subsidiary of the Royal Caribbean Group. The Royal Caribbean Group, one of the world’s largest cruise companies, is known for its portfolio of renowned cruise brands, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises.

The decision to sell Azamara to Sycamore Partners was driven by the Royal Caribbean Group’s strategic goals and focus on its core brands. By divesting Azamara, the Royal Caribbean Group aimed to streamline its operations and concentrate its efforts on its other cruise lines.

Sycamore Partners, known for its expertise in retail and consumer investments, saw the potential in Azamara Cruise Line and recognized the value of the brand. With its deep industry knowledge and proven track record of successful investments, Sycamore Partners saw an opportunity to further enhance and expand Azamara’s offerings.

With the transition to new ownership, Azamara Cruise Line continues to operate as a distinct brand, maintaining its focus on providing an exceptional luxury cruise experience. The change in ownership brings new opportunities for growth, investment, and innovation for the cruise line.

Under the leadership of Sycamore Partners, Azamara aims to build upon its strong foundation and solidify its position as a leading luxury cruise brand. The new ownership is committed to enhancing the guest experience, investing in the fleet, and expanding the range of itineraries and destinations.

Despite the change in ownership, Azamara continues to prioritize its core values of destination immersion, personalized service, and creating memorable experiences for its passengers. The cruise line remains dedicated to delivering exceptional service, captivating itineraries, and fostering a sense of community onboard.

As Azamara Cruise Line enters this new chapter under the ownership of Sycamore Partners, passengers can expect a continued commitment to excellence and an unwavering focus on creating unforgettable luxury cruise vacations.

Cruise Ships and Itineraries

Azamara Cruise Line offers a fleet of three intimate and luxurious ships: the Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, and Azamara Pursuit. These mid-sized vessels are designed to provide an intimate and comfortable cruising experience, accommodating between 690 and 777 passengers.

The ships of Azamara are renowned for their elegant design and a host of amenities that cater to the discerning traveler. From the spacious staterooms and suites to the variety of dining options and relaxing spa facilities, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to create a luxurious and memorable onboard experience.

Azamara Cruise Line offers a range of itineraries that span the globe, allowing passengers to explore fascinating destinations on different continents. The cruise line focuses on destination immersion, offering longer stays and overnight port visits to give passengers ample time to explore and experience the culture, history, and attractions of each location.

The itineraries of Azamara include popular destinations such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, South America, Asia , and the Pacific. Passengers can embark on a journey across the sparkling Mediterranean, visiting iconic cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Santorini. Alternatively, they can set sail for the picturesque fjords of Norway or the adventure-filled waters of Alaska , immersing themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

For those seeking exotic experiences, Azamara offers cruises to explore the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Asia, including destinations like Japan, Vietnam , and Indonesia. Passengers can also venture into the heart of South America, discovering the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru or exploring the vibrant cities of Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.

Azamara Cruise Line also offers themed cruises, catering to specific interests and passions. These include wine-themed voyages that take passengers through renowned wine regions, allowing them to indulge in tastings and vineyard visits. Additionally, there are culinary-focused cruises that provide the opportunity to savor local flavors and partake in cooking demonstrations led by renowned chefs.

Regardless of the itinerary chosen, Azamara ensures that guests have a seamless and enriching experience both on and off the ship. The cruise line is committed to curating unique shore excursions that offer authentic and immersive experiences, allowing passengers to connect with the local culture, history, and natural wonders of each destination.

With its fleet of intimate ships and diverse itineraries, Azamara Cruise Line offers a truly exceptional cruising experience, providing passengers with the opportunity to create cherished memories as they explore the world in style and luxury.

Partnerships and Alliances

Azamara Cruise Line has established strategic partnerships and alliances with various organizations to enhance the guest experience and offer unique opportunities both on and off the ship. These partnerships range from collaborations with renowned brands to affiliations with local communities in destination ports.

One notable partnership that Azamara has entered into is with PerryGolf, a leading provider of luxury golf travel experiences. Through this collaboration, Azamara offers immersive golf cruises that combine exceptional golfing opportunities with exceptional cruise experiences. Passengers have the chance to play at world-class golf courses in stunning destinations, all while enjoying Azamara’s luxury amenities and personalized service.

Azamara has also partnered with renowned travel companies to offer exclusive experiences and benefits to its passengers. For instance, through its partnership with Cox & Kings, a luxury travel company, Azamara offers access to unique pre-and-post cruise land tours, providing passengers with the opportunity to further explore the destinations they visit in greater depth.

Another partnership that enriches the guest experience is Azamara’s collaboration with World Wildlife Fund (WWF). As part of this alliance, Azamara promotes sustainable travel practices and supports WWF’s conservation efforts. Passengers can participate in onboard educational programs and initiatives that raise awareness about environmental protection and wildlife conservation.

Azamara Cruise Line has also formed alliances with local communities in destination ports to deliver authentic and immersive experiences for its guests. Through these partnerships, Azamara ensures that passengers have access to unique cultural events, local guides, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that showcase the true essence of each destination visited.

Furthermore, Azamara is a member of the Royal Caribbean Group’s family of brands and benefits from synergies with its sister companies. This partnership enables guests of Azamara to take advantage of shared resources and services, enhancing the overall cruise experience. For instance, passengers may have access to joint loyalty programs, shared amenities, and the ability to seamlessly transfer between different brands within the Royal Caribbean Group.

These partnerships and alliances reflect Azamara’s commitment to providing exceptional and enriching experiences for its guests. By collaborating with leading names in the industry and fostering relationships with local communities, Azamara Cruise Line ensures that passengers can immerse themselves in the destinations they visit and create lasting memories during their cruise journeys.

Future Plans and Expansion

Azamara Cruise Line has exciting plans for future growth and expansion to further enhance its offerings and meet the evolving needs and desires of its passengers. Under the new ownership of Sycamore Partners, Azamara is focused on building a brighter future for the cruise line.

One of the key areas of focus for Azamara’s future plans is fleet enhancement and modernization. The cruise line is committed to investing in its current ships and exploring opportunities to add new vessels to its fleet. This will allow Azamara to expand its capacity and offer even more diverse itineraries to passengers seeking immersive and luxurious cruise experiences.

In addition to fleet expansion, Azamara is dedicated to continuously improving onboard amenities and services. This includes enhancing the dining experience with new culinary concepts and partnerships with renowned chefs, as well as enhancing the overall guest experience through enriched entertainment options and luxurious accommodations.

Azamara also seeks to expand its global reach by exploring new destinations and ports of call. As part of its commitment to destination immersion, the cruise line is continually researching and developing itineraries that delve into lesser-known and off-the-beaten-path destinations. This allows passengers to uncover hidden gems and indulge in unique cultural experiences during their voyages.

Furthermore, Azamara aims to leverage its partnerships and alliances to offer exclusive access and curated experiences for its guests. The cruise line will continue to collaborate with renowned travel brands, destination communities, and cultural organizations to bring passengers one-of-a-kind encounters and enriching experiences both on and off the ship.

As the cruise industry evolves, Azamara recognizes the importance of sustainability and environmental conservation. The cruise line is committed to implementing eco-friendly practices and adopting technologies that reduce its ecological footprint. Azamara plans to further integrate sustainable initiatives and support local communities in the destinations it visits to ensure a positive impact on both the environment and the people who call these places home.

Lastly, Azamara Cruise Line aims to strengthen its position as a leader in luxury cruising by focusing on exceptional service and personalized experiences. The cruise line will continue to invest in training and development programs for its dedicated crew members to deliver unparalleled service that exceeds guest expectations and creates unforgettable memories.

With its ambitious future plans and commitment to excellence, Azamara Cruise Line is set to continue providing extraordinary cruise experiences that captivate and inspire travelers from around the world.

Azamara Cruise Line has established itself as a leading name in the luxury cruise industry, offering a unique and immersive experience for travelers seeking unforgettable adventures. With its focus on destination immersion, exceptional service, and intimate ships, Azamara has captured the hearts of cruisers around the world.

Throughout its history, Azamara has evolved and expanded, constantly striving to exceed guest expectations. The recent acquisition by Sycamore Partners has brought new opportunities for growth and innovation, ensuring a bright future for the cruise line.

From the luxurious accommodations and dining options to the carefully crafted itineraries that explore diverse destinations, Azamara Cruise Line takes pride in delivering an extraordinary experience at every turn. Passengers have the opportunity to discover hidden gems, connect with local cultures, and create cherished memories, all while being pampered with personalized service.

The partnerships and alliances formed by Azamara further enhance the guest experience, providing access to exclusive opportunities and unique encounters. From golf cruises to collaborations with renowned travel brands and a commitment to wildlife conservation, Azamara goes above and beyond to deliver unforgettable moments for its passengers.

Looking ahead, Azamara plans to continue its expansion by investing in fleet enhancement, onboard amenities, and global destinations. The cruise line is dedicated to providing exceptional service, curating enriching experiences, and embracing sustainability to minimize its ecological impact.

As Azamara Cruise Line embarks on this exciting journey, passengers can expect to be transported to captivating destinations, immersed in vibrant cultures, and treated to a luxury experience like no other. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, teeing off at breathtaking golf courses, or simply relaxing onboard in pure indulgence, Azamara promises an unforgettable voyage that will leave a lasting impression.

For those seeking a luxury cruise experience that combines world-class service, immersive itineraries, and unparalleled attention to detail, Azamara Cruise Line offers an extraordinary journey that will create memories to last a lifetime.

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Royal Caribbean has sold its Azamara brand including 4 ships for $201 million as the company continues to push back 2021 sail dates

• Royal Caribbean has sold its Azamara cruise line brand to Sycamore Partners for $201 million.
• The Azamara deal is the latest shakeup in a list of cruise industry disruptions amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

Royal Caribbean has sold its Azamara cruise line for $201 million while cruises in the US remain docked during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company announced Friday.

Sycamore Partners , the private equity firm purchasing Azamara in cash, now owns the cruising brand and its fleet of four ships, including one that was just acquired . Carol Cabezas, Azamara's COO, will serve as president of the cruise line, according to a press release from January when the agreement was first announced .

"Azamara remains a strong brand with its own tremendous potential for growth," Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group, said in a statement in January.

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The ownership change also results in a $170 million non-cash impairment charge. According to Royal Caribbean , this Azamara sale won't "materially impact" the cruise company's financial outcomes.

Unsurprisingly, recent months haven't exactly been smooth sailing for Royal Caribbean. In December, Royal Caribbean announced it had sold its Empress and Majesty of the Seas cruise ships. Just several months prior, the cruise company reported it had lost $1.3 billion in its third quarter, the Miami Herald reported .

This Azamara announcement and Royal Caribbean's difficulties are only some of the shakeups in the long list of cruise industry disruptions that have happened in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. From stranded crew members to refund issues to a " wasted year ," things have been looking a bit bleak for cruise companies around the world .

However, according to Royal Caribbean , this latest deal will allow the mega cruise company to "focus on expanding" its Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea Cruises brands.

Read more:  Carnival and Royal Caribbean salaries revealed: From $32,000 to $383,000, here's how much the cruise industry's power players pay some of their employees

The sail date for these cruise lines , and other cruises around the US, still remain to be seen as the coronavirus pandemic continues to rage on.

Are you a cruise industry employee or have a cruise industry story to share? Contact this reporter at [email protected].

Watch: The rise and fall of the cruise industry

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Home » Cruise » Cruise News » Royal Caribbean Group Completes Sale of Azamara

Royal Caribbean Group Completes Sale of Azamara

Royal Caribbean Group completes the sale of its Azamara brand to Sycamore Partners. This will allow the Group to focus on its other brands.

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Royal caribbean group completes the sale of its azamara brand to sycamore partners.

MIAMI – March 19, 2021 – Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) (the Group) today announced it completed the sale of its Azamara brand to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm specializing in consumer, retail and distribution investments, in an all-cash transaction for $201 million. The sale included Azamara’s three-ship fleet and associated intellectual property.

This strategic deal allows the Group to focus on expanding its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises brands.

“This creates huge opportunities for all parties,” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “In fact, as we are inking this deal today, Azamara already has added a fourth ship to their fleet. I am confident that the brand’s success and growth trajectory will continue under the stewardship of Sycamore.”

“We look forward to guiding and supporting Azamara in its next phase of growth,” said Stefan Kaluzny, Managing Director of Sycamore Partners. “The brand’s high guest engagement, personalized service and unique Destination Immersion® strategy, position it strongly for continued growth in the upmarket space.”

Perella Weinberg Partners LP served as financial advisor to Royal Caribbean Group and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP provided legal counsel. Kirkland & Ellis LLP provided legal advice to Sycamore Partners.

About Royal Caribbean Group

Royal Caribbean Group  is the operating business name for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three global cruise vacation brands:  Royal Caribbean International ,  Celebrity Cruises , and  Silversea  Cruises.  Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate 58 ships with an additional 15 on order as of March 15, 2021.  Learn more at  www.royalcaribbeangroup.com  or  www.rclinvestor.com .

About Azamara

Azamara is an upmarket cruise line and the leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, presently with three mid-sized ships sailing to all seven continents of the world, with an additional fourth ship scheduled to join the fleet in 2022. The boutique-style ships allow them to reach marquee ports around the world and dock in smaller, less-visited hidden gems. Azamara’s commitment to creating immersive experiences for travelers to connect with local cultures allows guests to travel deeper with longer stays, more overnights, and night touring.  Guests can experience a boutique hotel at sea with inclusive amenities such as gratuities, beverages, cultural events and more. For more information on Azamara and future sailings, visit  www.azamara.com .

About Sycamore Partners

Sycamore Partners is a private equity firm based in New York. The firm specializes in consumer, distribution and retail-related investments and partners with management teams to improve the operating profitability and strategic value of their business. With approximately $10 billion in aggregate committed capital raised since its inception in 2011, Sycamore Partners’ investors include leading endowments, financial institutions, family offices, pension plans and sovereign wealth funds. For more information on Sycamore Partners, visit www.sycamorepartners.com.

SOURCE Royal Caribbean Group

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New Leadership and Big Changes at Azamara

• November 7, 2023

Azamara today announced the appointment of two senior executives to lead the company in its next phase of growth, according to a press release.

Dondra Ritzenthaler has been named Incoming Chief Executive Officer.

A 40-year veteran of the travel industry, Ms. Ritzenthaler was most recently the Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Services for the Americas for Celebrity Cruises. Prior to her 20 years with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, she spent nearly 20 years with American Airlines in a number of sales and marketing leadership roles. Ms. Ritzenthaler will begin at Azamara in May 2024.

Until that time, Chair of Azamara, Dan Hanrahan, will provide day-to-day leadership and oversight of the team.

“Azamara provides a unique and exciting offering within the luxury cruise space, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the company into its next chapter,” said Ritzenthaler. “I look forward to working with the talented team and their travel partners to better serve the customer base and grow the Azamara brand.”

Alain Ferzli joins Azamara as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Ferzli has more than 20 years of significant experience driving profitable growth in the cruise industry. He served as the acting Chief Financial Officer for Virgin Voyages and in various financial leadership roles with Royal Caribbean.

Mr. Hanrahan commented: “Our team has worked diligently to maintain a solid foundation for Azamara amid unique industry-wide challenges over the last several years. Dondra and Alain’s deep knowledge of and experience leading cruise lines will support the shift of our focus to expanding our business and realizing Azamara’s full potential.”

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Which Cruise Line Owns Azamara

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Neither Azamara nor Celebrity is all inclusive, and you will have to factor in costs for items like specialty dining and shore excursions on top of your cruise fare with both. Azamaras fares tend to be higher when comparing staterooms, but its important to consider what you get for your cruise fare and the offers available at the time of booking.

For Azamaras higher price tag, guests can expect standard alcoholic beverages and nice touches like specialty tea and coffee complimentary, as well as a courtesy AzAmazing Evening event on most voyages . Guests can enjoy these benefits in every stateroom/suite, regardless of the fare booked.

Celebrity has fewer outright inclusions in their cruise only fares, and alcohol and specialty teas and coffees will add to the overall cost. They do however have a promotion that allows guests to upgrade their cruise fare to include a couple of extra perks which offers great value as opposed to paying for these benefits on board .

If youve been considering Celebrity Cruises for a while, you may have seen this style of offer referred to as 123Go, Go Big, Go Better, Go Best or Sail Your Way. Regardless of what it is called, these tiered offers tend to be a staple for Celebrity, so keep an eye out for them when weighing up the fare that is the best value for you.

The Sun Has Set On The Royal Caribbean Groups Ownership Of The Luxury Azamara Cruise Line As The Powerhouse Cruise Operator Has Sold The Brand To A Private Equity Group For $201 Million

Bon voyage, Azamara.

The sun has set on the Royal Caribbean Groups ownership of the luxury Azamara cruise line , as the powerhouse cruise operator has sold the brand to a private equity group for $201 million.

Royal Caribbean announced the news Tuesday, sharing that the brand will be sold to private equity firm Sycamore Partners in an all-cash deal expected to close in the first quarter of 2021. From there, Sycamore will own the lines three-ship fleet and associated intellectual property.

The cruise ship Azamara Pursuit anchored off the coast of Paraty, Brazil.

CARNIVAL CORP. SAYS IT’S BOOKED MORE CRUISES FOR 2022 THAN 2019

In a news release on the transaction, a Royal Caribbean executive explained that the sale will allow the Miami-based cruise operator to narrow its focus on its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea brands during the unprecedented, ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“Our strategy has evolved into placing more of our resources behind three global brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, and working to grow them as we emerge from this unprecedented period,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group.

“Even so, Azamara remains a strong brand with its own tremendous potential for growth, and Sycamore’s track record demonstrates that they will be good stewards of what the Azamara team has built over the past 13 years.”

Who Owns And Operates What In The Cruise Industry

Cruise Line & Cruise Ship Jason Leppert July 14, 2016

As much as it surprises people to discover that Lamborghini is owned by Volkswagen and Ferrari was once predominantly owned by Fiat in the auto industry, which corporations control and operate specific cruise lines and brands is also rather fascinating. Besides a handful of independent cruise companies, the bulk of brands are owned by four corporations. Heres how it all breaks down with a primary focus on U.S.-centric oceangoing cruise lines.

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Carnival Corporation

The biggest single company on the list is Carnival Corporation, which collectively deploys over a hundred ships across ten cruise lines. As one would accurately surmise, the ubiquitous Carnival Cruise Line, with 25 ships alone, is the top brand, and the latest brand is Fathom, now deploying the Adonia, , to the Dominican Republic and historically to Cuba.

To help differentiate its other brands, their distinctive personalities and individual source markets, the remaining eight are collected under separate groups. The Holland America Group, for instance, heads Holland America Line, P& O Cruises Australia, Princess Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line. This just goes to show, as with cars, a luxury brand like Seabourn is, in fact, owned by what began as a singular standard line in Carnival.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited

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Azamara Sold What It Means

Until today, Royal Caribbean Group included Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Silversea, and Azamara. What should be made of the announcement that Azamara is being sold to a private equity firm? RCL is, of course, spinning this as focusing on the growth of their core brands, but its difficult to see how this is anything other than shedding costs in an industry that the only certainty is cruising will return at some point.

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Royal Caribbean Group today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Azamara brand to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm specializing in consumer, retail and distribution investments, in an all-cash carve-out transaction for $201 million, subject to certain adjustments and closing conditions. Sycamore Partners will acquire the entire Azamara brand, including its three-ship fleet and associated intellectual property. The transaction is subject to customary conditions and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2021. Royal Caribbean Group

While Im skeptical of the stated reason, and that Silversea is considered a core brand, selling Azamara is a smart move that allows Royal Caribbean some flexibility and puts Azamara in a portfolio where it will get some attention and love.

Azamara Cruises Gets A New Owner And Adds A New Ship

A company thats taking over Azamara Cruises from Royal Caribbean, is wasting no time. Its expanding the three-ship fleet with the addition of a former Love Boat , Pacific Princess. Sycamore Partners has purchased the Pacific Princess, a former R-class ship comparable in size to our three sister ships. Just like Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest , and Azamara Pursuit , our newest addition will be able to sail into intimate rivers, visit smaller, as well as less-crowded ports other vessels cant access, said Carol Cabezas, Azamaras chief operating officer, in a letter to guests. We are thrilled to be expanding our fleet with a fourth ship, allowing us to visit even more regions of the world and better serve our guests.

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Azamara Officially Sold Takes Possession Of Fourth Ship

Cruise Line & Cruise Ship Theresa Norton March 19, 2021

Azamara , the upscale boutique cruise line, is now an independent brand and has taken delivery of its fourth ship , named Azamara Onward.

The vessel handover, which took place on March 15, 2021, coincides with the close of Azamaras purchase by Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm, specializing in consumer, retail and distribution investments. Royal Caribbean Group sold Azamara in an all-cash transaction for $201 million that includes three ships and associated intellectual property.

The brand said it chose the name Azamara Onward to represent moving forward in space or time. The name is meant to evoke feelings of resilience, positivity, and the endless possibilities of the future . As a whole, the name reflects the brands trajectory and journey to the next chapter, a company statement said.

Today marks a new beginning for Azamara, as we increase our capacity and begin our journey as an independent cruise company, said Azamara President Carol Cabezas. When selecting a unique name, we realized our fourth ship marks the start of a new adventure, and we chose a name that celebrates the bright future ahead for the brand, our guests, and the industry as a whole.

Azamara, which is dedicated to Destination Immersion experiences, is positioned for continued growth as an independent company, said Orlando Ashford, executive chairman of Azamara.

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Royal Caribbean Group Completes $201m Azamara Sale To Sycamore

Anne Kalosh | Mar 19, 2021

This included Azamara’s three-ship fleet Azamara Pursuit , Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey and associated intellectual property.

Royal Caribbean Group said the disposal allows it to focus on expanding its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises brands.

Fourth ship Azamara Onward

‘This creates huge opportunities for all parties,’ RCG Chairman and CEO Richard Fain said. ‘In fact, as we are inking this deal today, Azamara already has added a fourth ship to their fleet . I am confident that the brand’s success and growth trajectory will continue under the stewardship of Sycamore.’

The additional ship is the former Pacific Princess, built as R3. It will be called Azamara Onward and is scheduled to begin sailing in Europe in 2022, following an extensive refurbishment. It was handed over Monday and is currently docked at Civitavecchia.

‘We look forward to guiding and supporting Azamara in its next phase of growth,’ said Stefan Kaluzny, managing director of Sycamore Partners. ‘The brand’s high guest engagement, personalized service and unique destination immersion strategy, position it strongly for continued growth in the upmarket space.’

The team, too

Azamara President Carol Cabezas and the team go to Sycamore with the sale , and Sycamore’s Orlando Ashford will serve as executive chairman.

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Larry Pimentel Resigns As Azamara Ceo

Anne Kalosh | Apr 15, 2020

Earlier this week, when deliberating how best to help Azamara bear the brunt of the cutbacks, Pimentel decided the time was right to step down from leading the brand, RCL Chairman and CEO Richard Fain said in a company memo.

‘We lost a cruise giant today,’ an Azamara colleague said, adding that people were taking it hard.

Destination immersion

One of the travel industry’s most prominent figures, Pimentel built Azamara into a brand that punched well above its weight. He came up with the idea of ‘destination immersion’ with longer stays and overnights in port.

In his memo Fain called that a ‘defining breakthrough for the Azamara brand and, eventually, the industry,’ adding: ‘I say that because destination immersion broke our competitors into two camps those who tried to borrow his idea, and those who tried to steal it.’

Pimentel managed to raise yields to the extent that justified RCL adding a third ship to the Azamara fleet.

‘One of the finest minds and one of the best people in the travel industry’

Fain saluted Pimentel as ‘one of the finest minds and one of the very best people in the travel industry. He is an original thinker, an entrepreneur and someone whose informed, considered opinions helped raise the bar not only at Azamara but at RCL over the past 11 years. Hes also been a counselor and mentor to countless individuals across the company.’

”I have learned so much from him,’ Pawlus said. ‘He was a very inspirational leader.’

Where Is Viking Cruises Based And Where Are Viking Ocean Cruise Ships Registered

Privately held Viking Cruises, which operates both river and ocean divisions, is registered to do business in Basel, Switzerland, with U.S. headquarters in Woodland Hills, California — about a half-hour from Los Angeles. Its river ships are flagged to Switzerland, and its oceangoing vessels are registered in Norway.

Learn more about

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Royal Caribbean Group Announces Plan To Sell Azamara Brand

Today, Royal Caribbean Group publicly announced that it will be selling its Azamara cruise line brand to New York-based private equity firm Sycamore Partners. According to the official statement from Royal Caribbean Group, Sycamore Partners will acquire the entire Azamara brand, including its three-ship fleet and all associated intellectual property. The transaction, worth $201 million, is subject to customary conditions and is anticipated to close in Q1 of 2021.

Royal Caribbean Group will use this sale of Azamara to further expand its other cruise brands – Royal Caribbean International , Celebrity Cruises , and Silversea .

Our strategy has evolved into placing more of our resources behind three global brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, and working to grow them as we emerge from this unprecedented period, remarked Richard D. Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Group, in the lines official announcement. Even so, Azamara remains a strong brand with its own tremendous potential for growth, and Sycamores track record demonstrates that they will be good stewards of what the Azamara team has built over the past 13 years.

According to the announcement, the sale of Azamara is not expected to have a material impact on Royal Caribbean Groups future financial results.

We will continue to update this breaking news story as needed.

Royal Caribbean To Sell Azamara Brand To Sycamore Partners

Royal Caribbean Group today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Azamara brand to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm specializing in consumer, retail and distribution investments, in an all-cash carve-out transaction for $201 million, subject to certain adjustments and closing conditions.

Sycamore Partners will acquire the entire Azamara brand, including its three-ship fleet and associated intellectual property. The transaction is subject to customary conditions and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2021. Royal Caribbean Group noted the transaction allows it to focus on expanding its Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea brands.

“Our strategy has evolved into placing more of our resources behind three global brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, and working to grow them as we emerge from this unprecedented period,” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Group. “Even so, Azamara remains a strong brand with its own tremendous potential for growth, and Sycamore’s track record demonstrates that they will be good stewards of what the Azamara team has built over the past 13 years.”

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Azamara Cruises Things To Do

• Anyone who wants to enjoy luxury amenities, but wants to save money at the same time, will love the amenities and services featured by Azamara. While Azamara is not a luxury cruise line, it offers the same upmarket services at a reduced price. Discerning travelers who are also budget-conscious will like the pampering they receive on Azamara voyages. The dining options are popular with guests, especially the chef’s table, and the ships’ specialty restaurants, such as Aqualina, known for its Italian cuisine, and Prime C, which features steaks as its major cuisine. The cruise line tends to attract adults, aged 40 and over, who wish to take cruises from 7 to 11 days or longer. Anyone, who is older, who wants to sail in Europe, Asia, South America, or the Caribbean, will generally like what Azamara offers. The quiet onboard atmosphere and higher-than-mainstream prices generally draw the interest of well-established professionals or retirees. Therefore, you won’t find many people with families on board the ship, if at all. Azamara does not feature any kids’ activities. Also, don’t expect to be welcomed if you smoke, as the Azamara features one of the most stringent non-smoking policies of the ships at sea. Of course, this is a good thing for anyone who does not smoke.

Azamara Announces Return To Sail With Greece Country

Azamara is pleased to announce that Azamara Quest will return to the high seas beginning August 28, 2021 with five back-to-back Country-Intensive Voyages and one classic Mediterranean sailing each seven-days in length and a total of 18 late-night stays in port, including Santorini, Rhodes and Heraklion, Greece.

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Azamara Sails Into The Future With New Owner

The line will operate as an independent company, maintaining its focus on destination immersion

Its official. On March 15, Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm specializing in consumer, retail and distribution investments, closed on its $201 million acquisition of the upscale boutique cruise line, Azamara, from Royal Caribbean Group.

Sycamore plans on operating Azamara as an independent cruise company that will maintain its steadfast focus on “destination immersion.”

Stay Up To Date With The Latest Information

As you may have heard recently, The Royal Caribbean Group sold Azamara to Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm. Since Captains Club members and Azamara Circle members currently earn points cumulatively in both programs, you may be wondering how that will affect your points and status. Were happy to share that youll keep any reciprocal points that youve earned to date for Celebrity or Azamara.

In other words, you will not lose any previously earned Club Points or Azamara Circle Points. Youre also still able to earn cumulative points in both programs for the time being. At some point in the future this benefit will change, and members will only earn points when sailing on their respective cruise line. Well continue to keep you updated with any additional information. In the meantime, please see the frequently asked questions below.

Bookmark this page to stay up to date.

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Royal Caribbean Sells Azamara Brand And Ships To A Private Equity Firm

PublishedJan 19, 2021 3:41 PM by The Maritime Executive

Royal Caribbean Group, the publicly traded parent company of the cruise lines, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its smallest cruise line, Azamara, to a private equity firm, Sycamore Partners. The equity firm, which specializes in consumer, retail, and distribution investments, will acquire the Azamara brand, including three cruise ships and the associated intellectual property in an all-cash carve-out transaction valued at $201 million.

“Our strategy has evolved into placing more of our resources behind three global brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, and working to grow them as we emerge from this unprecedented period,” said Richard Fain, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean Group. “Even so, Azamara remains a strong brand with its own tremendous potential for growth, and Sycamore’s track record demonstrates that they will be good stewards of what the Azamara team has built over the past 13 years.”

After a decade of operations, Royal Caribbean acquired a third sister ship for Azamara that was introduced in 2018. However, unlike the companys other brands, Azamara did not receive any new builds instead remaining a niche brand with a loyal clientele.

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Everything you need to know about Azamara Cruises cabins and suites

Azamara Cruises is a mid-level cruise line boasting more elegant, classic, upscale decor than the likes of mainstream cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean or Carnival. Its ships feature dark woods with sophisticated furnishings, patterns and color schemes, and its cabins are no exception.

Because Azamara 's ships are all from the former Renaissance Cruises' R Class, which was launched more than 20 years ago, the cabins are on the small side, but they're still comfortable, functional and well appointed.

Here, we'll give you a rundown of the different types of cabins you can book, how big they are and the sorts of amenities that come with each.

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

Azamara Cruises cabin primer

Azamara has four general cabin types: inside or interior, outside or oceanview, balcony or veranda, and suite. They fall into five main categories: Club Interior, Club Oceanview, Club Veranda, Club Veranda Plus and Suite.

On each of its ships, Azamara offers seven accessible staterooms in a mix of cabin types: two Club Continent Suites, three Club Interior Staterooms and two Club Oceanview Staterooms (see below). These accommodations offer larger main doorways (at least 33") and bathroom doorways (at least 34") to allow entry for wheelchairs, scooters and other mobility aids. They are also equipped with lowered closet bars, a 5-foot turning radius and anywhere from 227 to 324 square feet of space. Bathrooms have ramped thresholds, grab bars, roll-in showers, lowered sinks/vanities, adjustable-height toilet seats, fold-down shower benches and handheld showerheads.

Unfortunately, there are no dedicated solo cabins on any of Azamara's ships, but the line does offer singles discounts on occasion, and when it doesn't, anyone who pays double -- known as a single supplement to account for one person staying in a room designed for double occupancy -- receives double loyalty points toward their Azamara Circle status .

All staterooms, regardless of type or category, are outfitted with at least one queen bed that can convert to two twins, a desk/vanity with a phone, nightstands with reading lamps, at least one TV that's a minimum of 40", outlets and USB charging ports, a mini-bar, individual climate controls, closets, a safe, a hair dryer, robes, slippers, umbrellas and fresh flowers.

Each cabin has its own bathroom with towels, bath products, a shower, sink/vanity, storage shelves and a toilet. Additionally, all rooms include daily make-up and turndown services, as well as 24-hour room service, a tote bag, a daily bulletin of activities and turndown treats.

Inside cabins on Azamara ships

Azamara's Club Interior staterooms are 158 square feet, and they're the least expensive accommodations onboard, offering no windows or balconies.

However, they make up for their lack of natural light and ocean breezes with their more economic price point and a fully dark sleeping experience that passengers swear gives them some of the best rest they've ever had.

Only standard amenities mentioned above are included here, but if you're someone who plans only to be in your room to shower and sleep, an inside cabin could be a perfect fit for you.

Oceanview cabins on Azamara ships

Although balcony cabins are, technically, oceanview cabins, in this context, the line's Club Oceanview Staterooms refer to rooms that have only a window that doesn't open -- no balcony.

Oddly, Azamara's outside cabins are smaller than its interior accommodations, with the former measuring just 143 square feet. Even more oddly, some of these cabins are equipped with sofa beds that can sleep up to two additional passengers.

Squeezing that many people into such a small space could prove to be tight, but we suspect the natural light will help lighten the mood.

Balcony cabins on Azamara ships

Azamara's balcony cabins come in two types.

Club Veranda Staterooms

These are the most basic balcony accommodations onboard, and they feature 175 square feet of living space, plus a 40-square-foot veranda for a total of 215 square feet.

For ships as old as Azamara's the number of balcony accommodations is surprising, with many rooms equipped with verandas where cruisers can sit and enjoy drinks and some fresh air on their own little swaths of deck.

Club Veranda Plus Staterooms

Although Club Veranda Plus rooms are the same square footage as Club Veranda Staterooms, this is the first cabin level where passengers will really see a difference between cabin types in the way of additional amenities.

Your cabin type from this level upward will be considered in conjunction with your Azamara Circle loyalty status (assuming you're a member) to determine the level of benefits you'll receive during your voyage.

All passengers booked in Club Veranda Plus accommodations will receive the standard offerings mentioned under previous cabin categories, plus complimentary Wi-Fi minutes, one free bag of laundry every seven days, one complimentary meal for two in a for-fee restaurant every seven days, priority embarkation and disembarkation and free in-cabin alcohol.

Suites on Azamara ships

Suites on Azamara's ships are divided into four types, and each provides its occupants with complimentary butler service.

Club Continent Suites

The smallest of the line's suite accommodations, Club Continent Suites are 266 square feet with 60-square-foot balconies. They include all of the amenities mentioned above, as well as a large seating area with a 55" flat-screen TV.

In addition to the TV and the increased square footage, some Club Continent Suite bathrooms also have bathtubs instead of only a stand-up shower.

Club Spa Suites

These suites are located near the Sanctum Spa on each vessel. In addition to soothing, natural decor, cruisers booked in these rooms can expect healthy snacks to be delivered daily. They can also enjoy in-cabin spa music and their very own glass-enclosed spa soaking bathtub.

Additionally, Club Spa Suites have rain showerheads and all of the amenities afforded to veranda cabins but with a larger (55") TV and 414 square feet of space, plus a 60-square-foot balcony.

Club Ocean Suites

These 478-square-foot luxury digs come with 173-square-foot verandas, a separate living room and bedroom setup (each room with a 55" TV); marble, shower-only bathrooms (except on Journey and Quest, which have bathtubs); dressing rooms with vanities; and additional closet space.

Further, passengers staying in these suites have access to all of the perks to which those in balcony cabins are entitled.

Club World Owner's Suites

The Club World Owner's Suites are Azamara's most lavish, offering everything afforded to those booked in Club Ocean Suites but with significantly more space -- 603 square feet with 233-square-foot balconies.

Like Club Ocean Suites, they have marble bathrooms (with bathtubs on Journey and Quest) and separate living room and bedroom areas, each with its own television (55" in the former and 40" in the latter), as well as the basic amenities mentioned above.

Bottom line

Although Azamara's ships are a bit on the older side, they ooze class. Cabins are stylishly decorated in neutrals and feature high-end furnishings and dark woods with plenty of storage space and extra touches, such as fresh-cut flowers and 24-hour room service, that will make you smile.

The number of choices isn't as vast as what you'll find onboard ships from some of the larger, more mainstream cruise lines, but there's something -- from insides to lavish suites -- to fit every taste.

Featured photo courtesy of Azamara Cruises.

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Azamara has longer cruises and maiden ports for 2025/2026

Post date: Apr 12 2024

Date: Apr 12 2024

By: Travelweek

MIAMI — Azamara Cruises has unveiled its 2025/2026 winter sailings, featuring eight maiden ports and less-frequented destinations only accessible to smaller ships. 

New sailings for the season include a Grand Voyage that circumnavigates South America, as well as back-to-back Caribbean sailings without any sea days. Travellers can also spend more time exploring with multiple Extended Destination Days on every sailing.

“We’re thrilled to bringing our guests to eight 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.”

LONGER CRUISES

To cater to increased demand for longer itineraries, Azamara is offering a 79-night Grand Voyage that begins and ends in Miami and sails all around South America. Azamara has also designed its Caribbean itineraries to prioritize days in port, allowing guests to book back-to-back Caribbean sailings and spend up to 14 days exploring each island with zero days at sea.

MAIDEN PORTS

Azamara’s 2025/2026 itineraries will visit such maiden ports as:

• Santa Marta, Colombia : Situated between the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Caribbean Sea, Santa Marta dazzles with its colonial architecture, pristine beaches and indigenous cultures.
• Maizuru, Japan : Nestled along Kyoto Prefecture’s scenic coast, Maizuru once served as a strategic naval base in the Meiji era. Today, visitors can get a glimpse into its past at various historical sites and museums.
• St. Pierre, Martinique : St. Pierre was the site of a devastating volcanic eruption in 1902. Today, it’s home to fascinating ruins, vibrant Creole culture, colourful architecture and scenic coastal views.
• Celukan Bawang, Bali, Indonesia : This picturesque port town offers lush landscapes, tranquil beaches and vibrant markets, not to mention traditional Balinese culture and cuisine.

For more information about Azmara’s new itineraries for 2025/2026, go to www.azamara.com .

Tags: Azamara, Lead Story