A new extension of Celebrity Cruises that launched in May, Azamara roughly translates to “blue sea.” The new brand has only one ship the 710-passenger Azamara Journey until sister ship Azamara Quest enters service in October. While delving deep into the history and culture of remote destinations larger ships can’t reach, guests sailing with Azamara Cruises will enjoy butler service in every stateroom and suite, as well as concierge-style amenities, including fresh-cut flowers, fresh fruit, Elemis toiletries, complimentary use of Frette cotton robes, two complimentary pairs of slippers, plasma TVs and plush European bedding.

Despite the ships’ smaller sizes, each offers two specialty restaurants: On Azamara Journey, the Mediterranean-influenced “Aqualina” and the stylish steak and seafood restaurant, “Prime C.” Guests staying in suites will receive two nights of complimentary dining in one of the two specialty restaurants, while guests in staterooms will receive one. The ships will not require formal attire for dining, and will feature open seating in the main dining room.

Azamara Cruises also presents a wine bar with a wine cellar offering wine and champagne tastings, seminars, and minipairings of food and wine, in addition to its standard menu of fine wines by the glass or bottle.

Just prior to setting sail on its maiden voyage May 5, Azamara Journey completed a four-week, approximately $19-million makeover, highlighted by the conversion of 48 staterooms into 32 suites, a complete refurbishment of the dining areas to create the two new specialty restaurants, an expansion of the spa area to include an aesthetics suite, a new Sunset Bar on the aft deck, a new art collection, Cova Café, entirely new carpets and flooring throughout, new exterior decking, new paint schemes, new walls, and entirely new “soft goods,” ranging from plush European bedding to cushions, drapes and table linens.