Azamara Cruises is excited to announce a new collaboration with the American Wine School, which will provide an opportunity for guests to earn the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines during select sailings starting December 2026.

This immersive course, led by Marianne Frantz, the founder of the American Wine School and a certified educator, will feature expert instruction alongside guided tastings. The price for this certification is $275 per person, with a limit of 24 participants per sailing. Reservations will be available in advance.

Wayne Fannon, corporate director of food & beverage operations at Azamara, expressed that their goal is to enhance destination immersion through culinary experiences that connect guests to the local culture. The program aligns with Azamara’s commitment to offer enriching experiences that make travel both enjoyable and educational. Guests can deepen their wine appreciation while earning an internationally recognized qualification.

The first courses will take place aboard:

• Azamara Quest during the Panama Canal Holiday & New Year’s Eve Cruise on December 18, 2026
• Azamara Journey on the South America Cruise starting March 10, 2027

Participants will explore major grape varieties, various wine styles, proper service and storage methods, and food pairing techniques, culminating in the official WSET Level 1 Wine exam onboard.

In addition to the certification course, there will be destination-inspired wine programming, including curated tastings and food pairing experiences to complement the flavors and traditions of the regions the cruises will visit.