I recently returned from an unforgettable sailing aboard Azamara Journey, traveling from New York City to Bermuda, St. Martin, Tortola, and finally San Juan, Puerto Rico. One of the highlights of the itinerary was spending the night in Bermuda, which gave us more time to experience the destination beyond the limited hours of a traditional port call.
I was invited to join the cruise as a travel advisor through Azamara’s Seminar at Sea program. The purpose of the program is to help travel advisors experience the cruise line firsthand so we can confidently match Azamara with the right clients. We attended a welcome reception, participated in several hours of training, and gathered for a farewell reception. But Azamara did not want the experience to feel like a conference. The training was informative, yet the main focus was allowing us to experience the cruise as our clients would.
And that firsthand experience made one thing especially clear: Azamara is all about destination immersion. With overnight stays and more time in port, the cruise line gives travelers the opportunity to slow down, explore more deeply, and experience destinations beyond the usual highlights.
Azamara Journey Docked in Hamilton, Bermuda
What Is a Seminar at Sea?
A Travel Advisor’s Opportunity to Experience Azamara Firsthand
Seminar at Sea gives travel advisors the opportunity to experience Azamara beyond brochures, presentations, and sales materials. By spending time aboard the ship, we can experience the service, dining, onboard programming, and destinations firsthand. This personal experience gives us a much better understanding of what the cruise line offers and helps us make thoughtful, informed recommendations to our clients.
Firsthand knowledge is especially valuable when helping travelers choose between cruise lines, since each one has its own personality, pace, and style of travel. The goal of Seminar at Sea is not simply to sell an Azamara cruise, but to understand which travelers will truly appreciate the experience. By knowing what Azamara does best, I can better match the cruise line with clients who value destination immersion, extended time in port, overnight stays, and a more intimate style of cruising.
Learning How to Match Azamara With the Right Traveler
The right traveler for Azamara is someone who values immersive experiences and wants to spend more meaningful time in each destination. Azamara creates this kind of experience through longer stays in port, overnight visits, and culturally focused experiences that allow guests to connect with the places they visit beyond the typical highlights.
Each of Azamara’s ships accommodates approximately 700 guests, creating a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere than you’ll find on a large resort-style cruise ship. With fewer guests onboard, there is no assigned dining time, and the overall experience feels less structured and less crowded. Rather than rushing from one activity to the next, guests can enjoy a more flexible, destination-focused style of travel.
During my cruise, I quickly realized that I am exactly the type of traveler who fits the Azamara experience. I appreciated the opportunity to slow down, spend more time in port, and enjoy a more intimate style of cruising. That firsthand realization is one of the most valuable parts of participating in Seminar at Sea. I now have an even better understanding of which clients may feel the same way.
First Impressions of the Azamara Journey
Boarding in New York City
Because we were traveling to New York City from Boston, I ignored my own advice and flew in on the day of the cruise. It was only a 45-minute flight, and we booked the earliest departure we could find. By the time we arrived at the terminal around 9:00 a.m., the baggage porters were already there, ready to tag and take our luggage. That left us free to head into the city and enjoy a few hours of sightseeing. We were especially fortunate to have such beautiful weather that day.
Radio City Music Hall NYC – sightseeing before the cruise.
We returned to the port around 11:30 a.m. and were guided directly to the check-in area. There was no wait, no line, and no assigned arrival time to work around. It was a wonderfully smooth and refreshing start to the cruise. After checking in, we were directed to the area where lunch was already being served.
My first impression of Azamara Journey was that she had a lovely old-school charm, with warm wood details and elegant accents throughout the ship. The atmosphere felt welcoming and refined without being overly formal, and I immediately sensed that this would be a very different experience from boarding a large resort-style cruise ship.
A More Intimate Cruise Experience
One of the things that stood out most during our time aboard Azamara Journey was the personal attention from the crew. As the cruise progressed, staff members began recognizing us by name and remembering our favorite drinks. Those small, thoughtful details made the experience feel warm and personal rather than anonymous. We never felt like just another passenger in a crowd; instead, there was a genuine sense of being welcomed and cared for.
The ship also had a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. One of my favorite details was the quiet coffee station at the Mosaic Cafe, where early risers could enjoy a cup of coffee and pastries before the day got underway. It was a simple but lovely space to ease into the morning, whether preparing for a day in port or simply enjoying the peaceful start to the day.
Mosaic Cafe on Azamara Journey
Because Azamara Journey carries approximately 700 guests, it was also easier to recognize and get to know fellow passengers. We often saw familiar faces around the ship, which naturally led to conversations and new connections. By the end of the cruise, many of the people we had met no longer felt like strangers since we had shared meals, excursions, conversations, and memorable experiences along the way. That sense of familiarity added another layer to the intimate, community-oriented feel of the cruise.
Cruising From New York to San Juan
The Appeal of This Itinerary
One of the first things that made this itinerary appealing was how easy it was to get from Boston to New York City. The short flight made embarking in New York feel surprisingly convenient. What impressed me even more, although I admit I wasn’t expecting it, was sailing down the Hudson River at sunset. Watching the skyline come into view and seeing the Statue of Liberty from the water was a memorable way to begin the journey.
Statue of Liberty at Sunset from Azamara Journey
Our first day at sea was lovely, although the water was a bit rougher than you might typically experience when departing from the Caribbean. We made the most of the day by exploring the gym and enjoying massages. The biggest challenge was taking a swim while the water in the pool was sloshing from side to side—but it was a challenge we gladly accepted! Azamara also hosted a wonderful brunch that first sea day, welcoming guests with mimosas and offering an impressive selection of breakfast and lunch options.
Sea day on the Azamara Journey
As we approached Bermuda, the experience became even more exciting. Watching the island come into view was a true “wow” moment, especially as we sailed all the way into Hamilton. I had never experienced an arrival quite like it. Because we spent two nights in Bermuda, we had time to get off the ship and enjoy the destination after sunset. On our first evening, we took advantage of the extended stay with a sunset sail—an unforgettable way to begin our time on the island.
Sailing into Hamilton Bermuda
Destination Immersion: Seeing More Than the Port
Azamara’s Focus on Immersive Destinations
One of the clearest examples of what Azamara means by immersive travel was our two-night stay in Bermuda. Rather than arriving in the morning and leaving later that same day, we had enough time to experience the island at a more relaxed pace and enjoy different aspects of the destination.
On our first evening in Bermuda, we took a local sunset sail, an experience that would not have been possible with a traditional daytime port call. The following day, we had time for a shore excursion and could explore beyond the most obvious attractions. On our final day, before sailing onward, we had time to walk around Hamilton and experience the city at our own pace.
Sunset Sail in Bermuda
That additional time makes a meaningful difference. Longer port calls and overnight stays give travelers the freedom to enjoy a leisurely meal ashore, visit museums or historic sites, explore local neighborhoods, and participate in evening activities without constantly watching the clock. They also make it possible to return to a favorite shop, restaurant, or attraction—or simply slow down and enjoy the atmosphere—without feeling as though you have to rush through the destination.
For me, Bermuda demonstrated the appeal of Azamara’s destination-focused itineraries. The experience was not simply about arriving, taking a quick tour, and checking the island off a list. We had the opportunity to experience Bermuda in different ways: from the water at sunset, through a shore excursion during the day, and on foot while exploring Hamilton. That is the essence of immersive travel, having enough time to connect with a destination on more than a surface level.
The Value of Overnight Stays
For travelers who want more depth from a cruise vacation, overnight stays can be especially appealing. They offer a better balance between the convenience of unpacking once and the opportunity to experience destinations more fully. Instead of simply checking a port off an itinerary, guests have time to slow down, enjoy an evening meal, discover local culture, and return to a favorite place without feeling rushed. That additional time is one of the reasons Azamara’s destination-focused approach resonated with me. The cruise was not just about seeing more places; it was about having the time and flexibility to experience each one more meaningfully.
Park in Hamilton Bermuda
What Are Azamazing Evenings?
Azamazing Evenings are signature shoreside cultural experiences designed to bring Azamara guests closer to the destinations they visit. Held in ports where the ship stays late or overnight, these events give guests the opportunity to experience local music, dance, culinary traditions, art, and other forms of entertainment in a memorable setting beyond the ship.
Azamazing Evening in St Martin
On our sailing, the Azamazing Evening took place in St. Martin and featured local musicians and dancers. The experience began the moment we stepped off the ship, where we were welcomed by drummers and dancers on stilts. From there, we made our way to a special outdoor stage, where we were greeted by the captain and senior staff and served rum punch. A steel drum band provided the entertainment as guests arrived, followed by a lively performance featuring local musicians and dancers.
Why These Experiences Matter
It was clear that an incredible amount of planning and effort went into creating the evening. Our cruise director told us that Azamara offers an Azamazing Evening on every sailing and that each event can take up to two years to plan. Knowing the time and coordination involved made the experience feel even more special. It was not simply an evening of entertainment; it was a thoughtful celebration of St. Martin’s culture that allowed us to experience the destination in a unique and memorable way.
White Night: A Signature Azamara Celebration
What Is the White Night Party?
The White Night Party is one of Azamara’s most festive onboard traditions. Weather permitting, it takes place outdoors on an evening when the ship is staying late or overnight in port, allowing guests to enjoy the celebration without being rushed back onboard for an early departure.
As the name suggests, guests are encouraged to dress in white. Some people interpret the theme elegantly, wearing white dresses, linen shirts, or resort-style attire, while others have a little more fun with it—including guests who choose to wear their Azamara bathrobes. Seeing the entire deck transformed into a sea of white creates a festive atmosphere and makes the evening feel like a special event rather than an ordinary night onboard.
Azamara puts an impressive amount of effort into the celebration. They transform the entire pool deck into a outdoor dining experience. The evening features an extensive buffet, live local musicians, and entertainment that reflects the destination and the relaxed, celebratory spirit of the cruise. After dinner and the live performances, the party continues with dancing late into the evening.
White Night poolside buffet on Azamara
The Social Side of Azamara
Another appealing feature is the open seating. Rather than sitting only with the people you already know, guests have the opportunity to join different tables, meet fellow travelers, and share stories from the cruise. It is an easy and natural way to make new connections, especially on a smaller ship where passengers tend to see familiar faces throughout the voyage.
Was it elegant, relaxed, festive or informal? All of the above! It was whatever you wanted the experience to be!
White Night Entertainment by the pool
Who Is the Best Fit for an Azamara Cruise?
Travelers Who May Love Azamara
Azamara may be a strong fit for travelers who want:
- Destination-focused cruising
- More time in port
- Overnight stays
- Smaller-ship cruising
- Cultural and immersive experiences
- A relaxed, adult-oriented atmosphere
- A more intimate onboard environment
- A cruise that feels less rushed
- Opportunities to connect with fellow travelers
Travelers Who May Prefer Another Cruise Style
- Let’s be honest every cruise line has a different personality.
- Travelers seeking large-scale entertainment, extensive waterslides, numerous family activities, or a very active resort-style ship may prefer a different cruise experience.
- My role as a travel advisor is to find the right match for you, not simply recommend the same cruise line to everyone.
My Biggest Takeaways From the Seminar at Sea
What I Understand Better Now
- Azamara is deeply destination-focused.
- Overnight stays can create a richer travel experience.
- The onboard atmosphere is part of the appeal, but the destinations remain central.
- Experiences such as White Night and Azamazing Evenings create memorable moments.
- Firsthand experience helps travel advisors recommend the cruise with greater confidence.
Would I Recommend Azamara to My Clients?
Absolutely—for the right clients.
Interestingly, many of the guests I met aboard Azamara Journey were experienced cruisers. For several, this was not their first Azamara cruise—or even their third. I found that once travelers discover this more intimate, destination-focused style of cruising, many return to Azamara again and again.
I would recommend Azamara to travelers who appreciate a small-ship experience with a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. It is especially well suited to those who want more than simply checking a destination off their bucket list. With longer stays in port, overnight visits, and opportunities to experience local culture, Azamara appeals to travelers who want to slow down and truly connect with the places they visit.
I have sailed on other small ships, including Windstar, and I have also experienced The Retreat on Celebrity. Both provided a more intimate experience than a traditional large-ship cruise. What I found distinctive about Azamara was its combination of a small-ship atmosphere, thoughtful amenities, and fewer crowds. Compared with my experience in The Retreat, Azamara offered that same feeling of space and exclusivity throughout the ship, not just within a dedicated area, along with a strong emphasis on destination immersion.
For me, Azamara strikes a wonderful balance: it feels intimate and personal without sacrificing the amenities, service, and experiences that make a cruise feel special. After sailing aboard Azamara Journey, I can confidently say that I am one of the travelers who fits the Azamara style and I now have an even clearer understanding of which of my clients may feel the same way.
Final Thoughts: Returning Home With More Than Memories
Arriving in San Juan, our final destination, I was grateful that the itinerary allowed us to experience one more port rather than simply return to the city where we had begun. Having the opportunity to explore San Juan before heading home was a wonderful way to end the journey.
Exploring the Fort in Old San Juan
I’ll be honest: I had already booked myself on another Azamara cruise two years from now, even though I still had much to learn about the cruise line. I was drawn to the itinerary and the destinations, took a chance, and trusted that the Seminar at Sea experience would help me better understand what Azamara offers. I was also grateful for the opportunity to connect with other travel professionals who had sailed with or sold Azamara in the past. Their experiences and insights added another valuable perspective to the training.
As I know from my own travels and as I remind my clients, the best cruise is different for everyone. The right cruise should align with your expectations, interests, and preferred pace of travel. For some travelers, that may mean a large ship with extensive entertainment and activities. For others, it may mean a smaller, more intimate ship that offers longer stays, overnight visits, and the opportunity to experience destinations more deeply.
After sailing aboard Azamara Journey, I have a much clearer understanding of why so many guests return to the cruise line. Azamara offers a relaxed, elegant, and destination-focused experience that feels personal from the moment you step onboard. I’m grateful to have experienced it firsthand, and I look forward to helping my clients determine whether it is the right fit for them.
Curious whether Azamara is right for you? I’d be happy to learn more about the way you like to travel and help you compare cruise options, itineraries, and experiences. Contact me to begin planning a journey that feels effortless, personal, and truly suited to you.
Author
Travel Advisor
Suzanne Poirier
