Onward to Victory?
Azamara Onward is the most recent Azamara ship to undergo refurbishments, back in 2022. It’s a small, boutique-like vessel that feels cozy and classy, accommodating around 700 passengers. Azamara Onward is almost a copy-and-paste of the other ships in the fleet, with only subtle differences: the décor varies slightly throughout, while still maintaining that Old World charm. Most notably, Azamara Onward is the only ship to feature the exclusive Atlas Bar. Is that enough to make it the best in the fleet? Let’s find out.
What we like about Azamara Onward
One thing about Azamara Onward that stays true to the brand is the relaxed, laid-back onboard atmosphere. Azamara has a loyal following and typically attracts guests aged 50 and older. If you’re looking for a peaceful, low-key experience, look no further. You won’t find any late-night parties, waterparks, or wild roller coasters onboard, but you will find opportunities to relax, get a nice tan, and sip a glass of wine while enjoying live music at a piano bar.
The staff also deserves a big thumbs up. Azamara is known for offering some of the best service among all cruise lines, and that holds true aboard Onward. With around 410 crew members onboard, you're always greeted with a warm smile and a willingness to help. It’s awesome to cruise with a team that genuinely seems happy to assist, and that level of care doesn’t go unnoticed. You rarely wait more than a minute or two for a drink. Crew members are attentive, friendly, and easily earn a ten out of ten.
Azamara Onward also feels like the most up-to-date ship in the fleet. Technically, it is, having been the last to receive refurbishments and officially joining Azamara in 2022. It’s also the only ship that features a brand-new venue: the Atlas Bar. While the Atlas Bar menu is available on other ships, Onward is the only one with a dedicated space for it. That’s a definite plus, giving you more room to move around and another lounge to call your favorite.
The food onboard is also quite good. While it may not reach the level of top-tier luxury cruise lines like Explora Journeys, it’s certainly a step above what you’ll find on most mainstream cruise lines. There are about six dining venues on Azamara Onward, and they’re all solid choices. The two specialty restaurants - Prime C (steakhouse) and Aqualina (Italian) - are consistent across the fleet, and they deliver a good 7.5/10 dining experience.
Pricing on Azamara Onward is also quite reasonable. Keep in mind that this is a luxury cruise line, but you won’t be breaking the bank when sailing with them. For example, transoceanic cruises on Azamara Onward from Lisbon to Miami can start at around $1,300 per person. An 11-night Eastern Caribbean cruise begins at $1,999, which is a great value considering the onboard experience and length of the voyage. It’s also worth noting that Azamara Onward is prominently featured in both the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, offering more than 100 itineraries to choose from.
What we don’t like about Azamara Onward
I think the cabins could definitely be larger. Interior cabins start at 158 sq. ft. (14.7 sq. m), while Oceanview cabins are even smaller at just 143 sq. ft. (13.3 sq. m). To put that into perspective, interior cabins on Celebrity Cruises typically range from 170 to 202 sq. ft. Keep in mind that Azamara Onward is a ship that’s over two decades old, and that age shows a bit in the overall design of the rooms. The bathrooms in these cabins are also quite small and feature shower curtains. Suites are definitely more spacious and comfortable, but still not as impressive as the ones found on newer ships launched in the past year or two.
Much like Azamara as a whole, Onward isn’t a ship designed for kids. You’ll rarely see children onboard, and there are no dedicated activities or kids' clubs available. The ship also has just one main swimming pool. If you’re planning a vacation with your little ones, there are definitely more family-friendly cruise options out there.
Conclusion
Azamara Onward offers a luxury experience at a surprisingly reasonable price. It’s considered the most up-to-date ship in the fleet, featuring an exclusive bar and a wide range of itineraries across some of the world’s most popular destinations. If you’re thinking about trying Azamara, Onward is a fantastic choice, and often regarded as the best ship in the fleet. Go for it!
Azamara Onward FAQ
How much does a cruise on Azamara Onward cost?
Prices vary depending on the date and stateroom category, but fares start at around $1,300 for a 13-day transoceanic voyage and $1,999 for an 11-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. Need help planning a trip with Azamara Cruises? Click the Request a Quote button and let’s chat! Contacting us is completely free, and you never pay extra when booking through our travel advisors.
What are the main destinations for Azamara Onward?
Azamara Onward sails to many parts of the world, including Africa and Oceania, but its primary destinations are the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.
Is Azamara Onward good for children?
Not really. There’s no kids’ club onboard, very few activities for children, and the guest demographic tends to be adults aged 50 and older.
What’s new on Azamara Onward compared to the other ships?
Azamara Onward was the last ship in the fleet to undergo a complete overhaul in 2022. It is also the only ship to feature the exclusive new Atlas Bar.
