Azamara Lifts Sails

by Elaine Song

When it comes to traveling, cruises don’t usually top my list. I prefer to have the time to indulge in the places I go; to become a temporary, but loyal citizen to the special offerings of each native town. Fortunately for my adventurous side, Azamara Club Cruises has refocused its vision on exactly that.

Launching this month, the new Azamara will take on water and land at a pace set for exploration. President and CEO of Azamara, Larry Pimentel, acknowledges that he wants the guests to “not just see the destination, but to live it.” In order to achieve this they have developed more overnight stays with special activities to truly indulge in community and culture. I am seduced by the idea that I can wander a foreign place and make it my own. To find my favourite markets, buildings, and views that are not yet featured in a cruise brochure or a travel blog.

Azamara has made a clear point that they understand travel is experiential. By creating special overnight stays and shore excursion packages, they provide the rare and thrilling life opportunities guests may not be able to source themselves. The packages can be pre-reserved separately from your booking, meaning they are added costs to the regular cruise rates. Guests can, however, sign up onboard as well, where the temptation is no doubt unavoidable. And why not? For a fraction of the cruise rate, why not experience classic Venice, being serenaded in a gondola? And if you can foot the bill, how could you not flex the horsepower of a Ferrari in Italy?

Regardless of how you decide to create adventures unique to you, this personal and perhaps intimate journey does start on the ship. Whereas some of the other well-known cruise ships hold thousands of passengers, Azamara’s hold only 694. This allows for a large luxurious ship feel without the crowd.

Don’t worry though, less people does not mean they’ve skimped on the amenities, which seem pretty regal – state room attendants, spa treatments, complimentary beverages, and the like. They also boast a bona fide trained English butler service. So whether you want to be pampered or enlightened, Azamara is dedicated to addressing every need while on land and at sea.

With a plethora of options and opportunities, Azamara has redesigned and rebranded their cruise line to enhance your experience in the places you want to go. So plan, indulge, and imagine your journey and hopefully each step offers a memory that is distinct and truly yours.

For more information, check out the Rosedale Cruiseship Centre.