Guest Posts

Destination Immersion® Experiences in St. Petersburg, Russia

Friday, July 26, 2019
By Azamara

Note: This is a special feature post from Chris Owen of ChrisCruises.com.

St. Petersburg is home to a number of world-class landmarks, and the cultural center of Russia. It also played a starring role in our Summer Russia and the Baltics itinerary. Visits to the renowned Hermitage Museum, the Winter Palace, Peter and Paul Fortress and a variety of cathedrals would all make for good stories on their own. But St. Petersburg also serves as a very good example of just how deep the focus on Destination Immersion® experiences runs within the Azamara experience.

St. Petersburg with Azamara.

 

The Azamara Quest docked in the heart of the city, and a range of tours were offered during our two-day stay. To get off the ship and roam freely in Russia, cruise passengers must be individual holders of a Russian visa. The easiest way to explore is through official shore excursions, which provide the group with an umbrella visa. Those without either cannot get off the ship – period.

Traveling to St. Petersburg is easy with Azamara.

Our first day in St. Petersburg was cloudy – not necessarily the weather you hope for when photographic iconic architecture. While viewing the golden onion domes and landmarks of the city, I could not help but wonder what images a nice sunny day would bring.

At night, a guitarist strummed the theme of “From Russia With Love” and a lively fireworks display could be seen in the distance.

Staying overnight in St. Petersburg with Azamara.

The next day brought clear skies, and a very different feel to the city. The unusually warm weather was perfect for my Azamara Shore Excursions tour that day: “Walk Around Nevsky Prospect”. Our local tour guide, Anastasia, provided helpful background as we drove through the city, and we were given three hours to roam freely.

Obviously, Azamara has no control over the weather. We got lucky there. But what we experienced was a direct result of an itinerary focused on two supremely important factors: passengers and destinations. More accurately, make that travelers and destinations, because I have never felt more like one at any other port of call in the world. Azamara did that by design – their cruises really are for those who love travel.

Want to read more about St. Petersburg? Find Jean Newman Glock's blog here. Azamara has six voyages calling on St. Petersburg scheduled for 2016 and 2017.


Featured Cruises

Recent Articles

Dubrovnik, Croatia at dusk
DESTINATION IMMERSION

Seven Things to do in Croatia

Croatia has seen a sort of transformation recently, one that has taken it from a hidden gem of coastal delights to one of the hottest travel destinations in Europe. What makes this small Balkan nation so appealing? It could be the brilliant sapphire waters of the Adriatic and spectacular white beaches. Or maybe it’s the medieval architecture and walled towns steeped in history begging to be uncovered. Or perhaps it’s the friendly, welcoming people and unique folk culture.

aerial shoreline view
DESTINATION IMMERSION

Highlights of the 2025 Azamara World Voyage

155 nights. 37 countries. Explore every corner of the globe on Azamara’s 2025 World Voyage. A leader in Destination Immersion® experiences, Azamara continues to bring guests to bucket-list destinations, providing immersive travel moments while delivering service excellence. 

shimmer background woman holding gift
DESTINATION IMMERSION

2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Travel Lovers

Just like every snowflake is unique, so is every individual and their approach to travel. Some people value staying connected while they travel, while the fashionista in your life might prioritize wardrobe changes. The aspiring photographer might have a carry-on filled with camera equipment, and someone drawn to wellness may need their portable workout gear on every trip!