October 4, 2024 10:36 am
After years of contemplating another luxury cruise line, I finally chose Azamara Journey for a 7-day voyage through the Greek islands and Turkey. Having sailed with Seven Seas, Regent, and Viking, I was drawn to Azamara’s promise of small ships, extended port stays, and a casual yet elegant atmosphere. The itinerary did not disappoint, offering ample time to explore each destination, and the top-end cabin exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and amenities.
Known for its destination-immersive philosophy, Azamara offers more than just voyages; it promises transformative experiences where each port visit transcends mere sightseeing, becoming a collection of unforgettable memories.
Azamara, a Miami-based cruise line, has been carving out its niche in the luxury cruise segment since its founding in 2007. Originally part of Royal Caribbean, Azamara began with two R-class ships, the Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey, and later expanded its fleet with the Azamara Pursuit.
For my latest adventure, I chose the Azamara Journey, a mid-sized ship that perfectly balances intimacy and space. Designed like a luxurious boutique hotel at sea, the Journey offers an environment that is intimate but never crowded, with a deck plan that caters to modern voyagers seeking both comfort and discovery. From the moment I stepped onboard, I was struck by the ship’s understated elegance, blending classic touches with contemporary flair
The Azamara Journey is a mid-sized cruise ship that perfectly encapsulates the charm of an intimate boutique hotel at sea. From the moment you step aboard, the cozy atmosphere and elegant design make a lasting impression. With a well-thought-out deck plan, the ship offers plenty of space for relaxation without ever feeling crowded, making it ideal for modern travellers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and personalized service.
The ship’s decor is a true standout, with an inviting palette of natural hues like taupe, biscuit, and fawn. These shades harmoniously blend classic and modern elements, creating a bright, sophisticated, and contemporary feel throughout. Whether you’re lounging in one of the public spaces or retiring to your stateroom, every detail contributes to a refreshed and serene ambiance.
One of the ship’s main social hubs is the Cabaret Lounge on Deck 5, a multi-use space serving as the main theater for performances and events. Though it’s a smaller venue with a low ceiling, the thoughtful design in light gold brocades, cream walls, and silver-grey carpeting prevents it from feeling enclosed. A large dance floor in the centre adds to the spacious feel, making it perfect for evening entertainment. The intimate size ensures that performances are up-close and personal, with only 450 guests in the audience.
Another delightful space is The Living Room Lounge on Deck 10, located at the ship’s front, offering passengers a cozy, stylish area for relaxation. Whether curled up on velvet sofas or lounging in birdcage-style swinging chairs, guests can enjoy the panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows while sipping on a complimentary cafe latte. The room’s cream carpet, resembling the swirls of a latte, adds to the soothing ambiance. Interactive “technology tables” are a unique touch, allowing guests to create and send digital postcards to friends and family directly from the lounge.
For those seeking a quieter retreat, The Drawing Room is a hidden gem. This beautifully appointed library, designed for reading and relaxation, provides a peaceful haven at any time of day. Guests can browse the collection or take advantage of the digital tabletops to send digital postcards or explore Azamara’s Inspiration Centre, where travellers can gain ideas for future voyages. The Drawing Room transforms into an elegant dining venue during the ship’s exclusive Best of the Best Dinner for Owner’s Suite guests, offering a truly luxurious culinary experience.
With all the deco in public spaces, the combination of style and functionality, Azamara Journey delivers a sophisticated yet cozy cruising experience, with stylish spaces that cater to both social and serene moments. It’s the perfect choice for discerning travellers who appreciate understated elegance and a personalized touch.
The outdoor spaces on Azamara Journey continue the ship’s theme of cozy elegance. The main pool area, located on Deck 9 midship, features a saltwater pool flanked by two freshwater hot tubs. While the pool isn’t particularly large and can get crowded on hot days, it’s more of a refreshing dip spot than a place for serious swimming. Surrounding the pool are loungers, with a mix of sun and shade, providing options for those who prefer either. Loungers typically remain available until mid-morning on sea days.
The pool deck is generally a peaceful retreat, with the ship’s solo guitarist playing light music during lunch, adding a soothing touch. For those seeking quieter spots, Deck 11’s Sun Deck offers an ideal space for reading and relaxation, where loungers are often plentiful. Additional loungers can also be found on Deck 5 along both the port and starboard sides.
For a more exclusive experience, the Sanctum Spa on Deck 9 features a private sun deck with lounge chairs, day beds, and a thalassotherapy pool. Access to this area is complimentary for top suite guests, while other passengers can purchase a day or full-cruise pass. The space offers a serene atmosphere from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., but closes early at 5 p.m. when reserved for Azamara’s events
The outdoor spaces on Azamara Journey are thoughtfully designed for relaxation, providing ample spots for both sun and shade, ensuring a tranquil environment for all guests.
THE GASTRONOMY
Dining on Azamara Journey is a true highlight, offering a culinary journey that reflects the ship’s Destination Immersion philosophy. This means the flavors of the destinations you visit are incorporated into the onboard food and drink menus, delivering a personalized and authentic taste of local cuisine.
There are five main dining venues onboard. The Windows Café and The Patio are casual, included options, while the specialty restaurants, Aqualina (Italian) and Prime C (steakhouse), provide elevated dining experiences for a cover charge (complimentary for suite guests). From the thoughtful menus to the warm ambiance, dining on Azamara Journey offers something for every taste.
Discoveries, the main dining room on Deck 5, is the culinary heart of the ship, offering a variety of nightly selections, including dishes like filet mignon with black truffle sauce, alongside local specialties. The elegant yet lively atmosphere, combined with its renewed décor, makes it a guest favourite. No reservations are required, and diners can choose between a table for two or join a larger group.
The Windows Café on Azamara Journey revitalizes the traditional cruise ship buffet experience with a fresh, local flair. Each evening, the café’s themed dinners reflect the region you’re visiting, offering a culinary exploration of local flavors. Whether it’s an Indian, Mexican, or Italian spread, the chefs also create live stations using ingredients sourced from local ports—think fresh Greek salad with local feta. The newly renovated café provides a casual, relaxed atmosphere with flexible seating options, whether you prefer a cozy meal for two or a lively dinner with friends. Fresh sushi, pasta, stir-fry, salads, and a carving station ensure a variety of daily selections. Outdoor tables offer the perfect spot to enjoy your meal with a sea breeze. Windows Café is a standout option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, combining comfort, variety, and the flavours of your destination
Prime C, located on Deck 10 aft of Azamara Journey, is a steakhouse haven for meat lovers and a top dining destination on the ship. With its elegant wood-paneled ambiance and stunning aft views, the restaurant offers a four-course dining experience featuring premium cuts of steak, lamb, and seafood, all expertly prepared. Guests rave about dishes like filet mignon au poivre, herb-coated rack of lamb, and chateaubriand for two, which are consistently rated among the best meals at sea.
The extensive menu includes starters such as tuna tartare with popcorn shrimp and the rich crab and lobster cake, while vegetarian options like the vegetable enchilada ensure there’s something for everyone. Sides like creamed spinach and Belgian endives with ham and cheese complement the entrees perfectly. Desserts, such as the key lime cheesecake and fondant au chocolat, offer a sweet finale, though the grain-nut soufflé was less impressive.
The menu stays largely consistent, but nightly specials add variety. Prime C’s sophisticated setting, combined with its succulent dishes and refined service, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a high-quality steakhouse experience at sea. Reservations are essential.
Aqualina, located on Deck 10 aft of Azamara Journey, is an Italian-inspired specialty restaurant offering a refined dining experience with a focus on Tuscan cuisine. With its casual yet elegant atmosphere, Aqualina serves a delectable four-course dinner featuring antipasti, soups, salads, secondi, and desserts.
Starters like beef carpaccio and the classic caprese salad with buffalo mozzarella set the tone for a sophisticated meal. A highlight is the pancetta-wrapped scallops with crispy squid and butternut squash, an exquisite combination that impresses even seasoned foodies. Soups and salads include the hearty minestrone and refreshing watermelon, tomato, and basil salad.
Main courses range from lobster tail with squid ink pasta to the flavorful garlic, lemon, and herb-crusted veal chop with arugula-pistachio pesto and maple balsamic. Each dish is prepared to perfection, embracing authentic Italian flavors. For dessert, indulgent choices include panna cotta, tiramisu, and a rich flourless chocolate torte. The sbagliato baba Neapolitan, with its chocolate-covered amaretto mousse, is another standout.
Although the menu rarely changes, nightly specials add variety, though some passengers found the Asiatic-themed specials out of place. Aqualina is open for dinner only, with reservations highly recommended. Non-suite guests pay a dining supplement, while specialty dining packages start at $85 per person.
Note that Aqualina is closed on special event nights such as White Night and the AzAmazing Evening. With its emphasis on high-quality Italian cuisine and impeccable service, Aqualina is a must-visit for lovers of Mediterranean flavors.
The Patio on Azamara Journey is a delightful al fresco, poolside dining venue offering both lunch and dinner with a perfect mix of casual elegance and high-quality food. During the day, it serves as a relaxed pool grill, ideal for a laid-back meal with ocean views and gentle sea breezes. The menu offers a satisfying selection of soups, salads, and artisan breads to start, with mains fresh off the grill such as BBQ pork ribs, grilled curried chicken kebabs, tournedos of lamb tenderloin, and bone-in beef striploin. There are also daily seafood specials, expertly grilled to perfection.
In the evening, The Patio transforms into a more refined dining space, with white linen tablecloths and flickering candles creating an inviting atmosphere. Despite its casual roots, the service is polished and attentive, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed but high-quality dining experience. The evening menu features dishes inspired by local flavors, part of Azamara’s Destination Immersion® cuisine, allowing guests to taste the essence of the regions they visit.
A fun touch is the Swirl & Top frozen yogurt station, offering a variety of flavors and toppings for a refreshing treat any time of day. Whether you’re cooling off after a swim or capping off your evening meal, it’s a delightful addition.
The Patio is open daily for lunch and most evenings for dinner (weather permitting). While reservations for dinner are recommended, they’re not essential. A must-visit for those seeking relaxed but delicious dining.
Azamara Journey caters to cruisers who enjoy a sundowner, offering a variety of inviting spots for a drink or two. The Living Room is a top choice for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, with stunning views, comfortable seating, and a laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding during the day. For coffee lovers, the Mosaic Café serves up speciality coffees and teas, while in the evening it transforms into a more intimate venue offering a fine selection of cognacs and ports—a lovely place to indulge in some quiet relaxation.
For something a bit livelier, Spirits Bar on Deck 5 is the perfect cocktail destination. Its stylish ambiance is enhanced by the soothing notes of live piano music, making it a favorite for those seeking a sophisticated drink spot. Personally, I found myself returning to Spirits frequently, enjoying the laid-back elegance and atmosphere, and even spending the majority of one sea day here sipping my way through the cocktail menu.
Finally, there’s Room Service on Azamara Journey, which offers the ultimate convenience. Available 24 hours a day, it’s perfect for those who want to dine in the comfort of their cabin. Breakfast can be ordered from a full menu between 6:30 am and 10:00 am, while lunch and dinner options include hearty soups, fresh salads, gourmet sandwiches, pizzas, and desserts. Whether you want breakfast in bed or a late-night snack, room service ensures that your cravings are always met.
Azamara Journey provides plenty of variety for drink lovers, making every moment onboard a relaxing indulgence.
THE ACCOMODATION
The Azamara Journey is a ship designed with couples in mind, offering a refined, boutique hotel experience at sea. With 355 cabins spread across five decks, 70 percent of the staterooms feature verandas, making the ship ideal for those who enjoy private outdoor space. Despite being mid-sized, the ship’s intimate layout ensures that it never feels crowded, offering travelers a relaxed, personalized atmosphere.
Cabins are divided into four main categories: inside, oceanview, balcony, and suites, with 243 of the 329 outside cabins featuring verandas. After its 2016 refurbishment, the ship now includes two exclusive Spa Suites, bringing the total number of suite options to 46. The decor throughout the cabins emphasizes neutral shades of cream, gray, and beige, offering a crisp, modern look. Only the cherry wood writing desk, closet, and bar cabinet remain from the pre-refurbishment design. Every cabin, regardless of category, is equipped with a 40- to 55-inch flat-screen TV, bedside USB chargers, a mini-bar stocked with complimentary soda and beer, and luxurious linens.
The Club Veranda cabins, of which there are 200, dominate the stateroom offerings. These 175-square-foot cabins come with a 40-square-foot balcony, providing just enough space for a couple to enjoy sea breezes and views. Veranda Plus cabins offer a bit more balcony space, with outdoor areas up to 64 square feet, while some of these cabins feature sofa beds for added flexibility. Guests will find thoughtful amenities like Egyptian cotton bed linens, bathrobes, slippers, a welcome fruit basket, and even a complimentary tote bag and umbrella for use during their cruise.
For those looking to indulge in more space and luxury, the Club Continent Suites on Deck 8 are a great option. These 266-square-foot suites come with 60-square-foot balconies, larger seating areas, and expanded storage options. Port-side suites offer bathtubs, while starboard suites feature glass-enclosed showers. TVs in these suites are upgraded to 55 inches for a more immersive viewing experience. Added luxury touches, like butler service and priority check-in, make these suites an attractive choice for those seeking an upgraded experience.
The ship’s two Spa Suites, located on Deck 9, are secluded near the ship’s spa and offer an indulgent retreat with 357 square feet of space and a 53-square-foot balcony. These suites feature oversize bathrooms with whirlpool bathtubs, separate rain showers, and walk-in closets. Piped-in spa music adds to the tranquil ambiance, creating the perfect space for ultimate relaxation.
For travelers seeking even more space, the Ocean Suites range from 440 to 501 square feet and include master bedrooms, living rooms, and expansive 233-square-foot balconies. These suites offer ample closet space, marble bathrooms with both a tub and shower, and spacious living areas with separate TVs in the bedroom and living room.
At the pinnacle of luxury are the Club World Owner’s Suites, located aft on Decks 6, 7, and 8. These 560-square-foot suites include 233-square-foot balconies, and offer all the features of the Ocean Suites, with even more exclusivity. Benefits for suite guests include butler service, priority dining in specialty restaurants, afternoon canapés, and VIP perks like spa access and a private cocktail party. Top-tier suite guests in the Ocean and World Owner’s Suites also receive complimentary Internet, $300 in onboard credit, and access to the exclusive “Best of the Best” dinner.
Azamara Journey provides a luxurious, boutique cruise experience with attention to detail in every aspect of its accommodations. From spacious suites with private balconies to thoughtful amenities and exceptional service, guests are guaranteed a voyage that balances comfort, elegance, and adventure.
For this journey, I stayed in the Club World Owner’s Suite, cabin 8088, located on Deck 8 of the Azamara Journey. Initially, I had some reservations after reading reviews online that mentioned potential noise from the Deck 9 buffet above and the risk of soot accumulating on the balcony. However, any worries quickly faded once on board. Noise from the buffet was barely audible, even during peak hours, and soot only appeared on the final morning while docking in Piraeus.
That said, if I were to highlight any minor issues—though they are hard to find—I would mention the slightly dated decor. Despite the ship’s refurbishment in 2016, the suite’s aesthetic could benefit from a modern refresh. Some areas in the living room and bathroom showed signs of wear, and the cabin lacked some of the more cutting-edge technology you might expect from a ship sailing in 2024. Nonetheless, the suite remained a luxurious and comfortable retreat throughout the voyage.
The Club World Owner’s Suite offers a generous layout with a separate living room and master bedroom, making it ideal for extended stays. A convertible sofa bed is available for extra guests, although the suite is best enjoyed by two. The spacious living area includes a 55-inch flat-screen and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open onto a large veranda, perfect for admiring the sea views. The master bedroom also features its own sliding glass doors, a 40-inch flat-screen TV, and a comfortable queen-size bed that can be converted from two lower beds.
One of the suite’s highlights is the marble master bathroom, which includes a whirlpool tub and shower. There’s also a dressing room with ample closet space and a vanity, making it easy to unpack and settle in. A guest bathroom adds an extra level of convenience for entertaining or having family onboard.
The range of amenities provided in the Club World Owner’s Suite elevates the experience further. Guests enjoy English butler service, ensuring that every detail is attended to, from priority check-in and luggage unpacking to daily afternoon canapés and in-suite dining from the restaurant menus. The suite also comes stocked with a welcome bottle of sparkling wine and a fruit basket, as well as a mini-bar with a 2 complimentary bottle of spirits of your choice.
Other perks include complimentary seating in the ship’s specialty restaurants throughout the voyage, and a generous free internet package, a helpful touch for staying connected. You can also indulge in afternoon tea service delivered directly to your suite or even book in-suite spa treatments for an extra level of relaxation.
In terms of in-room features, the suite is fully equipped with thermostat-controlled air conditioning, a writing desk, direct-dial telephone with voicemail, in-room safe, hand-held hair dryer, and complimentary umbrellas and binoculars. Guests also receive daily turndown treats, fresh-cut flowers, and a tote bag for use during excursions.
Staying in the Club World Owner’s Suite is a truly luxurious experience. While a few aspects could benefit from modernization, the comfort, space, and excellent service make it a standout option for travellers seeking both indulgence and privacy on the Azamara Journey.
ENTERTAINMENT
Azamara consistently delivers memorable experiences, from service to shore excursions, but when it comes to on-board entertainment, it falls short, particularly on the Azamara Journey. Unlike big productions on large ships, Azamara aligns with medium-sized cruise lines like Viking, offering a more subdued entertainment approach. This isn’t inherently a flaw – after all, not everyone seeks Broadway-style spectacles at sea. But downsizing should never mean compromising quality, and that’s where Azamara’s entertainment stumbles.
On the Azamara Journey, the Cruise Director and Assistant Cruise Director took on “one-man-show” duties, performing nightly in the Cabaret Lounge or The Living Room. Unfortunately, their vocal skills and stage presence were underwhelming, reminiscent of coastal resort entertainers rather than polished cruise performers. Worse still, they seemed to have missed a crucial rule in entertainment: “less is more.”
The production shows were equally lackluster – forgettable choreography, amateurish musical performances, and uninspired concepts. Even the ship’s band, which should be a staple of on-board entertainment, gave the impression they were last-minute replacements, with performances falling short of professional standards.
The entertainment disappointments extended to other venues, like The Den, where a talented mixologist’s craft was overshadowed by an overly loud musician who failed to grasp the subtleties of lounge music. Instead of enhancing the ambiance, his decibel competition drowned out conversations. Similarly, the DJ in charge of late-night dancing seemed more suited to a budget summer camp, with limited song choices and minimal energy.
As for daily activities, they were sparsely hosted, offering little to fill the time, especially during sea days. While shore excursions remained the highlight, one wonders what passengers on longer crossings with multiple sea days do to pass the time.
Azamara needs to rethink its entertainment formula, ensuring that quality matches the rest of its offerings. Hiring the right people for the right roles could transform the current mediocrity into an asset, rather than a weak link.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Azamara has long emphasized a destination-focused experience, with longer stays in port (including overnights) and the ability to dock closer to the heart of destinations due to their smaller ships. They’ve enhanced this approach with their “Cruise Global, Connect Local” philosophy, offering intimate, imaginative shore excursions that highlight each location. This philosophy includes exclusive events that took my escapade on the Azamara Journey to a whole new level, an experience unmatched by any other cruise I’ve taken.
Destination Immersion evening
Azamara Journey brought a taste of Greece on board in an unforgettable evening that blended local food and culture seamlessly. The sun deck was transformed into an authentic Greek Taverna, draped in blue and white, creating a stunning atmosphere. A Greek-themed buffet was served, offering an impressive array of traditional dishes, while live entertainment from local performers brought the sounds and spirit of Greece to life. The attention to detail was impeccable, from the tasteful table decorations to the fresh ingredients used by the chefs, who recreated Greece’s rich and ancient gastronomic identity. Greek cuisine, one of the oldest in the world, was showcased with both traditional and modern flair, taking guests on a delightful culinary journey through history. Paired with a picturesque sunset and a relaxed, festive vibe, it was a truly magical evening, capturing the essence of Greek hospitality and culture onboard Azamara Journey
AzAmazing Night
Azamara Cruises’ AzAmazing Evenings elevate cultural immersion to a whole new level, delivering unique, tailor-made experiences that reflect the spirit and nightlife of extraordinary destinations. On my recent cruise, this special event was hosted in Rhodes, at the historic Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes (Kastello). The logistics were flawless; nearly 900 passengers were smoothly transferred from the ship to the venue, setting the perfect tone for the evening. If you’re staying in a top suite, you’ll enjoy added perks like a pre-event drink on board and a private transfer, allowing early arrival to secure the best seats or enjoy a lavish open bar featuring fine spirits, local wines, and traditional drinks.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by knights who escorted us to the event’s stunning open-air venue. The atmosphere was relaxed yet elegant, with high-ranking officers mingling among guests before the evening’s entertainment—a remarkable concert by a string quartet, soprano, and tenor—began. The performance exceeded expectations, taking us on a journey from musicals to opera, and the experience felt deeply rooted in the culture of Rhodes. There were moments when I forgot I was on a voyage, so completely had I engaged with the local character.
Despite suggestions to dine beforehand, I still had time for a delicious post-event dinner at Prime C, a perk of booking a top suite. AzAmazing Evenings offer a memorable blend of culture, entertainment, and luxury that enriches your travel experience. My advice? Have fun, savor the moment, and let Azamara immerse you in the soul of each destination
White Night
Azamara Cruises has taken the once-cliché “White Night” event and transformed it into a dazzling, unforgettable experience at sea. Originally popularized by Costa and NCL, White Night has become a staple across cruise lines, often reduced to a simple formula of dancing, drinking, and wearing something white. However, Azamara’s White Night is in a class of its own, offering a lavish, highly anticipated Signature Event that feels more like the ultimate dinner party.
As the sun sets, the ship transforms. From portside to starboard, white garlands are draped across the deck, with elegantly set white tables and chairs arranged poolside. Guests are invited to don their finest all-white outfits—some embracing the glamour with sequins, feathers, and sunglasses, while others (who clearly didn’t plan ahead) show up in bathrobes and slippers, eager not to miss the fun. The night begins with an exquisite al fresco dinner, featuring an opulent buffet brimming with global cuisine. From top-quality seafood and prime meat cuts to sophisticated salads, local delicacies, and innovative side dishes, everything is paired with endless glasses of fine wines and cocktails. A special highlight? Watching the ship’s Officers barbequing and serving the guests, adding a personal touch to the evening.
The live band keeps the energy high with upbeat melodies, encouraging guests to dance under the twinkling stars. And just when you think it’s over, the after-party kicks in with more music, dancing, and drinks, creating a night that no one will soon forget. Or maybe they will, because as the saying goes, “What happens at White Night, stays at White Night.” It’s an evening of elegance, indulgence, and fun—elevated to a level only Azamara can achieve
The Best of the Best
For guests staying in Azamara’s top suites, such as the World Owner’s Suites and Club Ocean Suites, a truly exclusive dining experience awaits. Hosted by the Captain and senior officers in the elegant ambiance of the Drawing Room, this special dinner elevates the boutique luxury experience on Azamara Journey to new heights. The evening begins with an informal chat over a signature cocktail, setting a relaxed yet refined tone before guests transition into an area of unparalleled sophistication.
What follows is nothing short of a Michelin-star dining experience. The Executive Chef curates a menu that is both elegant and innovative, filled with flavors and creative twists that surprise and delight at every course. Each dish is expertly paired with fine wines by the Head Sommelier, enhancing the gastronomic journey with precision and care. The service, as expected, is flawless—attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that every detail is perfect.
The entire atmosphere exudes luxury, from the intimate setting to the perfectly timed courses, making it a memorable evening for all who attend. This dinner not only showcases the exquisite culinary talent onboard but also expands the dimension of boutique cruising, offering a truly elevated, one-of-a-kind experience on Azamara Journey.
KEY MOMENTS
Azamara sets itself apart with a suite of unique offerings. Every suite enjoys butler service, ensuring personalized care throughout the voyage. Shore excursions immerse guests in the local culture, allowing them to truly engage with each destination rather than just observe. The ship’s enrichment programs are equally impressive, offering a wide range of experiences, from culinary to photographic explorations. Combined with Azamara’s unmatched level of personal service, these offerings make for a truly exceptional and immersive travel experience
Embarkation
Embarkation on Azamara Journey is a stress-free, smooth, and elegant experience, setting a positive tone for the entire cruise. Unlike my previous experiences with Celebrity, NCL, and Viking in Piraeus, Azamara’s process was seamless from the start. Embarkation began earlier than expected, and there was no need to print luggage tags—the attentive shore staff took care of everything, quickly whisking away the luggage. A warm welcome from senior management followed, along with an efficient check-in process. After a quick terminal check-in, guests were transferred to the ship, where a second check-in, complete with champagne and a security photo, was part of the ritual. In under 30 minutes from stepping out of the taxi, I was already heading to my cabin on Deck 8. Before I could even finish my first cocktail on the Sun Deck, my luggage was delivered. Azamara’s embarkation is impressively stress-free, fast, and refined, a perfect start to the voyage
Guest Services
While Azamara Journey excels in many areas of service, the Guest Service department unfortunately falls short of expectations. I encountered a noticeable lack of attentiveness, proactivity, and courtesy when I reached out for assistance. It felt as though the team was temporarily filling in rather than providing the high standard of service Azamara is known for. In both interactions, I was surprised by their disinterest and a disregard for basic customer service principles, such as maintaining eye contact and demonstrating a problem-solving attitude. Thankfully, the rest of the crew stepped in to provide the help I needed, showcasing the exceptional service that characterizes the rest of the ship.
Crew
Azamara’s guests are drawn to the destinations, but they return for the exceptional hospitality provided by the crew. With a remarkable staff-to-guest ratio of 1.7:2, the Azamara Journey offers personal, hands-on service from the moment you step onboard until the very end of your voyage. The diverse crew hails from every corner of the globe, embodying the heart and soul of the brand. Unlike larger ships, the intimate size of Azamara Journey fosters meaningful connections between guests and staff, including officers who engage with passengers as approachable conversation partners. The captain, in particular, is known for being genuinely personable. The attentive, friendly service extends from top management to housekeeping, making you feel like part of a community. The crew remembers your name, favourite drink, and past conversations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Azamara Journey’s crew truly has hospitality in its DNA, driven by a passionate management team that ensures every guest feels valued and at home. The service on board Azamara Journey was impeccable from the moment we stepped on board. The staff were warm, welcoming, and incredibly attentive, making us feel at home instantly. No request was too much trouble, and the attention to detail was remarkable. The bar staff quickly learned our drink preferences, and the waiters were friendly, introducing themselves, sharing where they were from, and offering insightful suggestions on wine pairings with each meal.
What stood out most was the personal touch—every time we disembarked and returned, we were greeted by name with a heartfelt “welcome home,” which added a sweet and thoughtful touch to the experience. The overall atmosphere was one of genuine happiness, with every crew member going above and beyond to ensure our stay was as special and comfortable as possible. The service truly enhanced our voyage, making it one to remember.
Butler Service
Booking one of the top suites on Azamara Journey truly elevates the cruising experience, and having a butler service was a game-changer. Our butler, Oscar, exemplified what it means to be a true butler, surpassing the services offered by cruise lines like NCL, Cunard, and Celebrity. His attention to detail was remarkable; Oscar anticipated my needs before I even had to ask, ensuring that my stay was nothing short of perfect. His positive demeanor, calm professionalism, and unwavering discretion made every interaction a delight. He navigated challenges with ease, preempting potential issues and finding effective solutions, all while maintaining a level of confidentiality that added to the experience. Having Oscar at my service for the week was a privilege, and his commitment to the art of butlery transformed my cruise into an extraordinary journey. I can’t imagine cruising without this exceptional touch of personalized service.
Shore excursion and shore access
During my cruise on Azamara Journey, I opted not to book any shore excursions, but I observed how smoothly the guests who did were able to embark and disembark at each port. They departed at convenient times, without lines or confusion, allowing for a calm and relaxed start to their explorations. If you’re planning to explore independently, I recommend timing your outings after the organized excursions depart. With Azamara’s extended hours in port, this was easy to do, and I found coming and going from the ship to be a breeze. Even during tendering, the process was efficient, thanks to Azamara’s frequent tendering service with local lifeboats. This ensured that everyone could easily access the shore and enjoy their adventures without hassle. Overall, the embarkation experience for excursions reflected Azamara’s commitment to a stress-free cruise experience.
Disembarkation
Disembarkation on Azamara Journey was as smooth and stress-free as the rest of the cruise. Detailed instructions regarding the process were provided well in advance, which, though a bit somber on a seven-day voyage, made everything clear and efficient. My butler double-checked everything to ensure a seamless departure. There were no long lines, no stress, and finding my luggage on shore was a breeze. Officers and crew supervised the process with professional smiles, making it feel effortless. The only downside was that Azamara requires luggage to be placed outside the suite by 9 p.m. the night before—quite early. I chose to carry a smaller suitcase with me, which worked out perfectly. A suggestion for improvement: clear information on the specific terminal for private transfers would be helpful. Overall, the disembarkation process was well-organized and executed, ensuring a relaxed and positive end to the trip.
“Feedback is a gift,” and I believe Azamara is eager to evolve and further solidify its position in the luxury cruise market. After my seven-day experience aboard Azamara Journey, I have a few suggestions that might be valuable for those looking to fine-tune the product and enhance the guest experience.
1. Special touches for top suite guests:
Top suite guests, who pay 10 to 15 times more per day than those in standard cabins, deserve distinctive perks that justify their investment. Competing lines like MSC, Royal Caribbean, Explora, and NCL provide extra services for high-tier cabins, such as personal escorts for dinner or shore excursions, reserved seating for onboard events like White Night and Destination Immersion, and exclusive tables at shows or production performances. Introducing similar privileges on Azamara would elevate the experience for top-tier guests, enhancing the boutique, luxury atmosphere and encouraging repeat bookings.
2. Improve logistics for special events:
Standing in long lines for buffet food during special event nights detracts from the luxury experience Azamara strives for. While the food is undeniably exquisite, the queuing felt more reminiscent of a casual summer camp than an exclusive, high-end cruise. Reworking the logistics for these occasions—perhaps incorporating a plated service or staggered seating arrangements—would eliminate the need for guests to queue, maintaining a more refined, upscale ambiance throughout the evening.
3. Embrace modern technology:
Despite Azamara’s intimate, club-like atmosphere, it’s time to bring the fleet up to speed with modern technological conveniences. The daily delivery of printed schedules and event flyers could easily be replaced by a virtual information page on the in-room TVs. Not only would this save paper, but it would also streamline information for guests, offering an eco-friendly and efficient way to keep up with daily events, menus, and shore excursion details. Guests accustomed to luxury may appreciate the tech-forward approach, aligning Azamara with 21st-century expectations.
4. Revise onboard entertainment:
While Azamara’s entertainment is intentionally low-key to suit its relaxed atmosphere, “low-key” should not translate to “low-quality.” Some of the performances felt more like amateur “wannabe” acts than the polished, sophisticated performances one would expect on a luxury cruise. Azamara should rethink its entertainment offerings, ensuring that the acts onboard meet the expectations of a discerning audience. Curated musical performances, cabaret-style shows, and culturally immersive acts that reflect the destinations visited could bring a more refined edge to the entertainment lineup.
These suggestions come from a place of genuine appreciation, as my experience on Azamara Journey was delightful overall. However, as this was my first Azamara cruise, I couldn’t help but compare it to other luxury products in the market. By incorporating some of these improvements, Azamara can strengthen its position as a leader in the boutique luxury cruise sector, further setting itself apart from the competition. Ultimately, Azamara’s charm lies in its relaxed, intimate atmosphere, but a few thoughtful enhancements could make the experience even more seamless and sophisticated for future guests.
It’s difficult to put into words the magic of my time aboard Azamara. This is truly one of those “you’ve got to experience it for yourself” moments to fully understand the appeal. As someone told me before, “Once you cruise with Azamara, you never turn back,” and now I completely get it. The value for money is exceptional, thanks to the immersive way Azamara connects you to each destination—through dining, entertainment, and proximity to port. But what truly sets them apart is the genuine service, with an almost one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio that creates a warm, personal experience. The intimate, club-like atmosphere onboard adds to the sense of laid-back luxury that Azamara is known for.
In fact, I was so impressed that I booked two more Azamara cruises as soon as I returned home. Stay tuned, because I will definitely be back on board for more unforgettable adventures!
Posted by Leonard69
Categories: CRUISE CHRONICLES, TRAVELER'S NOTES
Tags: #holiday, #travel, Azamara, Azamara Journey, cruise, cruise ship, cruises, cruising, Greek cruise, Leonard Miron, luxury cruise, travel
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