More time to truly explore

One of the most exciting aspects of Destination Immersion® Elevated is the focus on staying longer in port. With 51% of port visits including late-night or overnight stays, you’ll have the kind of flexibility that’s rare in cruising. This means less rushing back to the ship and more time to explore at your own pace.

Step off the ship in Athens and wander the moonlit streets of Plaka or enjoy a sunset by the water in Stockholm before heading out to experience the nightlife. If you’re more of an adventurer, you could spend a full day and evening hiking the volcanic landscapes of Santorini or taking an overnight trip to the famous vineyards of Bordeaux. There’s something truly magical about having the extra time to take it all in properly. With itineraries that include 33 Country-Intensive voyages and stops at 25 new ports in 2025 and 2026, you’ll have access to both iconic landmarks and hidden gems you may never have found on your own.

Extraordinary shore experiences

What makes Azamara stand out even further is their Curator’s Collection of shore excursions. These unique trips are led by locals who provide exclusive access to experiences you wouldn’t get anywhere else. For instance, you can join a chef in Valencia to explore the city’s markets before making an authentic paella or spend an evening enjoying a private flamenco show in Seville and meet the dancers afterward.

Azamara also offers over 13,500 shore excursions, ranging from cultural deep dives to active adventures like kayaking under the iconic limestone cliffs in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. If evenings are more your thing, their 246 evening and overnight tours provide chances to experience destinations after dark, like watching the Northern Lights from a secluded spot in Tromsø, Norway, or attending an opera in Sydney’s world-renowned Opera House.

A new taste of the world

Food is such an essential part of travel, and Azamara ensures each meal tells the story of the places you visit. Their Authentic Local Cuisine Programme includes over 150 new regionally inspired dishes, with menus curated by expert chefs from Europe’s top food destinations like Italy, France, and Portugal.

Onboard dining options bring each destination to life. While sailing through Portugal, indulge in a bowl of açorda, a comforting bread and garlic soup. Heading to Japan? Savour slices of seared wagyu tataki paired with sake. Each meal is designed to complement and celebrate the day’s port of call, turning dinner into another part of your exploration. Even drinks have been given the Destination Immersion® treatment. You’ll find 21 Destination Beers and regional wines available onboard, so you can toast your adventures with tastes from Australia, the Caribbean, and beyond.

Engaging experiences at sea

The magic doesn’t stop when you’re back on board. Thanks to events like Stories Under the Stars, evenings at sea become opportunities to learn and connect. Think sitting on the pool deck, listening to a Destination Speaker recount the myths and legends of the places you’ve visited that day, all while enjoying a s’mores-inspired dessert or a hot chocolate with a kick.

For those who enjoy cultural celebrations, Azamara’s Destination Events turn the ship into a reflection of the regions you’re exploring. After a day ashore, return to find the pool deck transformed. Dine alfresco on freshly prepared regional dishes, surrounded by the sound of live performances celebrating local traditions, from flamenco dancers to Mediterranean folk bands.

Why choose Destination Immersion® Elevated?

Azamara’s Destination Immersion® Elevated redefines what it means to experience a destination. With longer stays, curated local excursions, authentic cuisine, and engaging onboard events, this isn’t just cruising – it’s travelling. Whether you’ve always wanted to sip wine on the hills of Tuscany, experience the energy of Rio’s samba scene, or just enjoy a quieter, more in-depth form of travel, this programme provides the perfect opportunity to experience the world more authentically.