Become Immersed in Local Culture

It's one thing to simply visit a destination but it's an entirely different thing to really experience a city. And when you take an Azamara cruise, you get to do just that thanks to Azamara's in-depth knowledge of every port's highlights and unique offerings. We provide tours and experiences that you just won’t find anywhere else. From watching the sunset from the top of an ancient temple in Bagan, to experiencing Omani hospitality, to dining with live flamenco as your soundtrack in Barcelona, our Cruise Global, Connect LocalSM Shore Excursions will immerse you in the sights, sounds, and tastes of local cultures as you discover the world.

Below is just a sampling of the incredible shore excursions you can look forward to on your 2018 World Journey.

EXPERIENCE THE WORLD WITH CRUISE GLOBAL, CONNECT LOCAL℠ SHORE EXCURSIONS

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Australia & New Zealand

Exotic wildlife is just the beginning of your adventure in the southern hemisphere. From classic car tours and castle lunches in New Zealand to discovering one of the world’s oldest cultures in Australia, our unique Cruise Global, Connect LocalSM shore excursions will give you a new appreciation for these island nations.

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Tauranga, New Zealand

Lord of the Rings – Hobbiton Movie Set

Travel into the New Zealand countryside to discover the magical land of Hobbiton, the very set where the epic Hobbit movies were filmed. Snap a photo in front of a Hobbit Hole. Sip a refreshment at the Green Dragon Inn. Soak up the awe-inspiring backdrop of the majestic shire.

Napier, New Zealand

Behind the Scenes Winery Experience

Delve into New Zealand wines on a VIP tour and tasting at the Church Road Winery, established in 1897. Enjoy a guided tour and learn the secrets of winemaking. Then, retire to the cellar to sip, swirl and savor selections from the estate’s prized McDonald Series and Grand Reserve collection.

Napier, New Zealand

Gwavas Country Homestead and Garden

Share a delightful day with the Gibson family, owners of the historic Gwavas Country Homestead and Woodland Garden. Venture into the hinterlands to find this grand estate. Meet the family and sit down to a lovely tea. Hear stories of the home’s history and tour the property led by your hospitable hosts.

Akaroa, New Zealand

Waitangi Cultural Experience

Explore the history of New Zealand’s Maori people. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where an often-contested accord was signed. Watch a dazzling performance of tribal weaponry, and try your own hand at creating tribal arts. Finally, discover Maori artifacts on a tour of the Museum of Waitangi.

Dunedin, New Zealand

Larnach Castle and Garden with High Tea

Enjoy a traditional high tea at Larnach Castle, a sumptuous wonder built in 1871 by a wealthy merchant and surrounded by 35 acres of green space and gardens. Tour the grand home and join its owner on a lovely stroll through the gardens she’s so passionately created over some 50 years.

Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin by Classic Car and Olveston House

Motor through Dunedin in a classic-era Jaguar or Daimler Limousine. Soak up the city and enjoy stops along the way for photos of its signature landmarks. Pull up to Olveston House, New Zealand’s finest Edwardian estate, for a private tour featuring areas of the home off limits to the general public.

Sydney, Australia

Private Viewing at NSW Art Gallery

Enjoy a privileged look at Australia’s indigenous culture and history during a morning tour of Sydney’s acclaimed NSW Art Gallery. Explore the fascinating exhibits hours before the gallery opens the general public. Take your time. Ask questions. Avoid crowds on this Azamara exclusive.

Hamilton Island (Fitzalan), Whitsundays

Art Class at a Hamilton Island Studio

Expand your creative horizons at this workshop hosted by a local artist who’ll share his or her personal passion with just 10 guests. Every paint and medium is provided, and no experience is required. Take home an entirely original, personally crafted Aussie keepsake.

Cairns, Australia

After Hours at the Australian Armor and Artillery Museum

Set off on an exclusive after-hours tour of this magnificent museum, home to 119 armored vehicles and artillery pieces dating from the 1800s to the present day. Meet up with the museum’s Managing Director for a private exploration of military history that focuses on both world wars.

Darwin, Australia

Indigenous Litchfield Spectacular

Follow an Aboriginal guide through the wilds of Litchfield National Park on a hike that reveals the deep connection Australia’s indigenous people share with the land. Learn secrets that have been passed down for generations, and stop at a cascading waterfall for an authentic “bushland” barbecue.

 

Asia

An exceptionally diverse continent deserves equally diverse Cruise Global, Connect LocalSM shore excursions to truly be appreciated. Shop for spices at a souq in Dubai. Spend an enlightening day practicing mindfulness at a 5-star retreat in Thailand. Experience the unique blend of cultural tolerance on a tour of Singapore’s iconic houses of worship.

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Singapore

Mystical Singapore

Experience the harmony of this city that’s become a shining example of cultural tolerance. Explore Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist and Catholic communities living side-by-side. Enter iconic houses of worship and be reminded of how embracing our differences can have wonderfully unifying results.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Traditional Musical Instrument Collection of Duc Dau

Visit the home of local musician, Duc Dau, who’s also a passionate collector of historic instruments. Follow him on a tour featuring demonstrations and insight into the significance of various instruments. Afterwards, sit down to a private performance by Duc Dau and his musical family.

Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand

Art of Kingdom and Flower Market

Enjoy a guided tour of the Art of the Kingdom exhibition, showcasing stunning works by local families. Marvel at the jewel of the exhibit, a golden junk studded with precious gems. Afterwards, jump into a Tuk Tuk for a fun-filled ride to explore Bangkok’s exotic Flower Market.

Bangkok (Klong Toey), Thailand

Cocktail Cruise & Royal Thai Cuisine

Glide down the Chao Phraya River past illuminated temples and gleaming skyscrapers. Go ashore at the former estate of HRH Prince Chakrabongse, now an exclusive hotel. Retire to the gardens for a private tasting of Thai dishes prepared using the Royal Family’s own cherished recipes.

Singapore

High Tea at the Intan

Visit the home of Alvin Yapp, an artful soul who has transformed his residence into a showplace of Peranakan culture. Browse a collection of antiques, art, serving pieces, and traditional attire recognized by Singapore’s National Heritage Board. Savor a traditional high tea served in this stunning setting.

Port Kelang, Malaysia

Batu Caves and City Experience

Climb the 272 steps leading to the legendary Batu Caves, crowned by a Hindu shrine carved into solid limestone. Then, delve into Malaysian history at the National Museum, and visit the National Mosque and Old Railway Station. End the day with 360º panoramas from atop Kuala Lumpur’s soaring KL Tower.

Phuket, Thailand

Mindfulness Day at Chivitr Health and Rejuvenation

Spend an enlightening day at Phuket’s five-star retreat devoted to the science of mindfulness. Arrive to a welcome herbal drink and enjoy an introduction by mindfulness expert John Campbell. Then, relax to a guided meditation and soothing “sound bath”, created using traditional Singing Bowls.

Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar

The Ancient Temples of Bagan

Explore the richest archeological site in Asia, home to thousands of pagodas and temples dating back more than 1,500 years. Fly from Yangon to Bagan, where you’ll quickly join the fray at the colorful Nyaung Oo Market. From here, it’s off on a day of discovery that includes the Dhammayangyi Temple, the most monumental in all of Bagan. Come the magic hour, take a horse-drawn cart to the sacred Sunset Temple and watch the sky burst into color amid ancient history. After a succulent dinner, retire in your luxury hotel. Awake to a hearty breakfast and, perhaps, a local market visit before flying back to meet the ship.

Yangon (Rangoon), Myanmar

Traditional Medicine of Myanmar

Delve into the holistic medical traditions of Myanmar that restore balance through nature’s gifts, alchemy and astronomy. Stroll down a famed street where merchant sell herbs, plants, even healing insect organs. Then, visit a local practitioner to learn more about these time-honored techniques.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Millennium Elephant Orphanage

Connect with Sri Lanka’s gentle giants at this not-for-profit sanctuary for orphaned and captive elephants. Meet the volunteers and feel free to help bathe and feed the elephants. Savor a barbecue lunch before visiting a uniquely sustainable factory that turns elephant waste into wondrous paper.

Bombay (Mumbai), India

Mumbai Local Experience

Immerse yourself in the vibrant market culture and fascinating history of Mumbai. Explore the city’s clamoring spice and vegetable markets, fish markets and handicraft markets to find a wonderful cross-cultural exchange. Dig even deeper at the Bhau Daji Lad Mumbai City Museum, founded in 1855.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Delightful Dubai

Discover the flavors of Dubai on a culinary escapade led by the ship’s Executive Chef. Shop local markets for exotic seafood, spices and produce to be used in a private dinner hosted later aboard the ship. In the interim, visit the Camelicious Farm and savor international brews at Dubai’s famed Coffee Museum.

Muscat, Oman

Muscat Royal Opera House and French Museum

Explore the cultural fabric of Oman, beginning at the Muscat Royal Opera House. A masterpiece of design, this grand hall fosters the exchange of music and art from around the world. Next, visit the Oman French Museum, where exhibits chronicle the deep ties between the Sultanate and the Republic.

Muscat, Oman

Seeb Souk and Traditional Lunch

Join the lively scene at the Seeb Souk, one of the oldest markets in Oman. Wander alongside locals busy shopping for fresh delicacies, and sample a few tasty treats along the way. Afterwards, visit the home of an Omani family who’ll welcome you with open arms, a home-cooked meal, and tales of traditional life.

Bombay (Mumbai), India

Taj Mahal and Pink City: A Four-Day Escapade

Jet off on a four-day, three-night excursion crowned by the incomparable Taj Mahal. Fly from Mumbai to Delhi and arrive in time for a scrumptious dinner and comfy bed at the exquisite Oberoi Hotel, Gurgaon. Awake and set off for Agra, a city of red sandstone and white marble that flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries. Stay the night and wake refreshed and ready for the Taj Mahal, India’s enduring monument to love and one of the Seven Modern Wonders of The World. This same day takes you to Jaipur, the Pink City, brimming with forts, palaces and temples. Day four features an Elephant Safari and other memorable adventures before flying to meet the ship in glittering Dubai.

 

Mediterranean

From history buffs to foodies and everyone in between, our Mediterranean Cruise Global, Connect LocalSM shore excursions are the perfect compliment to your travel style. Explore ancient ruins, sample exceptional local cuisine, and much more on these immersive on shore experiences.

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Limassol, Cyprus

Journey to Paphos

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage city where whitewashed buildings climb from the sea high into the green mountains. Explore an epic medieval castle and marvel at the preserved ancient mosaics that still grace the ruins of the House of Dionysos. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to peruse the local shops.

Ashdod, Israel

Eternal Jerusalem and Judaic History

Embark on an emotionally charged tour of Jerusalem beginning at Yad VeShem Holocaust Museum. Continue to the Israel Museum and witness the Dead Sea Scrolls. From Mount Zion, follow ancient alleys into the Old City. View the Tomb of King David and enjoy a moment of reflection at the Western Wall.

Mykonos, Greece

A Mosaic Lesson in Mykonos

Travel to a lovely garden in Mykonos to meet up with Irene Syrianou, an expert in the art of mosaic making. In this inspiring setting, enjoy a hands-on lesson in the timeless craft. Using small pieces of colored glass, stones and tiles, create your own masterpiece – a souvenir that tells your artistic story.

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

Shop and Learn

Explore a trio of Turkish handicraft centers where you’re sure to find the perfect keepsake (or two). Browse the art at a ceramics workshop; visit a village famed for handmade carpets; and enjoy a fashion show at a Turkish leather outlet. Afterwards, see a rousing show that brings ancient Ephesus to life.

Amalfi, Italy

Motorboat to Positano

Cruise to Italy’s sultry playground, replete with natural beauty and plenty of fashionable fun. Positano sits perched atop the blue sea, a maze of narrow streets lined with charming boutiques that rival any on the streets of Milan. Follow a local guide or set off on your own to explore this sun-drenched paradise.

Amalfi, Italy

Mozzarella Farm to Table

Spend a delicious day at a farm in the region of Campania, acclaimed for its dairy heritage and known for producing Italy’s finest mozzarella. Tour the farm where a herd of 600 water buffalo feed on the rich grasses. Enjoy a cheese-making demonstration and, of course, savor an exquisite tasting.

Cannes (Monte Carlo), France

Chateau & French Wines

Journey to the fertile countryside of Southern France. Visit a pair of renowned wineries to sample reds, rosés, and the legendary white wines of Provence, the Cru Classé. Explore a viniculture that traces back to the 2nd century BC, and feel free to pick up a few keepsake bottles of your favorites to take home.

 

Northern & Western Europe

Quintessential old world charm is yours to explore on these expertly curated Cruise Global, Connect LocalSM shore excursions. See the setting of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet”, sample Estonia’s finest chocolate in Tallinn’s Lower Town, or sail down the canals of Amsterdam on a romantic twilight cruise.

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Barcelona, Spain

Benedictine Monastery of Montserrat

Travel into to the highlands of Montserrat to visit an 11th-century monastery that’s home to some 50 monks. Marvel at a way of life that’s continued for over 1,000 years, and view the Black Madonna that draws pilgrims from near and far. Board a funicular for a panoramic journey high into the mountains.

Valencia, Spain

Barraca Lifestyle and Cuisine

Relax on a boat ride to La Albufera for a visit to a typical Valencia farmhouse. Explore this home of hard-working laborers before a short walk leads to the Barraca Museum and its collection of farming tools. Afterwards, watch a local cook prepare an authentic Valencian Paella for your quite delicious lunch.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Castles of North Zealand

Ramble into the countryside of North Copenhagen on a truly regal escapade. Explore Kronborg Castle, the setting for Shakespeare’s tragedy, “Hamlet”. Witness Fredensborg Palace, spring home of the royals, and tour the Renaissance chambers of Fredriksborg Castle, today, the Museum of Natural History.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Porvoo and Family Farm

Venture into the rolling Finnish hills to visit the horse-breeding farm of a welcoming local family. Learn about life on the farm over coffee, cake, and fresh berries and cream. Continue to Porvoo for a narrated stroll past its historic timber buildings, and return to Helsinki for a stop in lovely Senate Square.

St. Petersburg, Russia

Evening Variety Show at Troika Restaurant

Relish in a rollicking evening of Russian cabaret at St. Petersburg’s famed showplace, the Troika Restaurant. Warm up with selections of potent Russian vodka and savor typical showtime snacks. Then, take in a unique interpretation of Moulin Rouge, combining historic dances with contemporary flair.

Muuga (Tallinn), Estonia

Chocolaterie Workshop

Delight in the heavenly riches of Tallinn chocolate. Stroll through the streets of Lower Town to the famed Chocolaterie de Pierre, a café famed for its masterfully created cakes and sweet indulgences. Meet the Master Pastry Chef for a hands-on lesson in the decadently delicious art of truffle making.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Danish Dinner and Beer Tasting

Discover the flavors of Copenhagen on a journey led by the ship’s Executive Chef. Begin at Market Halls to shop for local ingredients and taste a few treats. Then, join the ship’s Brewmaster at local pub for a Danish beer tasting. Later, savor a private dinner aboard the ship, prepared and hosted by your Chef.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Twilight Canal Cruise

Sip wine and savor Dutch cheeses as you glide down the canals of Amsterdam at twilight. View the city’s elegant mansions, old churches and waterside warehouses from the cozy comfort of a glass-topped boat. Pass the 17th-century Skinny Bridge, the city’s narrowest house, and a host of other landmarks.

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