Quest

Quest made its debut in October 2007, a few months after sister ship Azamara Journey came on the scene. Both were initially scheduled to operate under Celebrity Cruises' Xpeditions umbrella. Instead, however, Celebrity decided to create a spin-off brand that would focus on cruises that were slightly more upscale -- smaller ships, more personal service levels and exotic itineraries -- than its big-ship parent offers.

Guests have a smattering of dining options, including two specialty restaurants that have a surcharge of $20 and $25 per person. Passengers on all Azamara cruises receive one complimentary seating at these eateries; those who shell out for the higher-category suites get two nights. Some pre- and post-dinner entertainment is provided by the casino and various bands outside on deck; more informational activities, like destination lectures, hobbyist programs (finance sessions have already had big appeal), wine tastings and cooking demonstrations, are also offered. In true cruise fashion, the pool -- at least on our two-day sneak preview -- was the major hangout spot, but it's small and quite uninviting when packed with people and flanked by two Jacuzzis that seemed permanently occupied. (I suspect that during more typical cruises, which are packed with ports of call, there's more room at the pool.)

Ultimately, the ship's cozy size -- whether through a more personal ambience or the somewhat more offbeat ports of call -- is Azamara Quest's biggest draw.