MJM Marine Partners with Azamara for Major Cruise Ship Refurbishment
Newry-based MJM Marine has landed a significant contract with Azamara Cruises to undertake an extensive refit of the Azamara Quest cruise ship. This ambitious project, dubbed ‘Azamara Forward,’ will take place in Greece and represents the cruise line’s largest fleet-wide renovation to date. The initiative aims to enhance the onboard experience while preserving the brand’s core values, marking a continuation of the successful partnership between the two companies.
Comprehensive Enhancements and New Features
The refit program will introduce a variety of enhancements across the ship, including updated staterooms, redesigned public areas, and innovative dining options. A standout feature of this renovation is the introduction of a new Penthouse Deck, which will include 12 luxurious suites, significantly expanding the ship’s accommodation offerings.
This contract builds on MJM Marine’s previous collaboration with Azamara, particularly the notable refit of the Azamara Pursuit in Belfast in 2018. That project was one of the largest and most complex cruise ship renovations undertaken in Belfast, showcasing the city’s capabilities in high-value marine projects. With Azamara now under new ownership, the cruise line continues to invest in its fleet, which consists of four ships. The decision to partner with MJM Marine again underscores the strong relationship established during prior projects and reflects confidence in MJM’s ability to deliver quality results.
The agreement was finalized in Newry, Northern Ireland, and announced at the Seatrade Cruise Global event in Miami. Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with MJM Marine reflects our commitment to thoughtfully evolving the Azamara Cruises experience while delivering the highest-quality enhancements for our guests.” She emphasized MJM’s deep understanding of the brand as a key factor in their selection for the Azamara Forward program.
Gary Annett, CEO of MJM Marine, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of their ongoing relationship with Azamara. He noted that this investment not only strengthens their collaboration but also creates new employment opportunities in the growing cruise sector. The project is set to bolster MJM Marine’s position within the global cruise industry and support its expansion across international shipyard locations.
