Azamara completes Quest upgrade, sees growing market in Asia

[HostDave]

Azamara Quest emerged from its two-week drydock on Friday in Singapore’s Sembcorp Marine Admiralty Shipyard, and the ship will immediately start a 16-night Asia voyage from Singapore to Dubai.

Owner Azamara Club Cruises has been featuring Asia cruises from Singapore since 2008, carrying mostly overseas guests.

The Asian cruise market has been a ‘meaningful destination’ that Azamara will continue to focus on going forward, according to Ellen Bettridge, vp of sales and marketing for the Americas.

She added that the preferred destinations in Asia include Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

Local sourcing is on the rise. ‘Since 2010, we have seen a 52% increase in net yield from Asian passengers. The Asian cruise market is expanding year-on-year and demographics in this region point to a demand for this type of experience and luxury that Azamara cruise ships can offer,’ Bettridge said.

The 30,277gt, 690-guest Azamara Quest, like sister ship Azamara Journey, has been refitted with new venues and technologies, including new spa suites, transformation of the pool grill area into a sit-down al fresco dining as well as revamped restaurants, lounges and furniture.

According to Bettridge, Azamara has been considering very carefully adding new ships in view of preparing for future growth and recent years of profitability.