Azamara Cruises reintroduces land programs for travelers

Azamara Cruises has brought back its Azamara Ashore land programs, giving travelers the option to spend more time on land before and after their cruises. The refreshed offering, rolling out between 2026 and 2028, expands the cruise line’s push toward slower travel and deeper engagement with destinations. 

The programs are designed for guests who want more than brief port calls. Instead of rushing from one landmark to another, Azamara Ashore allows travelers to settle in, explore neighborhoods, and experience local life at a measured pace.

Cruise guests seek longer, local stays

The relaunch follows growing demand from cruisers seeking longer stays and experiences that feel less scripted. Azamara says guest feedback played a central role in shaping the new lineup. 

Chief Executive Officer Dondra Ritzenthaler said travelers increasingly want time to absorb a place, not just see it. The land programs are intended to complement Azamara’s destination-focused itineraries, extending the experience beyond the ship and into the communities guests visit. 

Local guides, smaller group activities and flexible schedules are core to the approach, allowing travelers to explore without feeling hurried.

17 new land programs, 2026–2028

Azamara will introduce 17 new pre- and post-cruise land programs between 2026 and 2028, including six debuting in 2026. With the additions, the cruise line will offer 84 core land experiences worldwide. 

The programs span Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania and the Americas. Guests can choose between Hotel Stays, which include transfers and coordinated logistics, and City Stays, which provide two-night cultural immersions in select ports. 

For travelers seeking even longer time ashore, AzAmazing Journeys offer stays of three to six nights, pairing extended accommodations with cultural activities, food experiences and visits to historic sites.

Victoria Falls and Chobe Itinerary

Among the featured offerings: Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park with Micato Safaris, combining one of Africa’s best-known natural landmarks with wildlife viewing in Botswana. 

Machu Picchu, Cusco and the Hiram Bingham Train with Coltur Peru, blending Andean history with a scenic rail journey to the UNESCO-listed site. 

Cappadocia with Tura Turizm, where guests explore cave dwellings, rock formations and the region’s famed balloon flights. Each program pairs well-known sights with time for local interaction and cultural context. 

Azamara expands Ashore, cuts travel friction

Azamara has also partnered with Ship&Play to simplify luggage handling. Guests can ship bags directly from home or a carrier location to their hotel or stateroom, both before and after a cruise. 

The service is supported by a seven-day cruise concierge team, reducing airport and port-day hassle. 

By expanding Azamara Ashore, the cruise line is leaning into a travel style that values time, access and authenticity. For guests, it offers a chance to stay longer, explore more deeply and return home with a fuller sense of the places they’ve visited.