Cruise & Cruise Line

Azamara Cruises’ New CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler Takes Leadership

Image: Azamara Club Cruises' Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest together off Barcelona, Spain. (photo courtesy of Azamara Club Cruises)
Image: Azamara Club Cruises' Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest together off Barcelona, Spain. (photo courtesy of Azamara Club Cruises)
Laurie Baratti
by Laurie Baratti
Last updated: 7:45 PM ET, Mon May 13, 2024

The celebrated small-ship cruise line specializing in Destination Immersion, Azamara Cruises, is ushering in a brand-new era as Dondra Ritzenthaler steps into her role as Chief Executive Officer. 

With over four decades of travel sector experience under her belt, Ritzenthaler has built a reputation for the strength of her positivity and passion for the industry, and forging enduring relationships with travel partners. Given her considerable experience in the cruise industry, certified sales success and solid connections with trade partners, Ritzenthaler is well-positioned to guide Azamara toward new and promising horizons.  

"I’m thrilled to be officially joining the incredible Azamara team," Ritzenthaler said in a statement. "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 energizing and inspiring the team to be the best in the business.”   

Dondra Ritzenthaler, Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises new CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler (Photo Credit: Azamara Cruises)

“We’ve eagerly awaited this day since announcing Dondra’s appointment, and we are confident that she will lead our team to into a new phase of growth while maintaining the integrity of our commitment to Destination Immersion and an exceptional guest experience,” said Dan Hanrahan, Chair of Azamara Cruises.

With its new CEO at the helm, Azamara Cruises is destined to continue elevating its products designed for discerning travelers who are looking for exceptional experiences and unparalleled service. With a renewed emphasis on delivering unsurpassed Destination Immersion experiences and offering Extended Destination Days, Amazara will no doubt continue to grow and expand its offering under Ritzenthaler’s expert leadership. 


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Laurie Baratti

Laurie Baratti

Assistant Editor

Laurie Baratti is an Assistant Editor for TravelPulse. She is a San Diego-based journalist whose work has previously appeared in publications like TravelAge West, SPACE, Modern Home + Living, Montage, and Sandals Life magazines. Travel writing has long been her passion, and she is always looking for excuses to explore the world outside of her native California. Laurie is also a lifelong equestrian, a proud pet-parent, and an underground advocate of the Oxford comma.

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