The small-ship cruise vessel Azamara Onward is scheduled to enter a 2-week dry dock in early November 2027 as part of the continuing rollout of the Azamara Forward program, the most extensive fleetwide refurbishment undertaken by Azamara Cruises. The work will introduce a series of upgrades intended to refine onboard spaces while preserving the intimate character associated with the line’s smaller ships.
During the shipyard period, several areas across the vessel will be reworked. Plans include the transformation of nightlife venues, the installation of a dedicated Chef’s Table dining experience, and a redesign of the ship’s principal restaurant, Discoveries. The Atlas Bar concept will be further refined, while the Cabaret Lounge will undergo a full interior renewal. In addition, staterooms and suites will be refreshed and a number of public areas throughout the ship will receive updated furnishings and finishes.
One feature introduced elsewhere in the program will remain exclusive to another vessel in the fleet. The new Penthouse Deck planned for Azamara Quest will not be included in the refurbishment of Azamara Onward, maintaining a distinction between the ships within the broader modernization initiative.
When the work is completed, Azamara Onward is expected to resume service on November 25th, 2027, departing on a 7-night Italy Intensive voyage from Athens to Rome. Reservations for this sailing are scheduled to open in April 2026, marking the first opportunity for guests to experience the vessel following the shipyard enhancements.
After its return to service, the ship will continue operating itineraries across the Mediterranean before later crossing the Atlantic to begin a season of Caribbean sailings.
The refit of Azamara Onward follows the introduction of the Azamara Forward program aboard Azamara Quest, the first vessel to receive the upgrades. The refurbishment initiative represents a multi-year investment across the four-ship fleet, aimed at refining accommodation, dining and entertainment spaces while maintaining the brand’s established focus on destination-oriented small-ship cruising.
Within the company’s broader strategy, the program is described as a step toward strengthening personalization, comfort and destination immersion, principles that continue to define the operational philosophy of the line as it develops the next phase of its fleet.