There’s something truly magical about setting sail into the unknown - especially when it’s done with style, comfort, and a deep appreciation for the journey itself. If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers rich experiences over crowded tourist spots, authenticity over flash, and lasting memories over ticking boxes, then let us introduce you to Azamara Cruises.
Azamara isn’t your average cruise line. It’s small ship cruising done with elegance and heart - designed especially for those who enjoy the finer things in life, along with a genuine passion for exploration. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, here's why an Azamara cruise should be next on your travel wish list.
Small Ships That Go Big on Experience
One of the most distinctive features of Azamara is its fleet of boutique-style ships. Unlike the massive floating resorts you may be familiar with, Azamara’s ships carry fewer than 700 guests. This smaller size means a more personal and relaxed atmosphere - no endless queues, no fighting for a sun lounger, and service that remembers your name and how you take your tea.
But it’s not just about what’s onboard. These nimble ships can access destinations that the big liners can only dream of. Picture yourself docking in the heart of Venice, gliding into the quiet beauty of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, or arriving in the port of Amalfi itself - not hours away in Naples. It’s about getting closer to the places you want to explore, and spending more time truly immersed in them.
Itineraries That Are Anything But Ordinary
One of the great joys of travelling with Azamara is knowing that every itinerary has been thoughtfully designed - and rarely repeated. This isn’t about mass-market routes or standard stopovers. Instead, each cruise is a carefully crafted experience, with handpicked ports, lesser-known gems, and a strong sense of narrative.
You might explore ancient civilisations in the Eastern Mediterranean one month and follow the spice trail through Southeast Asia the next. From the sun-drenched Greek Isles to the dramatic coasts of South America, each journey tells a unique story. You won’t just be cruising - you’ll be exploring in a way that feels fresh, meaningful, and full of surprises.
Food and Drink That Reflect the Journey
Let’s be honest - good food is a crucial part of any holiday. On an Azamara cruise, it’s a highlight. Expect refined menus that change daily, with regional flavours that reflect the places you’re visiting. Whether it’s freshly grilled seafood off the coast of Spain, hearty Provencal dishes in the South of France, or aromatic spices as you sail through the Indian Ocean - every meal is an event.
Dining is open seating, relaxed yet elegant, and always with ocean views. And with a wide selection of included wines, beers, spirits, and soft drinks, you can enjoy your favourite tipple without watching the clock - or the bill. From cappuccino at sunrise to cocktails at sunset, it’s all part of the experience.
More Time in Port, More Time to Explore
One of the biggest frustrations with many cruises is the whirlwind pace - arrive at dawn, gone by tea-time. Azamara does things differently. Many of their itineraries include late night departures and even overnight stays in port, giving you the time to experience destinations after the crowds have left.
Imagine wandering the alleyways of old Dubrovnik under the stars, enjoying tapas in a quiet Madrid square after dark, or watching fireworks over the Sydney Harbour on New Year’s Eve - Azamara lets you see destinations at their most atmospheric, when the day-trippers have gone and the soul of a place comes alive.
Excursions That Go Beneath the Surface
Where Azamara really excels is in its immersive shore excursions, designed not just to show you a place, but to connect you to it. These aren’t your standard group coach tours. They’re locally-led, in-depth, and often exclusive - curated with insight and care.
Take part in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, walk the battlefields of Gallipoli with a local historian, or enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a family-run vineyard in Portugal. These excursions are crafted to offer authenticity, storytelling, and personal connection. And when you return to the ship, you’ll feel like you’ve lived the place - not just visited it.
Designed for the Discerning Traveller
Azamara appeals to a more mature, experienced audience - those who appreciate comfort, culture, and a deeper sense of travel. There’s no rock-climbing wall or waterslide onboard. Instead, think stylish lounges, peaceful sun decks, world-class service, and engaging onboard lectures and performances that reflect the cultures you're about to explore.
It’s also worth mentioning that Azamara cruises are perfect for solo travellers, couples, and groups alike. With fewer guests onboard and a friendly, welcoming vibe, it’s easy to make new connections - whether over dinner, a cocktail at the bar, or an impromptu dance on deck under the stars.
The Unmissable White Night Party
No Azamara voyage would be complete without experiencing its legendary White Night Party - a celebration of style, music, and togetherness under the stars. Guests are invited to dress in their crispest whites and gather on the open deck for an evening of dining, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
Long tables are set with white linen and twinkling lights, the cuisine is a festive feast of local specialities, and the live music sets the perfect tone as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a moment where strangers become friends and the ship feels like one big family.
And the best part? It’s all included. No reservations needed, no added cost - just show up, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy one of the most joyous nights at sea.
So, What Are You Waiting For?
An Azamara cruise isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about what happens in between. It’s about unhurried exploration, meaningful encounters, gourmet indulgence, and seeing the world not as a tourist, but as a guest invited in.
If you’re looking for a cruise that offers more - more time, more authenticity, more comfort, and more soul - Azamara could be exactly what you’ve been dreaming of. Every journey is a chance to rekindle your sense of wonder, all while enjoying the luxuries you deserve.
So go on, pack your bags. Adventure - and relaxation - awaits.
Ready for an adventure? Click here to view our Azamara packages, or get in touch with one of our travel experts!
1300 854 897 | holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
