Azamara Pursuit Turns 25: A Quarter Century of Unforgettable Voyages

The Azamara Pursuit has had quite a journey over the past 25 years. This small ship has sailed under many names and for several cruise lines before finding its current home with Azamara.

From Humble Beginnings to a Storied Career

The Azamara Pursuit first set sail in February 2001. Back then, it was called the R Eight and was built for Renaissance Cruises at a shipyard in France. It was the last of eight similar ships, known as the R-class.

Unfortunately, Renaissance Cruises ran into financial trouble almost immediately. The ship only sailed for a few months before it was taken out of service in late 2001. It then sat unused in France for two years.

A Ship With Many Names

In 2003, the vessel got a second chance. It was chartered by Swan Hellenic, a British cruise brand, and renamed the Minerva II. Swan Hellenic was part of Carnival Corporation at the time.

After four years with Swan Hellenic, the ship moved to Princess Cruises. It was renamed the Royal Princess and started sailing for Princess in April 2007, beginning with a season in Europe.

The ship wasn’t done changing hands yet. It later sailed as the Adonia for both P&O Cruises and Fathom Cruises. In 2017, Azamara purchased the vessel and gave it yet another new name — the Azamara Pursuit.

Joining the Azamara Fleet

Before joining Azamara’s fleet, the ship went through a major makeover. It was refurbished at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, Northern Ireland — the same yard that built the Titanic. The Pursuit officially began sailing for Azamara in August 2018.

The ship joined two other R-class vessels already in the Azamara fleet. It started with itineraries in Northern Europe and has been a key part of the fleet ever since.

What’s Coming Next for the Pursuit

The Azamara Pursuit has an exciting schedule ahead. In 2026, it will spend the summer in Alaska. It will offer 10- and 11-night cruises departing from Whittier, Alaska, and Vancouver, Canada.

After Alaska, the ship heads to Asia in September 2026. Guests can look forward to cruises in the Far East, Southeast Asia, and the South Pacific during the fall and winter.

A Big Refresh Is on the Way

Azamara recently announced a fleet-wide renovation program called Azamara Forward. All four of the cruise line’s ships will get major upgrades. The Pursuit is included in these plans.

A specific date for the Pursuit’s renovation hasn’t been set yet. But when it happens, passengers can expect some exciting new features. These include a new Chef’s Table dining experience, a redesigned cocktail lounge, refreshed cabins and suites, and upgraded shared spaces throughout the ship.

The Azamara Pursuit has come a long way since its debut in 2001. With new destinations and a major refresh on the horizon, this well-traveled ship still has plenty of adventure ahead.