Journey With Jeannie

January 7, 2026, Wednesday

Azamara is a cruise line based in Miami, Florida, that operates four cruise ships on worldwide itineraries. It was originally owned by Royal Caribbean to travel to exotic locations, competing with similar luxury cruise lines. In 2021 it was sold to a private investment group. Each of the ships carry a maximum of 686 passengers. We are on the Azamara Onward and I believe we have 500 guests plus crew. The ships were extensively renovated from 2012 to 2013 and 2018, respectively.

In May 2024, Dondra Ritzenthalar became the CEO of Azamara Cruises. We met her at some of the pre cruise events for the “world cruisers”. She even gave me her phone number to text her some information we discussed! This ship departed from Miami and will continue around the world doing 10 segments visiting 38 countries. We added 2 additional segments at the end to see the Adriatic coast. Anyone can book any of the individual segments. There are 62 people doing the “world voyage”, 10 segments.

Today was our first sea day. We spent it wisely. David is still trying to regain his stamina after the Christmas virus. I’m still nursing my injured foot since Thanksgiving.

We slept in, went to the gym, ate brunch at a private event for the world cruisers, spent some time on our balcony, and took naps. ( David also participated in a Tequila presentation which led to his nap.) Later we went to a Beatles music trivia event, followed by dinner and relaxation on the pool deck. So far we keep eating at the Windows Cafe, which is the ship’s buffet. The buffet featured seafood night on day 1 and Asian night on day 2. So David has been in sushi heaven! The food has been good. Sounds busy, but we paced ourselves. There are activities offered all day every day.

Today’s Bible reading was Matthew 20-21. Some of the workers in the vineyard were hired at the beginning of the day. They became upset to be paid the same as the workers hired near the end of the day. “This parable shows us the tremendous amounts of grace God pours out—grace is when you get what you don’t deserve. It also shows us that entitlement has no place in the hearts of God’s kids.” https:://the Bible recap.com

We know we are beyond blessed, but having a relationship with God is all that really matters! We’ve been on this spiritual journey a long time. We wouldn’t be upset like vineyard workers if any of our family or friends decided to join us now! God’s forgiveness, peace, and love is available to all! Better late than never.