Azamara Cruises distinguishes itself in the luxury cruise market by prioritizing longer stays and destination immersion. While operating a small fleet of four nearly identical ships – Azamara Quest, Azamara Pursuit, Azamara Journey, and Azamara Onward – the line provides remarkably varied itineraries across all continents. This strategy means itineraries are constantly evolving, offering travelers a wider range of global explorations.
Europe: A Cornerstone Destination
The Mediterranean region is Azamara’s strongest focus, accounting for roughly one-third of its departures. Voyages typically range from 7 to 21 nights, with options for both Western and Eastern Mediterranean explorations, or combined itineraries. The line excels at focused country-specific cruises like the nine-night Croatia Intensive, featuring five Croatian ports and a stop in Montenegro. Key hubs include Piraeus (Greece), Civitavecchia (Italy), Istanbul, and Barcelona.
Northern and Western Europe are also significant, with summer sailings from 7 to 14 nights. Azamara offers immersive itineraries like the 15-night Baltic Intensive, covering Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, and Sweden. Similarly, the 11-night Scotland Intensive explores six distinct Scottish destinations. Ports like Dublin, Southampton, Bordeaux, Amsterdam, and Oslo serve as regional hubs.
Alaska: A Revived Frontier
After a seven-year absence, Azamara has reintroduced Alaska sailings for 2024 and 2027. Azamara Pursuit operates 8 to 11-night one-way voyages between Whittier, Alaska, and Vancouver, British Columbia, including stops at both popular and smaller ports like Klawock and Valdez. These itineraries also visit Hubbard Glacier and offer optional cruisetours with inland exploration, including Denali National Park.
Asia, Australia, and New Zealand: Seasonal Explorations
Each winter, Azamara deploys one or two ships to Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Voyages range from 15-night itineraries through Vietnam and Thailand to 14 to 16-night cruises focused on New Zealand, including Milford Sound and Tasmania. Longer sailings combine Asia and Australia, such as the 27-night Sydney to Hong Kong voyage, stopping in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Around the World: Extended Luxury
Azamara is known for its exceptional world cruises. The 2027 voyage on Azamara Quest will be a 188-night journey circling the Pacific Ocean, visiting Asia, Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Europe via the Panama Canal. This is significantly longer than most competitors’ world cruises. Azamara is also planning a 175-night world cruise for 2028 on Azamara Onward, visiting 40 countries across six continents. Both voyages will feature upgraded suites as part of the fleet-wide “Azamara Forward” renovation program.
In conclusion: Despite its small size, Azamara provides diverse itineraries, with Europe, Asia, and Australia as key regions. The line stands out for its destination-focused approach and some of the most extensive world cruises available, making it ideal for travelers seeking immersive experiences beyond standard cruise routes.
