Azamara Ocean Cruises: Where Small Ship Boutique Luxury Meets Destination Immersion
- Cyndi
- Jun 8
- 4 min read
*Updated June 2025 with the latest Azamara enhancements.
As a certified Azamara specialist, I am often asked whether Azamara qualifies as a luxury cruise line. The answer is yes and no. Azamara occupies a unique sweet spot in the cruise industry as a premium small ship cruise line that delivers an elevated experience without the stuffiness often associated with ultra-luxury cruising.
Azamara's small ships (just 700 guests) offer access to hidden ports, extended stays in iconic cities, and a level of personalized service that makes every moment feel seamless. Their recent updates, including more late nights, immersive cultural programs, and exclusive culinary offerings, are tailor-made for the kind of travel our clients crave.
What’s New with Azamara in 2025?
Azamara is redefining destination immersion with elevated experiences that go beyond the shore:
Late Nights & Overnights: 37% of cruises offer departures after 8 p.m., and 50% include late night or overnight port stays. This creates the perfect opportunity for enjoying Michelin-star dinners, concerts, and authentic nightlife (all after the other ships have left port!)
Country-Intensive Voyages: Choose from 33 new itineraries focused on in-depth exploration of a single country like Italy, Greece, Japan, or Scotland.
Culinary Expansion: 150+ new regionally inspired dishes and 21 new craft beers now rotate onboard with local chefs training Azamara's culinary team.
Onboard Cultural Moments: Enjoy updated production shows, storytelling under the stars, and exclusive “AzAmazing Evenings” ashore.
“Own the Night” Excursions: 246+ nighttime tours, including private events, small group adventures, and curated cultural performances.
Ready to compare luxury small-ship lines? Explore my curated Boutique Ocean Cruises collection for destination-rich, stress-free experiences.
Let's take a look at a few things that sets Azamara apart.
The boutique advantage: unpack once in your floating hotel with personalized service
Longer time in port and more overnights so you can experience the destination without the crowds
Intimate experiences in global destinations
Luxury meets value
photo credit: Azamara
The Boutique Advantage
With just 702 guests per ship and a staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1.6, Azamara offers the intimacy and personalized service typically found on luxury vessels. Think of it as a boutique hotel at sea – sophisticated yet comfortable, exclusive yet welcoming. Also the smaller ship size allows Azamara to dock where larger ships cannot, putting you right in the heart of destinations.
The True Luxury: Time in Port
The greatest luxury isn't found in crystal chandeliers or butler service (though suite guests do enjoy the latter), but in the gift of time. Known for more overnight stays and late departures than most cruise lines, Azamara allows you to truly immerse yourself in each destination. While other ships depart at sunset, Azamara guests are just sitting down to dinner at local restaurants, enjoying evening concerts in historic venues and offering more overnight stays in destinations.
Global Destinations, Intimate Experiences
The fleet of four identical ships sail to all seven continents, offering unique itineraries that larger ships simply cannot match. From the fjords of Norway to the beaches of the South Pacific, Azamara's destination-intensive voyages include:
Country-intensive itineraries focusing on single destinations like Japan or Greece
Exotic expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic
Cultural journeys through Asia and the Mediterranean
Golf-focused voyages in partnership with PerryGolf
African safaris in collaboration with Micato Safaris
Luxury Meets Value
For the discerning traveler who values authentic experiences over stuffiness, Azamara delivers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere that many find more appealing than traditional luxury lines. The focus here is on destination immersion, cultural connection, and comfortable sophistication rather than white-glove formality.
Beyond Standard Inclusions
Azamara includes many upscale amenities that budget-conscious luxury travelers appreciate:
Complimentary select spirits, wine, and beer throughout the voyage (upgraded drink packages available)
Gratuities included in your fare
Complimentary self-service laundry
24-hour room service
One AzAmazing Evening® cultural event per voyage
FAQ: Azamara Cruises, Answered
What makes Azamara different?They lead the small-ship space in destination immersion — with more late nights and overnights than any comparable cruise line.
What’s included on board? Drinks (beer, wine, spirits), tips, dining at multiple venues, cultural performances, exclusive excursions, and more.
Are these cruises good for groups?Absolutely. Azamara offers unbeatable flexibility, onboard venues, and private events perfect for culinary, wine, or celebration groups. Only 8 cabins to create a group!
Are you certified? Yes — I’m a proud certified Azamara Specialist, giving my clients exclusive guidance and perks not available elsewhere.
Where can I learn more or get a quote?Start here: Tailor Made Boutique Ocean Cruises.Or schedule a complimentary consultation. I’ll help you find the perfect sailing!
The Verdict
While Azamara may not fit the traditional definition of a luxury cruise line, it offers something equally valuable: an upscale, immersive travel experience that caters to sophisticated travelers who seek authentic and immersive experiences. It's perfect for those who want the intimacy and service of a luxury cruise combined with the relaxed atmosphere of a boutique hotel.
Meet Your Advisor
Hi, I'm Cyndi Smith, a passionate traveler and owner Tailor Made Travel Studio. We craft tailored travel experiences for busy families who want to travel the world ease and a little bit of luxury!
As a certified Azamara expert, I specialize in helping discerning travelers discover the perfect blend of luxury and authenticity in their cruise experiences. If you are curious about boutique ocean cruises, let's chat!
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