Here’s something I’ve been excited about for months: I’m hosting a small-group cruise through the Mediterranean next August, and I’d love for you to join us.
But before you roll your eyes and think “cruise = buffet lines and crowds,” hear me out. This isn’t that kind of cruise.
This is Azamara Onward, departing Athens on August 2, 2026 and finishing in Barcelona on August 13, 2026. Small ship (around 700 guests—not 5,000). Longer port stays. Overnight stays in key cities. The kind of cruise that feels more like an intimate exploration than a floating hotel casino.
And here’s the personal part: I’m bringing my 16-year-old niece. This will be her first real international adventure, and I want to show her what travel can be at its best—cultural immersion, stunning destinations, and the kind of experiences that change how you see the world.
Oh, and as a bonus, there’s a solar eclipse happening in the middle of the itinerary so you get to see that from one of the best viewing areas in the world: the middle of the Mediterranean!
If that sounds like your kind of trip, keep reading.
Why This Cruise Is Different
Small Ship, Big Difference
Azamara ships carry fewer than 700 guests. For context, most mega-ships carry 3,000-6,000+ passengers.
Real talk: Azamara isn’t competing with ultra-luxury lines like Seabourn or Silversea when it comes to ship finishes and over-the-top amenities. The ships are comfortable and well-maintained, but they’re not brand-new floating palaces.
But here’s what Azamara does brilliantly:
They focus on the destinations and the experience, not just looks. The value proposition is exceptional—you get small-ship intimacy, longer port stays, and inclusive pricing at a price point that’s accessible for most luxury travelers.
What that means for you:
- No fighting for deck chairs or dinner reservations
- Easier to get on and off the ship in port
- More intimate atmosphere where crew actually remembers your name
- Ability to dock in smaller, more interesting ports that big ships can’t access
- A ship that serves as your comfortable home base while the real magic happens in port
It feels less like a cruise and more like a floating boutique hotel that happens to take you to incredible places.
Longer Port Stays (Including Overnights)
This is where Azamara really shines. Instead of the typical “arrive at 8 AM, leave at 5 PM” schedule, Azamara builds in longer port days and overnight stays in select cities.
Why this matters:
You’re not rushing through destinations trying to see everything in six hours. You can have dinner in a local restaurant. Experience the city after dark. Wake up in port and have a leisurely breakfast before exploring.
It’s the difference between visiting a place and actually experiencing it.
The Itinerary: Solar Eclipse & Mediterranean Gems
This isn’t just any Mediterranean cruise—we’re sailing during the 2026 Solar Eclipse, one of nature’s most spectacular events. On August 12, 2026, we’ll be perfectly positioned at sea to witness this rare celestial phenomenon.
We’re departing from Athens (Piraeus) on August 2, 2026, and spending nearly two weeks exploring some of the Mediterranean’s most stunning destinations across Greece, Turkey, Italy, and France.
Ports include:
- Athens, Greece – Ancient history, vibrant neighborhoods, the Acropolis
- Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey – One of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world
- Crete (Heraklion), Greece – Minoan palaces, Venetian fortresses, authentic Cretan culture
- Sicily (Taormina), Italy – Hillside beauty, Mount Etna views, Greek theater ruins
- Sorrento, Italy – Amalfi Coast gateway, limoncello, dramatic cliffside charm
- Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy – The Eternal City (overnight stay for deeper exploration)
- Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy – Renaissance art, Tuscan countryside, iconic landmarks
- Nice, France – French Riviera elegance, Mediterranean beaches, vibrant markets
- Provence (Toulon), France – Lavender fields, wine country, Provençal charm
- Barcelona, Spain – Gaudí architecture, Gothic Quarter, culinary paradise
The route is designed to balance:
- The once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse viewing at sea
- Ancient wonders (Ephesus, Athens, Taormina)
- Italian coastal perfection (Sorrento, Sicily)
- Art and culture (Florence, Rome, Barcelona)
- French Riviera sophistication (Nice, Provence)
- Overnight stays for deeper immersion
Exclusive Experiences Just for Our Group
Because this is a hosted cruise, I’m working on arranging special experiences that regular passengers won’t have access to… Think of it as traveling with a friend who happens to be a travel professional and is slightly obsessed with making sure everyone has an incredible time.
What’s Included (And What It Costs)
Azamara is known for its inclusive pricing model, which means a lot of what you’d normally pay extra for is already included:
Included in your fare:
- All meals (including specialty restaurants if you’re in a suite)
- Select standard spirits, international beers, and wines
- Gratuities for housekeeping, dining, and bar staff
- Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
- Shuttle service in ports (when available)
- Self-service laundry
What that means:
You’re not constantly reaching for your wallet or dealing with surprise charges at the end of the cruise. Your fare covers almost everything except spa treatments, premium spirits, and shore excursions.
Pricing:
Staterooms start at around $3,000 per person (double occupancy)—which is an incredible value for what you get with Azamara’s inclusive pricing model. Suites and upgraded accommodations are available at higher price points.
Specific pricing depends on cabin category and when you book. Early booking discounts are available, and solo travelers can inquire about reduced single supplements.
Want exact pricing? Reach out directly and we’ll send you a full breakdown based on your cabin preferences.
Why I’m Hosting This Trip
Here’s the honest truth: I love what I do. I love curating experiences, solving problems, and watching people fall in love with places and moments they’ll remember forever.
But there’s something special about actually being there. Something next-level about seeing people’s faces when they experience something incredible. About sharing a meal together in a local taverna or watching a solar eclipse in the middle of the Med.
And selfishly? I get to share this with my niece. She’s at that perfect age where the world is opening up to her, and I want to show her that travel isn’t just about Instagram photos—it’s about connection, curiosity, and those moments that quietly change you. We’re skipping the standard shore excursions and instead have private guided experiences tailored to her interests in every port—the kind of intimate, personalized exploration that shows her what truly exceptional travel looks like (you might even be able to join us on those, too!)
If you’ve ever thought about taking a trip with a small group of like-minded travelers, this is your chance.
Who This Trip Is For
This cruise will appeal to you if:
- You want the ease of a cruise without the mega-ship crowds
- You appreciate cultural experiences and immersive travel (not just checking boxes)
- You’re open to making new friends (or not!) – it’s totally up to you!
- You value having someone on the ground to handle logistics and offer recommendations
- You’ve been dreaming about the Mediterranean but haven’t pulled the trigger yet
This trip is NOT for you if:
- You’re looking for a party cruise (this is elegant and enriching, not spring break)
- You need 24/7 entertainment and activities (Azamara is more refined and low-key)
- You prefer traveling completely solo without any group elements
How to Join (And Why You Should Book Soon)
Azamara’s small ships mean inventory is limited.
Here’s what to do:
- Reach out to us – Submit a request or schedule a call, and let’s chat about cabin options and pricing
- Next, we’ll secure your spot with a deposit – that will lock in your cabin and nothing more will be due until the final payment date (March 5, 2026)
- Start dreaming about August 2026 – Because that’s what I’m doing!
Why book now?
- Best cabin selection (oceanview, balcony, suites—they go fast)
- Early booking perks and potential discounts
- More time to plan flights, pre- or post-cruise extensions, and get excited
Let’s Make This Happen!
I’m not going to pretend I’m unbiased here. I genuinely believe this is going to be an incredible trip. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed. The ship is the right size. The pace allows for real exploration. And honestly? I’m just really excited to share it with people who appreciate what makes travel truly special.
So if you’ve been thinking about a Mediterranean adventure, if you’ve been wanting to try small-ship cruising, or if you just think “sailing around Greece and Turkey with a travel advisor who handles all the details” sounds pretty great—let’s talk.
August 2026 might feel far away, but it’ll be here before we know it. And wouldn’t it be nice to have something amazing on the calendar to look forward to?
