0208 248 2355
Questions about your booking? Contact Us
Login
Your boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Quest® is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for—plus some unexpected extras.
Across the fleet, our authentic service goes beyond the expectations of even the most well-traveled cruisers. Friendly and approachable, our staff are attentive, and happy to offer everything from poolside service to recommendations for your on-shore exploration. After all, we love sailing the world just as much as you do!
Re-imagined staterooms include modern amenities, furnishings, and European linens. Plus the ship features a large number of staterooms and suites with balconies, perfect for starting your day with fresh sea air and stunning views.
Add to all of that world-class dining options, spa experiences to relax and refresh, and all-new entertainment offerings, you’ve got an onboard experience that’s matched only by the immersive cultural encounters we’ve got in store on shore.
As experienced cruisers (20+) this was a first-time cruise for us with Azamara and therefore a trip into the unknown. Although a great deal of information is available on the internet views differ greatly from one contributor to another and I can only comment on our actual experience. The cruise was a last-minute decision and booked through Cruise Monk in the UK about a month before sailing date. The booking was handled efficiently and without problem, Flights (LHR/DHA/CTN return), accommodation (2 nights) in Cape Town pre-cruise were included in the price, as was the Azamara basic drinks package and gratuities. With hindsight we should have asked about additional cost for direct flights and possibility of a longer stay in Cape Town. Azamara Quest is the smallest cruise ship we have been on (700 guests), so clearly a new experience for us. First view of the ship in Cape Town was wow, what a great looking ship. Embarkation was faultless. We were booked for 2:30 pm, but arrived about 12:45pm, there were no queues and we were abord within 15 minutes or so. No massive atrium or flash staircases, just well-functioning facilities which would have been considered as state of the art when the ship was designed in the late 90’s/ early 00’s. Our cabin was an OV on Deck 4 about midship on the starboard side. The cabin was perfectly adequate with power outlets, empty fridge for our use, adequate storage and hangers etc. Yes, as many have said, the bathroom is rather tiny with a small, curtained shower, but perfectly adequate and got used to it after a day or so. The staff on this ship share a passion for quality and service which is reflected across the whole ship. Cabin, Dining, Bars, Guest Services…nothing is too much trouble and the smallest request is greeted with a smile. If you are not happy with the basic drinks package other options are available starting at around $35 per night, but we were happy with the Gordons/Beefeater Gin, Wersteiner Beer 5%, Baileys and the choice of House Wines (Red, White and Rose) included in the basic package. The Windows Café (Buffet) was our choice of breakfast venue and again the service was excellent. On finding a table a waiter would immediately come over to take our order for juice and coffee whilst we selected our breakfast choice. Omelette, fried eggs made to order and brought to your table. Discoveries Restaurant (MDR) on Deck 5 was our choice for evening meal. Occasional wait 5 or 10 minutes during busy periods (7:00pm to 7:45pm) but again attentive staff who listen to you and quite happy to “tweak” dishes to your preference. We found the choice of menu more than sufficient for our needs. We also tried the Prime C and Aqualina (Italian) speciality dining restaurants which were both great, but our preference was for Aqualina. We were both a bit wary of the White Night, but our fears were unfounded. Neither of us are fans of buffet style evening meals but this was exceptionally well managed with the most amazing food and entertainment. There was also a BBQ lunch towards the end of the cruise which again was brilliantly carried out. A huge well done on the food. There is no theatre on the Quest, but instead a far more informal Cabaret Lounge with the ships Entertainment Team (Performers and Musicians ) presenting a range of energetic shows to cover a broad spectrum entertainment styles and wow did these guys work hard. Quality! Shore excursions were pretty much aimed at those wishing to visit Game Parks guaranteed to see the Big 5. Having experienced Etosha in Namibia and Kruger in SA this was of no appeal, so we did our own thing. Azamara provided local transport from the ship to local shopping malls for those wishing to get off the ship. I think the thought being the safety of the passengers, which is understandable, but dissuaded many from doing “their own thing”. This was the case in Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay and Durban. Being more familiar with SA we chose to explore the locality using Bolt and/or Uber to visit a few local landmarks and try some bars with local craft beers off the beaten track. In Durban port there was an announcement on the PA with TEN Safety rules about visiting the city which I know put the fear of God into many who just went to the mall and back on the provided transport. Such a shame as Durban is a fabulous city and we had a great walk along much of the Golden Mile (Addington Beach) stopping for a few beers and in the middle of the day there was nobody hassling any of the few brave cruisers taking advantage of the sea and the sunshine. Unfortunately, due to heavy seas were not able to disembark in Mossel Bay which was a tender port (the only one). The highlight of the cruise, of course, Cape Town (The Mother City) possibly the finest city on the planet and has been a favourite destination of mine for over 40 years. Yes, maybe a few little niggles, but nothing of big concern to stop us cruising again with Azamara. Thank you for reading this and I hope it may encourage you to cruise with Azamara and/or visit the beautiful city of Cape Town or simply to visit SA.
We recently had our first cruise with Azamara. We had an intensive cruise along the South Africa coast. Our first impression was that the ship was small. We had a very good experience with customer relations as we were able to move our stateroom. Our original stateroom was directly below the Cabaret Lounge. We were moved to mid ship. This proved to be an excellent place to be. All the Staff were helpful and friendly. As the ship was small you were able to get around easily. There were some quiet places to go to read. The food quality was outstanding. You got to know other guests as there were not so many of them. There was good choice of food in the main restaurant and the buffet. We had 3 meals in the specialty restaurant which was included in our package. The service was good and you weren't rushed. We went to the Cabaret Lounge where they put on shows. The singing was good. There were other areas where they had entertainment. It was great to be in port overnight. The only downside was the motion. We couldn't get I to Cape Town because of the weather so we had to sail around. It was quite uncomfortable as the motion was such that we had to lie down. Fortunately we were not seasick. Overall we had a great experience on board Quest and would go with Azamara again.
Our last cruise with Azamara was on the Journey in 2019. We decided to try Azamara under new ownership on the Quest and were very happy with our experience. To understand our perspective for this review, Since 2019, we have sailed on the MS Europa 2 five times, once on the Oceania Marina, and twice on the Oceania Vista. Since 2019, this Azamara sailing is our best cruise because of the Quest Crew, the Officers and Staff, and our fellow passengers. “Family” is the right word to describe the atmosphere on the ship. The crew performs at a high level, is always professional and friendly, but never too familiar - really an excellent combination to support a welcoming atmosphere. As opposed to the Vista where “no” and “we can’t” seems to be the crew’s favorite words, every request that we had on the Quest was pleasantly met without drama. The officers are present and warm and friendly with the passengers. The Singers and Dancers on the ship….all of the musicians ….were first rate and performed some of the best shows we have seen on sea. The food budget appears to be less than Oceania. However, the food quality was very good but not excellent, the occasional specialty buffets in the main dining room were very good and everything from Sushi to seafood and very good desserts is present. The souffle we had for dessert in the specialty restaurants was the best we have had anywhere. Chef Ray is an asset to Azamara and demonstrates how a few, dedicated people can really make or break a ship’s reputation. Quest was great. The bartenders are some of the best, most professional and “service with a smile” that we have experienced. Housekeeping….excellent. Ship is clean everywhere, all the time. Special requests are met quickly. Room for Improvement: Entertainment: The only issue we had with the entertainment was Azamara has perhaps some of the worst background music on sea and should immediately move to more mellow acoustic or mild music ( smooth jazz, etc.) to replace the bebop jazz of un- melodius trumpet notes in the specialty restaurants. The aggressive 1940’s blaring horns or the irregular beat horns of the bebop really need to be replaced as there is no value added in the background music and only makes people aggressive. If it cannot be replaced by more soothing dinner music… they need to turn it off. The Quest said it could not change the music because their Miami headquarters controls the music….Azamara, headquarters……fix it. Suite Status: Azamara advertises 3 real full suite types ( Club World Owner’s Suite 52m2, Club Ocean Suite (40.9-46.5m2) and Two Spa Suites (38.5m2) that supposedly have the same advertised perks and amenities. Additionally, there are also larger cabins that are junior, entry level Club Continent Suites that are really balcony cabins with additional space and a better shower and some additional specialty dining perks. There are a total of 12 “real suites” on the ship (6 World Owner Suites, 4 Ocean Suites, and 2 Spa Suites). There is a hidden perk for the Owner and Ocean Suites called the “Best of the Best” dinner which is an over the top, gourmet party held for all suites except the Spa Suites. For some illogical reason, the two Spa Suites, arguably the best suites on the ship, are excluded. Past arguments for this inequality is that Spa Suites had Spa perks or other bonuses so there exclusion was justifies. However, That no longer is the case. There are no exclusive additional Spa Suites perks beyond those received by all full suites. So, be aware, that the 10 slightly larger but lesser equipped suites ( no double sinks, no super shower, no bathtub with ocean view) have additional, unadvertised perks when you are trying to compare suite amenities. Really, the two spa suites should be included in the “ Best of the Best”. There exclusion causes unnecessary differential treatment among the full suites and is not a marketing argument for booking the larger categories because it is not advertised anywhere. So Azamara needs to either make a new Junior Suite category for the Spa Suites which would lower the price for the Spa Suites or treat all full Suites the same. Key Card Covers: All cabins and suites no longer receive leather or plastic leather holders for their key cards. Just a really cheap, light paper envelope that falls apart in hours. There are certainly better areas to save money than the key cards holders that really makes the Azamara brand look cheap and inferior.
YOUR OWN SEASIDE RETREAT
Welcome to your vacation home with ocean views, sea breezes, and all the style and amenities of a boutique hotel. Relax in your cruise stateroom with plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and 24-hour room service. Our goal is to make you comfortable so you can spend more time on important things. Like exploring the world.
EXPERIENCE THE SUITE LIFE
The premier way to travel, discover luxury with each Azamara voyage from our Club World Owner's Suite, Club Ocean Suite, Club Continent Suite or Club Spa Suites. As a suite guest receive a variety of exclusive benefits in addition to modern accommodations and authentic service. We take care of all the details, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
A boutique hotel at sea, each of our cruise suites offer the comforts of a five-star hotel suite with the added decadence of ocean views, sea breezes, and butler service. Relax with spa-like sea breezes, and butler service. Relax with spa-like amenities including plush cotton robes and slippers, French bath products, fresh flowers, and fine linens. Open the sliding glass doors to your private balcony and curl up with book, dine al fresco dining, or stargaze. Share a drink of your favorite spirit—on the house. And should you need anything, your English-trained butler is never more than a call away, ready to assist with reservations, private parties, dinners for two, and much more.
THE LUXE LIFE: YOUR CRUISE STATEROOM
When you book a cruise stateroom, you'll love the polished style and stellar service in your own private retreat. You'll appreciate the finer touches included, but it takes more than a beautiful room to elevate a voyage from "good" to "great." With Azamara®, you'll discover just how much professional service and a friendly attitude can add to your enjoyment.
Fresh ingredients, careful preparation and a variety of menu choices. Azamara offers a choice of six distinctive dining options, including room service. Whether you’re a fan of haute cuisine or down-home cooking, expect the same delicious quality. Bon appétit! Buon appetito! ¡Buen provecho! No matter how you say it, you’re in for a real treat.
When you have a passion for authentic travel, you let it take you where you long to go. For Azamara, that means coming aboard, setting sail out on the open sea, and then exploring well beyond it. Azamara has always taken travelers where no one else goes—unrivaled destinations, smaller ports, longer stays—now we venture further ashore. Beyond scratching the surface, so you can discover more history, more arts, more wilderness, more local cuisine, and more local culture than ever before.
A cozy nook to sip coffee. An intimate space to raise a glass and celebrate. A lively setting to catch the latest shows and international entertainment. Watch the world go by, drink in hand from any of Azamara’s bars, lounges, and gathering spaces. From port to port, our onboard venues are the perfect place to unwind after a day of onshore discovery, to connect over drinks both before and after dinner, or take in a one of a kind show. And, with Azamara’s Beverage Packages you can indulge in a superb collection of fine wines, premium spirits, and more—without reaching for your wallet.
An Azamara voyage is the perfect opportunity to focus on your health - so let us treat you to some rest and rejuvenation. Enjoy our onboard fitness options, nutrition classes, or spoil yourself with restorative treatments at The Sanctum spa.
Look better. Feel better. Go home invigorated.
With a focus on wellness and vigor, our relaxing spa offers you the chance to focus on you—something you don’t always have time to do at home. Enjoy an oceanfront massage, a quick manicure before hitting the town to explore, teeth whitening, barber services, or even a healing acupuncture treatment. But beyond the Sanctum, Azamara is also pleased to offer a full range of complimentary onboard fitness and nutrition classes, including one-on-one personal training for an additional cost. If you’ve ever wished for a week or two to reboot, this is it.
Azamara® accepts guests of any age*, but discourages families from sailing with children under 18 years of age, as the on board ambience and experience caters to adults and there are no activities for children or baby-sitting services available.
Please note: we have a medical centre on board which is staffed by a fully qualified doctor; however our doctors are not paediatricians. Guests must therefore bring on board an adequate supply of specific medications they need for all members of their family.
