CRUISE SHIP: Azamara Journey, what guests can expect

The Azamara Journey, part of Azamara Cruises’ boutique fleet, offers an intimate and sophisticated cruise experience, accommodating up to 702 passengers. Refurbished in 2016 and 2021, this mid-sized ship blends Edwardian-inspired elegance with modern amenities, ideal for travellers seeking comfort and destination-focused exploration.

Guests can expect a relaxed cruise focused on cultural exploration, with longer port stays for in-depth discovery. The ship’s small size allows access to smaller ports, and the semi-all-inclusive fare covers meals, select drinks, and gratuities. Activities range from poolside lounging to educational lectures, with a leisurely pace suited for mature travellers. The Edwardian-inspired decor, with teak decks and classic furnishings, creates a refined yet approachable atmosphere.

Reception Areas: A Gracious Welcome

Guests are greeted on Deck 4, where a graceful curving staircase under a stained-glass skylight dome creates an elegant first impression. The reception area, integrated with the Inspiration Center, features a 98-inch touchscreen for voyage planning. The nearby Mosaic Café offers a relaxed setting for complimentary coffee and pastries, while The Den provides travel books and interactive screens for destination insights.

Dining: A Culinary Range

The ship’s dining venues cater to diverse tastes. Discoveries Restaurant on Deck 5 serves daily-changing menus with international and regional dishes, included in the fare. Windows Café on Deck 9 offers buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner with fresh sushi, stir-fries, and desserts. The Patio, an outdoor grill by the pool, provides casual fare like burgers and fries. Specialty restaurants Prime C and Aqualina on Deck 10 offer steakhouse and Italian menus for a $30 cover, free for suite guests, with vegan options limited but available. Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, enhance the experience.

Entertainment: Engaging and Relaxed

Entertainment focuses on the Cabaret Lounge on Deck 5, hosting Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy by the ship’s troupe. The Living Room on Deck 10 offers evening tapas, board games, and performances by bands like East Pearl or a pianist. The Den features live piano music, while the pool deck hosts occasional performances. Daytime activities include trivia, bridge, and destination-focused lectures, with no casino to maintain a low-key atmosphere.

Accommodation: Comfortable Retreats

The ship’s 355 staterooms include 26 Inside (158 sq. ft ), 88 Oceanview (158 sq. ft ), 199 Veranda (175 sq. ft ), and 46 Suites (266-560 sq. ft ). All feature plush cotton robes, 24-hour room service, 40-inch TVs, minibars with complimentary soft drinks, and eco-friendly water bottles. Veranda Plus staterooms add perks like 120 free internet minutes, while Suites include whirlpool tubs, priority dining, and access to a butler. Six wheelchair-accessible cabins ensure inclusivity. Bathrooms are compact, with showers only in most categories.

Hospitality: Attentive and Personalised

The crew’s high ratio (60 per 100 guests) ensures attentive service, from cabin attendants to dining staff who memorise preferences. The Sanctum Spa on Deck 9 offers massages, facials, and a thalassotherapy pool, with a fitness centre providing modern equipment and classes. Self-service laundromats are complimentary. The ship lacks children’s facilities, catering primarily to adults over 50, making it ideal for couples or solo travellers. Gratuities are included in the fare.

Standout Features

The Inspiration Center’s interactive touchscreen enhances voyage planning, while the White Night party on Deck 9 offers al fresco dining and live music under the stars. The Sanctum Spa’s thalassotherapy pool provides a serene retreat, and the high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personalised service. The ship’s ability to dock at smaller ports, paired with its eco-conscious practices like locally sourced seafood, makes the Azamara Journey a distinctive choice for boutique cruising.