Azamara Cruises has announced a new educational partnership with the American Wine School, launching a program that allows guests to earn the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines directly on select ships. Starting in December 2026, this initiative transforms standard wine tastings into a structured, credit-bearing course led by Marianne Frantz, the school's founder and an Advanced Sommelier. The program is designed to be immersive, combining expert-led instruction with guided tastings to help participants understand wine regions, grape varieties, and tasting techniques.
The WSET Level 1 Award is a foundational certification recognized globally in the hospitality and wine industries. Unlike casual onboard tastings, this course requires active participation and assessment to earn the credential. The program is priced at $275 per guest, a fee that covers the educational materials, instruction, and the certification itself. This offering is available only on select sailings, meaning travelers must book specific itineraries to access the opportunity.
This development marks a shift in how cruise lines are approaching onboard enrichment. Rather than offering only entertainment or passive learning, Azamara is integrating professional certification into the guest experience. The partnership leverages the American Wine School's curriculum, ensuring the instruction meets international standards. For the cruise line, this adds a unique value proposition for wine enthusiasts who want to deepen their knowledge without leaving the ship.
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Editor Take
This matters because it turns a leisure activity into a tangible career or hobby asset. If you are planning a cruise with a specific interest in wine, this is a rare chance to get certified without taking a separate course on land. However, it is not a free upgrade; you must budget an extra $275 per person and ensure your chosen sailing is one of the 'select' dates where the course is running.
Key Takeaways
- Verify your specific sailing dates: The program starts in December 2026 on 'select sailings' only, so you must confirm the course is scheduled for your exact itinerary before booking.
- Budget for the certification fee: The $275 cost is separate from your cruise fare and covers the WSET Level 1 Award, so factor this into your total travel expenses.
- Prepare for an active learning experience: Unlike a standard tasting, this is a formal course led by a certified educator, requiring your full attention and participation to earn the credential.
What Travelers Ask
Does this certification apply to my existing cruise booking?
Yes, if your current booking is on a 'select sailing' in December 2026 or later where the course is scheduled, you can likely add the program. You will need to contact Azamara or your travel agent to register and pay the $275 fee.
What exactly is the WSET Level 1 Award?
It is a globally recognized entry-level qualification in wine knowledge. It covers the basics of wine production, tasting, and serving, and is often used as a stepping stone for those interested in wine careers or serious hobbyists.
Can I take the course if I have no prior wine experience?
Yes, the Level 1 Award is designed for beginners. The course is structured to take you from zero knowledge to a certified understanding of wine basics.
Is the $275 fee included in my cruise fare?
No, the $275 fee is an additional cost for the educational program and certification. It is not included in the standard cruise fare.