Azamara Reveals 35 New Cultural Evenings for 2026

Azamara Cruises has announced an exciting update to its signature cultural programming, unveiling 35 new AzAmazing Evenings for 2026. These distinctive, complimentary events, first introduced in 2011 exclusively for Azamara guests, are designed to immerse travelers in the culture, history, and artistry of destinations worldwide. The lineup spans iconic locations across Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and North America, reflecting the cruise line’s commitment to Destination Immersion. Most voyages of nine nights or longer feature one of these exclusive evenings ashore, with adapted onboard versions available on shorter itineraries.

Highlights of the 2026 AzAmazing Evenings

• Glass Domes and Coastal Rhythms - Guayaquil, EcuadorPassengers on the 15-night “Mexico, Panama & Peru Cruise” (January 6, 2026, aboard Azamara Onward) will enjoy an evening at Guayaquil’s restored Palacio de Cristal. This event highlights Ecuador’s cultural heritage with a performance by Orquesta de Mates y Bamb es Macolla, a Guayaquil-based ensemble that uses instruments crafted from mate gourds and bamboo, accompanied by coastal dancers celebrating Ecuadorian rhythms and pride.
• Traditions of Hiroshima: Kagura, Sake and Dance - Hiroshima, JapanThe 14-night “Japan Intensive Cruise” (March 13, 2026, aboard Azamara Pursuit) features an evening at the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima that begins with a traditional sake barrel opening ceremony. Following this, guests enjoy a performance of the dramatic Yamata-no-Orochi myth alongside the Mihara Yassa Festival Dance, celebrating Hiroshima’s cultural traditions.
• Sound, Light and Mombasa After Dark - Mombasa, KenyaOn the 17-night “Eastern and Southern Africa Cruise” (April 24, 2026, on Azamara Onward), guests will embark on a candlelit walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Fort Jesus Museum. The evening culminates with a multi-sensory show that blends Swahili rhythms, contemporary beats, local dancers, 3D projections, lasers, holograms, and fireworks.
• Illuminated Melodies in St. Michael’s Cave - GibraltarTravelers on the 14-night “Grand Prix Cruise” (May 28, 2026, aboard Azamara Onward) will experience a magical evening in St. Michael’s Cave. Guests begin with a welcome reception featuring a chilled drink and local dessert, followed by a choreographed illumination and performances by an 18-piece string ensemble, the Gibraltar Youth Choir, and the Gibraltar Sea Scouts Band.
• Finnish Masterpieces at Helsinki Music Center - Helsinki, FinlandOn the 11-night “Baltic Intensive Cruise” (July 9, 2026, on Azamara Journey), guests will be treated to a one-hour performance of Finnish music at the Helsinki Music Center, led by organist Miikka Kallio and artistic producer Vesa Ruotonen, accompanied by stunning visual elements.
• Alaskan Tradition and Timber Carnival - Ketchikan, USAGuests on the 12-night “Alaska Cruise” (August 3, 2026, aboard Azamara Pursuit) will celebrate Ketchikan’s heritage with traditional Tlingit dance, local beer, wine, and regional delicacies. The evening concludes with the Timber Carnival at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, featuring axe throwing, log rolling, and a 50-foot speed climb.
• Acrobatics and Tradition at Shanghai Centre - Shanghai, ChinaThe 15-night “China Intensive Cruise” (October 16, 2026, aboard Azamara Pursuit) offers an evening at the Shanghai Centre Theatre that starts with cocktails and a meet-and-greet. Guests are then immersed in a cultural show featuring acrobatics, dance, folk music, Sichuan Opera face-changing, and magic.

Azamara’s Commitment to Cultural Immersion

Since its inception, AzAmazing Evenings have been a hallmark of Azamara Cruises’ dedication to providing immersive Destination Immersion experiences. Designed to take full advantage of late-night port stays and extended evenings in port, these events are hosted in culturally significant settings, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to historic landmarks, complementing Azamara’s Extended Destination Days, which allow travelers to explore destinations more deeply.

“With our late-night stays and extended evenings in port, Azamara provides guests with unique opportunities to enjoy destinations after dark,” said Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. “Our new 2026 AzAmazing Evenings build on this initiative with experiences that truly showcase the heart of each destination and foster deeper connections with local culture, people, and traditions.”

Booking and Availability

AzAmazing Evenings are a core feature of Azamara’s programming, included as a complimentary benefit for passengers on nearly all voyages of nine nights or longer. For shorter cruises, adapted onboard versions of the events are offered, with some exceptions for transoceanic crossings and chartered itineraries. Guests are encouraged to review their itinerary details and consult pre-cruise documents for updates, as event venues may vary based on operational factors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are AzAmazing Evenings?

AzAmazing Evenings are complimentary cultural experiences curated exclusively for Azamara guests. Held ashore or onboard, these events highlight local music, dance, traditions, and cuisine in immersive, after-hours settings.

How do I know if my cruise includes an AzAmazing Evening?

Guests can verify event availability by reviewing their specific itinerary details on Azamara’s website or in pre-cruise documents, as programming may vary across voyages.

Are AzAmazing Evenings included in the cruise fare?

Yes, AzAmazing Evenings are included for all eligible Azamara Cruises passengers on itineraries of nine nights or longer.

Which destinations feature highlights in 2026?

The 2026 schedule highlights include Guayaquil, Hiroshima, Mombasa, Gibraltar, Helsinki, Ketchikan, and Shanghai, among others.

Can AzAmazing Evenings change due to unforeseen factors?

Yes, changes in programming or venues may occur due to weather, port logistics, or other operational considerations. Guests should stay updated through pre-cruise communications.