Azamara Cruises, the boutique cruise line known for its small ships and Destination Immersion® experiences, has just revealed its much-anticipated 2026 summer sailings. With an exciting lineup of 77 new itineraries, travellers will have the opportunity to visit captivating destinations, iconic landmarks, and unique ports of call across Europe. Three of Azamara’s ships—Azamara Journey®, Azamara Quest®, and Azamara Onward®—will traverse the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, offering immersive experiences with extended time in Greece, Ireland, and the British Isles.
Solar Eclipse Cruises: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Among the standout Azamara Cruises offerings for 2026 are three solar eclipse cruises that will take place in August, allowing guests to witness this awe-inspiring natural event while sailing. These special itineraries promise to offer unparalleled views of the solar eclipse from the sea, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Michael Pawlus, Head of Itinerary Planning at Azamara Cruises, expressed the company's excitement, saying, "The rare opportunity to include solar eclipse sailings in 2026 is very exciting, and we are thrilled to deliver such a unique offering."
The solar eclipse cruises will cover the following destinations:
- August 2, 2026: An 11-night Mediterranean Cruise aboard Azamara Onward® with stops in Greece, Turkey, and Italy.
- August 7, 2026: A 12-night Ireland Intensive Cruise aboard Azamara Quest®, exploring Belfast, Dublin, and Galway.
- August 8, 2026: An 18-night Iceland and Canada Cruise aboard Azamara Journey®, covering Reykjavik, St. John, and Quebec City.
Maiden Ports: Exploring Hidden Gems
Azamara Cruises will also debut five maiden ports in 2026, showcasing hidden gems that are only accessible to smaller ships. These new additions to the European lineup emphasise the line’s commitment to providing authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. The maiden ports include:
- Sarande, Albania: A picturesque coastal town known for its ancient ruins and proximity to UNESCO-listed Butrint.
- Fredericia, Denmark: A historic town offering a blend of charming streets and military history, perfect for cultural explorers.
- Turku, Finland: Finland’s oldest city, filled with mediaeval architecture, lush parks, and rich maritime heritage.
- Menton, France: Situated on the French Riviera, this colourful town boasts beautiful gardens and charming streets.
- Karlskrona, Sweden: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this naval city is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and maritime history.
New Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Programs: A Deeper Dive into Culture
In addition to the sailings, Azamara is also offering two new pre- and post-cruise land programs in Iceland and Greece, designed to enhance guests' travel experiences by immersing them in local cultures and natural beauty.
Icelandic Highlands, Reykjavik, Iceland
This 3-night program offers an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s natural wonders, including its famous waterfalls, hot springs, and the remote highlands. Highlights of this program include a guided hike along the colourful Hveradalir Trail in the Central Highlands, a visit to the relaxing Secret Lagoon of Fludir, and a tour of the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park. The program also includes a stop at Fridheimar, a local market greenhouse, where guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat tomato soup and learn about sustainable farming from the resident family.
Ancient Wonders of Egypt & Greece – Athens, Greece
This 3-night program allows travellers to delve into the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Greece. Guests will explore the Grand Egyptian Museum and the Great Pyramids of Giza in Cairo before enjoying a dinner cruise along the Nile River. In Athens, travellers will visit the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, enjoy an authentic Greek dinner with traditional folkloric dances, and explore the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum. This program is designed for history enthusiasts eager to explore the cultural heritage of two of the world’s oldest civilizations.
A Commitment to Destination Immersion® and Longer Stays
Azamara Cruises continues to lead the industry in providing Destination Immersion® experiences, offering guests more late nights and overnight stays than any other cruise line. This approach allows travellers to dive deeper into local cultures, history, and communities, without the rush typically associated with shorter port visits.
"Europe continues to be a leading destination for us globally, and we are delighted to be announcing one of our biggest European deployments to date," said Pawlus. With three ships in the region from March to October 2026, Azamara offers an unprecedented number of options for exploring hidden gems and lesser-known ports, combined with enriching new land experiences.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Azamara’s 2026 summer itineraries promise unforgettable journeys to some of the most iconic and remote destinations in Europe. Whether you're looking to witness a solar eclipse from the deck of a small ship or explore ancient cities in Greece and Egypt, these voyages offer something for every traveller. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise and embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure.
For more information or to reserve your spot on one of these exclusive itineraries, book a call with a travel adviser at S.W. Black Travel, where our team of experts can help you craft the perfect journey with Azamara Cruises. Whether you're seeking an immersive cultural experience or simply looking for a unique travel adventure, we’re here to help you make the most of your next voyage.
Comments