Sold by Royal Caribbean Group in January 2021, Azamara is already expanding under its new owners, Sycamore Partners. The destination-focused line has brought forth a ship, Azamara Onward - the former Pacific Princess - which, like the rest of the fleet, is a Renaissance Cruises R-class. But regular customers needn't worry.
In fact, they'll notice little change under the new ownership, as many itineraries will continue to be based on single countries, with late nights and overnight stays in port. The signature AzAmazing evenings - exclusive shore-based cultural events - and optional pre or post-cruise land tours are also staying.
Oslo, Norway's capital, echoes with the footsteps of Vikings and boasts a maritime legacy dating back centuries. Cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean embrace Oslo's waterfront charm, docking near iconic landmarks such as the Akershus Fortress and the Oslo Opera House. The city's temperate maritime climate provides mild summers and relatively mild winters, offering travelers comfortable exploration year-round. As a gateway to Norway's natural wonders, Oslo presents a genuine Scandinavian experience, showcasing authentic Nordic cuisine and local craftsmanship. Don't miss the Viking Ship Museum, home to remarkably preserved vessels from the Viking Age, revealing Oslo's rich seafaring past.
Day 5
Kristiansand
Day 6
Haugesund
Set amidst Norway's rugged coast, Haugesund beckons with tales of its Viking ancestry, a testament to its maritime legacy. Here, where the North Sea meets the fjords, a temperate maritime climate graces the land, offering crisp sea breezes and vibrant coastal landscapes. This dynamic environment provides a backdrop for authentic encounters with local traditions, from seafood feasts to folk festivals celebrating Norway's rich cultural heritage. As a gateway to the breathtaking Lysefjord and iconic Preikestolen cliff, Haugesund offers a glimpse into the heart of Norway's natural splendor. Delight in the sight of cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs, where nature's majesty reigns supreme.
Day 7
Eidfjord
in the heart of Norway's fjordland, Eidfjord beckons travelers with its storied past and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a bustling Viking trading hub, this picturesque village boasts a rich maritime history that continues to captivate visitors today. The region's temperate climate and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to tranquil boat rides along the fjord's crystal-clear waters. Away from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations, Eidfjord offers cruisegoers a truly authentic Norwegian experience, where they can immerse themselves in local traditions and sample fresh Nordic cuisine. As the gateway to Hardangervidda National Park, Eidfjord is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse flora and fauna waiting to be discovered amidst its rugged terrain.
Day 8
At sea
Day 9
Tórshavn
Day 10
Runavík
Day 11
At sea
Day 12
Heimaey Island
Day 13
Reykjavík
Cruising to Reykjavik offers a unique joy, blending modern urban charm with Icelands dramatic natural landscapes. As your ship approaches, the picturesque view of the city set against the backdrop of mountains and the vast ocean is breathtaking. Reykjavik, known for its vibrant culture and warm, welcoming atmosphere, invites exploration of its quaint streets, colorful houses, and innovative design. The city serves as a gateway to Iceland's geological wonders, including geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Each elementfrom the lively arts scene to the steamy geothermal poolsenhances the journey, making a cruise to Reykjavik an unforgettable combination of cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Day 14
Reykjanes
Day 15
Grundarfjørdur
Day 16
Isafjørdur
Days 17-18
At sea
Day 19
Prince Christian Sound
Prince Christian Sound, known as Prins Christians Sund in Danish, is a narrow fjord in southern Greenland that offers a breathtaking passage through steep mountains and impressive glaciers. Named after Christian VIII of Denmark, the sound has a rich history rooted in Inuit presence and Norse exploration. This natural waterway has served as a vital navigation route for centuries, connecting the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Sea. The sounds isolated and rugged landscape, often dotted with icebergs and surrounded by towering cliffs, has been a critical part of Greenland's maritime history, challenging sailors and enchanting visitors with its stark, raw beauty.
Day 20
Nanortalik
Day 21
Paamiut (Fredrikshaab)
Day 22
Nuuk (Godthaab)
Cruising to Nuuk presents a unique adventure, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. As Greenlands capital, Nuuk offers a blend of native Inuit culture and Scandinavian modernity, set against a backdrop of stark natural beauty. The journey by cruise ship itself is breathtaking, navigating through intricate fjords lined with towering icebergs and remote landscapes. In Nuuk, visitors can explore a rich tapestry of history in museums, taste local Arctic flavors, and engage with contemporary Greenlandic art. This destination stands out for its blend of cultural immersion and stunning, rugged environments, making it a must-visit for travelers looking for something truly different and memorable.
Days 23-24
At sea
Day 25
Saint-John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
Day 26
Saint Pierre
Day 27
At sea
Day 28
Saguenay, Québec
Day 28
Saguenay, Québec
Days 29-30
Quebec City, Québec
Quebec stands as a hidden gem in Canada's cruise landscape, often overlooked despite its profound historical significance. As the birthplace of French civilization in North America, Quebec City's cobblestone streets and majestic architecture offer a journey through centuries of rich heritage. The St. Lawrence River, a vital waterway in Canadian history, invites exploration with its picturesque landscapes and charming port towns. Yet, its prominence in shaping North America's past is often overshadowed by other destinations, despite offering a unique and enriching experience for cruise travelers seeking a deeper connection to the continent's history.
Oslo, Norway's capital, echoes with the footsteps of Vikings and boasts a maritime legacy dating back centuries. Cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean embrace Oslo's waterfront charm, docking near iconic landmarks such as the Akershus Fortress and the Oslo Opera House. The city's temperate maritime climate provides mild summers and relatively mild winters, offering travelers comfortable exploration year-round. As a gateway to Norway's natural wonders, Oslo presents a genuine Scandinavian experience, showcasing authentic Nordic cuisine and local craftsmanship. Don't miss the Viking Ship Museum, home to remarkably preserved vessels from the Viking Age, revealing Oslo's rich seafaring past.
Set amidst Norway's rugged coast, Haugesund beckons with tales of its Viking ancestry, a testament to its maritime legacy. Here, where the North Sea meets the fjords, a temperate maritime climate graces the land, offering crisp sea breezes and vibrant coastal landscapes. This dynamic environment provides a backdrop for authentic encounters with local traditions, from seafood feasts to folk festivals celebrating Norway's rich cultural heritage. As a gateway to the breathtaking Lysefjord and iconic Preikestolen cliff, Haugesund offers a glimpse into the heart of Norway's natural splendor. Delight in the sight of cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs, where nature's majesty reigns supreme.
in the heart of Norway's fjordland, Eidfjord beckons travelers with its storied past and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a bustling Viking trading hub, this picturesque village boasts a rich maritime history that continues to captivate visitors today. The region's temperate climate and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to tranquil boat rides along the fjord's crystal-clear waters. Away from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations, Eidfjord offers cruisegoers a truly authentic Norwegian experience, where they can immerse themselves in local traditions and sample fresh Nordic cuisine. As the gateway to Hardangervidda National Park, Eidfjord is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse flora and fauna waiting to be discovered amidst its rugged terrain.
Cruising to Reykjavik offers a unique joy, blending modern urban charm with Icelands dramatic natural landscapes. As your ship approaches, the picturesque view of the city set against the backdrop of mountains and the vast ocean is breathtaking. Reykjavik, known for its vibrant culture and warm, welcoming atmosphere, invites exploration of its quaint streets, colorful houses, and innovative design. The city serves as a gateway to Iceland's geological wonders, including geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Each elementfrom the lively arts scene to the steamy geothermal poolsenhances the journey, making a cruise to Reykjavik an unforgettable combination of cultural immersion and natural beauty.
Prince Christian Sound, known as Prins Christians Sund in Danish, is a narrow fjord in southern Greenland that offers a breathtaking passage through steep mountains and impressive glaciers. Named after Christian VIII of Denmark, the sound has a rich history rooted in Inuit presence and Norse exploration. This natural waterway has served as a vital navigation route for centuries, connecting the Labrador Sea with the Irminger Sea. The sounds isolated and rugged landscape, often dotted with icebergs and surrounded by towering cliffs, has been a critical part of Greenland's maritime history, challenging sailors and enchanting visitors with its stark, raw beauty.
Cruising to Nuuk presents a unique adventure, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. As Greenlands capital, Nuuk offers a blend of native Inuit culture and Scandinavian modernity, set against a backdrop of stark natural beauty. The journey by cruise ship itself is breathtaking, navigating through intricate fjords lined with towering icebergs and remote landscapes. In Nuuk, visitors can explore a rich tapestry of history in museums, taste local Arctic flavors, and engage with contemporary Greenlandic art. This destination stands out for its blend of cultural immersion and stunning, rugged environments, making it a must-visit for travelers looking for something truly different and memorable.
Quebec stands as a hidden gem in Canada's cruise landscape, often overlooked despite its profound historical significance. As the birthplace of French civilization in North America, Quebec City's cobblestone streets and majestic architecture offer a journey through centuries of rich heritage. The St. Lawrence River, a vital waterway in Canadian history, invites exploration with its picturesque landscapes and charming port towns. Yet, its prominence in shaping North America's past is often overshadowed by other destinations, despite offering a unique and enriching experience for cruise travelers seeking a deeper connection to the continent's history.
A luxurious boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Journey is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for—plus some unexpected extras.
From check in at Athens to leaving the vessel at Citiavechia the cruise was really enjoyable and the staff so very helpful and willing to give a hand.
Some ports were only accessible by Tender, but there was little delay getting off the ship, thanks to the small number of passengers! It would be difficult to pick out individuals for commendation because they were all so good. Looking forward to our future cruises with AZAMARA.
This was our 4th Azamara cruise and we were not disappointed. From start to finish you are made to feel special. Their ships maybe of the older style and definitely no flumes or such like and really not ideal for children as there is nothing for them to do. If you enjoy good food and attentive service on a well run ship where you can do as little or as much as you want this cruise line is for you. They have lectures on the ports of call and their cruises are reknown for their port intensive experience, staying in port longer than some of its larger competitors. The icing on the cake for Azamara are the Azamazing evening where they will take you by bus to a venue which could be an opera, or local dancing of the country or to a typical village of the country you are visiting with food and drink. Also the other feature they do so well is the White night where tables are set around the pool and a buffet, served by the officers and music and dancing goes on into the night. All in all a cruise full of experience where you are treated as a person not a number.
From start to finish great service from friendly efficient crew and staff.
Great variety of entertainment on board and really special Azamasing evening of operatic singers in Rhodes castle, an inclusive trip for all passengers .
As always wonderful choices of food in variety of venues.
Azamara is smaller ship cruising at it's best.
Our second Azamara cruise but not our last. The ship was a cool haven in what was a very hot August! The itinerary perhaps, would be better suited to cooler, less busier periods but was ok!
Good great as usual, especially Prime C! Service really excellent too!
What a fantastic all inclusive cruise experience we enjoyed. The attendant we had for our room ensured we were wel catered for with our media needs and the afternoon quizzes and food were real highlights for us. We enjoyed every moment on boats and would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone. We’re looking forward to sailing with you again!
Azamara was the most horrible experience we ever had our bathroom didn't work 6 days out of 12 day cruise Customer service from guest relation manager and from Hotel manager to maintenance Manager just useless with bunch of lies the working crew was good but when you need to go to bathroom we had to go to public bathroom on deck above that is unexpectable. We were promised that when we get home to USA the customer service will be able to provide some kind compensation and that was promise from Guest relation Manager that was lie plus their customer service is the worst we ever experience they will lied to you till you will give up. Highly don't recommend Azamara as cruise line their is the reason the company was sold by Royal Caribbean because the ships are our dated need to to be in scrapyard because it's been in service 20+ years and numerous owners. The main company Sycamore Group with business rating big F and that the way they are running Azamara cruises with big F
First time with Azamara . The staterooms were snug and the bathroom tiny but the cruise was one of the best we have been on. The food was the best, and with only having 670 people on board there was never a queue. The itenerary suited us as you could walk to most cities and towns. Cant wait to book with this cruise line again
18 months since we have been on board Azamara and two years since we have been on board the Quest, but within minutes of embarking the Quest for an 8 night Croatia intensive cruise, we were greeted by several officers and welcomed back as family. You cant put a price on that. One of the major benefits of small ship cruising.
It was a smooth and speedy embarkation - we were on the ship within minutes of arriving at the terminal in Chioggia. It really felt like coming home.
We had a veranda cabin on deck 6 which was perfectly fine with plenty of storage space, a decent sized balcony and an adequate bathroom. We were also blessed with one of the best stateroom attendants we have ever had in the lovely Edgar.
All four Azamara ships are pretty much the same with guest services, and concierge on deck 4. The main discoveries restaurant is on deck 5, together with Atlas Bar, future cruise sales, shore excursions, the shops, Mosaic Cafe and the Cabaret Lounge. Deck 6, 7 and 8 are all staterooms. Deck 9 is where you will find Windows Cafe (buffet), The Sunset Bar, The Patio, the pool and hot tubs, the Pool Bar, Gym and spa. Deck 10 is the walking/jogging track, the Drawing Room, The Living Room and the two speciality restaurants - Aqualina and Prime C. There is also a table tennis table and dart board on this deck. Finally on deck 11 is a sun deck.
Despite this ship being at full capacity it never felt crowded and it was never a problem getting a seat wherever we wanted one.
We shared our dining options between Discoveries Restaurant and Windows Cafe Buffet. We never had a problem getting a seat in either venue, but we do like to dine early. We had a brilliant waiter in Discoveries Jhun - food was always hot, service was great and they were flexible with regard to our dietary requirements.
Another option for lunch is The Patio where we ate on a couple of days. They serve a selection of burgers, salads, onion rings, nachos etc. food was lovely but service was always slow.
The two speciality restaurants - Prime C and Aqualina were available at $35 dollars per head and proved popular with many of our fellow guests.
One of the things we loved about this trip was the free room service breakfast - there was a big variety of cooked and cold items to choose from and service was always cheerful and prompt.
With regard to the Spa, as regular readers of our reviews will know we feel the spas on American ships are horrendously overpriced so we dont use them. We didnt book any shore excursions for the same reason.
As for the entertainment, the ship has a band, a piano player, a disco, the usual shows, guest speakers and quizzes. We particularly loved the crew karaoke.
The things that Azamara are outstanding at are their Azamazing events - on this cruise they arranged a fabulous choir to perform in the local town square in Koper, Slovenia, and they also have their white night (we dress in black as we are rebels 😉😉) with entertainment, the officers cooking and a parade of all the crew. If you are lucky enough to be on a cruise with Ryszard Gusmann as Hotel Director, dont miss his crepes Suzette - they are legendary!!
Two other special things happened on this cruise one was the meeting of the four Azamara sisters who came together in Koper, this has only ever happened once before. Also on the cruise into Kotor, Montenegro there was an informative commentary and local food served, as well as coffee with rum liquer.
If we were going to be critical of Azamara at all it would be with regard to their internet, which is better than some but not as good as others. However if you are coming on holiday to switch off that would not be an issue for you.
In summary, we enjoyed our Azamara Quest cruise so much we decided to stay on. The reason for this is that all the staff on board have been welcoming, friendly and efficient. The officers are highly visible including the Captain and are always up for a chat.
We think that Ryszard the Hotel Director is the best on the seven seas, we have never seen a HD who is so hands on and engaged with his passengers. The same can also be said for David his Guest Relations Manager, and Tulita and Romz their team. Regular readers will know we often criticise guest relations but this cruise has proved that Azamara still have the best ! We have cruised many times over the last year but this cruise on the Azamara Quest has definitely been the best.
It certainly will not be 18 months before we sail with Azamara again !! Azamara make you feel valued and part of the family - something we really appreciate.
