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Overnight Cruises with Azamara, Regent, and Holland America: A Quick-Start Guide for 2025

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, November 14th 2025 at 5:18 GMT by USA Today

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Overnight Cruises with Azamara, Regent, and Holland America: A Quick‑Start Guide for 2025

If you’re looking to escape the everyday grind but don’t have a week or more to spare, the “overnight cruise” package is an increasingly popular option. On November 14, 2025, USA Today ran a feature that takes a close look at the three most popular overnight cruise operators in the United States—Azamara, Regent, and Holland America. The piece is aimed at the “busy traveler” who wants to experience the thrill of a sea‑journey without committing to a long‑term voyage. Below is a detailed recap of what the article covers, broken down by operator, itinerary, onboard experience, and the practical details that make each option a unique choice.

1. The Concept of an Overnight Cruise

The article opens by explaining that an overnight cruise is essentially a “two‑day” adventure. Passengers board a ship in the late afternoon or early evening, spend the night on the ship, and disembark the following morning or early afternoon. It is a way to see a port of call, enjoy a few onboard amenities, and return to shore without a weekend’s worth of time.

USA Today stresses that overnight cruises are not merely a “day trip” at sea. They offer a fuller cruise experience: breakfast in the galley, a sunset cocktail on the promenade, a night‑time meal, and a chance to stroll the deck under stars. The piece notes that this format has grown in popularity, especially in the competitive summer market, and many cruise lines are adapting their itineraries and ships to accommodate these shorter trips.

2. Azamara: Intimate Port Experiences on a Refined Vessel

2.1 Ship & Itinerary

The Azamara segment focuses on the Azamara Regent, a 400‑guest ship that sails in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. The “overnight” option highlighted in the article is a “Caribbean Sunset” trip that departs from Port Canaveral, Florida, on Friday evening and returns on Saturday morning. The itinerary includes a brief stop in Bahamas—specifically in Nassau for a quick 2‑hour port visit, where guests can stroll around the historic downtown, sample local confections, and take a photo with the iconic “The Royal Bahamas Defence Force” lighthouse.

2.2 Onboard Experience

Azamara is renowned for its “Slow Travel” philosophy, and the article praises the Regent’s emphasis on cultural immersion. Even with only a day at sea, passengers get a live‑in‑the‑port experience. The ship’s small‑size cabin portfolio includes Family Suites (which have a dedicated living area) and Luxury Suites with balcony views. The article lists the following amenities as part of the overnight package:

• Complimentary Welcome Drinks: Upon boarding, guests receive a cocktail (the signature “Azamara Sunset”) served in a glass decorated with a mini‑ship illustration.
• Cultural Talk: On the upper deck, a local historian gives a short presentation about Nassau’s colonial history.
• On‑board Dinner: A three‑course dinner at the Marina Bay Restaurant, featuring fresh Caribbean seafood, paired with a selection of local rum and white wine.
• Night‑time Activity: Guests can attend a Stargazing session on the ship’s rooftop balcony, where a licensed astronomer points out constellations visible from the Caribbean.

The article highlights that Azamara’s dining concept is “high‑end yet intimate,” with a chef‑curated menu that reflects regional flavors. The bar on the upper deck is noted for its specialty cocktails, including a “Tropic‑Twist” which features fresh lime and a splash of coconut rum.

2.3 Practical Details

Ticket prices for the overnight trip start at $280 per adult (including taxes and fees). The article notes that the price covers the full-day cruise and a one‑night stay in a balcony cabin. Guests can upgrade to a Luxury Suite for an additional $80, which offers a balcony with a larger view and a private shower. Early booking is encouraged because the overnight market is “hot” during the summer season.

3. Regent: “Mid‑Atlantic Getaway” with a European Twist

3.1 Ship & Itinerary

Regent’s highlight is the Regent’s “Mid‑Atlantic Getaway” that runs out of New York City’s Battery Park. The trip lasts 12 hours, departing at 7 pm on Thursday and returning at 6 am on Friday. The port of call is Long Island, New York. The article describes how the ship anchors off the coast, and guests get a half‑day cruise of the harbor, including a scenic view of the Statue of Liberty and a short ferry ride to a secluded beach on Long Island’s south shore.

3.2 Onboard Experience

Regent’s ships are known for their European‑style “classroom” dining experience. The article applauds the ship’s “Dinner Theatre” concept, where a local playwright hosts a short performance during dinner, followed by a discussion with the actors. For the overnight passengers, this means a dinner that is both a meal and a cultural event.

The article notes several cabin categories: Standard Cabins, Junior Suites, and Executive Suites. The overnight package includes a standard cabin with a balcony, and guests can upgrade to a Junior Suite for an extra $120. The bar on the 18th deck serves specialty cocktails, and the library offers a selection of travel books and magazines.

3.3 Practical Details

Prices start at $210 per adult for the overnight package, which includes a standard cabin, breakfast on board, and dinner theatre. The article stresses that Regent’s “over‑the‑top” service (i.e., generous staff and attention to detail) justifies the lower price point relative to Azamara.

4. Holland America: Classic Luxury on the MS New York Majesty

4.1 Ship & Itinerary

Holland America’s overnight cruise runs from Miami to the Bahamas on a ship called MS New York Majesty. The itinerary starts at 4:30 pm, stops in Freeport, Bahamas for a 3‑hour visit to the “Grand Bahama Island” cultural museum, and returns to Miami at 11:30 am the next day. The article highlights that Holland America ships are “larger, more luxurious,” and that the overnight trip offers a “mini‑safari” through the Bahamas.

4.2 Onboard Experience

Holland America is known for its “classic” feel, and the overnight passengers get the chance to indulge in:

• Breakfast Buffet: A continental spread that includes croissants, fresh fruit, and a selection of American pastries.
• Mediterranean‑style Dinner: A three‑course dinner at the ship’s main dining room, featuring a pasta course, a meat course, and a dessert that is a local specialty.
• On‑board Entertainment: A “Live Jazz” concert on the main deck at 9:00 pm. The article quotes a passenger who praised the “smooth saxophone” performance.
• Kids’ Club: The article notes that the ship’s “Kids’ Club” offers a 45‑minute activity (e.g., building a mini‑cruise ship) for those traveling with families.

The cabin offerings include Junior Suites with balcony, Grand Suites (with a living area), and Presidential Suites (with a separate lounge). The overnight package includes a Junior Suite; upgrades are available for $200.

4.3 Practical Details

The overnight price for Holland America starts at $260 per adult. The article notes that this includes all taxes, fees, and an “all‑inclusive” breakfast and dinner. A refundable deposit is required, but the article emphasizes that it is easy to cancel up to 48 hours before departure.

5. Comparative Take‑aways & Final Thoughts

The article concludes with a handy comparison table that summarises the three operators:

USA Today points out that the “choice of operator depends on your appetite for onboard style, destination preferences, and budget.” For those who want a “European‑style” dinner theatre, Regent is the best bet; for a more “intimate” cultural immersion, Azamara’s “Slow Travel” philosophy is unbeatable; for a “classic” luxury experience, Holland America’s larger ships deliver.

The article also reminds travelers that the overnight cruises can be an excellent “stepping stone” into longer voyages. Many of the ships run full‑length itineraries for 7‑to‑10‑day cruises, so if the overnight experience is a hit, passengers can plan an extended trip on the same vessel. Bookings are now open for the 2025 season, and the article links to each operator’s official booking portal for instant reservations.

6. Follow‑Up Links & Resources

The USA Today article includes several hyperlinks that offer deeper dives into each cruise line:

• Azamara Regent – Official website link (directs to the “overnight” page with pricing and cabin images).
• Regent Cruises – A “behind‑the‑scenes” video tour of the ship’s interior.
• Holland America – A PDF itinerary for the Bahamas overnight cruise.
• Travel Tips – A link to an “overnight cruise checklist” that covers packing, health and safety, and onboard etiquette.

The article also lists a series of reviews from past passengers that were incorporated into a “Pros & Cons” section for each line. The “Pros” highlight the “intimate feel” and “cultural immersion,” while the “Cons” mention the limited time at each port and “no shore excursions beyond a quick walk.” The piece is rounded off with a recommendation to book early and to read the fine print, especially regarding the “refundable deposit” and “cancellation policy.”

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a busy executive, a family looking for a weekend break, or an empty‑nester craving a taste of the sea, the overnight cruise packages offered by Azamara, Regent, and Holland America provide a compelling, low‑time‑commitment alternative to traditional multi‑day voyages. Each line delivers its own distinct flavor—be it Azamara’s “slow‑travel” ethos, Regent’s European‑style dinner theatre, or Holland America’s classic luxury. With competitive pricing, a handful of carefully selected ports, and a promise of onboard service that makes up for the shortened duration, these overnight cruises are worth the consideration for anyone in 2025 who wants a little adventure without a long lay‑over.