Azamara

Royal Caribbean Group created Azamara in 2007 as a boutique brand for travelers who wanted smaller ships and more time ashore. In 2021 it was sold to private-equity firm Sycamore Partners and became an independent line, keeping its focus on country-intensive voyages and overnights in places that big ships rush through.

The fleet is four near-identical ships: Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward. All are members of the R-class family originally built for Renaissance Cruises around 2000, refitted with a contemporary, country-house feel. Their size, around 700 guests, lets them dock at smaller ports and in city centers where larger ships cannot.

Itineraries emphasize the Mediterranean and Northern Europe in summer, with the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Australia and Africa in other seasons, plus world voyages. Many cruises are country-intensive, spending most of the trip in one destination such as Greece, Japan or Croatia.

Azamara feels relaxed, sociable and grown-up. Most guests are 50 and older, experienced travelers and couples from North America, the UK and Australia. Dress is resort casual every night, with no formal nights, and the signature White Night is a deck party with dancing where guests wear white. The intimate size means the crew learns names quickly and you see familiar faces. Life revolves around ports: late nights ashore, overnight stays in cities such as Lisbon, Bordeaux or Tokyo, and the AzAmazing Evening, an exclusive cultural event ashore included on most voyages of seven nights or longer.

Discoveries Restaurant is the main dining room, with open seating and menus that often include regional dishes from the voyage. Windows Café offers buffet breakfast and lunch and themed dinners, and The Patio serves casual poolside meals. Two specialty restaurants carry a charge: Prime C for steak and seafood, and Aqualina for Mediterranean cuisine. Suite guests receive specialty dining perks.

Entertainment is modest and destination-focused: guest performers, local artists brought onboard, live music in the lounges, destination talks and the White Night deck party. The AzAmazing Evening, a private event ashore such as a concert in a historic venue, is included on most voyages of seven nights or more. Many guests spend evenings ashore instead.

Children are allowed, but there are no kids clubs or youth programs, and few families sail. It suits older teens who enjoy travel more than younger children.

Cabins are compact by modern standards, as the ships date from around 2000, but comfortably refreshed. Choices range from interiors and ocean views to veranda cabins and suites. Club Spa Veranda staterooms add spa perks, and suites include butler service and upgraded drinks.

Select spirits, beers, wines and soft drinks are included in the fare, along with specialty coffees, teas and bottled water. Premium labels and certain cocktails carry a surcharge, and suite guests receive an upgraded beverage package.

Gratuities are included in Azamara fares, so there’s no daily service charge. Extra tips for exceptional service are optional.

Le Club Voyage rewards repeat guests with tiers that rise with nights sailed, unlocking perks such as onboard credit, discounts on future cruises and member events.