News

Dondra Ritzenthaler takes up role as Azamara Cruises chief executive

Dondra Ritzenthaler has officially taken up her position as chief executive of Azamara Cruises.

The former senior vice-president of sales, trade support and services for Celebrity Cruises has replaced Carol Cabezas, who stepped down from the position in November last year.

Azamara chair Dan Hanrahan has been filling the role in an interim position in the meantime.


More: Azamara Cruises releases 2025-26 winter collection


“I’m thrilled to be officially joining the incredible Azamara team,” said Ritzenhaler, who has 40 years’ industry experience including 20 years with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity and 20 years with American Airlines.

“I am very proud of what Azamara has already built and their growth as an independent cruise line and I plan to drive our company’s growth even further by energising and inspiring the team to be the best in the business.”

Hanrahan added: “We’ve eagerly awaited this day since announcing Dondra’s appointment, and we are confident that she will lead our team into a new phase of growth while maintaining the integrity of our commitment to destination immersion and an exceptional guest experience.”

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.