The Azamara Difference

Here’s what we love about cruising with AAA travel partner Azamara: It’s not just about the ports of call. Your time aboard the ship is a huge part of your experience. Imagine a cruise where the accommodations feel more like a 690-guest luxury hotel—one staffed with an efficient and attentive crew that exudes genuine care on each leg of your journey. Here’s how Azamara does just that.

Destination immersion

Azamara ships cross oceans and sail scenic rivers and waterways. The cruise line features four small ships—not just for more-intimate vacations but also because these vessels can dock in ports that can’t accommodate larger ships. Plus, Azamara ships often offer longer stays and more overnights at port, giving travelers more time to enjoy and get to know their destinations.

From the temples of Bangkok to the vineyards of Bordeaux, France, to Seville in Spain and Hong Kong’s bustling nightlife, Azamara will connect you to the local people and culture of a destination. Azamara even offers AzAmazing Evenings—“Destination Immersion” events with world-class culinary and crew along with experiences on land. These are exclusive, complimentary experiences designed to connect guests to the culture of a destination, with local talent and often hosted in historic venues.

“We design it specifically to bring out the culture and the nuances of the destination,” says Michelle Lardizabal, chief sales officer, North America at Azamara. “They’re uniquely tailored and curated for a specific port of call. It’s a unique experience—and wildly popular.

“One of our key differentiators is the concept that we pioneered—country-intensive voyages,” Lardizabal adds. “We looked at how we can go even deeper into Italy, France, South America, Norway, Iceland, New Zealand, Australia and more. So many people are eager to get out of their homes and go on vacation, and time is extremely valuable. And they want to make sure that if they’re going to Italy, they see everything they possibly can.”

“All our cruises are rich immersion experiences that set us apart from the rest of the marketplace,” Lardizabal continues. “Overnight and late-night stays help you get the most from your visit. You get to relax and enjoy. You don’t have to rush back to the ship, so you can experience the destination during the day and night, which really brings out the true cultural experiences.”

Really, when you explore the depth and breadth of Azamara itineraries, they offer opportunities to access parts of a city, town or village you normally wouldn’t get to see via larger ships.

Become a true world traveler.

If it’s an immersive travel experience you seek, how about one on a global scale? Coming in 2024, a world voyage starring the newest ship in the fleet, Azamara Onward. Visiting more than 40 countries and 75-plus unique destinations, this trip includes 10 segments totaling 155 nights. It will be a journey unlike any other. You may never want to go home.

Intimate sailing

With the atmosphere of a boutique hotel at sea, Azamara vessels boast deck plans that make your voyage feel more intimate, but never crowded. Ships also feature a large number of staterooms and suites with verandas—perfect for starting your day with stunning views and the fresh sea air brushing your face.

Across the fleet, Azamara’s authentic service goes beyond the expectations of even the most well-traveled cruisers. Guests can experience an intimate hotel at sea, with inclusive amenities such as gratuities, select beverages, butler service, exclusive cultural events and more.

The friendly and approachable crew is attentive and ready to offer everything from poolside service to recommendations for onshore exploration.

Plus, you’ll find elevated dining options inspired by the destinations Azamara visits, spa experiences to help you relax and refresh, and all-new entertainment offerings.

Note that while the spaces are elegant, the dress code is resort casual (never a need to show up to dinner in a tux). “You should feel relaxed, and that’s the ambiance we try to create,” says Lardizabal.