Azamara Enhances Land Programming with Guided, Immersive Excursions Designed by National Geographic

From Mexico to France, the cruise line has added nine National Geographic Day Tours designed to ignite the explorer in everyone

MIAMI, November 21, 2023: Azamara, the small-ship cruise line renowned for Destination Immersion® and Extended Destination Days, is expanding its robust shore programming with new day tours by National Geographic, the worldwide brand committed to telling stories that entertain and inspire a deeper connection to our world. Beginning this month, Azamara will offer nine different National Geographic Day Tours in partnership with Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services, the global cruise ground handler that collaborates with National Geographic to create and operate these experiences. Azamara is inviting travelers to be a part of the story of each destination as they learn more about conservation, culture, and history through the unparalleled content and research of National Geographic.

"Our Azamara guest is constantly seeking new ways to explore different cultures and destinations through educational and immersive travel,” said Paul Chapple, Head of Land Product Development and Operations at Azamara. “Intercruises’ trusted service and reliability paired with National Geographic’s legacy and global expertise helps us provide our guests with exclusive access to hands-on cultural experiences, adventures steeped in expertise, and meaningful explorations.”

“We have had the privilege of working with Azamara for many years and understand the high expectations in terms of quality, cultural authenticity and local immersion for their shore programming.” Added Virginia Quintairos, Business Development Director at Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services. “National Geographic Day Tours are truly unique and original experiences, arguably bringing guests closer to the destination than ever before, and we are now excited to start operating them with Azamara.”

National Geographic Day Tours authentically capture the spirit of exploration that the publication has brought to the world for more than 135 years. Each tour is guided by National Geographic-trained guides and follows the criteria of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Azamara’s Extended Destination Days, providing 10 or more hours in port, allow plenty of time for guests to enjoy a National Geographic Day Tour and then explore even further, aided by newfound knowledge.

Highlights of the nine National Geographic Day Tours offered by Azamara include:

• Finding a New Home in Amsterdam, From Struggle to Resilience: In Amsterdam, Netherlands, guests will stroll Amsterdam’s vibrant streets and cruise its canals as they hear the incredible first-hand stories of the city’s immigrants and refugees. The guided tour will paint a vivid picture of their experience and community in Amsterdam, concluding with a meal prepared by chefs from around the world, transcending borders through the universal language of food.
• Sancocho, from Monk’s Legacy to National Delight: Travelers will uncover the legacy behind the Dominican Republic’s gastronomy as they participate in a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef. Using fresh ingredients and traditional utensils, guests will prepare and enjoy Sancocho, a meal that embodies the island’s culture.
• Cozumel’s Coral Reef Ecosystem: A marine biologist and founding partner of the Cozumel Coral Restoration Program will take guests on an educational adventure through the coral reefs and mangroves of Cozumel, Mexico. Guests will snorkel to see the beauty of the colorful coral structures and will have the opportunity to contribute to the coastal ecosystem by planting seeds in the Mangrove tidal pools.

Additional National Geographic Day Tours offered by Azamara include:

• Taste of Tradition, a Journey Through Emirati Cuisine in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• A Journey into Emirati Perfumery in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• An Emirati Cultural Feast in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

To book a cruise with Azamara and experience a National Geographic Day Tour, please visit www.azamara.com.