Azamara Onward
Ship Facts
Occupancy: 692
Crew: 408
Tonnage: 30,277
Length: 592 feet (180 m)
Beam: 84 feet (25 m)
Decks: 8
Cruise Speed: 18.5 knots
Refurbished: 2022
Registry: Malta
 
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Mediterranean Islands & Empires Luxury All-Gay Cruise 2027
8 days from Rome (Civitavvechia), Italy to Nice, France
September 5 – 12, 2027
Azamara Cruises Azamara Onward
 Join us as we explore the Islands & Empires of the Med! We'll be sailing from the Eternal City of Rome through the very best of the Mediterranean, with visits to the stunningly beautiful islands of Corsica, Sardinia and Malta. We'll also visit Tunis, the sprawling capital of Tunisia in North Africa and Livorno, Italy... gateway to Florence & Pisa and their iconic monuments and masterpieces. Come OUTbound with us as we tour the very best of the Mediterranean, from Rome to Nice during this fascinating itinerary. You’ll experience the epic history, beautiful landscapes and delicious food the locals cherish.
Discover the magnificent island of Corsica from Porto Vecchio. Explore historic Cagliari, Sardinia’s oldest coastal town. Spend the day in the medieval stronghold of Tunisia and its famed fortress before stopping at the island of Malta with its unique architecture, cuisine and culture. After a day at sea, climb the famous leaning tower of Pisa or gaze at the treasures of Florence before disembarking in legendary Nice, heart of the French Riviera. Let OUTbound's Mediterranean cruise whisk you away to charming villages and legendary islands with a unique itinerary that lets you discover this region as it was meant to be experienced.
Experience the Jewels of the Mediterranean
Welcome to the Mediterranean Sea! Be sure to pack your bags and leave your worries at home. That includes worrying about onboard expenses. When you travel from Rome through the best of the Mediterranean Islands, you can expect the following complimentary inclusions...
All Included, All Inclusive!
Select standard spirits, international beers and wines
Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
Self-service laundry
Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations!
Your Ship - Luxury Azamara Onward
The Whole Ship Is Ours! The Azamara Onward provides our gay cruise guests with even more unforgettable, unique, and immersive experiences than ever before. As a luxury cruise line, Azamara is known for small ship cruising and with a maximum of 692 guests in 341 staterooms and suites on its ships, the experience feels exclusive and intimate. Seven restaurants, cafes and lounges, a refreshing pool, sun-drenched decks, a revitalizing spa… the list goes on. With so many areas to explore onboard Azamara Onward, you’ll have all the amenities of a mega ship while still enjoying the intimacy and personal attention you’ve come to expect from Azamara.
Pool Deck
The main pool is the heart of our ship, the social hub where we connect, relax, sun and celebrate. Located mid-ship on Deck 9 just steps from the Windows Café and Patio Grill, the large pool is flanked by two hot tubs, and the nearby pool bar offers at-your-deck-chair drink and snack delivery. At night, the pool deck transforms into an open air party space for dancing under the stars. Strut your stuff and show off your costumes during our themed dance parties, or get a spot up on Deck 10 and admire all the action from above.
Cabaret Lounge
The Cabaret Lounge onboard the Azamara Onward is where our gay cruise entertainers shine on stage! The main theater features amazing performers in an intimate, engaging atmosphere. A mix of favorites and new talent makes for an unforgettable LGBTQ+ onboard experience. But it doesn’t stop there. The Cabaret Lounge is where we’ll have all of our OUTbound family moments, from staff introductions to final goodbyes. Each night we’ll gather to share stories of the day’s adventures and look forward together to what’s yet to come.
The Den
Located mid-ship on Deck 5, The Den is the perfect spot to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail while listening to the sounds of a classical grand pianist. The Den features a flat-screen TV and full bar, making it the ideal place to unwind with friends, watch special events or simply sit around the tall tables and exchange stories with your fellow OUTbounders. Enjoy a glass of wine or a mixed drink while the talented pianist entertains you with soothing background music. The Den is also the place to get inspired with travel tools that transport you to all corners of the world with travel books, guides, and destination-focused activities.
The Living Room
The Living Room, located forward on Deck 10, is a fantastic space for grabbing a drink with friends and enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the gorgeous coastlines. Late night is when our featured DJs spin the latest dance tracks along with your classic favorites. The Living Room is also the place where our guests take their turn on stage during karaoke nights. And OUTbound's fantastic theme nights let you channel your inner dancing queen and be your fabulous, silly self by dressing up as much as you want!
The Atlas Bar
The Atlas Bar is always our travelers pick for top-shelf cocktails. It is a super-cool bar with a collection of seventeen great looking cocktails. Some are entirely unique, like the Heart of Azamara with Vodka, Fresh Strawberry Puree, Fresh Lime Juice, Passionfruit Nectar, Galliano & Absinthe. There are also classic cocktails with an Atlas Bar twist... like the London Fog Martini with Earl Grey Infused Gin, Fresh Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup & Egg White. In the Atlas Bar, it’s always fun to watch the theatrics as the bartenders make your drinks with added fun and flair!
Mosaic Café
The Mosaic Café is the coffee bar at the heart of Deck 5 serving cakes and light snacks. With the couple of small shops in this area, it has a vibrant village square vibe and is a great place to meet friends for a coffee and watch the world go by. The onboard coffee corner may very well become your favorite spot on the entire ship. It’s also one of the most stylish places, too. You’ll find all your favorite coffee drinks here, and of course everything is made to order just the way you like. Whether you’re looking for your favorite iced latte, a La Rica or Lavazza Decaf specialty coffee or exotic herbal tea, Mosaic Café is the place.
Discoveries Lounge
Located just outside the main restaurant, this busy bar is a favorite gathering place for pre- and post-dinner drinks and conversation. Meet up with your fellow travelers for a drink to talk about the day’s adventures before sitting down to dinner. Bar service includes a full selection of fine wines, mixed drinks, and premium spirits… plus the entertaining banter of our friendly bartenders. The Discoveries Lounge is the place to come to be social and connect with old friends and new.
The Wine Cellar
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more extensive collection of limited production, small label and rare vintage wines anywhere on the high seas. And with vintages from France to California, and Argentina to South Africa, you’re sure to find a wine to suit your palate and your journey. The knowledgeable sommeliers can help you select the perfect wines for your evening meal, and be sure to join the Wine Corner gatherings... perfect for discovering and enjoying new wines and benefiting from the thoughtful guidance of a knowledgeable sommelier.
Discoveries Restaurant
In the main restaurant, you’ll discover the world through dishes and flavors from the places we visit. Of course, you'll also have a wide variety of nightly selections such as filet mignon with black truffle sauce. With its elegant yet lively dining and décor, it’s easy to see why this restaurant is the culinary heart of our ship and a hands-down favorite. Choose to have a romantic night at a table for two, or ask to be seated as part of a larger group of fellow travelers... which we highly recommend!
Aqualina
At Aqualina, you’ll find some of Italy’s most authentic dishes. Pastas made from scratch, traditional and authentic recipes, and scrumptious vegetarian dishes that make sure there’s something for everyone. Savor a traditional Spaghetti Bolognese, enjoy an Eggplant Parmesan or a hearty Rigatoni Pomodoro with fresh veggies. But save room. You won’t be able to say no to famous desserts like sorrento lemon liqueur mousse and hazelnut chocolate soufflé. The chefs love to be inspired, so after an on-shore visit to a local market, you can expect a delectable dish so authentic, you’ll feel like you’re still in town. Aqualina is a specialty restaurant onboard and can be enjoyed for $50 per person, per meal.
Prime C
When it comes to steaks, cooked to perfection, Prime C is the place to be. You’ll also have your choice of crab and lobster cakes with fennel-aioli, herb-coated rack of lamb, duck confit and Chilean sea bass... all paired with savory sides. And last, but certainly not least, sample Azamara’s famous mini cinnamon-sugar donuts with dipping sauces for dessert. But at Prime C, you’re in for more than delectable dining. Expect a great evening with stunning views and lush décor. And of course, the company can’t be beat. Prime C is a specialty restaurant onboard and can be enjoyed for $50 per person, per meal.
Windows Cafe
Windows Café offers quick and casual dining, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Take in the fresh breeze at an outdoor table and relax in the easy atmosphere or enjoy your meal inside at any of the flexible seating options. Have your omelette made-to-order, try a selection of meats carved right off the bone or create the perfect salad just the way you like it. The delicious selections change daily. Choose from fresh sushi, stir-fry and pasta, salads, smoked lox and other cold fish, a carving station and of course, desserts. Windows Café is also the place to pick up a quick snack or piece of fruit when you get a craving during the day.
Sunset Veranda & Bar
Adjacent to the Windows Café, the Sunset Veranda is a welcoming outdoor patio with covered and open-air seating. It's the perfect place for dining alfresco, enjoying a refreshing drink, taking in the sights of your favorite port, or simply watching the world sail by. For our travelers looking to dine while watching the sunset, the Sunset Veranda is right out the back door, with a stylish look and stunning views.
Patio Grill
The Patio is many things... casual “pool grill” by day, then fine tablecloths and flickering candles set the mood for a sit-down al fresco dining experience by night. Taste your way around the Mediterranean with exclusive personalized dishes using local flavors of the cities and towns we’ll visit on our cruise... served by our professional wait staff. And for a little touch of whimsy, treat yourself to a self-serve frozen yogurt from the self-serve station, Swirl & Top. With a variety of flavors and your choice of toppings, it’s the perfect way to cool off during the day or end your evening meal.
The Sanctum Spa
Staffed by professional aestheticians and therapists, the Sanctum Spa is an oasis of tranquility. Choose from an extensive menu of services including state of the art skin care and restorative facials. Spoil yourself with special treatments like hot stone therapy, deep tissue, Swedish and other exotic massage treatments from around the world. Try a body sculpting session with options including a renewing seaweed wrap, cellulite reduction body sculpting, lime and ginger salt glows, and more. And to top it off, take advantage of an array of teeth whitening services for bright beautiful smiles.
The Sanctum Salon
There’s much more to the Sanctum Spa than just spa treatments. Treat yourself to some pampering at sea, and maybe even a fresh new look with some time in the salon. The Sanctum Salon offers hair styling, cutting, and coloring, eyebrow shaping, waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial treatments by aestheticians so you will look (and feel) your best while on your cruise! Just keep in mind that space is limited, and the salon and spa both tend to fill up quickly... so plan ahead and be sure to book your appointment early.
The Sanctum Terrace
The Sanctum Terrace is your private spa deck with a bubbling salt water bath and powerful jets that massage you as you soak up the views. This private outdoor relaxation area spoils spa guests with a small plunge pool and a program of yoga and fitness classes. This is your special oasis to enjoy before or after your scheduled spa or salon treatment sessions. The Spa Suites next to the spa with large bathrooms and an ocean view bath are especially popular for spa lovers.
Fitness Center
Overindulge a little at the dessert bar? One too many cocktails at dinner with friends? We make it easy to maintain your fitness routine while away on vacation with complimentary group classes like sunset yoga on the deck, Pilates, cycling, core workouts, and nutrition classes. Not the class type? Then head to our well-equipped Fitness Center filled with lifecycles, treadmills, stair-steppers and weights and work out at your own pace as you enjoy spectacular ocean views. Ready to get inspired? Available certified personal trainers will work with you to develop a customized workout plan to take back home.
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Mediterranean Islands & Empires
All-Gay Cruise 2027 Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 05 Sep |
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy |
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5 PM |
| 06 Sep |
Corsica (Porto Vecchio), France |
8 AM |
6 PM |
| 07 Sep |
Sardinia (Cagliari), Italy |
9 AM |
6 PM |
| 08 Sep |
Tunis, Tunisia |
8 AM |
4 PM |
| 09 Sep |
Valletta, Malta |
9 AM |
10 PM |
| 10 Sep |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 11 Sep |
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy |
8 PM |
6 PM |
| 12 Sep |
Nice, France |
9 AM |
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Day 1 - Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Always enchanting, Rome, the Eternal City will captivate you. Walk in the steps of gladiators at the Colosseum, channel your inner statesman at the Forum, or gaze up in wonder at Michelangelo’s masterwork at St. Peter’s Basilica. Then of course there’s the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and as much gelato as your heart desires. Pasta and vino are a must, and there are plenty of places to relax and refuel after a day of exploration. Delight in the art, history and food of Rome before boarding our ship. Immerse yourself in the wonder of Ancient Rome and the Vatican as you lose yourself in one of our favorite cities.
ROME, THE ETERNAL CITY
Tour inside Vatican Museum, the iconic masterpieces of Michelangelo, and many other Roman treasures on this inspired journey.
PANORAMIC ROME
Discover the wonders of Rome on this narrated sightseeing drive that includes a good deal of free time to explore independently.
PASTA MAKING AT A LOCAL FARMHOUSE
Venture through the Etruscan countryside to a local farmhouse for a deliciously immersive lesson in the art of pasta making.
Day 2 - Porto Vecchio, Corsica (France)
This morning we’ll visit Porto Vecchio, a coastal gem situated on the pristine French island of Corsica, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to form an idyllic Mediterranean retreat. Predominantly known for its exquisite, exotic-looking beaches, the town also boasts a handsome, well-preserved Citadel, an atmospheric old town, and a fashionable marina. The town is characterized by its proximity to a stunning mountainous region, sun-soaked Mediterranean seascapes, and a relaxed, carefree vibe.
BONIFACIO HIGHLIGHTS
Rumble by wheel train to the extraordinary town of Bonifacio, visiting the historic old town and the citadel with magnificent views of the oceanfront cliffs.
LAVEZZI ISLANDS, CAVALLO ISLAND & the GROTTOES
Sail out through the narrow harbor entrance called the Goulet, passing deep rocky inlets with their clear aquamarine waters.
SARTENE - DISCOVER BOTH SIDES of the ISLAND
Step back in time in the village of Sartene, the scene of vendettas, pirate attacks, and battles against the Genoese occupiers in the Middle Ages, and is known as ‘The most Corsican of Corsican towns’.
Day 3 - Cagliari, Sardinia (Italy)
Built on seven hills like Rome, Cagliari perfectly embodies the charm of its thousand-year-old history, nestled between white limestone rocks and the blue sea. Cagliari became a true city thanks to Phoenician-Punic rulers who wanted to exploit its strategic geographic position. These days, you can soak up the sun on Spiaggia del Poetto (Cagliari Poetto Beach), where most of the locals can be found. The sandy shore is dotted with palm trees, bars and restaurants... the perfect setting for an afternoon of leisure.
UNESCO SITE OF BARUMINI
Explore the ancient mysteries hidden within the Neolithic Nuraghic ruins of Barumini and toast the occasion with a tasting of exceptional Sardinian wines.
SARDINIA OFF-ROADING & HIKING ADVENTURE
Commune with the great outdoors on this combination off-road and hiking excursion that explores the scenic reaches and verdant forests of the Sardinian countryside.
SARDINIAN WINE & CHEESE TASTING
Enjoy a visit to a local farmhouse restaurant, where you’ll sample a fabulous selection of local cheeses and wines.
Day 4 - Tunis, Tunisia
In Tunisia’s capital, the term ‘living history’ really does apply. Here, periods of conquest, trade and independence have woven into the city’s fabric and culture a rich and complex flavor that becomes apparent wherever you explore. The fallen city of Carthage, now lying part-excavated among the exclusive whitewashed villas in one of Tunis’ swankiest suburbs, is legendary. Located on the coast of North Africa, Carthage was once a cosmopolitan trading hub, a key Mediterranean maritime power and one of the wealthiest cities in the ancient world, inspiring poetry, mythology and envy.
CARTHAGE & SIDI BOU SAID
Escape to the hills of Tunisia, where cultural and historic gems are protected: the Roman ruins of Carthage and an enchanting blue-and-white village.
TUNISIAN LIFE & FOOD TOUR
Get the most out of your time in Tunisia, from Roman ruins, life and shopping in the souks, and local cuisine by a local chef.
CARTHAGE & MEDINA
Explore the history and ancient ruins of Carthage, a city founded by the Phoenicians that later became a Roman stronghold, establishing amphitheaters, aqueducts, and temples.
Day 5 - Valletta, Malta
With over 7,000 years of history, Malta is the ultimate destination for any history buff! Home to some of the oldest temples in the World, the island has been home to the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Knights of St. John, Napoleon and the British Empire. With a vast and varied history, Malta is the epitome of historical richness. Boasting three UNESCO World Heritage sites that includes the glorious Cultural Capital City of Valletta, the jaw-dropping Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum, and seven magnificent Megalithic Temples, there is always something to explore on this Mediterranean gem!
JEWELS of the MALTESE CAPITAL
Enjoy a guided sightseeing adventure through Malta’s capital city with a special visit to its greatest architectural treasure, St. John’s Co-Cathedral.
PANORAMIC MALTA
Set off on a guided exploration across the island of Malta that shows off its rich history, natural beauty and opulent sense of style..
VALLETTA WALKING TOUR & MALTA EXPERIENCE
Get to know Malta’s capital city of Valletta on foot. See the Upper Barrakka Gardens, St. John’s Co-Cathedral and Manoel Theatre with free time in the city center after.
Day 6 - Fun Day at Sea!
Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea as we cruise the Tyrrhenian Sea... the narrow body of water between the islands of Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica and mainland of Italy. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class in the fitness center, or lounge the day away on the sunny pool deck. In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. You’ll find plenty of evening entertainment, from a thrilling show in the Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.
Day 7 - Florence & Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Tuscany is known as the cradle of the Renaissance and a center of culinary delights and astounding wines. Throughout this emerald-green countryside dotted with cypress trees, endless delights unfold. Among them is Florence, a living museum of the Renaissance. Brunelleschi’s famous Duomo dominates the medieval cityscape... an architectural achievement. Another Tuscan treasure, the Square of Miracles, unfolds in Pisa. Here, a trinity of masterpieces... the iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery, make up some of Italy’s finest art and architecture.
FLORENCE, DAVID & PISA
Tour the highlights of Florence and visit the Accademia museum to view the original statue of 'David'. After free time for lunch on your own, continue to Pisa to see the famous the Leaning Tower.
DISCOVER FLORENCE
Journey through Florence and discover the birthplace of the Renaissance on this guided exploration. Spend time at Piazza del Duomo touring the square, bell tower, baptistery, and one of the largest cathedrals in Europe.
THE LEANING TOWER OF PISA
Travel to the Field of Miracles to take in the beauty of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Day 8 - Nice, France
As one of the jewels of the French Riviera, we can never get enough of Nice! Today we’ll end our cruise in this charming and historic port city. Built between sea and mountains around one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Nice attracts tourists from around the world thanks to its sunny climate, exceptional location and elegant atmosphere. It's where you’ll bid farewell to your fellow travelers and start your journey home, or extend your stay in the French Riviera and spend more time exploring after we end our incredible journey sailing through the jewels of the Mediterranean!
PANORAMIC NICE with AIRPORT TRANSFER
Enjoy a panoramic tour through the capital of the French Riviera with special stops at its famed flower market and iconic marina before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
DISCOVER OLD NICE with AIRPORT TRANSFER
Discover Nice’s beautiful Old Town on a walking tour with a guide who has intimate knowledge of its narrow streets before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
PANORAMIC RIVIERA with AIRPORT TRANSFER
Enjoy your last Mediterranean adventure after disembarking our ship on this journey through the city before arriving at Nice Airport.
* A full list of optional excursions and pricing for our cruise will be available for booking approximately 90 days before we sail.
Pre-Cruise Roman Holiday
Early Wednesday or Thursday Arrival
September 1, 2026 / September 2, 2026
Who wouldn’t want to get to Rome early and spend some extra time exploring the Eternal City on your own? For those travelers who just can’t wait to start their vacation, we got you. Feel free to arrive at our host hotel on Wednesday or Thursday. Our early arrival option allows you to start enjoying your vacation right away, and take an extra day to get acclimated to the time change and shake off that jet lag. Included in your price is your daily buffet breakfast, all your hotel taxes and fees, and your transfers from the hotel to our ship in Civitavecchia on Sunday.
Optional LGBTQ+ Tours
September 2, 2026 / September 3, 2026 / September 4, 2026
On Thursday, Friday and Saturday, you can start exploring with our optional tours of Rome. We have partnered with a local LGBTQ+ tour agency to design a different kind of Roman holiday for our community, offering a uniquely rainbow experience in Italy. Thanks to our LGBTQ+ tour experts and their knowledge of Rome, our travelers will get a personal, up-close tour of some of Rome’s best-known sights. Start exploring all the things you want to see on a standard tour, but with an emphasis on its LGBTQ+ history just for us!
Transfer to Our Ship
September 5, 2026
Today we’ll check out of our host hotel and transfer to our ship docked in the port city of Civitavecchia. The drive from our hotel to our ship will take approximately one and a half hours, depending on traffic. Remember as part of our host hotel package, all of your daily breakfast buffets, your hotel taxes and fees and the transfer from our hotel to our ship are all included in your price.
Pre-Cruise Hotel - UNA Deco Roma
Our host hotel is located in the historical center of Rome, just minutes from the Termini Station, near famous Santa Maria Maggiore, Colosseum, Fori Imperiali and Via Veneto. The A and B metro stops of Termini are only a block away... meaning that all the very best of Rome, from shopping and sightseeing to restaurants and bars, are easily within reach. Included with your reservation is a full breakfast buffet featuring a wide selection of fruits, juices, cereals, eggs, bacon, pastries and a uniquely Italian Cappuccino to prepare you for your day exploring Rome.
Located just minutes from the famed Colosseum, the UNA Decò Roma offers elegant design and bright interiors. Our host hotel is a modern and comfortable property located in the center of Rome and within walking distance to the main landmarks like the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Pantheon and Vatican City. Our travelers can start their day with the large buffet breakfast, which is included in the price of your stay.
The UNA Decò Roma is just three blocks away from Rome’s central Roma Termini train station which allows you easy access to any area of the city. The building is furnished with a combination of elegant art and the latest technology. All rooms have in-room bathrooms with showers, air-conditioning, comfortable bedding and flat-screen televisions. Internet is free and available in all public areas and in every room.
Gay Rome
Being gay in Rome today can feel joyful and affirming, especially within the city’s lively queer community. There are welcoming bars, clubs, and cultural spaces where LGBTQ+ people gather openly, along with a strong Pride celebration that fills the streets with color, music, and solidarity. Younger generations are incredibly accepting, friendships are easy to form, and dating often feels woven into the city’s social rhythm… espresso dates, sunset walks, and late-night conversations in beautiful piazzas. Rome’s sense of style, warmth, and expressiveness lends itself naturally to gay life, making self-expression feel vibrant rather than hidden.
There’s also something deeply empowering about being gay in a city with such a long, layered history of homosexuality. Living openly in Rome today can feel like reclaiming space… loving freely among ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and neighborhoods that pulse with life. Many gay locals describe a strong sense of community, chosen family, and pride in being themselves while enjoying the city’s food, beauty, and culture. It’s a place where love feels expansive… shared meals that last for hours, friendships that are family, and the quiet confidence of knowing you belong in a city that has always been more diverse than it first appears.
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