Travelling on: Azamara + Back-Roads Touring Combination

Highlights

• Docking Downtown and short tender rides. Sailing into Saint Tropez on one of our ships tender boats, driven by the quartermaster and marine team was a magical experience. We pulled into port next to Super Yachts and glamourous vessels. No big lines or queues to get into port, or even off the ship.

• Late Stays/Overnights. I have cruised before in Europe and felt pressured to get exploring and rush back onboard by mid-afternoon. The extended days in port gave us ample time to take an excursion and wonder around town without rushing to get back.

• Inclusive package. With all drinks, food and gratuities included onboard, we arrived on the gangway day 1 to a glass of champagne and a wonderful greeting from the crew. It made for stress-free sailing with no daily allowances or drinks packages to worry about.

• Waking up in a new port everyday. On this sailing we had a new port every day, there was an opportunity to have breakfast with a view of the harbour every morning. On the back deck of the Windows Café, the baristas made my Almond Latte to perfection and watched the Captain navigate the ship expertly into dock.

• Learn to cook the Italian way at your Villa. Our Hosts in Tuscany will teach you the finer skills to cook the traditional way…when finished, enjoy your grand feast together.

• 2 nights in Lucca. The famous walled city, providing a unique gateway to Florence and Pisa.

• Hunt for Truffle. In Alba, join a Farmer and his trusty dog, and find this unique delicacy in the most traditional of ways.

• Cruise Lake Maggiore. Visit the unique Islets that are nestled within this lake. Spend ample time exploring before heading back home.

Top Tips

 1. Pack light. There are no formal nights onboard Azamara, everyday is country casual. We also have a self-service laundry onboard so you can wash and wear at your convenience.

2. Bring a camera. There are so many sights to see on a Destination Intensive voyage, whether it’s a smart-phone with a great camera built-in or you have your favourite camera, get ready for all the sights!

3. Download the Shore Excursion booklet. You can access the full shore excursion guide prior to sailing and pick from many unique experiences per port. My favourites are some of the Local Immersions. Dig deeper with specialised experiences that connect you to the people, traditions, natural wonders and cultural riches of Azamara’s port visits. Walk historic streets. Meet local families. Explore the outdoors. Share local cuisine. These excursions are limited to just 26 guests, so you enjoy the time and space to ask questions, exchange ideas, and really connect.

4. White Party. We have one event you don’t want to miss and that is our White Night party. It is a night of celebration onboard when we are in harbour for a late stay. Including entertainment from the local area, amazing meals prepared by the Senior Officers including the Hotel Director’s desserts! Wear your favourite white outfit and don’t forget your dance shoes!

5. Download the Back-Roads App. This will give you a lot more information about your adventure, and will help to assist in your planning.

6. Good walking shoes – Italy has so many wonderful locations to visit, but the roads and paths aren’t always new. Be prepared as many Back-Roads Touring Guides will invite you to join them on walks of the local towns to see and learn more.

7. Light layers of clothing. We are traversing through a multitude of terrains and altitudes, so practicality is key.

8. A hunger for knowledge. If you want to see it, hear it , smell it, or taste it – connect with Back-Road’s local tour leaders, as this is their home and all they want to do is show it off!