If you are a fan of small ship luxury, the future looks incredibly bright. Azamara has officially unveiled Azamara Forward, a major new vision designed to elevate life onboard while honouring the intimate atmosphere that sets the cruise line apart.
From a structural expansion on Azamara Quest to brand new dining concepts rolling out across the entire fleet, here is your complete guide to the changes coming to Azamara Journey, Azamara Onward, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Quest.
What Is Azamara Forward
Azamara Forward is Azamara Cruises’ long-term investment programme focused on elevating life onboard while maintaining the intimate atmosphere the brand is known for.
The initiative includes structural enhancements, suite upgrades, redesigned public spaces, and new culinary concepts rolling out across Azamara Journey, Azamara Onward, Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Quest.
While improvements will be seen fleetwide, the most dramatic change launches first on Azamara Quest.
The New Penthouse Deck on Azamara Quest
Azamara Quest will debut a completely new Deck 11, known as the Penthouse Deck, constructed above the existing Deck 10.
This marks the first time Azamara has expanded a ship vertically and introduces the most spacious and exclusive accommodation ever offered by the cruise line.
The new deck significantly increases the number of premium suites available while preserving the ship’s boutique feel.
Key Dates for Azamara Quest Upgrades
Azamara Quest enters dry dock in Athens on 31 October 2026.
The ship returns to service on 26 November 2026.
The new Penthouse Deck suites debut on the 18 December 2026 sailing from Miami.
New Azamara Quest Suites Explained
The Penthouse Deck introduces two new suite categories designed for modern luxury and elevated comfort.
Panorama Suites
Panorama Suites 1100 and 1101 are located at the very front of the new deck and are the largest suites ever created by Azamara.
These suites feature breathtaking 270-degree panoramic views, offering one of the most impressive outlooks at sea.
Each Panorama Suite includes approximately 656 square feet of interior space with a separate master bedroom and a spacious living area ideal for relaxing or entertaining.
They sleep up to four guests, making them suitable for couples who want space or families seeking a luxury suite experience.
The spa-inspired marble bathroom includes an oversized walk-in shower with a built-in bench. Based on guest feedback, these suites do not include a bathtub, allowing for a more open and contemporary layout.
Grandview Suites
The Penthouse Deck also features ten Grandview Suites, categorised as E1 and numbered 1102 to 1111.
These suites blend refined contemporary design with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, filling the space with natural light.
A key upgrade is the expanded bathroom layout with dual sinks and a spa-style shower.
Grandview Suites accommodate two guests and earn ten Azamara loyalty points per night, making them particularly appealing to repeat Azamara cruisers.
Fleetwide Dining Enhancements
Azamara Forward also introduces major culinary upgrades across all four ships.
Atlas Bar Expands Across the Fleet
Following its popularity on Azamara Onward, the Atlas Bar is being introduced fleetwide.
Located just outside the Discoveries Restaurant, the Atlas Bar serves handcrafted cocktails inspired by global destinations and acts as a lively social hub before and after dinner.
The Chef’s Table Becomes a Permanent Venue
The Chef’s Table evolves from a limited pop-up experience into a permanent private dining venue.
A standout feature is the new Market Dining experience, where guests join the Executive Chef ashore to source local ingredients before returning onboard for a bespoke meal inspired by the destination.
This experience reinforces Azamara’s commitment to destination immersion both on land and at sea.
Public Space and Design Upgrades
Azamara Forward includes a comprehensive refresh of onboard public areas.
The Discoveries Restaurant will be fully redesigned with new furniture, updated lighting, and a warmer colour palette.
The Cabaret Lounge will feature improved sightlines and a reimagined dance floor to enhance evening entertainment.
The Sanctum Spa will receive calming design updates to elevate the wellness experience.
Public restrooms across the fleet will be modernised with updated fixtures and finishes.
Why Demand for Azamara Quest Is High
With only two Panorama Suites and ten Grandview Suites available, availability on Azamara Quest’s new Penthouse Deck is extremely limited.
Sailings for the inaugural 2026 and 2027 seasons are expected to sell quickly, particularly for guests seeking the most exclusive accommodation onboard.
Booking early provides the best choice of suite, sailing date, and overall value.
To secure your suite on Azamara Quest’s new Penthouse Deck or to explore Azamara Forward sailings across the fleet, speak to our cruise specialists today.
Azamara Forward FAQs
What is Azamara Forward?
Azamara Forward is Azamara Cruises’ upgrade programme introducing new suites, redesigned public spaces, and enhanced dining experiences across the fleet.
Which ship gets the new Penthouse Deck?
The Penthouse Deck is exclusive to Azamara Quest and debuts after the ship’s 2026 dry dock.
When do the new Azamara Quest suites launch?
The Panorama and Grandview Suites debut on the 18 December 2026 sailing from Miami.
Are the Azamara Forward upgrades fleetwide?
Yes. While the Penthouse Deck is unique to Azamara Quest, dining venues and public space upgrades will appear across all four Azamara ships.
How many new suites are on Azamara Quest?
There are two Panorama Suites and ten Grandview Suites located on the new Penthouse Deck.
