The Azamara Quest was the first ship to call at the new cruise port in Ravenna on August 24. Being completed during the fall and winter, the Ravenna Terminal Passeggeri expects more than 80 calls for its first season (2011) and more than 140,000 passengers, according to Giuseppe Fabbro, managing director. The new facility is part of a bigger development that, when completed, will include office space, parking, a residential area, parks and gardens, and hotels. The adjacent area has attractive beaches, shops and restaurants.

The town of Ravenna itself is the fifth century capital of the Western Roman Empire and was also the co-capital for he Byzantyne Empire and offers a variety of historial cites. Ravenna is also known for its numerous cultural events that take place during the year, as well as local food specialties. Other attractions are within easy reach, including the museums of Ferrari, Lamborghini and Ducati; San Marino, the oldest and smallest republic in the world; and Bologna and Florence.