CRUISES BOUTIQUE ‘PURSUIT’ Azamara’s newest ship expands the upper premium’s reach across the globe. AS THE THIRD SHIP in Azamara Club sailed as Swan-Hellenic Cruises’ Minerva MJM Group. The ship also has a similar Cruises’ fleet, the 702-passenger Azamara II, Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess and look to that of sisters Azamara Quest Pursuit has increased the line’s capacity P&O Cruises’ and Fathom’s Adonia. After and Azamara Journey plus has many by 50 percent, but even more impor- acquiring the ship earlier this year, of the brand’s most popular signature tantly, is allowing the upper premium Azamara updated and revitalized the spaces. That said, there are some changes. brand to sail to new destinations. The 30,277-ship at the Harland and Wolff Stressing that Azamara is always line’s three ships will sail to more than shipyard, Belfast, Northern Ireland. seeking ways to do more for guests, 400 ports of call and Azamara is adding Azamara Pursuit began sailing in late Larry Pimentel, Azamara’s president country-intensive itineraries, themed August and Travel Agent was onboard for and CEO, says the line added more ac- cruises and land / sea packages that a christening / preview voyage. commodations to this ship. It also took include African safaris (partnering with FRESH LOOK, NEW SPACES: Over- 40 or so staterooms on several decks Micato) and journeys to South Ameri- all, this boutique-style ship looks fresh and turned them into Club Continent ca’s Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls. and pleasing-to-the-eye. We like the Suites and added other suites elsewhere Azamara Pursuit first sailed as the for- contemporary — yet warm — interior too. mer Renaissance Cruises’ R-8 and later décor created by outfitting specialist A Club World Owner’s Suite has 560 square feet of space that encompasses a master bedroom; a large verandah and a living room with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. PHOTO BY SUSAN BY YOUNG J. PHOTO 34 | TravelAgent | www.travelagentcentral.com | NOVEMBER 2018.