Azamara’s CEO Set To Host Exclusive Cruise to Alaska in Summer 2026: All You Need To Know

Published on August 15, 2025

Azamara Cruises has announced an exclusive opportunity for travelers to embark on a CEO-hosted cruise to Alaska in the summer of 2026. The luxurious eleven-night sailing, hosted by Azamara’s CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler, will depart from Whittier on July 23, 2026. This premium cruise experience will take guests on an unforgettable journey to some of Alaska’s most picturesque destinations, including Valdez, Haines, Icy Strait Point, and Wrangell, alongside a scenic cruise at Hubbard Glacier.

An Exclusive, Immersive Cruise Experience

This CEO-hosted journey aboard the Azamara Pursuit promises to offer guests an intimate and exceptional experience. Guests will enjoy exclusive shore excursions led by the CEO herself, along with unique onboard events and tailored cocktails designed specifically for the sailing. One of the highlights of this exclusive cruise will be a themed night at the Living Room lounge, with Ritzenthaler herself choosing the theme. These special experiences reflect Azamara’s commitment to providing personalized, high-quality experiences for its guests.

The cruise will visit some of Alaska’s most sought-after ports, such as Ketchikan, Klawock, Nanaimo, and Victoria, and offer scenic cruising at Hubbard Glacier. For travelers looking to experience the best of Alaska, this sailing offers an unparalleled mix of sightseeing, adventure, and local authenticity.

The Return of Azamara to Alaska: A Game-Changer for Tourism

Azamara’s 2026 return to Alaska marks the cruise line’s long-awaited comeback to the region after a seven-year hiatus. The company’s commitment to “Destination Immersion” means that passengers will experience Alaska’s hidden gems, places that larger ships simply cannot reach. The return of Azamara to Alaska presents a unique opportunity for tourism, as it provides travelers with a chance to visit these “off-the-beaten-path” locations, creating a more intimate and authentic connection to the region.

Azamara’s longer stays in port, including extended late nights and overnights, will allow guests to experience the local culture more deeply and at their own pace. These extended stays will undoubtedly contribute to a more enriching and immersive travel experience, strengthening Alaska’s appeal to global tourists and supporting the local economy.

Exploring New Opportunities in Alaskan Cruise Tourism

The Azamara Pursuit’s 2026 Alaska season, which includes a series of ten- to thirteen-night cruises between May and August, will cater to travelers seeking a unique and personalized cruise experience. The ship will dock at some of the most picturesque ports along Alaska’s coastline, offering access to regions that larger ships cannot reach, ensuring guests a more intimate experience with the state’s rugged beauty.

As part of Azamara’s dedication to local and sustainable tourism, the cruise line will offer guests opportunities to connect with Alaskan communities and gain insight into the culture and heritage of this iconic destination. This approach not only enhances the travel experience but also supports tourism businesses and local communities, encouraging responsible and sustainable travel to Alaska.

Azamara’s Commitment to Enhancing Alaskan Tourism

Azamara’s return to Alaska is not only about providing a premium cruise experience for travelers, but also about fostering long-term growth for the tourism industry in the region. By offering exclusive sailings like the CEO-hosted cruise, Azamara is contributing to the development of Alaska’s tourism infrastructure, providing travelers with a well-rounded and enriching destination experience. The combination of exclusive excursions, extended stays, and intimate access to hard-to-reach ports is likely to make a lasting impact on the way tourists explore Alaska, positioning the state as a premier cruise destination for years to come.

This unique cruise will undoubtedly drive tourism interest in Alaska, as guests looking for a personalized and immersive experience will flock to this special opportunity. It’s an exciting time for Alaska tourism, as Azamara continues to enhance its offerings and provide travelers with new ways to explore the Last Frontier.

A Must-Book Experience for Alaska Enthusiasts

Azamara’s CEO-hosted 2026 Alaska cruise is set to rewrite how you think about travel. Designed for people who crave adventure and culture, the trip goes beyond the ordinary to reach special ports where bigger ships can’t dock. With an itinerary simply crafted for connection, every moment—on the ship and on land—feels personal and enriching. If you want to see Alaska up close and with meaning, this is the voyage you can’t miss. By sailing again to this breathtaking region and prioritizing sustainable, people-first tourism, Azamara is leading the way toward a kinder, richer form of cruise travel.