Azamara Onward is the fourth ship to join the line, which was acquired by Sycamore Partners from Royal Caribbean Group last year.

The festive naming ceremony was led by president of Azamara, Carol Cabezas, and Onward’s godmother, Beth Santos, founder and chief executive of global community and lifestyle brand Wanderful. 

“We are thrilled to introduce Azamara Onward and share this special moment with our loyal guests,” said Cabezas. “This is an exciting new chapter for our company, and we are so thankful for our hardworking team both onboard and offshore, for making this possible. Together, we look forward to bringing Azamara Onward and our love of travel further than ever before, to connect even more guests with the many people and cultures of the world.”

Azamara Onward also welcomed trade partners onboard for a five-day pre-inaugural trip from Barcelona to Monte Carlo, including stops at Marseille, France and Porto Venere, Italy.

“This was not a cruise to nowhere – this was a chance to demonstrate to trade partners our focus on destinations,” Cabezas said onboard.

A special “AzAmazing Day” was created just for trade guests in Porto Venere, with local cuisine and drinks at a special pop-up in the town, and several musical performances arranged for them to enjoy ashore.   

Following the naming ceremony and traditional christening, Azamara Onward set sail for an 11-night maiden voyage throughout the Mediterranean, concluding with an overnight stay in Ravenna, Italy

“I am so honoured to have been selected as Godmother of Azamara’s newest ship, Onward,” said Santos. “This is such a symbolic moment not just for Azamara, but for the entire travel industry. Following two years of pause, we look forward to pressing onward with new mindsets, new adventures, and new opportunities to learn how we can be better travellers.”

Azamara Onward spent a year under renovation in Holland after being purchased by the line last year. 

Cabezas is also keen to continue expanding the fleet, but no announcements have been made on when this will be, or whether additions will be new-builds or acquisitions.