Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2021

5 8 INTERV IEW T he news that Royal Caribbean Group was selling Azamara sent ripples across the cruise industry earlier this year. However, for many, it wasn’t a total surprise. Azamara had become something of an odd fit for Royal, squeezed between Celebrity Cruises and the recently acquired ultra-luxury and expedition line Silversea Cruises, Azamara occupied a narrowing piece of real estate – marketed as a destination specialist, it was now in direct competition with its own stablemates. So, while many questions about the consequences of the deal remain unanswered, few could argue that the purchase by private equity firm Sycamore Partners, isn’t an exciting one for Azamara. “The most important thing for everyone to know is that our product will not change, and neither will the people at Azamara,” explains Carol Cabezas, president of Azamara. “We will continue to deliver leading upmarket and ‘Destination Immersion’ cruising and will maintain the high guest engagement and personalised service we are known for among our loyal global customer base, but with the added benefit of Sycamore’s consumer business and operational expertise. “In addition, together with Sycamore Partners we are committed to exploring the expansion of Azamara and opportunities for future growth, both as a brand and as a fleet.” That is a very tantalising prospect for industry analysts and fans of Azamara. The company, which will soon launch its fourth ship, Azamara Onward, now owns half of the former Renaissance Cruises fleet, the others being operated by Oceania Cruises. Backed by private equity, questions will undoubtedly surface about whether Azamara’s next ship could be a newbuild – and all the prospects that designing a ship from scratch can bring – however, such conversations are premature for Cabezas. For now, her main goal is simply to get her ships back out on the water. “Our number one priority continues to be a healthy return to service,” she says. “Azamara Quest started a series of country-intensive voyages in Greece on 28 August and we were more excited than ever to get back to what we love doing most, in a country that we know best. “Looking ahead to 2022, we’re excited for Azamara Onward to officially join our fleet with her maiden voyage departing from Monte Carlo, Monaco in May, and to have all four sisters delivering the finest Destination Immersion cruising to our guests. “We’re extremely excited about what the future holds. We have a fantastic team committed to expanding the brand with a passion for protecting A new future With a new ship and owners, the cruise industry restart marks a major milestone for Azamara. Sam Ballard asks Carol Cabezas about the line’s future Azamara’s ships feature elegant suites and staterooms designed to offer a luxury cruise experience