Festival Cruises has launched service with the Azyr which was formerly chartered and operated by Fantasy Cruises.

Following a $6 million upgrading in Greece covering interior refurbishment and machinery, the 15,000-ton, 750-passenger ship sailed her first cruise from Venice on March 31.

Festival Cruises is offering a program of cruises in the Mediterranean throughout 1994 ranging from four to 13 days. During the peak season, however, from June through October, the Azur will sail seven-day cruises from Venice to Greece and Turkey.

MEDOV is sales agent for Festival in Europe; while Classical Cruises is offering special packages from the United States.

According to George J. Zorzos, Managing Director, Festival’s plans call for a second ship to be introduced in 1995.