azamara cruise around italy

The ultimate guide to Azamara cruise ships and itineraries

Azamara Cruises is interesting. Although it includes more in its fares -- gratuities, basic alcohol and some shore excursions -- than most cruise lines, it's not full-on luxury . However it's not mainstream, like Carnival or Royal Caribbean, either.

It has carved out an industry niche that caters to affluent, well-traveled cruisers who enjoy smaller vessels, a country house ambiance and itineraries that focus on destination immersion.

The ships in its four-vessel fleet are nearly identical, all belonging to the R Class, which was originally developed for now-defunct line Renaissance Cruises. Azamara prides itself on bringing its passengers familiarity and onboard experiences that are similar from ship to ship. You won't find waterslides or roller coasters, and that's exactly how the line's demographic likes it.

One of the line's most notable hallmarks is its focus on longer, later stays in port. Coupled with its AzAmazing Evenings program, which takes cruisers ashore to experience cultural performances in jaw-dropping locations, the experience is a little less superficial-feeling than other cruise excursions.

Here, you'll find a rundown of all the crucial information you'll need to decide if an Azamara sailing is right for you.

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3 things TPG loves about Azamara Cruises

• Its ships' smaller size and rich history.
• Later port calls that allow passengers to experience nightlife in several destinations.
• Its upscale yet homey onboard ambiance.

What we could do without

• Its lack of accommodations for solo cruisers.

The Azamara Cruises fleet

Azamara Cruises is one of the cruise industry's smallest lines, with just four ships -- Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward -- at the time of publication. All of Azamara's vessels are R-Class ships, originally built for now-defunct Renaissance Cruises, which folded in 2001, just a couple of years after the vessels debuted.

Azamara has rounded up the ships -- including the most recent, which it acquired from Princess Cruises during the pandemic -- over the years and refurbished them to add the line's signature upscale furnishings. In fact, it did such an impressive job that you'd hardly be able to guess that the vessels are more than 20 years old.

Each of the ships has the capacity for about 700 passengers, which places them in the midsize range -- large enough to provide a laundry list of amenities, but small enough that passengers can still enjoy calls on a number of ports that larger ships can't access.

At just a little more than 30,000 gross registered tons apiece, the ships are about an eighth of the size of Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, which is the largest cruise ship in the world.

During 2020's industrywide pandemic shutdown, Royal Caribbean Group, which previously owned Azamara, sold the line to private equity firm Sycamore Partners. Azamara's president, Carol Cabezas, told TPG that the firm has plans for expansion. Although Cabezas didn't elaborate, Azamara fans anticipate that new hardware could be in the line's future .

Destinations and itineraries

Azamara's ships sail in several regions, including Africa, South America, the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand and Europe, with an emphasis on the Mediterranean, Baltic Sea, Western Europe, British Isles and Greece.

"They cannot get enough of Croatia, Italy, Greece," Cabezas said. "Those are the kinds of places that people want to sail in, so we've dedicated a lot of the deployment into those country-intensives. That and Black Sea."

Azamara prides itself on being destination-immersive, which includes staying late in port -- often until 10 p.m. or even overnight -- to allow passengers more time to soak in the heritage. On most sailings, the line also offers its signature AzAmazing Evenings, which take cruisers ashore to iconic venues where they can experience local cultural performances. (At the time of publication, the line was offering cultural performances onboard , rather than ashore, due to COVID-19.)

Most itineraries range from a week to two weeks in length, but the line has also offered itineraries lasting more than 100 days, calling on more than 60 ports in more than two dozen countries.

Who sails Azamara Cruises?

Due to its price point, popularity in Europe and lack of short voyages, Azamara appeals to older, more affluent travelers with a surplus of vacation time. The average age can fluctuate from sailing to sailing, but it's common to find most passengers in their 60s and 70s.

The line's demographic is largely well traveled and port savvy, with many passengers forgoing shore excursions in favor of independent exploration.

Azamara also draws a large number of repeat cruisers, many having sailed with the line numerous times.

Cabins and suites

All of Azamara's staterooms , regardless of type or category, include at least one queen bed that can convert to two twins, a desk/vanity with a phone, nightstands with reading lamps, at least one TV that's a minimum of 40 inches, outlets and USB charging ports, a minibar, individual climate controls, closets, a safe, a hair dryer, robes, slippers, umbrellas and fresh flowers.

Each cabin has its own bathroom with towels, bath products, a shower, sink/vanity, storage shelves and a toilet. Additionally, all rooms include daily make-up and turndown services, as well as 24-hour room service, a tote bag, a daily bulletin of activities and turndown treats.

All suites come with complimentary butler service for their occupants.

Accommodations on Azamara's ships come in four types: insides (no natural light, 158 square feet), outsides (windows that don't open, 143 square feet), balconies (small outdoor deck areas with sliding glass doors) and suites (like balcony cabins but larger and with more perks). There are several options within each category, including seven cabins on each ship that allow access for passengers in wheelchairs and scooters.

Options within the balcony and suite categories are:

Club Veranda: This basic balcony-style cabin offers 175 square feet, plus a 40-square-foot veranda with two upright chairs and a small table.

Club Veranda Plus: The same size and general layout as regular Club Verandas, these rooms factor in passengers' loyalty status to determine the level of benefits occupants will receive during their sailing. All passengers booked in Club Veranda Plus accommodations are entitled to complimentary Wi-Fi minutes, one free bag of laundry every seven days, one complimentary meal for two in a for-fee restaurant every seven days, priority embarkation and disembarkation and free in-cabin alcohol.

Club Continent Suites: The smallest of the line's suite accommodations, Club Continent Suites are 266 square feet with 60-square-foot balconies. They include all of the amenities mentioned above, as well as a large seating area with a 55-inch flat-screen TV. Besides the TV and the increased square footage, some Club Continent Suite bathrooms also have bathtubs instead of only a stand-up shower.

Club Spa Suites: These suites are located near the Sanctum Spa on each vessel. In addition to soothing decor, cruisers booked in these rooms can expect healthy snacks to be delivered daily. They can also enjoy in-cabin spa music and their own glass-enclosed soaking bathtub. Additionally, Club Spa Suites have rain showerheads and all of the amenities afforded to veranda cabins but with a larger (55-inch) TV and 414 square feet of space, plus a 60-square-foot balcony.

Club Ocean Suites: These 478-square-foot luxury digs come with 173-square-foot verandas, a separate living room and bedroom setup (each room with a 55-inch TV), marble shower-only bathrooms (except on Journey and Quest, which have bathtubs), dressing rooms with vanities and additional closet space. Further, passengers staying in these suites have access to all of the perks to which those in balcony cabins are entitled.

Club World Owner's Suites: The Club World Owner's Suites are Azamara's most lavish, offering everything afforded to those booked in Club Ocean Suites but with significantly more space — 603 square feet with 233-square-foot balconies. They have marble bathrooms (with bathtubs on Journey and Quest) and separate living room and bedroom areas, each with its own television (55 inches in the former and 40 inches in the latter).

At this time, the line does not offer any cabins for solo cruisers, which means the already pricey fares for Azamara's sailings double if you're traveling alone.

Restaurants and dining

Azamara's dining options, although few, are impressive. Steak and seafood are often in the spotlight, and the quality is outstanding.

The line's ships each have one main dining room, Discoveries Restaurant, that allows passengers to dine at any time during set hours for complimentary breakfast, lunch and dinner. The waiter-served menu there changes daily, and you should plan on spending at least 90 minutes for dinner, especially if you're having dessert.

Windows Cafe is the line's free buffet venue, which appears on all ships and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Previously a self-serve eatery, thanks to the pandemic passengers now simply point to what they would like and a crew member doles it out. For dinner, cruisers are seated and given menus -- which change nightly to highlight differing cuisines, such as Mexican, German and Greek -- and order from a waiter. Although it's sit-down table service, it's still faster than the main dining room. Outdoor seating at the ship's aft offers fantastic views, weather permitting.

Prime C is the fleet's for-fee steakhouse restaurant. Its menu includes several meaty options like steak, chicken, duck and lamb, plus soups and salads. Dining there costs $30 per person, and reservations are recommended.

Aqualina is where passengers will find extra-fee seafood, Italian and French cuisine in a light, airy atmosphere. The menu might feature items like lobster, seared tuna and the catch of the day. Reservations are recommended, and the cost is $30 per person. (Note: At the time of publication, the venue was temporarily closed due to COVID-19-related capacity restrictions, but diners can still order from Aqualina's menu while dining in Prime C.)

Azamara also offers themed Explorer's Dinners for $65 per person, focusing on a different cuisine -- think French and Italian -- each time. Chef's Table is another option. For $95 per person, cruisers can enjoy a seven-course meal paired with wines. During the experience, the chef explains each dish, and the ship's onboard sommeliers go over the wine selections.

The Patio, a gratis poolside venue, puts on a waiter-served spread during lunch hours each day. The menu stays the same throughout each sailing and might include items like spring rolls, nachos, burgers and chicken fingers.

Mosaic Cafe is the cafe found on each vessel in the fleet. It offers free finger sandwiches, cookies and pastries, as well as a variety of specialty coffees, most of which are complimentary. It's a nice place to go if you're feeling a little peckish between meals.

Those passengers who don't feel quite up to a full meal for dinner can head to The Living Room, a bar and lounge area that doubles as the nightclub on each ship. There, sandwiches and pastries are offered in the afternoons, and tapas are available during dinner hours.

For anyone who missed dinner or who finds themselves hungry in the middle of the night, room service is a free option, 24 hours a day. The menu is considerable, providing pizza, burgers, sandwiches, salads and a plethora of other options.

Entertainment and activities

Entertainment on Azamara is engaging and fun, but not nearly as extensive as what you'll find on ships in larger fleets. You're likely to encounter musicians in bars, lounges and nightclubs, and song-and-dance numbers in the theater, along with an occasional comedian or magician. What you won't find are huge LED screens, acrobatic performances or shows with high production value -- and that's exactly how the line's target audience likes it.

Theaters and shows

During the evenings, there's a piano player in The Den lounge, and the ship's band plays in The Living Room nightclub before a DJ starts spinning dance tunes there late into the night.

As far as theater happenings, you might spot a movie screening on the daily schedule or turn up after dinner to find that there's a boy band performing Justin Bieber hits while dressing like they're part of a doo-wop group. Overall, it's low-key but enjoyable.

Other interior attractions and activities

Hosted activities run the gamut from added-fee wine tastings, scavenger hunts and complimentary deck walks and water aerobics to destination enrichment lectures, dance classes and shore excursion presentations. Also spotted on some daily schedules are coloring, word search challenges and Q&A sessions with officers.

However, one of the most frequent and popular onboard pastimes is trivia. There are multiple rounds offered each day, and they focus on subjects that are often tied to the destinations the ships visit. (Think Greek gods and goddesses or ABBA on Greek Isles itineraries.) Each person receives a grid sheet for stamps, with one stamp given for simply participating and two stamps given to the members of the winning team for each round. At the end of the sailing, passengers tally their stamps to collect Azamara logo prizes.

There's also a number of unhosted activities, such as ping-pong, darts, crossword and sudoku puzzles, board games, book swaps, knitting get-togethers, shuffleboard and LGBTQ, singles and Friends of Bill W. (Alcoholics Anonymous) meetups.

Additionally, one of Azamara's signature activities is its White Night Party, usually found once on each voyage. Passengers are encouraged to dress in white for an evening of dining and entertainment under the stars.

Top-deck attractions

Apart from shuffleboard and a jogging track, there's not much on the outer decks of Azamara's vessels if you're not a sun-worshipper. There's ample deck space with loungers, and a main pool with two hot tubs where passengers can go to cool off -- or warm up. There's a second pool for thalassotherapy near the Sanctum Spa, but it's open only to cruisers staying in suites or those who book passes to use it.

Another one of Azamara's signature offerings is AzAmazing Evenings -- a series of complimentary nighttime shore excursions that take passengers to famous landmarks, such as Ephesus in Turkey or the Russian Ballet, for culturally immersive performances. Currently, due to COVID-19 restrictions, AzAmazing Evenings have been replaced by Destination Celebrations , which involve the ship staying late in port and bringing local talent onboard to perform outdoors.

Children's programs

Although children are welcome onboard, there are no kids clubs on Azamara's ships, and there is no special programming for young cruisers.

What to know before you go

Required documents

You will need a passport for most of Azamara Cruises' sailings. The only ones for which the combination of a birth certificate and photo ID (such as a driver's license) will suffice is on a closed-loop cruise -- one that leaves from and returns to the same U.S. port and visits places that include Alaska, Hawaii, Bermuda, Canada and the Caribbean.

Passports should be valid for at least six months after your travel concludes.

Gratuities are included in all of Azamara's fares. Passengers can choose to leave extra if they wish. Spa services will automatically have an 18% gratuity added.

Azamara's Wi-Fi is some of the worst we've experienced at sea. In addition to being pricey ($19.95 for 60 minutes, $29.95 for full-day access or $19.95 per day for unlimited access for the duration of the voyage), it's spotty at best, especially when the ships are at sea. Azamara officials say the line is planning tech upgrades in the coming years, which hopefully will include a stronger connection.

Carry-on drinks policy

You can bring your own drinks -- including wine, beer and liquor -- on Azamara's ships for private consumption in your stateroom. If you wish to drink them in public areas or dining venues, you'll be charged a $10 corkage fee.

Smoking policy

Generally, Azamara's vessels are nonsmoking, except for clearly designated areas on the forward port ( left, when facing the front of the ship ) side of the pool deck. Passengers are not permitted to smoke in other public areas or in their cabins, including on their balconies.

All Azamara ships have self-service laundry rooms onboard. They're free to use and include complimentary detergent. The vessels also offer send-out wash-and-fold service, as well as dry cleaning and pressing, all for an added fee.

Electrical outlets

Outlets in each cabin consist of a mix of North American and U.K. options. Standard balcony cabins have two of each at the vanity, and two additional North American outlets can be found just above the minifridge (although one of them is used to plug it in).

Additionally, the line has added USB ports near the beds so you can charge your devices as you're curled up in bed scanning Instagram reels or catching up on the latest episode of "Stranger Things" (Wi-Fi permitting, of course).

The currency onboard is U.S. dollars. Passengers will each link a credit card to their onboard account (or put up a set amount of cash), as all onboard charges are cashless. The room key each cruiser is issued at embarkation serves as a room key, charge card and ID card when disembarking and reboarding the ship in port.

Drinking age

On all sailings -- except for those departing from North America, where the drinking age is 21 -- the legal minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18.

Azamara recommends a "resort casual" style of dress, which prohibits bare feet, baseball caps, tank tops, torn or distressed jeans, bathing suits and shorts in the main dining room and all specialty restaurants. More casual wear is allowed in the Windows Cafe buffet, but shoes are required, and cruisers must wear cover-ups over their bathing suits.

There are no scheduled formal nights onboard, but passengers are welcome to dress up. They are also advised to bring a white outfit for the line's signature White Night Party, held once per voyage.

Azamara Cruises' loyalty program

Azamara's loyalty program, Azamara Circle , has five tiers for passengers to reach, based on the number of points they earn each time they sail. With each new tier, they unlock additional benefits, such as free Wi-Fi minutes, complimentary laundry service and discounts on spa treatments and future cruise bookings.

• Adventurer (1-149 points).
• Explorer (150-299 points).
• Discoverer (300-749 points).
• Discoverer Plus (750-2,999).
• Discoverer Platinum (3,000-plus points).

How much does an Azamara Cruise cost?

Azamara sailings are on the pricier side, with fares for weeklong sailings stretching into the thousands per person, especially for higher-end accommodations. Fluctuations occur based on cruise length, cabin type, itinerary and time of year.

At the time of publication, the least-expensive booking we found was $1,459 per person (not including taxes and port fees), based on double occupancy, for an outside cabin on a seven-night Western Mediterranean voyage from Rome's Civitavecchia. The price for a suite on the same sailing was $3,349 per person.

However, you'll find less nickel-and-diming on Azamara voyages than you will with mainstream brands, as gratuities and basic beverages -- soda, bottled water, coffee, a couple of daily house wine selections, beer and standard liquor -- are included in the price of the cruise. AzAmazing Evenings are also rolled into the fares.

Passengers can expect to shell out extra for top-shelf spirits, spa treatments, shore excursions, professional photos, Wi-Fi and send-out laundry and dry cleaning services (assuming they don't receive them for free, based on loyalty status).

How to book

Cruisers can book Azamara voyages directly through Azamara, either on the line's website or by calling 833-292-2292; virtually through a third-party online travel agent; or by calling a travel advisor, who can help with all the details for a commission that's usually covered by the cruise line.

Most cruise lines have their own cobranded credit cards, but unfortunately, Azamara is no longer one of them. Passengers used to be able to use cobranded Celebrity Cruises or Royal Caribbean International credit cards to book Azamara voyages, but it's unclear whether that is still possible, given Azamara's split from Royal Caribbean Group.

To maximize your spending when you book, use a card -- like the The Platinum Card® from American Express -- that will earn you additional points on travel.

Bottom line

Azamara cruises are a good option if you're looking for an upscale line that offers excellent food and service at the lower end of the luxury price spectrum. You'll also receive a more destination-focused experience, with longer stays in port that allow you to take in the local nightlife.

The ships across the fleet will be familiar to you after just a sailing or two, and their elegant-but-relaxed vibe will leave you feeling like you're simply enjoying a drink in a friend's living room.

Home » Italy Cruises » Azamara Mediterranean Cruises

Home » Italy Cruises » Azamara Mediterranean Cruises

Azamara Mediterranean Cruises

“The deal we received on our Azamara cruise vacation was amazing. The private port transfers, spectacular shore excursions, and all the extras we received made our vacation even more fabulous. Big THANK YOU to ItalianTourism.us. Our Italy cruise vacation more than exceeding our expectations.” Mary Jane Witherspoon, Palm Beach, FL 

Azamara cruises from Rome and Venice are among the most popular luxury Mediterranean cruises. Famous for its country club casual atmosphere, extended time in ports of call including overnights, and fine service Azamara cruises from Rome and Venice are a trip of a lifetime. Click the tabs below to toggle between Azamara Cruises from Rome and Venice . ItalianTourism.us guarantees the lowest price and best deals on all Azamara cruises from Italy. Book online and contact ItalianTourism.us for special non-published cruise airfares to Italy not available to the general public. ItalianTourism.us also offers tours of Italy packages with cruises . Contact ItalianTourism.us with more details about your Mediterranean cruise plans and we’ll help you plan and book a lovely and relaxing Mediterranean cruise around Italy aboard Azamara.

Contact ItalianTourism.us Italy cruise expert for Azamara double upgrade offer:

• Balcony views from their Club Veranda Stateroom — for the price of a Club Interior Stateroom • Extra perks to recharge in their Veranda Plus Stateroom — for the price of a Club Oceanview Stateroom • Panoramic views from their recently updated Club Continent Suite — for the price of a Club Veranda Stateroom

Click the tabs below to toggle between Azamara Mediterranean Cruises from Rome , Venice , and Barcelona .

Guaranteed best deals, lowest prices, more amenities on all Azamara cruises from Italy. ItalianTourism.us offers exclusive Azamara Italy cruise packages with airfare to Italy. ItalianTourism.us also offers exclusive  Azamara Mediterranean cruises with tours of Italy . 

Once booked ItalianTourism.us will send you airfare options. Or contact ItalianTourism.us with more details about your Mediterranean cruise plans and we’ll help you plan and book a lovely and relaxing cruise around Italy onboard Azamara Mediterranean cruises.

Azamara Cruises from Rome

Azamara Rome cruises embark from Rome Civitavecchia cruise port located about one hour from Rome. You may see stateroom availability, price, on board credits, and book your Azamara cruise from Rome online by clicking the “Book” link.

Azamara Cruises Embarking Rome Civitavecchia Cruise Port

For the Azamara Mediterranean cruises from Venice click here and from Barcelona click here . For Azamara Mediterranean cruises with airfare contact ItalianTourism.us or click for the Italy cruise tour packages .

Azamara Cruises from Venice

Azamara Venice cruises embark from the Venice cruise port located in Trieste, about an hour from Venice. You may see stateroom availability, price, on board credits, and book your Princess cruise from Venice online by clicking the “Book” link.

Azamara Cruises Emabrking Venice Cruise Port

For the Azamara Mediterranean cruises from Rome click here . For Azamara Mediterranean cruises with airfare contact ItalianTourism.us or click for the Italy cruise tour packages .

Azamara Cruises from Barcelona

Azamara Cruises Western Mediterrean Cruises Embarking Barcelona

Click the tabs to toggle between Azamara Mediterranean Cruises embarking Rome , embarking Venice , and embarking Barcelona .

Return to all cruises from Italy .

Destination Immersion

• Staying longer in ports of call
• Staying overnight in ports of call
• Small ports bigger ships can’t enter
• Italy intensive cruises

7 Adriatic Itinerary – Embark Rome, Venice and Athens

Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia – Dalmatia area of former Yugoslavia

Ports of call

Dubrovnik – ship tenders right off old town.  Sightseeing highlights:

• Old town – enjoy pubs, nightlife, restaurants while people watching.
• City walls – the historic walls around the city. See the fortress, maritime museum, and finally the center of old town.
• Ston – known for its historic city walls and fishing. Pair it with local wine
• Konavle Valley – beautiful vineyards and the picturesque town of Cavtat is secret seaside highlight loved by rich and famous in the know.

Sibnek  – today part of Croatia it has mixed history. Sightseeing highlights:

• St James Cathedral – gothic and renaissance architecture is highlight. Known for its cameo in Game of Thrones television program.
• Trogir – UNESCO site best preserved gothic stone architecture. Medieval palaces, fortresses, clock tower and town hall.
• Krka National Park – Nature lovers love its splendid waterfalls.

Hvar – charming island known as sunniest place in Europe.

• Olive groves and lavender fields and top winemaking region of Croatia –
• St Stephens Square and Cathedral is considering most beautiful in Dalmatia.
• Renaissance and Baroque villages on the island are highlight

Kotor – Don’t sleep in instead enjoy the entrance to Boka Bay with mountains towering on either side

• Climb 1350 steps to top of town wall…
• Old town is full of cobblestone streets with restaurants, shops, bars.
• Perast and Our Lady of the Rock is manmade island.
• St Nicholas Church and Palaces

Koper – Located in Slovenia just a little sliver of coast is spectacular, enjoy Amalfi Coast vibe

• Usually stay in port through 10PM.
• Ljubljana is little town pedestrian only full of colorful ambiance
• For those who like caves visit the Postojna and Skocjan
• Local truffle hunting enjoyed with wine for culinary enthusiasts.
• Tito Square (Titov Trg) beautiful pedestrian town in heart of old town good place to start exploration.
• Trieste in Italy is only 10 miles away.
• Lake Bled and Island unforgettable expedition to Slovenia’s real island. Be transported back in time. Learn about prehistoric settlements. Climb and stroll around the lake and taste local specialties.

Italy-focused Itinerary

• Full day Venice, Rome, Florence
• Overnight in Amalfi Coast
• Two days in Sicily
• Monopoli – seaside village in Puglia. Cafes, stores, less touristic more authentic. Walk board walk to local fishing villages.
• Close by port of Monopoli is Alberobello to see the Trulli enter fantasy world.

Genoa – renowned for music, history, art. Known as “La Superba” meaning the proud one there are various highlihghts. Boccadasse will remind you of little Cinque Terre.

Amalfi – at the water’s edge wedged into ravine

• Visit the Amalfi Cathedral and cloister of paradise.
• Amalfi’s beach around Marina Grande is popular but arrive early if you want to find space.
• Enjoy the seafood and local specialty limoncello.
• Travel by boat along the coastline to Positano.
• Take a tour of Pompeii.
• Shopping and dining in Amalfi and Positano is highlight.
• Beaches are popular.
• Travel up the mountain to medieval Ravello and walk its cobblestoned streets and enjoy big views and enjoy a drink. The Ruffelo Garden and Belmont hotel are popular haunts.

Sorrento – Small seaside town touristic city set atop the cliff above port.

• Museo Correale di Terranova to see 17th and 18th century Neapolitan painters
• Visit Pompeii or Isle of Capri
• Take the funicular from port up to the main square
• Ride chair lift to Anacapri or Mount Solaro
• Visit Augustus Gardens

Taormina – hilltop town is one of most beautiful places in Sicily.

• Greek Theater
• Taormina Cathedral
• Beaches located below town in Giardini Naxos: Bonday Beach, Europa, l’Aurora Celeste

Portofino – quintessential village on the Italian Riviera with waterside restaurants, miles of hiking trails and great people watching.

• Popular excursion to Cinque Terre.
• Santa Margherita has nice beaches.
• Stay in town and relax and hike.
• Visit hotel Splendido and enjoy a spritz

Livorno – Located in Tuscany best itinerary overnights so visitors can see Florence and more.

• Visit Tuscany’s highlights from Livorno including Florence, Lucca, Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena…
• Evening boat ride right through Livorn’s canals

Rome Civitavecchia – cruise port located about an hour outside Rome.

• Visit Rome to sightsee the great highlights

Venice – Located at the top of the Adriatic Sea embark and disembark Italy and Dalmatian Coast cruises.

• Plan to stay more than a day to enjoy the magical town.

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Azamara Onward – Intensive Italy – Review

January 8, 2023 by Fiona Maclean Leave a Comment

Last Updated on October 28, 2023

Cruising with Azamara Onward – More shore, less sea and affordable luxury.

 I count myself lucky to have happened upon Azamara, a cruise line that gets everything right for me. While I love the openness of the sea, it took travelling on a press trip with another cruise line Seabourn to convince me that I might enjoy what I’d imagined being the confines of a cruise. Who wouldn’t like champagne in their cabin every night, a choice of top-end toiletries and caviar service by the pool?  Like Azamara, Seabourn is a small ship cruise line so you get the benefit of being able to visit more unusual ports and the chance to actually get to know people who you are travelling with.  On reflection, it was that intimacy which made my first cruise so special and for that reason, I was thrilled to discover Azamara cruises.

I don’t have a bottomless bank account to fund holidays and I do want to travel regularly rather than saving up for a special occasion. I travel alone and on many cruises that is either costly or consigns you to an inside cabin.  Azamara runs ships which are similar in size to the Seabourn fleet, but have the added benefit of solo cruise deals that are reasonably priced – and include enough little luxuries to make the trip special. More on that later.  What’s particularly important for me is the itinerary and here’s where I think Azamara is spot on.

The emphasis of most of the Azamara cruises is onshore time (repositioning cruises are different).  On our Intensive Italy trip, we had two overnight stops in port, allowing us to visit the Tuscan trio of Florence, Lucca and Pisa and giving everyone plenty of time to visit Rome from our final destination, Civitavecchia. If you cruise as a way of travelling rather than because you want to spend time on the cruise ship, that seems spot on.

Table of Contents

Azamara Onward.

While Azamara Onward is the newest ship in the Azamara fleet, it was originally part of the Princess Cruise line.  Extensively refurbished in 2022, at full capacity it can carry up to 670 passengers with 400 crew.  In cruise terms, it’s a minnow – there are ships with capacity for around 6000 guests. If you are a fan of large ship cruising, you may find the amenities are limited, but you’ll also find that there’s a very personal level of service from restaurants and bars through to cabin service.  My Club Balcony cabin was the smallest option with its own outside space kitted out with a table and two chairs.  A large double bed was well appointed with white cotton bedlinen, good quality bedding and thoughtful fittings including USB plugs under the bedside lights for charging phones and other devices. The desk was big enough to comfortably work at, there was a TV,  table and chairs for dining in my room and a small but comfy sofa. 

The bathroom did feel slightly tired despite the refurbishment.  But the shower was very efficient and there were plenty of complimentary toiletries, fluffy towels and luxurious bathrobes. There was plenty of storage, including a wardrobe, drawers, a safe, mini fridge and space under the bed for suitcases.  All the rooms come with complimentary bottled water and soft drinks.

On deck, there was a reasonably sized heated pool with two hot tubs on either side.  Azamara Onward has a poolside bar with outside seating and a small grill where food is made to order for you.  There’s plenty of space for sun loungers and luckily for us, even in November, it was warm enough to sit outside. There’s additional al-fresco seating on the level above the pool and along the side of the deck.  There’s also a running track, shuffleboard and ping-pong table.  

Indoors there are plenty of places to relax.  There’s a spa and beauty salon with a whole range of treatments.  There’s a fitness centre with gym equipment and daily classes for yoga, pilates and more.  There are lounges that are large enough to be anonymous but small enough to feel cosy and there’s a cabaret lounge/theatre where you’ll find shows, lectures and the occasional bingo session!

Finally, the ship has a laundry service but also offers a laundry room free of charge.

Food and Drink on Board Azamara Onward

The first thing I did when I boarded Onward was to buy the ‘smallest’ premium dining option.  That gave me three upgraded meals in their fine dining restaurants.  Over a seven-day period with all my evening meals on the ship, I knew I’d want to try everything that was on offer and I was really impressed that the upgrade cost me around £70.  And, I was impressed by the overall quality both of the inclusive and the upgraded dining and beverage options. 

The two main restaurants on Azamara Onward are Windows Buffet and Discoveries restaurant.  The buffet is packed with healthy salad options, hot meals and more. Relaxed and casual, it’s an easy place to grab a quick lunch or evening meal.  

Discoveries Restaurant is very much in the style of traditional cruise ship dining.  While you don’t need to dress up, it’s waiter service and classically styled with white linen tablecloths, elegant china and silverware.  I was lucky enough to be invited to a hosted dinner there, in the company of Tony Markey and his wife which really showcased the kitchen’s ability.

I also dined in both Aqualina, the ship’s Italian restaurant and Prime C, the steakhouse.  Both were excellent, although I did giggle a bit as I ate the Cioppino (fish stew) offered on the menu, which is actually an American invention. 

Livorno , the Italian port we’d just left, serves an authentic Italian fish stew called Cacciucco and I’d made a special trip on the previous day to La Barcarola, a traditional Italian restaurant launched in 1935 and still serving what my Tuscan friend recommends as the most authentic Cacciucco in the port!

That apart, I really couldn’t fault the food in either restaurant.

For lunches, I found my own favourite spot – the Patio bar and cafe, where I really loved the freshly grilled dishes.

With Azamara, basic wines, spirits and cocktails together with water, soft drinks, speciality teas and coffees are included.  I did indulge in a glass of port one evening but otherwise found the inclusive offering perfectly adequate.  If I’d been travelling with a partner or friends, I might have indulged in a bottle of champagne, but the inclusive drinks had a choice of red, white, rose and sparkling wines and my own favourite cocktail (a margarita) as part of the package.

There’s the beautiful and rather swanky Atlas bar on the same deck as the premium dining rooms.  Since I didn’t try the cocktails I can only comment that it was a lovely space and if I hadn’t been trying to avoid spirits, I’d have been lurking in there.

And, there’s the Living Room – perfect for pre-dinner cocktails and somewhere you’ll often find live entertainment.   

Mosaic Cafe offered a round-the-clock selection of coffees and teas so I could get my espresso hit in the morning and a camomile tea before bed.  They also had a stunning range of pastries and at various times of the day, canapes, sandwiches, croissants and breakfast muffins. 

Finally, room service was available – I enjoyed breakfast in my cabin every day.  The 24-hour offering was not particularly well publicised, but as with any problem on Azamara Onward, the Customer Services desk seemed to be able to find a solution for everything.

Shore Information, Trips and Support on Azamara Onward

If there’s one thing that marks Azamara out against even Seabourn, it’s genuine enthusiasm and helpfulness from everyone.  You’ll find even the cleaners say good morning.  It’s impossible not to get to know the team.  And, that enthusiasm spills over into the information that is provided for every port.  I’m slightly embarrassed that, although I managed a bingo session and a couple of evening shows, I didn’t go to a single destination lecture.  In my defence, I was genuinely on holiday – and I did book a few shore excursions.  Unless you know every destination really well, I’d recommend the shore excursions.  I still remember the Seabourn ones that I took (4 years later) and I am pretty certain the Azamara ones will stay in my heart in the same way.  I pick excursions based on gaps in my own experience.  So, in Portofino, I chose to go to Portovenere rather than Cinque Terre (where I’ve been before).  I took a self-guided trip to Lucca which was just a little misleading because our helpful guide had told us everywhere to go before we left the coach.  And, I explored the bourbon tunnels and ate pizza in Naples

If you join a shore trip you will be looked after until you are back on the ship and you will enjoy an intensive learning experience.  There is a good range of options and other than a few cancellations, there didn’t seem to be any hiccups.  Each shore trip I took was fabulous in its own right – and I genuinely enjoyed the guided element. 

In Lucca , a destination I’ve visited before, I was impressed by the information we were given before we left the bus.  I certainly found more than had I been left to my own devices.

In Portovenere, I really enjoyed some of the details that were pointed out.  The special marble, the ancient windmills and the two churches.  

And in Naples, the bourbon tunnels were a revelation and the pizza was truly delicious.

With the help of the daily guides provided by the Customer Service team, I had great fun exploring Livorno by myself.  Ok, I was on a mission to revisit La Barcarola where I’d already tried the Cacciucco and just needed to eat it again. 

And, I wanted to find the indoor market which is famous for its fish, but also sells a whole range of Italian foods.  Needless to say, I came home with olive oil, beans and various jars of preserved vegetables.  

My trip to Lucca was a hybrid – I had some ideas of things I wanted to do – but got more from the guide.  Who would have spotted the Roman Amphitheatre without a bit of a push?

As for Rome, for whatever reason, despite having travelled across much of Italy, I’ve never spent any time at all in Rome.  From Civitavecchia, you can get a train to Rome – and if, like me, you really just want to get a feel for the city, you can easily spend five or six hours just walking around.  I stopped for lunch and ended up speaking French to the charming Italian gentleman at the next-door table, I saw the Trevi Fountain and the Coliseum.  And, I loved not having a schedule.  I’ll go back of course, and next time make sure I have time for a tour.

Azamara Entertainment

What marks out Azamara for me, again, is a distinct level of intimacy and friendliness that you’ll find. Go on a shore trip and you’ll find that you are joined by members of the crew – dancers, singers, photographers and more.  It makes the cruise feel like you are part of a big family.

Small ship cruising isn’t the place to experience a West End show at sea.  But, there’s always something to do in the evening with two big events that are well-established hallmarks of Azamara cruises.  The first, AzAmazing is only just returning after covid restrictions and the version we had was held on the ship rather than on shore.  Essentially, it’s an evening of entertainment from local performers – usually done as a shore trip.   Ours was on board the ship, but still really good fun!

The second, the Ship’s white evening, was a real party, with practically everyone on board getting involved.  There was singing and dancing.  Members of the crew who might normally NOT be on stage got up there, in the spirit of the evening.  And, most of the guests were chilling, feasting on the buffet or dancing the night away on deck.  Not everyone was in white – but enough were to make this feel ultra glamorous.

Apart from the two ‘big’ events, there was live entertainment every night – a cabaret show, a piano player in The Den and singers in The Living Room.  There were bingo sessions with a difference – to win a cruise or a suite upgrade.  And, there were lectures and photography classes.  There was no excuse to get bored for a minute.

The Intensive Italy Itinerary, 2022

My cruise, a seven-night gentle ramble along the coast of Italy started in Monte Carlo. The airport-to-ship transfers were organised by Azamara and were seamless, without the long queues that I’ve experienced with larger cruise lines.  On board, with a welcome drink in hand, we were offered lunch at the Window Buffet before going to our cabins. Luggage was already there and everything was ship shape.  I’d definitely book an extra day in Monte Carlo – there simply wasn’t time to explore.

We set sail for La Spezia in the evening, arriving just as the sun was rising.  The second largest city in Liguria after Genoa, I was thrilled to be able to explore more of a part of Italy I know very little about.  It’s worth noting that some of the Azamara Italian itineraries include Genoa , but for me, I’ve already spent time there (taking part in the World Pesto Championships!).  The ship was docked from 8 am through till around 6 pm so there was time for a shore trip to Portovenere and then for me to explore La Spezia by myself.

They say that one of the attractions of a cruise is to discover places you’d like to visit for longer.  Portovenere definitely falls into that category for me.  Quieter than the nearby Cinque Terre villages, it’s a stunning hilltop town with two beautiful churches, a pair of ancient windmills, a medieval castle and beautiful sea views. 

Lord Byron’s Grotto, or Grotto Arpaia, is worthy of a poet’s name.  There are plenty of quirky shops selling local artisan products.  Do look out for the special marble – Portoro – which is black with gold veins. 

If you have more than a few hours there are good hikes from Portovenere and you can also visit the nearby islands, Palmaria, Tinetto and Tino.  There’s no rail service to Portovenere which explains why this town (sometimes labelled as the 6th ‘Cinque Terre’ village) isn’t overwhelmed with tourists.  

Livorno, our next port, is a great base to explore Northern Tuscany.  But, it’s a fascinating town in its own right and like any travelling food lover, I headed straight for the market. 

You’ll find locally caught fresh fish in one of the halls, a wealth of vegetables and fruits just outside and all kinds of meat products in another hall. 

The market is packed with shops selling artisanal pasta, grains, beans, spices and dried herbs along with all manner of preserved fruits and vegetables.  Grab a coffee and a pastry and do a little people-watching Italian style.  This place doesn’t have the markup of Borough Market so it’s well worth stocking up on goodies to take home.  

As mentioned before I wanted to relive an old memory and try Cacciucco again.  It’s a rich fisherman’s stew – hearty, spiced and substantial.  La Barcarola was packed with Italian locals enjoying this very authentic and very delicious dish with a glass of red (not white) wine.

For my second day in Livorno, rather than visiting Pisa or Florence (both of which are easy by train or as a shore trip), I went to Lucca.  Having only managed a fleeting visit when I stayed in Florence for a week, I was determined to see the place by day – and to eat the famous Buccellato – a spiced bread that we missed when we visited thanks to going in the evening when all the baked goods had sold out. 

I wasn’t disappointed – a coffee and a slice of Buccellato from Taddeuci should be on everyone’s to-do list.  I did see more of Lucca than previously – the curious amphitheatre which has been transformed into shops and restaurants stood out in a town with some truly stunning architecture

On to Elba where inclement weather and lack of planning on my part meant I didn’t actually see much.  Everyone is allowed a day of rest and relaxation though – and if the weather had been better, the beaches here would have been great for relaxing. 

Naples, a new destination for me, was teeming with people.  Not cruise passengers, just locals enjoying this busy City.  A tour of the Bourbon Tunnel was a welcome break from the crowds. Originally built to be a secret escape route for the Royal Family in 1853 the tunnel was commissioned by King Ferdinand II of Bourbon.  It was intended to take the family from the Royal Palace to the military barracks in case of a revolution. 

Never used for that purpose, the tunnel and adjoining caves became air raid shelters, housing up to 10,000 Neapolitans. You can still see artefacts left by people who sheltered here from toys, beds and prams to toilets and baths!  When the war ended, the tunnels became a dumping ground for everything left over from the war – from building rubble and broken crockery to cars and rusting Vespas.

Back above ground, we did as all self-respecting visitors to Naples should do and went to eat pizza and drink wine.

Our final stop, Civitavecchia, is the port that serves Rome.  Determined to be independent and wanting to make up my own schedule, I took the advice of friends and headed for the train station to get a train to the capital. 

Yes, it was every bit as easy as I’d been told and since Azamara was docked overnight, I could relax knowing that there was no pressure on me to get back to ship at any given time.  I thoroughly enjoyed wandering around Rome by myself, although at some point I’ll look for a guided tour.

Azamara is a cruise group for travellers. Longer time in port with occasional overnight stays ensures that you can really get under the skin of the destinations on your cruise.

While not an ultra-luxury line, Azamara does provide what I’d call essential treats so that you don’t have to justify a glass of wine with your meal or a cocktail by the pool.  And, room service is included so that if, like me, you are not a morning person you can hide in your cabin till you’ve had a few cups of coffee.  How much luxury you afford yourself after that is up to you.  The premium restaurants are definitely worth trying and not ridiculously expensive and you can enjoy premium drinks packages or simply order by the glass or bottle. Shoretrips range from pocket-friendly walking tours to private car tours.  

What really set this cruise apart for me was the team on board.  From the senior officers to the baristas and waiters, everyone was helpful and enthusiastic.  I mentioned to my Pinoy waiter that I loved chicken adobo – and was invited to enjoy a plateful one evening, off-menu. It’s a different kind of ‘ask and you will receive’ to Seabourn, but one that seems truly genuine and heartfelt.

Azamara offers excellent options for solo travellers and affordable luxury, together with intelligent and perceptive itineraries.

The group has new owners and I’ll be watching with interest to see how the cruises evolve.  I hope it doesn’t change too much

For more about Azamara, check their website  

About Fiona Maclean

London based freelance writer and marketing consultant. I edit London-Unattached.com and write for a number of other publications. With a music degree and a background in marketing across many sectors, my passions include all types of music, food, restaurants, wine and travel

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Venice, Italy

Cruises from Venice depart from spring through fall. Rising from a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea, the 118 islands of Venice are linked by 200-plus canals and more than 400 bridges. While a gondola ride is a must, don't miss the walking tours that explore the city's streets and palazzos. Notable sights include St. Mark's Basilica and Square, Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Doge's Palace and hidden districts where merchants once traded silk, spices and other goods. On a boat cruise on the Grand Canal, learn about the churches, villas and other structures that line the waterway, and sample fresh fruit, vegetables and fish during a stroll through the Rialto market. Foodies can enjoy Italian wines and cicchetti, the local version of tapas, on an organized bar crawl. Excursions are available to Murano, the center of Venetian glassmaking.

Driving Directions and Parking Information Venezia Terminal Passeggeri Marittima Fabbricato 248 30135 Venezia, Italy San Basilio Terminal Ponte Novo De Santa Marta 30173 Venice, Italy Driving to Venezia Terminal from Marco Polo Airport: Follow blue traffic signs indicating Venezia. At the end of the bridge on the lagoon "Ponte della Liberta," which connects the mainland with Venice, stay in the right lane and turn right at the traffic light. At the end of the road there is a STOP sign: proceed straight through to the Port Security gate for entry. You may be asked to present your cruise ticket booklet for entry. Proceed to the luggage drop off area just beyond the gate and then to the terminal.

11 Around-The-World Cruises For An Epic Getaway

"Sailing around the world" sounds so romantic, doesn't it? You're sailing to remote islands with like-minded people while chasing sunsets on a distant horizon. Sure, you can just board a plane to, say, New Zealand, but there's something so pure and patient about maritime journeys. Cruises are like floating resorts, which ease their way over the waves. It's the definition of "slow travel." 

Amazingly, in the modern world of jet-setting travel, round-the-world cruises do exist. Voyagers visit dozens of ports over the course of their odyssey, each with its own landscape, climate, and personality. There are lots of ways travelers can experience "the trip of a lifetime," but this kind of circumnavigation outmatches just about all of them -- and in style. However, there are a few things to consider before investigating such cruises. First, what does it actually mean to sail "around the world?"

Many companies use this phrase — and sail thousands of nautical miles — but only around a single ocean or hemisphere. Even when ships do sail a distance equivalent to the equator (or more), they rarely return to their precise port of origin. Also, these epic  cruise vacations can be pricey ; the kind of dream that merits cashing in a 401K, and the time commitment is also substantial, meaning months on the water. But for diehard cruisers, crisscrossing the planet could easily be worth the time and money, and if this sounds like you, these 11 cruise lines are scheduled to sail around the world.

Read more: The Prettiest Waters Around The World

Viking: World Cruise

For 138 days, passengers frog-hop through the Caribbean, pass through the Panama Canal, make their way to the islands of Polynesia, and skirt Australia, Asia, and Europe before finally dropping their anchor in London. On Viking's World Cruise, you can step ashore in 28 different nations and pick from 57 guided tours. Viking has been a prolific, respected cruise line since its founding in 1997, and this three-quarter circumnavigation sets sail in December 2024, so there's still time to book.

Ships are equipped with spas, luxury dining options, and cabin beds that can be separated or combined, among many other touches. Long before stepping aboard, the Viking website has a virtual 360-degree tour, acquainting future travelers with the ship's staterooms. Viking has thoughtfully put together a reading list to help travelers get a deeper understanding of the countries they will visit, which is especially helpful in little-understood destinations like Moorea and Indonesia. The ship also has a sizable library onboard for further research. This, plus its sophisticated tours and dining options that reflect the culture of each port, may explain Viking's moniker, "the thinking person's cruise." Quality does come at a price, with full passage starting at $59,995.

Ambassador: Grand Round The World Cruise

The Ambiance sets off from London, crosses the Atlantic, passes through Panama, and hits Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America before pinging back to the United Kingdom. Not only do you cross all the major oceans, but you actually cross the Atlantic three times. Most of these destinations are warm-weather ports, including Sydney at the height of summer. Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats are recommended on this largely equatorial route.

Ambassador is new to the cruise scene, having been established in the United Kingdom in 2021, and Ambiance is its flagship vessel. Passengers will spend their 120-night voyage in extreme comfort, traveling to 24 countries and 34 ports of call, with top-notch dining, live entertainment, and about 35,000 nautical miles in between. If you can live without a porthole, opting for an  inside cabin on the cruise , then passage starts at the budget-friendly price of $8,500 per person, making this Ambassador cruise one of the most economical on this list. You can also add on drink packages and arrange tours in advance or onboard through an agent or the Ambassador app. You can also explore the ship before you travel, thanks to a 360-degree virtual tour. The 2024 voyage sets sail on June 6.

Regent: World Cruise

The 2026 Regent World Cruise starts in Miami and ends in Miami, which makes it convenient to coordinate, especially if you're already based in the United States. Regent Seven Seas Cruises was founded in 1992 and is a respected brand in the industry.

The ship, the Seven Seas Mariner, also lives up to its name with a formidable 154-night itinerary: the Panama Canal, points along Central America, a dozen Pacific islands, Australia, South Asia, East Africa, and two Atlantic islands before returning to Florida. The Mariner arrives in many well-trod ports like Cape Town and Acapulco, but the route also includes locations that most travelers would have trouble pinpointing on a map: Lautoka, Abidjan, and Male are all names cruisers will become familiar with. To really explore these places, Regent organizes a whopping 431 free shore excursions across six continents, 77 ports, and 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sailing nearly 40,000 nautical miles with world-class spas, dining, and entertainment aboard doesn't come cheap. While you'll need to contact Regent to request specific prices, passengers can expect to pay nearly $100,000 for passage. Regent's World Cruise is considered a luxury-level experience with first-class airfare, gratuities, and 24-hour room service included. If this is your tax bracket, just wait until you see the suites.

Royal Caribbean: Ultimate World Cruise

Royal Caribbean has been taking tourists to far-flung destinations since the late 1960s, and it's now one of the most recognizable cruise companies in the world, so naturally Royal Caribbean would host a round-the-world voyage. But even for seasoned travelers, the Ultimate World Cruise is pretty, well, ultimate. Royal Caribbean's world cruise lasts 274 nights and arrives in no fewer than 60 countries. In other words, you'll spend nine months at sea and personally visit more than a quarter of the sovereign nations on Earth. The saga starts and ends in Miami, where the Royal Caribbean is headquartered, which should make arrangements easy.

The biggest bragging right of all: This cruise touches on every single continent, including Elephant Island and Paradise Bay in Antarctica. You'll find yourself in both Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia, plus ports you've never even heard of. That said, unless your soul is fueled by pure wanderlust, this itinerary may sound like a lot of cruising, which may explain why Royal Caribbean has divided the journey into four segments. Cruisers don't have to commit to the entire itinerary; they can easily pick from the quarter that most interests them. 

By the time you read this, a segment may be the only option left, as the next Ultimate World Cruise departs in December of 2023. The segments are significantly more affordable as well. An interior stateroom for the full cruise costs at least $60,000 per person, while a segment starts at $12,500.

Cunard: Full World Voyage

When the Queen Mary 2 departs from New York City on January 3, 2024, it won't return to this same harbor for 123 nights. The itinerary isn't exactly "around the world," but rather a crossing of the Eastern Hemisphere — twice. Passengers traverse the Atlantic to the United Kingdom, then ease their way down the eastern coast of Africa before beelining for Australia. The ship boomerangs back, with many stops in Asia, a shortcut through the Suez Canal, and a tour of the Mediterranean before heading back to the U.S.

The voyage comes at the heels of Cunard's 100th anniversary, making it the second-oldest company on the list. The Queen Mary 2 has been Cunard's flagship vessel since 2004, and the company has mastered hospitality over the past century, with exceptional dining, luxury suites, and Broadway-quality performances by the Royal Court Theatre. Cunard also takes pride in its children's facilities, encouraging families to travel together, as well as the great English tradition of afternoon tea. Most of the budget cabins on the Queen Mary 2 were already booked at the time of this writing, but cabins with balconies are still available, starting at the not-ludicrous price of $16,899 per person. 

Oceania: Around The World In 180 Days

When Junes Verne wrote his novel "Around the World in Eighty Days," his Victorian goal was to travel as quickly as possible. Oceania is now advertising the opposite: This journey takes passengers the long way from Los Angeles to New York City, across the Pacific, around Australia, along the coasts of East Asia, and then up through the Middle East, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and even Greenland. The itinerary doesn't spend much time in the "global south," so you'll have to visit Africa and South America another time.

The Miami-based Oceania was founded in 2002 and specializes in long-haul cruises, so they know their system well. This cruise may be especially appealing to foodies. The company takes particular pride in its onboard meals as well as in-country Culinary Discovery Tours. Passengers can also take advantage of The Aquamar Spa & Vitality Center, which can orchestrate a special dietary regimen.

Oceania exudes "small-ship luxury" and caps its total number of passengers at 1,250. Everything about the ship is more intimate than found on its larger cousins, from the live entertainment to the duty-free boutiques. If you like a small-town feel, 180 days should be just enough time to meet all your shipmates. If you can't summon the time or (at least) $47,599 by January 2024, the next ship departs in January 2025.

Princess: 111-Day World Cruise

This Princess cruise is another true circumnavigation, starting in Los Angeles and bearing west until the ship arrives back at its original dock. The 111-day cruise starts on January 18, 2024, and includes all three major oceans, both the Suez and Panama Canals, plus 47 ports along the way. The itinerary is light on Asian and African ports and skips South America altogether, but you can still enjoy visits to Australia, the Middle East, and numerous destinations around Europe.

Princess is a hallowed name in the cruise industry. Not only have its ships been sailing the world since the 1960s, but Princess is still one of the most profitable cruise companies in the world. Passengers can expect onboard enrichment programs, award-winning live performances, and rejuvenating treatments at the Lotus Spa. Each port will also bring its own offerings of special excursions, from river rafting to art tours. 

With its dependable quality of service and nearly four-month itinerary, it's remarkable that base bookings start at only $15,498. Better yet, if you want to circle the globe with the whole family, this Princess itinerary is a family-friendly cruise and offers youth programming, which is not always the case. If you miss this one, no worries. Three more, of varying lengths, are slated for January 2025.

Holland America Line: Grand World Voyage

Fort Lauderdale is the beginning and end point for the Zuiderdam, which spends 128 days making a complete circle around the globe. Holland America's Grand World Voyage is true to its name. Passengers travel across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, making port on five continents. Most of its destinations are clustered around Asia and the Mediterranean, and it skips over Australia. But the Voyage is a rare opportunity to sail up the Amazon River, with visits to inland Brazilian cities most travelers would never think to visit.

Holland America began as a shipping and passenger line in the mid-19th Century, and its history of cruising is nearly as old as the concept. The flagship Zuiderdam is a luxury vessel with a swimming pool and sizable theater. It also boasts several diverse dining areas, including the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse, the Italian-themed Canaletto, and the à la carte Lido Market. There's Billboard Onboard, a special room for trivia nights and karaoke, as well as World Stage, a presentation space with a wraparound LED screen. Bookings start at the more expensive rate of $22,499 for an inside cabin, and the 2024 voyage will set sail on January 3, 2024, but you can expect additional Grand World Voyages to be slated in the coming years.

Azamara: World Voyage

Formerly part of the Royal Caribbean fleet, Azamara is now an independent company taking its own journeys. The 2025 World Voyage begins in San Diego and sails westward, across the Pacific, to Australia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, before passengers disembark in Barcelona. The World Voyage doesn't quite girdle the globe, stopping just short of the Atlantic Ocean, and the only stop in Africa is Giza. But this 155-night expedition should satisfy almost any traveler, especially with its 40 countries and 22 overnights.

Unlike many world cruises, Azamara has divided its full itinerary into segments with clear geographic themes, such as "South Pacific Jewels" and "Mediterranean Icons." These titles can help turn experiences into coherent narratives. For example, "Ancient Pathways" draws a historic and economic line between Mumbai and Athens, along with all ports in between. These themes are coupled with thoughtful excursions, which are often scheduled around local holidays and festivals. The World Voyage for 2024 appears to be sold out, but the 2025 edition sets sail on January 5. Passage starts at a princely $39,999.

Freighter Cruises

Some of us want to keep it simple. No need for late-night show-stoppers, cocktail parties with hundreds of strangers, or daring bets at the roulette wheel. "Freighter cruises" have gone by many names over the years, such as "banana boats" and "cargo cruises," but passengers have hitched rides on commercial ships since the dawn of seafaring. These accommodations come in many forms, and you do have to share your vessel with stacks of massive shipping containers; still, you can expect a comfortable cabin and regular meals, along with friendly and respectful crewmembers from around the world. For travelers with a Jack London streak, the freighter cruise feels raw and adventurous.

The Freighter Travel Club was founded in 1958, and companies like Maris Freighter Cruises and Voyage en Cargo have booked passengers on commercial vessels for years. Maris has arranged round-the-world itineraries in the past, and multi-week journeys are common, as enormous loads are floated from one nation to the next. The pandemic took its toll on this niche industry, and most of these journeys do not precisely travel around the world. But when they're in operation, freighter cruises usually cost a little over $100 per day, and savvy travelers have flexibility in their bookings.

Miray Cruises: Life At Sea

Sure, cruising is fun, but what if you want to turn your ship into a semi-permanent address? Life at Sea Cruises promises three years of luxury seafaring, with stops in 140 countries across all seven continents. By the time you're done with these 382 ports, you'll have more photos to sort through and stories to share than most people will amass in a lifetime.

That sounds life-changing, but we'll have to see whether it's too good to be true. Life at Sea is a brand-new enterprise from Miray Cruises, and the maiden voyage has been fraught with delays. However, at the time of this writing, Life at Sea should get underway by the end of 2023, and most full-voyage passengers should already be sailing by 2024. If all goes well, there are four scheduled embarkation options for travelers who want to hop aboard later on, and more will likely be scheduled.

One of the problems has been the ship itself. For a while, the purchase of the ship was in limbo, pushing back the original sail date. However, the MV Lara now seems ready to sail. The medium-sized vessel has space for 1,266 passengers, with a range of cozy cabins, a wellness center, and a pool deck, among many other amenities. Travelers committed to living at sea for three years should get a lot out of their floating home. Life at Sea is a dreamy concept, so let's hope for calm waters once it finally sets sail. 

Read the original article on Explore .

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The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

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Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• Solo Travel for Women: The Best Places and Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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