Walking onto the Azamara Journey cruise ship was like entering a friend’s home with familiar faces and comfortable surroundings. Our previous time on board Azamara Cruises 5 years ago (the pandemic era) seemed to have melted away, and we picked up where we left off.
While waiting for our cabin to be ready, we indulged in the all-inclusive lunch buffet at the Windows Café. The array of food selections, from fresh salads to hot entrees and delectable desserts, was a feast for the senses. The complimentary wines and beers perfectly complemented the meal, creating a truly indulgent experience. The Azamara community, a mix of familiar faces and new acquaintances, added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
After lunch and settling into our cabin, I headed to the self-service laundry to wash and dry our travelling clothes. The laundry room can get crowded, but I’ve learned to go at midday to find more machines available.
When it’s time for dinner, the choices are the dining room, a relaxed buffet or specialty dining restaurants. Dress standards are smart, casual, and not pretentious. There is no formal dinner like traditional cruises but instead a “White Night.” This event is a unique Azamara tradition, a relaxed and casual affair where passengers wear white clothing to celebrate cruising on Azamara. The expansive buffet on the pool deck includes lobster and flowing champagne. Lively music and dancing round out the fun evening. Like other cruise ships, the days can be full of games, informative seminars and nightly entertainment.
Captain Toledo of the Journey told me the Azamara ships offer an authentic experience, and it starts with a happy crew. People genuinely care about one another, which makes sailing special. Officers and crew are accessible to passengers, and feedback is taken seriously.
The advantage of small ships is that they are not too big or too small. With 600 passengers and plenty of crew, it is a comfortable experience. Captain Toledo emphasized that the size of Azamara ships is convenient for docking in many small ports, and itineraries are not repeated. The passengers seek local experiences, and overnights for more time in ports are a popular feature.
As the cruise ended, the crew reminded me that it was not goodbye; it was until we saw you again. I’ll take them at their word.
About Azamara Cruises
Azamara Cruises, a boutique cruise line founded in 2010, offers immersive travel experiences. It caters to travellers who want more extended stays, overnights, and deeper cultural connections.
Fleet & Ship Size
Azamara operates four mid-sized ships:
- Azamara Journey
- Azamara Quest
- Azamara Pursuit
- Azamara Onward
Each holds approximately 700 guests. Their size allows access to smaller ports, scenic rivers, and hidden harbours that larger ships can’t reach.
Clientele
Azamara attracts well-traveled, affluent guests, mainly in their 60s and 70s. Many are repeat cruisers who prefer independent exploration. The onboard atmosphere is refined but relaxed, fostering easy connections among guests and crew.
Destinations & Itineraries
Azamara Cruises sails worldwide, focusing on Europe, South America, and Australia. Itineraries range from short voyages to extended journeys over 100 days. Their “Country-Intensive” cruises highlight one nation, offering a deeper exploration of its culture, history, and cuisine.
Onboard Experience
Azamara Ships offers a club-like atmosphere and personalized service. Officers mingle with guests, and the crew quickly learns their names and preferences. The line’s “AzAmazing Evenings” provide unique cultural events: private concerts in historic venues, local performances under the stars, or exclusive access to renowned museums and galleries.
With more extended port stays and overnight stops, Azamara delivers immersive, slow travel at sea. This means you have more time to explore each destination, soak in the local culture, and truly experience the places you visit. It’s a cruise line for those who want more than a glimpse of the world—they want to live it.
Photos courtesy of Azamara Cruises.
