The renovation project, overseen by MJM Marine , includes a complete refurbishment of the cabins with new curtains, carpets, furniture, and linens, as well as updated social areas. Technical improvements such as floating floors and enhanced soundproofing in the music rooms are also planned to ensure quieter cabins and a more enjoyable onboard experience. Azamara CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler stated, “We are not only renovating existing spaces, but also offering something new to our guests.”
New certification course in wine on board
As part of the new features coming to the Azamara Quest after its refurbishment, the company has announced the launch of an immersive wine certification course starting in December 2026. Taught by Marianne Frantz , founder of the American Wine School and an advanced sommelier, the program will allow passengers to obtain the WSET Level 1 certificate while cruising through some of the world's most famous wine regions.
The course includes classes on grape varieties, wine styles, service, storage, and food pairing , culminating in an official onboard exam. In addition, all guests on these cruises will enjoy pop-up tastings and pairing sessions inspired by the destinations visited, similar to how Azamara and Milam Greene are taking bourbon to new territory at sea. Wayne Fannon , Azamara's Corporate Director of Food and Beverage, emphasized that "destination immersion also involves understanding its culture through food and wine."
Strengthening the sales team in North America
Alongside fleet upgrades, Azamara Cruises has announced the appointment of Alex Pinelo as its new Commercial Director for North America, a position he will assume on September 1, 2026. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Pinelo joins from AmaWaterways , where he held several management positions, and previously spent nearly three decades at Norwegian Cruise Line , in addition to being part of the founding team of Disney Cruise Line.
Pinelo will lead the sales strategy and partnerships with travel agencies in the region. Ritzenthaler emphasized that “travel advisors are at the heart of Azamara’s business” and that Pinelo’s appointment reinforces that commitment. For his part, the new executive stated that he looks forward to “continuing to create growth opportunities and inspiring more travelers to discover the destination-centric experiences that make Azamara unique.”
The cruise line has also launched a new online training module through the Azamara World Academy to teach travel agents how to use the RezA booking platform . This is all part of a long-term strategy that includes new suite categories, exclusive dining experiences, and expanded wellness services across the fleet, with more treatment rooms at the Sanctum Spa and aesthetic medicine services.