It’s an exciting time for all of us here at Azamara. Along with our triumphant return to sailing last summer, we announced a fantastic new addition to our growing fleet: Azamara Onward. Since then, it’s been a year of thrilling preparations as we ready ourselves for Onward’s maiden voyage along the Italian coast this spring.
But before we hoist anchor and set sail to experience la dolce vita, we wanted to give you the chance to get to know our newest ship a little better. Read on to learn more about Azamara Onward, her incredible crew, and all the exciting new destinations and immersive experiences she has in store for us this year!
Meet Azamara Onward
At 592 feet long, 84 feet wide, and weighing in at an impressive 30,277 tons, Azamara Onward hits what we consider to be the cruise ship sweet spot. It’s not too big, not too small, but just right for delivering immersive experiences that take you off the typical tourist track. Built to traverse oceans, explore scenic coastal waters, and dock in less-traveled ports that larger ships just can’t access, Azamara Onward offers all the benefits of small-ship cruising, while still delivering on the elevated luxury experience you’ve come to expect from Azamara.
On board, you’ll find five restaurants, eight distinctive bars and lounges, plus fitness facilities, shops, and our signature Sanctum Spa, where you can relax and recharge between adventures in port. In addition, 278 staterooms offer a range of accommodation options, so no matter how you like to travel, you’ll find all the creature comforts you need. And with 408 staff and crew members onboard, you can rest assured knowing there will always be someone close by to lend a helping hand.
Introducing the Dream Team
If you’ve sailed with us before, then you know that an Azamara voyage is about so much more than just a beautiful ship — luxurious amenities and exciting destinations may bring you on board, but it’s our crew that keeps guests coming back year after year.
And you can expect to find plenty of familiar faces among the crew of the new Azamara Onward, including Captain Carl Smith, a proud father of three boys and veteran of both Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest; Executive Chef Dhani Limboo, a lifelong foodie who lists 80s music (and, improbably, fast food!) among his favorite guilty pleasures; Cruise Director Eric De Gray, who loves trains and is an avid model railroader; and Hotel Director Elisabeth Vogel, a hospitality industry veteran and enthusiastic history buff whose motto is “always take the side streets”.
Joining their ranks are plenty of fellow Azamara veterans, as well as many exciting new faces — including Azamara Onward’s godmother herself, Beth Santos. Founder and CEO of the global community and lifestyle brand Wanderful, Beth is a lifelong traveler who has worked tirelessly to change the landscape of travel for women worldwide. Beth founded Wanderful in 2009 as a travel blog while living abroad in São Tomé and Príncipe, aiming to capture the diverse experiences of women traveling the world.
Along with Captain Carl, Elisabeth, Chef Dhani, and the entire crew, Beth is excited to christen Azamara Onward in Monte Carlo this spring and embody the fearless spirit you’ve come to expect from Azamara.
Onward to Adventure
Azamara Onward sets sail for her inaugural season around Europe this spring, beginning with a dreamy maiden voyage along the coast of Italy, with stops in Monaco, Croatia, and Montenegro. The voyage sets out from Monte Carlo on May 2, 2022, on what promises to be an unforgettable 11-night celebration of art, history, and local cuisine.
And there are plenty more exciting voyages on the horizon for Azamara Onward this year. Discover the jewels of the Mediterranean on our 12-Night Best of the Med Voyage. Treat yourself to emerald waters and endless isles (plus four consecutive late-night stays!) on a 7-Night Croatia Intensive Voyage. Or join us on an immersive, 8-Night France Intensive Voyage and experience living la vie en rose.
With a sweeping World Voyage planned for January 2024, the horizons of Azamara Onward are looking brighter than ever. Discover all of Azamara Onward’s upcoming voyages and start planning your dream cruise today!