ITALY INTENSIVE: Around the Boot in 11 Days
Bonus Alert!!!
If you book by February 25, 2026, I will include your choice of the following:
- A bottle of Champagne
- A bottle of Wine (Red or White) and a Cheese Platter
- A $50 Onboard Credit
Let's Go!!!
Nice to Venice : September 12 - 23, 2027
If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Mediterranean without the crowds, the rush, or the stress of planning — this is your trip.
Join me for an unforgettable hosted small-group cruise aboard Azamara Onward, sailing from the sun-kissed French Riviera to the romantic canals of Venice. This 11-night journey is designed for travelers who love immersive experiences, charming ports, and the ease of traveling with a fun, culturally curious group.
This isn’t a “check-the-box” cruise. It’s slow, intentional, and rich with culture, cuisine, and those “I can’t believe we’re here” moments.
Why This Sailing Is Special
Small Ship Experience
Azamara’s boutique-style ships (less than 700 people) dock in smaller, more interesting ports that big ships can’t reach. That means less time at sea and more time exploring.
More Time in Port
Late nights and overnights in select destinations let you experience cities after the day-trippers leave — think evening strolls, seaside dinners, and glowing old towns.
Hosted by a Travel Pro
I’ll be sailing with you, handling the details and offering support, tips, and optional group meetups along the way — while still giving you plenty of freedom to explore your way.
Culture, Food & Scenery
From French cafés to Italian coastal villages, this itinerary blends iconic sights with authentic local moments.
Itinerary
September 12 - Nice, France
Embarks 6:00PM on Sep 12
Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is filled with a treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums, the famous flower market, and a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses and small, alluring shops.
September 13 & 14 Overnight - Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Arrives 7:30AM on Sep 13|Departs 8:00PM on Sep 14
As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence and its historic center is bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, incredible art galleries and museums with an abundance of riches.
September 15 - Porto Santo Stefano, Italy
Arrives 8:00AM on Sep 15|Departs 4:00PM on Sep 15
Tucked against the slopes of Monte Argentario lies a fishing town that’s relatively new—by Italian standards. While the town began to take shape in the 15th century under the Republic of Siena, it was constantly under siege from pirates until it was made more secure a century later by an imposing Spanish Fortress that still stands today.
September 16 - Sorrento, Italy
Arrives 8:00AM on Sep 16|Departs 6:00PM on Sep 16
A warming sun and gentle sea breezes have been attracting visitors to Sorrento for two millennia, and its reputation as a playground of the ancient rich and famous have resulted in lavish villas and palaces.
September 17 - Trapani, Sicily, Italy
Arrives 8:30AM on Sep 17|Departs 5:00PM on Sep 17
Few reminders exist of Trapani’s ancient history, but from Phoenician days it was an international trading port, and currently the Middle Ages is the era most evident in its old town, now a pedestrian zone.
September 18 - Siracusa, Sicily, Italy
Arrives 9:00AM on Sep 18|Departs 8:00PM on Sep 18
As one of the major powers of the Mediterranean world in 5th century BC, Siracusa is known for the archaeological and historical sights (like the tomb of Archimedes and Ear of Dionysus) that define its grand past.
September 19 - Crotone, Italy
Arrives 9:00AM on Sep 19|Departs 8:00PM on Sep 19
Bathed in the golden Mediterranean sun and caressed by gentle sea breezes, Crotone, Italy, beckons visitors with its ancient allure. Delve into the local culture by visiting the Archaeological Park of Capo Colonna, home to the iconic Temple of Hera Lacinia.
September 20 - Taranto, Italy
Arrives 8:00AM on Sep 20|Departs 4:00PM on Sep 20
Founded by the Spartans in 706 BC, and known as “the city of the two seas”, Taranto’s long and proud history is set against a countryside of gentle hills and valleys, beautiful stretches of beaches, rocky cliffs, and sapphire-blue waters.
September 21 - Kotor, Montenegro
Arrives 10:30AM on Sep 21|Departs 9:00PM on Sep 21
One of Europe’s best-preserved cities of medieval or Renaissance vintage, Kotor’s walls were constructed right into the slopes of the mountain behind it, making it an amazing sight on approach from the sea.
September 22 - Rest and Relaxation at Sea
Spend the day sailing in style aboard your boutique hotel at sea. Indulge in a treatment at Sanctum Spa, stay ship shape with a class at our fitness center, or lounge the day away on our sunny pool deck.In the evening, savor inspired Italian cuisine at Aqualina, or relish in a classic steakhouse experience at Prime C. Plus, you’ll find plenty of exciting evening entertainment, from thrilling shows at Cabaret Lounge to intimate performances in the Living Room.
September 23 - Venice, Italy
An independent city-state and major power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Venice consists of more than 100 small islands connected by arched bridges and is one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Why Azamara
Azamara delivers an elevated, destination‑focused cruise experience. Their smaller, boutique‑style ships go where the big ships can’t, spending more time in port — including late nights and overnights — so you can really explore places instead of just passing through.
Travelers choose Azamara for:
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Longer stays in each port — more time to see, do, and savor
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Smaller ships with an intimate, relaxed feel
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Culture‑rich itineraries focused on local experiences
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Excellent dining, service, and onboard ambiance
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Opportunities for authentic exploration — whether you join guided excursions or explore independently
Azamara is ideal for people who want experiences over crowds, depth over speed, and memories over checklists.
What is Included
What Is Included with Your Azamara Cruise Fare
These core amenities come with your cruise rate:
✔ Comfortable stateroom accommodations
✔ All main dining (meals in the main dining rooms, buffet, and most snacks)
✔ Pre‑paid gratuities for service staff
✔ Select spirits, international beers & wine, bottled water, soft drinks, coffee & tea included as standard (upgraded beverage packages are extra)
✔ AzAmazing Evenings® — complimentary cultural destination events on most sailings
✔ Self‑service laundry facilities onboard
✔ Concierge services for reservations and trip planning
✔ Shuttle service to nearby towns when available
✔ Live entertainment, shows, and fitness center access (varies by ship)
BONUS - I've added $150 Onboard Ship Credit for each stateroom!
Azamara aims to include more than many other cruise lines — such as drinks with meals, gratuities, and select onboard events — helping simplify your vacation experience.
What is Not Included
What Is NOT Included with Your Azamara Cruise Fare
✘ Shore excursions (bookable separately)
✘ Spa treatments & therapies
✘ Premium specialty restaurants (may have a cover charge)
✘ Travel protection/insurance
✘ Some upgraded Wi‑Fi or premium drinks (outside suite inclusions)
✘ Flights
✘ Travel Insurance
✘ Pre/Post Cruise Arrangements in Nice, Venice or Beyond! I am happy to work with you to arrang additional travel.
Pricing
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude flights, pre- or post-stay hotels, travel insurance, and port excursions. Available through February 28, 2026.
Veranda Staterooms Rooms - Starting at $4,799
Oceanview Staterooms - Starting at $4,119 Per Person
Inside Staterooms - Starting at $3,859 Per Person
~ Suites may be available upon request.
~ Single Occupancy Rates are availalbe
Important Dates
Deposit - $550 per person, non refundable, due upon booking.
Final Payment - Due April 9, 2027
Airfare will be available for booking as well as pre/post travel arrangements in destination November 2026.
It is highly recommended that you arrive in Nice, France no later than September 10, 2026.
Cancellations made before final payment will incur a $150 per person fee. Final payment is non-refundable. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Have Questions - Contact Carrie at carrie@auraytravel.com or 303-981-3981.
Ready to book - Reach out to Carrie or complete the form below.