Azamara Cruises has elevated its Destination Immersion program with the launch of Destination Immersion Elevated, a refreshed focus on deeper cultural engagement, expanded destination offerings, authentic local cuisine and enhanced shore excursions.
© Azamara Cruises
“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 is designed to deepen guests’ connections to the places we visit. With an enhanced culinary program, expanded onboard activities, longer shore excursions and a broader range of immersive experiences, we’re delivering richer and more meaningful journeys.”
The initiative significantly expands specialty offerings, increasing the number of specialty voyages from six to 22 and adding three solar eclipse cruises scheduled for 2026. For the 2025–26 season, Azamara plans 33 Country-Intensive voyages and will call on 25 new ports, broadening opportunities for longer stays and more focused exploration in each destination.
© Azamara Cruises
Onboard enhancements center on programming designed for longer sailings and deeper destination discovery. Destination Events, available on voyages of nine nights or longer, convert the pool deck into an alfresco showcase featuring a buffet of regional dishes alongside local entertainment. The Daily Destination Entrées expand Azamara’s Authentic Local Cuisine Program by introducing more than 150 locally inspired dishes across main dining venues, bringing authentic flavors from each port to the ship’s menus.
Evening experiences have been refreshed to reflect regional storytelling and culture. Stories Under the Stars gathers guests around a fire-side setting to hear local folklore and myths from the fleet’s roster of more than 250 Destination Speakers, complemented by themed desserts and spiked hot chocolate. Beverage offerings have also been elevated: Azamara will add 21 Destination Beers to its premium beverage package, offering a curated selection of local brews to accompany culinary programming and shore experiences.
Overall, Destination Immersion Elevated aims to create more meaningful, immersive voyages through a combination of extended time ashore, focused country-intensive itineraries, enhanced culinary authenticity and onboard cultural programming. These changes are intended to deepen travelers’ understanding of each region and provide more opportunities for genuine connection with local people, flavors and traditions.