Azamara Cruises Expands Its AzAmazing Evenings for 2026 with New Cultural Experiences
Azamara Cruises Unveils Exciting AzAmazing Evenings for 2026
Azamara Cruises, known for its intimate small-ship voyages and immersive cultural experiences, has announced the expansion of its unique AzAmazing Evenings for 2026. The cruise line, which specializes in providing guests with extended stays at remarkable destinations, is set to introduce 35 new AzAmazing Evenings that promise to deliver unforgettable cultural experiences across the globe.
A Look into AzAmazing Evenings
Launched in 2011, AzAmazing Evenings have become a signature offering for Azamara guests. This exclusive program features complimentary cultural celebrations that allow passengers to delve deeper into the traditions and events of the destinations they visit. From majestic glaciers in Alaska to the historic temples of Japan, these evenings encapsulate the heart and soul of each locale, fostering connections with local culture and people.
Commitment to Cultural Immersion
Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises, emphasized the company's commitment to offering immersive experiences. She stated, "With our late-night stays and extended evenings in port, Azamara provides guests with unique opportunities to enjoy destinations after dark. Our new 2026 AzAmazing Evenings build on this initiative by showcasing experiences that highlight the essence of each destination, allowing travelers to engage deeply with local culture and traditions."
Nearly all of Azamara's nine-night cruises or longer will feature an AzAmazing Evening, giving guests a chance to connect with local culture in stunning settings. Those on shorter, seven- and eight-night cruises will still experience these exceptional evenings, albeit on select occasions.
Highlights of the 2026 AzAmazing Evenings
Among the exciting new offerings for 2026 are:
1. Viva la Costa: Ecuadorian Rhythms Under the Glass Domes – Guayaquil, Ecuador
Guests aboard the 15-Night Mexico, Panama & Peru Cruise will enjoy an AzAmazing Evening at Guayaquil's iconic Palacio de Cristal. This vibrant night features a performance by Orquesta de Mates y Bambúes Macolla, immersing attendees in Ecuador's rich coastal culture through music and dance.
2. Traditions of Hiroshima: An Evening of Kagura, Myth & Dance – Hiroshima, Japan
During the 14-Night Japan Intensive Cruise, guests will experience the dramatic art of Hiroshima Kagura. This engaging evening begins with a sake barrel ceremony at the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima, followed by a captivating performance showcasing local folktales and traditional dance.
3. Sound, Light & Mombasa After Dark – Mombasa, Kenya
Passengers on the 17-Night Eastern & Southern Africa Cruise will explore Mombasa's colonial history at Fort Jesus Museum through a multi-sensory evening, enhanced by local snacks, drinks, and a captivating blend of Swahili rhythms and modern beats.
4. Music Beneath the Rock – St. Michael's Cave, Gibraltar
Guests on the 14-Night Grand Prix Cruise will enjoy music and ambiance at St. Michael's Cave, transformed by the glow of candles during an evening featuring live performances by local musicians, creating a harmonious blend of light and music.
5. A Finnish Evening at the Helsinki Music Center – Helsinki, Finland
As part of the 11-Night Baltic Intensive Cruise, guests will be welcomed with sparkling wine and guided into an exclusive concert hall. They will enjoy a live performance celebrating Finnish music and culture, showcasing the unique sounds of one of the world's largest modern concert hall organs.
6. An Alaskan Adventure: Timber, Traditions & Toasts – Ketchikan, Alaska
On the 12-Night Alaska Cruise, guests will kick off their adventure with local delicacies, traditional dance, and live music, culminating in the thrilling Timber Carnival featuring lumberjack competitions.
7. Faces of Tradition: Dance, Acrobatics & Magic at Shanghai Centre – Shanghai, China
Travelers on the 15-Night China Intensive Cruise will experience a dazzling evening filled with acrobatics, folk music, and magical performances, immersing them in China’s rich artistic heritage.
These AzAmazing Evenings aim to transform each port of call into a vibrant celebration. By mixing music, dance, and local traditions, they offer passengers memorable experiences that resonate long after their journey ends.
For those eager to explore these new offerings, further details and booking information can be found on the Azamara Cruises website. Azamara remains committed to its ethos of fostering connections with the world, ensuring every voyage is not just a trip, but a meaningful journey.
About Azamara Cruises
Azamara is a leader in the small-ship cruise industry, specializing in Destination Immersion® experiences. Their fleet includes intimate vessels such as Azamara Journey®, Azamara Quest®, Azamara Pursuit®, and Azamara Onward®, which allow travelers to access both renowned and hidden gem ports globally. Additionally, Azamara provides Extended Destination Days, enabling guests to enjoy longer visits at each port, enhancing their overall travel experience.