AZAMARA CRUISES FAQ: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU SAIL

Expert Insight from Amy at Select Travel Holidays

Having personally sailed with Azamara Cruises, I can confidently say it’s one of the most enriching and rewarding ways to explore the world by sea. Read my Azamara Quest Cruise Review to see what I thought.


 As a travel specialist who’s experienced dozens of cruise lines, what stands out most about Azamara is its focus on immersion, service, and understated elegance. It’s a line that truly bridges the gap between premium and luxury cruising, offering guests authentic cultural connections alongside exceptional comfort.


Below, we’ve answered the most common questions travellers ask about Azamara to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next voyage.

Azamara Cruises: Everything You Need to Know

Renowned for its intimate ships and destination-focused itineraries, Azamara Cruises offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and connection. Unlike larger mainstream lines, Azamara specialises in smaller ports and longer stays, allowing travellers to truly experience the heart of each destination. With exceptional service, refined dining, and an inviting onboard atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many guests return to sail with Azamara again and again.

Is Azamara a high-end cruise line?

Yes, Azamara is considered a premium boutique cruise line, sitting between luxury brands like Silversea or Seabourn and premium lines such as Celebrity Cruises. Its smaller ships offer an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, with destination-focused itineraries and longer port stays.

Learn more about the Azamara Cruises fleet

Are Azamara Cruises luxurious?

Azamara delivers luxury in experience rather than excess. Expect attentive service, fine dining, stylish staterooms, and included amenities such as gratuities, select beverages, and cultural “AzAmazing Evenings.” It’s ideal for guests who value immersion, comfort, and authenticity over formality.

Cruise ship deck with pool, overlooking city at dusk.

What kind of passengers sail Azamara?

Azamara attracts well-travelled, curious, and sociable guests, typically aged 50 and above. Many are repeat cruisers who prefer smaller ships, destination-intensive itineraries, and a friendly, club-like atmosphere rather than glitz or large-ship entertainment.

Is Azamara a good cruise line?

Absolutely. Azamara consistently earns high guest satisfaction scores for service, itineraries, and value for money. It’s particularly praised for its overnight stays and late departures, allowing travellers to truly experience each port.

What kind of cruise line is Azamara?

Azamara is a destination-focused premium cruise line offering immersive voyages on four mid-sized ships. Each ship carries around 700 guests, visiting smaller, less-crowded ports often inaccessible to larger vessels.

Do people dress up on Azamara?

Azamara maintains a smart-casual dress code. Guests tend to dress elegantly for dinner, but there are no formal nights. Think resort chic rather than tuxedos or ball gowns — stylish but comfortable.

What is the average age on Azamara Cruises?

The average age of Azamara passengers is around 55–70 years old, though it varies by itinerary. Longer sailings tend to attract retirees, while shorter cruises may see more working professionals and couples.

Who is Azamara’s target audience?

Azamara appeals to discerning travellers seeking cultural depth, smaller ships, and longer port days. Ideal for couples, solo travellers, and small groups who appreciate immersive travel and fine service without the formality of ultra-luxury lines.

What cabins should I avoid on Azamara?

While all cabins are comfortable and stylish, some guests recommend avoiding:

  • Obstructed-view Oceanviews (lifeboats may block scenery)
  • Deck 4 cabins near the gangway (can be noisy on port days)
  • Cabins below the Pool Deck if you’re sensitive to daytime noise


Upgrading to a
Veranda Stateroom offers the best balance of comfort and value. View Azamara Accommodation

Is Azamara still owned by Royal Caribbean?

No. Azamara was sold by Royal Caribbean Group in 2021 and is now owned by private equity firm Sycamore Partners. Despite the change, Azamara continues to operate independently while maintaining its boutique, destination-focused ethos.

What Ships Are in the Azamara Cruises Fleet?

The Azamara fleet currently consists of four elegant, boutique-style ships — each carrying around 700 guests and designed for destination immersion and personal service:

  • Azamara Journey – The line’s original ship, offering elegant décor and intimate charm.
  • Azamara Quest – Known for its exceptional service and warm, club-like atmosphere.
  • Azamara Pursuit – Introduced in 2018, featuring updated design and expanded itineraries.
  • Azamara Onward – The newest addition to the fleet, sailing immersive global voyages since 2022.

Each vessel shares the same welcoming ambience, exceptional cuisine, and focus on cultural discovery.

Final Thoughts

Azamara offers a refined, immersive cruising experience for travellers who love culture, fine dining, and personalised service. With its smaller ships and destination-led approach, it’s one of the best choices for those who prefer quality over crowds.

Awards & Recognition for Azamara

Azamara Cruises has been honoured by:



  • Condé Nast Traveler – Reader’s Choice Awards
  • Travel + Leisure – World’s Best Awards
  • US News & World Report – Best Cruise Lines

Plan Your Azamara Cruise with the Experts

Ready to experience the world the Azamara way? The award-winning team at Select Travel Holidays have first-hand experience of sailing with Azamara and can help you find the perfect voyage. Whether you’re dreaming of the Greek Isles, the Caribbean, or a journey through Asia, we’ll ensure every detail is taken care of.

📞 Call us on 01234 326 278 or email info@selecttravelholidays.co.uk to start planning your boutique cruise today.

Amy - Blogger-in-Chief at Select Travel Holidays

About Amy

Amy is one of the Marketeers at Team Select, where she combines her lifelong passion for travel with her love of writing as Blogger-in-Chief. Since joining Select Travel Holidays full-time in 2015, Amy has become the driving force behind much of the content on both the Select Travel Holidays website and Cruise Select, as well as the Select magazine.

A third generation of her family in the travel industry, Amy has been cruising since childhood and has a particular love for small-ship voyages. Her commitment and knowledge have been recognised across the industry: she is a Master CLIA Cruise Agent, an Advantage Connoisseur Agent, and winner of the ‘Most Engaged Agent’ Award at the 2021 ATAS Awards. She was also honoured with the ATAS Ambassador Award at the Agent Achievement Awards and was part of the team named among the TTG Top 50 Travel Agents in the UK & Ireland.

From Machu Picchu to the Mekong, Amy’s personal travels have taken her across the globe, continually inspiring her writing and deepening her understanding of the destinations she recommends. Whether researching the latest itineraries or sharing insider tips, she’s passionate about helping clients discover extraordinary journeys.

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