Interested in learning about some new cruise destinations? Want to end "been there done that" syndrome? In my 2017 travel trends post here, I identified a growing trend across many suppliers. Here's an excerpt from that post:
Just about every supplier touched on new destinations. Globus listed Iceland, the Baltics and Cuba as "hot" destinations. Travelers are also going to Thailand, and Africa. Azamara announced several country intensive voyages such as in Japan. Hurtigruten has voyages to Antarctica and the Northwest passage in addition to their usual Norway adventures. There's more ways then ever to do the Galapagos. You can see more of the world than ever before.
So let's get specific. When I think of destinations, I think of Azamara. Let's take a closer look at Azamara Club Cruises. I classify Azamara as an alternative suppliers as defined in this post. They are owned by Royal Caribbean but operate as an independent cruise line. Azamara tends to be port intensive relative to other cruise lines. Their mid sized ships allow them to access ports that the larger cruise lines can't.
Let's play a little game. Below are cruise ports in the Mediterranean. How many have you heard of? How many have you been to? Ready?
Valletta, Malta;
How'd you do? These are all offered on Azamara cruises. Think you've been everywhere in Europe? Try again.
Want a country intensive cruise? Here 's another game. Below are countries in which the entire voyage is spent visiting. How many of these countries have you visited more than one city in?
Cuba
Did you get any? Many of these cruises also include overnight stays and late night port stays. These are also offered by Azamara Club Cruises.
Azamara offers ships with less than 700 passengers and includes drinks, gratuities and some very immersive experiences. Best all they offer some unique and fun destinations. I can't think of a better or more economical way to experience Japan than on a cruise like the one offered by Azamara. Terrific new destination.
Want to find out more? Talk to your favorite travel agent / planner. Make sure you qualify them as described here.