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Azamara app gives 360-degree virtual reality experiences

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Larry Pimentel - providing a 'sensory journey' with the app was a must
From touring Azamara Journey to ziplining in Costa Rica or taking a midnight carriage ride in Cartagena, Colombia, Azamara Cruises' new application provides 360-degree virtual reality experiences.

Azamara 3di, featured on the dedicated website www.azamara3di.com, uses virtual reality technology to immerse travelers in what it’s like to be aboard Azamara Journey and on excursions in Central and South America ports.

Known for its destination immersive experiences, including longer stays in port, more overnights and night touring on all voyages, Azamara developed the 3di programming to help users get as close to 'being there' as possible.

Azamara president and ceo Larry Pimentel said providing a sensory journey with the app was a must.

'As we continue to redefine the luxury cruise experience for the next generation, we need to reach them in meaningful ways and provide information to them where they are looking for it.  Having an app is important, but more important is the content it provides,' he said.

The app is available on iPhones, iPads and iPods that run iOS 6.0 or above. Android users can get the same experience by going to www.azamara3di.com on their smartphones.

Once downloaded, the app presents users with four choices of videos—on board Azamara Journey and tours of Panama, Costa Rica and Cartagena. By selecting the hand icon in the menu at the bottom of the screen, users can manipulate the video up, down and around 360 degrees by dragging their finger across the screen. By selecting the VR option at the bottom of the screen, a device with a Google Cardboard headset can provide the virtual reality experience.

More videos are in production.