Big news in the small cruise world: Azamara Cruises has announced plans to renovate and relaunch its fleet of four ships over the next few years.
The cruise line is known for its small ships (each carrying less than 700 passengers) and intimate atmosphere. Azamara Cruises frequently calls in smaller, unexpected places around the world – from Zanzibar, Tanzania to Busan, South Korea – and its carefully curated shore experiences and extended port stays are designed to immerse passengers in their destinations.
The fleet-wide revamp, dubbed “Azamara Forward,” is designed to emphasize the company’s commitment to personalization, comfort and meaningful travel.
Azamara Forward represents the most extensive renovations and enhancements in the company’s history. Fleetwide, passengers can expect updates to every cabin and suite – including a “fresh, light color palette inspired by the endless sky and boundless ocean” – as well as upgraded public spaces, restrooms and spa rooms.
The brand has also redesigned several specialty restaurants, bars, lounges and cuisine. Highlights include the Atlas Bar, which has received such a positive reception on Azamara Onward that the company plans to add it to every ship, and the revamped Chef’s Table restaurant, one of the brand’s most popular dining venues. The private panoramic restaurant will feature themed menus inspired by trips to the Azamara region, destination-focused guest chefs and market-based dining experiences crafted with local ingredients and recipes.
RELATED: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The 10 best meals you can have at sea
In addition, new suites and spaces exclusive to Azamara Quest will be launched. The new top deck, located below the existing open-air sun deck on top of the ship, will be the highest (and most comfortable) place for guests to stay. The Penthouse Deck will include 10 new Grandview Suites and 2 Ultra-Luxury Panoramic Suites.
Located on the forward corner of the top deck, these premium suites offer panoramic 270-degree ocean views and offer the ship’s most spacious and luxurious accommodations, with walk-in wardrobes and personal butlers.
Related: The most ideal cabin locations on any cruise ship
Reward your inbox with the TPG daily newsletter
Join over 700,000 readers and get breaking news, in-depth guides and exclusive offers from TPG experts
The renovation marks an important milestone in the early tenure of the line’s new CEO, Dondra Ritzenthaler, who will take office in May 2024.
“This transformation reflects our years of listening to our guests and travel partners, as well as the extraordinary creativity and collaboration between our teams,” Ritzenthaler said in a press release. “Azamara Forward is designed to deepen destination immersion, enhance comfort and create more meaningful moments at sea. It celebrates our heritage while introducing new experiences that take us into the future.”
Azamara Quest will be the first ship to undergo the transformation ahead of its highly anticipated World Cruise in 2027 – Azamara’s largest world cruise to date, covering 37 countries and lasting 188 nights. The renovations will debut on Quest’s 18-night Panama Canal Cruises to Miami; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; and San Diego, departing December 18, 2026.
Next up is Azamara Onward, scheduled for renovation in 2027, with updates later rolling out to Azamara Journey and Azamara Pursuit.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
