Azamara has been forced to withdraw Venice as its homeport in the Italian city for 2022, relocating its berthing option to Bologna (Ravenna) – about 2.5 hours away by road.
The change is a result of Italy’s decision last year to ban the bulk of cruise lines from the city, impacting 20 upcoming Azamara sailings aboard its entire fleet; Azamara Journey, Azamara Pursuit, Azamara Quest and the soon-to-launch, Azamara Onward – which had 10 voyages departing from Venice between 2 May and 10 October. Two further sailings aboard Azamara Pursuit on 9 and 16 April were also affected.
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“The Italian government has implemented new rules around cruise ships in and around Venice, Italy, making it impossible for almost all cruise lines, including Azamara ships, to continue to dock there,” Azamara said on its website.
“Due to the Italian government’s new rules around cruise ships in and around Venice, Azamara is working on an alternative solution with local authorities to stay relatively close to Venice for 2022. The entire cruise industry is now working with the Italian authorities to review options for a permanent cruise port outside of Venice as part of a new tourism management plan.”
The statement confirms that Azamara’s substitute plans for the 2022 season “have yet to be completed”. Azamara said, “without confirmation of completion, Azamara will relocate to Bologna (Ravenna), which is approximately two hours outside of Venice by car, in order to secure access to Venice this year.”
The situation has required Azamara to cancel and refund any shore excursions guests’ purchased for Venice. Those guests with overnight stays in Venice will be offered two new tours from Ravenna as an alternative option to explore Venice.
All Hotel and City Stays in Venice booked through Azamara, and the AzAmazing Journey to Lake Como will continue to operate as scheduled. Azamara is providing a complimentary transfer between Venice and Ravenna. At this stage, Azamara does not have Hotels and or City Stay in Ravenna, but advises it is working on suitable alternatives.
The boutique cruise line advises that guests who booked flights with Azamara will be re-accommodated to receive a free transfer to/from Venice International Airport Marco Polo. Those guests who booked flights independently will also be provided complimentary transfers.
