Azamara Cruises Introduces Enhanced Destination Immersion Initiative

Azamara Cruises has unveiled “Destination Immersion Elevated,” an enhanced destination-focused initiative that comprises shoreside and onboard experiences that allow guests to go “deeper.”

With the new initiative, Azamara will now offer 33 country-intensive voyages and sail to 25 new ports in 2025/26, with 51% of time in port being late nights or overnights. Azamara will also more than triple its specialty voyages from six to 22, including the introduction of three Solar Eclipse cruises in 2026.  

“Azamara Cruises is the pioneer cruise line in destination immersion, and we take great pride in being the industry leader and continuing to push the envelope in immersive travel,” said Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. “Destination Immersion Elevated has been designed to deepen our guests’ connection to the places we visit. With an enhanced culinary program, increased onboard programming, extended shore excursions, and more, we’re once again delivering richer, more meaningful experiences.”

Azamara Cruises’ New Onboard Programming

Destination Events: Available on voyages of nine nights or longer, these destination events see the pool deck transform into an alfresco dining experience featuring an elaborate buffet of regional dishes, as well as local entertainment, from traditional music to cultural performances.

Daily Destination Entrees: Azamara is enhancing its local cuisine program with more than 150 new locally inspired dishes across its main dining venues. For all 2025 European voyages, chefs from Croatia, France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain have curated every menu, offering a rotating selection of multicourse meals that celebrate the culinary heritage of each destination.

Stories Under the Stars: A fireside-style event held on the pool deck and led by one of more than 250 destination speakers. These sessions will bring to life local folklore and myths of the regions the line visits, complete with smore-themed deserts and spiked hot chocolate.

New Regional Beverages: In addition to a curated selection of regional wines, Azamara will offer 21 destination beers as part of the premium beverage package.

More Ashore with Azamara

Azamara is also expanding its range of shore experiences, with more than 13,500 excursions available for the 2025/26 season, including a new collection of 246 evening and overnight tours that give guests the chance to take advantage of their ship’s late-night stays.

The Destination Immersion Elevated initiative also includes the addition of 34 new AzAmazing Evenings, the line’s signature in-port cultural experiences.

The cruise line is also introducing an all-new Curator’s Collection of exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. These small group excursions are led by locals and offer “unparalleled access to the heart of each destination.”