Does Azamara charge for children?

Planning a cruise vacation involves understanding pricing policies, especially for families traveling with children. Some cruise lines offer reduced fares, free sailing for kids, or extensive family programs. However, Azamara takes a very different approach.

As a luxury boutique cruise brand, Azamara is known for offering an intimate, culturally immersive experience aimed primarily at adults. This naturally raises the question: Does Azamara charge for children the same way as adults?

The short answer is yes—Azamara does charge for children, and fares for younger passengers are typically the same as for adults. This is because Azamara does not position itself as a family-focused cruise line, but rather as one designed for sophisticated, destination-driven travelers.

This article explores Azamara’s child pricing policy in detail, explains what families can expect when booking with children, and provides practical guidance for parents considering sailing with Azamara.

Azamara’s Approach to Children Onboard

1. Adult-Focused Cruise Experience

Azamara emphasizes:

• Smaller ships (around 700 passengers).

• Longer stays in ports and overnight visits.

• Destination immersion, cultural excursions, and enrichment.

• Fine dining and a quiet, refined atmosphere.

Because of this, Azamara does not create specialized facilities for children, such as kids’ clubs, water parks, or youth entertainment.

2. Families Welcome, But Not a Core Audience

• Children are allowed onboard, provided they meet the minimum age requirement (6 months, or 12 months for longer voyages).

• Parents must supervise their children at all times, as there are no youth staff or children’s programs.

• This model makes Azamara best suited for families with older, independent, or mature children who enjoy travel experiences rather than onboard entertainment.

Does Azamara Charge for Children?

Standard Pricing Policy

• Azamara charges children the same fare as adults in most cases.

• Fares are based on per-person occupancy in a stateroom, not on age.

• This means a 10-year-old in a cabin is charged just like a 40-year-old.

Why Children Are Charged Adult Fares

1. Limited Children’s Facilities: Azamara does not offer kids’ clubs or special child pricing because families are not the primary target audience.

2. Luxury Positioning: Fares reflect the upscale inclusions—such as fine dining, beverages, gratuities, and destination experiences—regardless of age.

3. Stateroom Occupancy Rules: The cost of a cabin is spread across the number of passengers in it, not adjusted by age.

Children Sharing a Stateroom

Third and Fourth Guest Rates

• Azamara does sometimes offer reduced fares for the 3rd or 4th guest in the same stateroom.

• This applies whether the guest is an adult or child.

• Savings depend on the itinerary, season, and availability.

Family Booking Example

• Cabin for two adults = full fare each.

• Adding one child as a third passenger may result in a discounted rate, but not always a significant one.

• The pricing is fare-based, not age-based.

Age-Related Restrictions and Costs

Minimum Age to Cruise

• 6 months old: For most itineraries.

• 12 months old: For cruises with 3+ consecutive days at sea.

Alcohol Policy (Not Child-Specific but Age-Specific)

• Drinking age is 21 for U.S. departures, 18 for international sailings depending on local laws.

Casino and Spa

• Casino: Minimum age 18.

• Spa services: Typically for 18+, sometimes select treatments for 16+.

Children under these ages are restricted from these areas, but the fare charged remains the same.

Why Families Still Choose Azamara

Even though Azamara does not discount heavily for children, some families still prefer the line because:

1. Educational Value: Children can learn about history, culture, and geography through immersive itineraries.

2. Smaller Ships: Easier to navigate, less overwhelming compared to mega-ships.

3. Quality Dining: Exposes young travelers to international cuisines.

4. Unique Itineraries: Access to ports that larger family-oriented ships cannot visit.

For parents with teens interested in culture, Azamara can be a rewarding choice.

Practical Tips for Families Considering Azamara

1. Budget Accordingly: Expect to pay the same fare for your child as for yourself, unless a reduced 3rd/4th guest rate applies.

2. Prepare for Adult-Oriented Entertainment: Bring books, tablets, or activities for children, since there are no kids’ clubs.

3. Plan Excursions: Choose shore tours that are child-friendly. Some excursions may not be suitable for young children due to walking, age restrictions, or activity level.

4. Book the Right Stateroom: Consider suites or larger cabins for comfort if traveling as a family.

5. Set Expectations: Explain to children in advance that the cruise will be focused on cultural experiences, not water slides or kids’ games.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do children sail for free on Azamara?

No. Unlike some family-oriented cruise lines, Azamara charges children the same fare as adults.

2. Is there a discount for children’s fares?

Not specifically. Children pay standard rates, although reduced pricing may apply for 3rd/4th passengers in a stateroom.

3. Are there kids’ programs onboard Azamara?

No. Azamara does not offer supervised youth clubs or children’s activities. Parents are responsible for their children.

4. What is the youngest age allowed on Azamara cruises?

6 months for most itineraries, 12 months for cruises with 3+ consecutive sea days.

5. Are there babysitting services on Azamara?

No. Unlike larger family cruise lines, Azamara does not provide babysitting.

6. Do children get access to the same dining and amenities as adults?

Yes. All-inclusive dining, beverages, and gratuities apply equally, regardless of age.

7. Is Azamara suitable for families?

Yes, but best for families with older children or teens who enjoy cultural travel rather than kid-focused activities.

, does Azamara charge for children? 

Yes—Azamara charges children the same fare as adults, reflecting the line’s luxury, all-inclusive model. While some cruise lines promote free or discounted child fares, Azamara focuses on an adult-oriented, destination-immersive experience rather than family-centric travel.

For parents who value cultural enrichment, fine dining, and intimate ships, Azamara can be a rewarding option—even if it means paying full fare for younger travelers. However, families should plan accordingly, bring entertainment for children, and understand that this cruise line does not offer youth-specific programs.

By knowing the policy in advance, families can make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth and enriching journey aboard Azamara.