CRUISE SHIP: Azamara Onward, what guests can expect:

The Azamara Onward, the newest addition to Azamara Cruises’ boutique fleet, offers an intimate and elegant cruise experience, accommodating up to 670 passengers. Launched in 2022 after a refurbishment, this mid-sized ship blends contemporary design with destination-focused exploration, ideal for travellers seeking comfort and cultural engagement in smaller ports.

Guests can expect a cruise focused on cultural exploration, with longer stays in unique ports like Kotor and Sorrento. The semi-all-inclusive fare covers meals, select drinks, and gratuities, offering a hassle-free experience. Activities range from poolside lounging to educational lectures, appealing to mature travellers. The modern decor with natural elements creates a refined yet approachable atmosphere.

Reception Areas: A Refined Welcome

Guests are greeted on Deck 4, where the reception area features a stained-glass skylight dome and a curving staircase, creating a stylish first impression. The Inspiration Center, with its 98-inch touchscreen for itinerary planning, adds a modern touch. The nearby Mosaic Café offers complimentary coffee and pastries, while The Den provides travel books and interactive screens for destination insights.

Dining: A Culinary Adventure

The ship’s seven dining venues cater to diverse tastes. Discoveries Restaurant on Deck 5 serves daily-changing à la carte menus with international and regional dishes, included in the fare. Windows Café on Deck 9 offers buffet-style meals with fresh sushi, stir-fries, and desserts, with outdoor seating at The Patio for casual burgers. Specialty restaurants Prime C and Aqualina on Deck 10 offer steakhouse and Italian cuisine for a $30 fee, free for suite guests. The Atlas Bar serves exclusive cocktails. Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, enhance the experience.

Entertainment: Engaging and Intimate

Entertainment centres on the Cabaret Lounge on Deck 5, hosting Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy by the Azamara Singers and Dancers. The Living Room on Deck 10 offers evening tapas, board games, and performances by pianists or bands. Daytime activities include trivia, bridge, and destination-focused lectures. The White Night party on the pool deck features al fresco dining and live music, creating a festive atmosphere.

Accommodation: Comfortable Retreats

The ship’s 335 staterooms include Inside (158 sq. ft ), Oceanview (143-170 sq. ft ), Club Balcony (175 sq. ft ), and 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. Club Spa Suites offer glass-enclosed soaking tubs, while Veranda Plus staterooms include 120 free internet minutes. Five wheelchair-accessible cabins ensure inclusivity.

Hospitality: Attentive and Personalised

The crew’s high ratio (1.7 staff per 2 guests) ensures attentive service, with staff remembering guest preferences. The Sanctum Spa on Deck 9 offers massages, facials, and a thalassotherapy pool, with a fitness centre providing modern equipment and yoga classes. Self-service laundromats are complimentary. The ship lacks children’s facilities, catering primarily to adults over 50. Gratuities are included in the fare.

Standout Features

The White Night party on Deck 9, with its outdoor buffet and live entertainment, offers a memorable evening. The Sanctum Spa’s thalassotherapy pool provides a serene retreat, while the Atlas Bar’s handcrafted cocktails are exclusive to the Onward. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personalised service, and the ship’s ability to dock at smaller ports makes the Azamara Onward a distinctive choice for boutique cruising