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Azamara pauses until 2021 Europe season

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Carol Cabezas reported strong demand for 2022/2023 voyages that were announced in mid-September
Azamara is pausing its cruises until the 2021 Europe season, citing travel restrictions and customer feedback.

The line plans to return to service on March 20 for Azamara Quest's originally scheduled 12-night Spain-intensive voyage, Azamara Journey's April 9 cruise from Lisbon to Barcelona and Azamara Pursuit's new series of Greece-intensive voyages starting May 9.

Loyalists 'more comfortable waiting to cruise until 2021'

Since the brand's itineraries are all designed for more in-depth exploration, Azamara has adjusted its sailings as a result of individual country restrictions and customer surveys indicating travelers will feel more comfortable waiting to cruise until 2021.

'After very careful consideration, we have made the decision to pause operations until the 2021 Europe season, as we are still confronted with the many global challenges resulting from COVID-19,' Azamara's Chief Operating Officer Carol Cabezas said. 'We plan to return stronger than ever next season, with reimagined guest experiences that will protect the wellbeing of our guests and crew yet remain true to the Azamara spirit of connecting people to cultures.'

Strong demand for 2022/2023

Cabezas reported strong demand for 2022/2023 voyages that were announced in mid-September. 'Within the first week of opening for sale, we experienced three times more bookings for new voyages compared to last year's deployment of 2021 and winter/spring 2022 itineraries,' she said.

As part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Azamara will be following the recommendations of the Healthy Sail Panel.

Travelers can book 2021 sailings using Azamara's 'Cruise with Confidence' benefit.