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Azamara,which descibes itself as a boutique cruise line dedicated to Destination Immersion experiences, has unveiled 39 new itineraries across its four-ship fleet for 2023 and 2024, with Azamara saying it will take guests to every corner of the world, with each ship embarking in a different location:
Azamara Pursuit® in South Africa,;
Azamara  Quest® in South America [pictured];
Azamara Journey® in Australia and Asia; and
Azamara OnwardSM in the Mediterranean and Caribbean regions.
Azamara says that its winter voyages will also feature several new shore excursions, pre and post cruise land programs, and AzAmazing Evenings®, all designed to bring guests deeper into the heart of each destination and spark a sense of wonder as travelers explore the unique culture of each city.
Carol Cabezas, President of Azamara said, “With this itinerary release, we are thrilled to offer over 20 maiden ports, dock in smaller destinations that large ships can’t access, and most exciting of all, for the first time we will have a ship in every corner of the world” adding, “In addition, this November we will be unveiling a new, highly requested offering from Azamara, which involves travel across the globe,” and “From connecting with locals in the tiny village of Boca da Valeria, Brazil; to cycling on the 600-year-old Xian City Wall in China, our new voyages will offer endless opportunities to rediscover yourself through travel and connect to local people and cultures.”
Said to be exclusive to Azamara and offered during late-nights and overnights in port, the brand’s signature AzAmazing Evenings are designed to connect guests to the local culture of a destination and are uniquely tailored to each location. Highlights of the AzAmazing Evenings include:
The Living Past of the Amazon: In Manaus, Brazil, guests will discover the living past of the Amazon Rainforest. The four-part show entitled, “North Symmetry. The Glorifications of Nature in the Amazon,” will take guests on a journey from pre-Columbian indigenous civilizations to modern times. Through native dances, rituals, and traditional folklore music, guests will be educated on some of the mysteries of Amazon culture.
Traditional Korean Art Performances: In Busan, South Korea, watch as multiple traditional Korean art forms are combined to create a spectacular show. Enjoy NANTA, one of the most famous non-verbal performances in Korea, which combines Korean folk and modern music to create a unique yet familiar experience; Korean dance performed while wearing the traditional Hanbok; and Taekkyeon, a traditional Korean martial art that uses fluid, rhythmic movements to strike an opponent, all in one captivating performance.
Italian Arias Performed by Società Filarmonia: In Ravenna, Italy, listen to brilliantly composed, classic arias made popular by internationally renowned opera singer Maria Callas. The arias will be directed by Alfredo Barchi and performed by Società Filarmonia, which was established in 1998 to bring together diverse musical experiences, skills, and emerging talents.
Azamara says it continues to reaffirm its commitment to Destination Immersion® with a diverse selection of new shore excursions, with highlights from the new shore excursions including:
Santarém, Brazil: In the city known as the “Pearl of Tapajós” for its location at the merging of the Tapajós and Amazon ricers, cruise through Maica Lake and enjoy stunning views of the Amazon Basin. Guests will spot local inhabitants, many species of birds, and possibly even the unique Amazon river mammal, a fresh water pink dolphin (Boto Cor-de-Rosa).
Dakar, Senegal: Join some of the most well-known Senegalese chefs from the region’s local culinary school for a cooking tutorial. Guests will learn how to make signature Senegalese dishes followed by a meet and greet with the head of the culinary school to discuss cooking tips and techniques. The afternoon will conclude with a delicious lunch and recipes to take home to cook Senegalese dishes.
Tinos, Greece: Spend the afternoon with a renowned Greek chef for a food and wine pairing with island products, like local cheeses such as Tinos Graviera and the king of the cheeses, Kopanisti, a soft cheese with a distinct peppery-hot taste. Indulge in local wines made from Assyrtiko grapes for white wine and Mavrotragano for the red. Island-grown fruits and vegetables, such as sun-dried tomatoes, pears, artichokes, and capers, will also be enjoyed.
For travelers looking to explore the destination beyond their voyage and immerse themselves ever further, Azamara says that highlights of the pre- and-post-cruise land programs include:
Stay Local in Hong Kong (two-night): Explore the dynamic city of Hong Kong, stopping at the famous Victoria Peak for panoramic views of Kowloon and the surrounding islands, the tranquil Nan Lian Garden – designed in the Tang Dynasty-style with hills, water features, trees, rocks, and wooden structures – and go to the top of the 100th floor of the tallest building in Hong Kong. Additional highlights include a traditional Dim Sum lunch, a visit to Wong Tai Sin Temple, where locals go to pray for good health, and shopping for art products in Stanley Market.
Experience China’s Treasures (four-night): From The Great Wall of China to charming local markets, journey through the ancient wonders and cultural riches of the region. Guests will explore the lakes, pavilions, and pagodas of the Summer Palace, known as the best-preserved royal garden in the world; learn how to make Chinese dumplings with the locals of Hutong, the oldest residential area in Beijing; and visit the Terracotta Army Museum, home to a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of China’s first Emperor, who are buried with him to protect the emperor during his afterlife.
Azamara says that its guests can take advantage of the Early Booking Bonus with the 2023/2024 deployment, with a first for the brand and what Azamara says is highly requested offer from its guests and travel advisors bringing great value to those who book early.
For more information, please visit www.azamara.com.
A report by John Alwyn-Jones, Cruise Editor.