Overview
30,277
Gross Tonnage
694
Guest Capacity
2000
Year Built
N/A
Last Refit
1.69
Crew Ratio
Since its launch in 2000 and a significant makeover in 2016, the Azamara Journey has masterfully combined the elegance of a boutique hotel with a touch of modern flair. With capacity for just 690 guests, supported by an attentive crew of 408, it prides itself on a stellar crew-to-guest ratio that guarantees personalized attention. This ship strikes a perfect balance between a luxurious ambiance and an intimate, smaller ship experience, all while offering great value to its guests.
The Azamara Journey sets itself apart with a commitment to deep destination immersion. It stands out by providing extended stays and numerous overnight opportunities in ports, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and nightlife. Onboard entertainment, though more reserved than what you might find on larger ships, features AzAmazing Evenings—exclusive, complimentary shore excursions that connect passengers with the essence of each destination. The dining experience on the ship is varied and exquisite, ranging from the main dining area, Discoveries, to specialty dining experiences like Aqualina and Prime C, which serve to elevate the culinary journey on board.
Catering primarily to mature travelers and couples, the Azamara Journey is appreciated for its rich onboard atmosphere, top-notch service, and deep cultural exploration opportunities. The ship offers a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, steering clear of the bustling party scene typical of larger cruise lines. Its smaller size also means it can dock at unique, less crowded ports, offering a truly unique experience for those seeking authenticity and depth in their travels.
In comparison to the broader industry, the Azamara Journey carves its niche by focusing on an intimate, high-quality travel experience that emphasizes cultural enrichment and destination immersion. Although it may not boast the extensive range of amenities and activities found on mega-ships, it excels in providing a carefully crafted travel experience. The dining offerings, while more limited in number, focus on quality and diversity, often drawing inspiration from the ship's destinations.
In summary, the Azamara Journey shines in delivering an experience rich in cultural immersion and personalized service. It's the perfect blend of sophistication and modern luxury, ideal for mature travelers who prefer a serene cruising experience with ample opportunity to delve deeper into the heart of the places they visit. With its unique onboard features and strong emphasis on exposing guests to authentic experiences, the Azamara Journey stands as a premier choice for discerning adventurers.
Pros
- Destination-intensive itineraries allow exploration of off-the-beaten path ports and longer stays
- Excellent food across multiple dining venues offers a variety of high-quality options
- Comfortable onboard experience with familiar atmosphere, making it easy to find favorite spots quickly
- Service focused on genuine smiles and efficiency, especially noted in restaurant and bar areas
Cons
- Limited entertainment options and a small casino may leave some passengers looking for more
- Cabin service inconsistency reported, with some stewards not introducing themselves or pointing out room features
- Smaller ship size might lack the amenities and choices offered by larger cruise ships
- Skip Aspects of some physical spaces and offerings might feel dated or less luxurious compared to newer ships
Tips
- Join trivia sessions to quickly bond with fellow passengers over shared knowledge and interests
- Find wait staff you like first day and stick with them for personalized service throughout the voyage
- Don’t miss the complimentary AzAmazing Evening for a unique cultural experience in one of your destinations
- For quieter moments, explore The Drawing Room library—a peaceful spot for reading or relaxation
- Book dining reservations early, especially for specialty restaurants like Aqualina or Prime C to ensure a spot
- Look for daily spa specials for a chance to enjoy luxurious treatments at a reduced rate
- Attend destination lectures or special interest talks to enrich your travel experience with insights and stories
- Check out Tapas in The Living Room for a casual dining option with great variety
- Make use of in-room USB chargers hidden underneath reading lights for convenient device charging
- For a special evening, consider booking the Nights in Private Places for a romantic or peaceful night under the stars