Dondra Ritzenthaler to take over at Azamara

Azamara, the small ship cruise line, has announced a change of leadership with Carol Cabezas leaving the company with immediate effect. She will be replaced by former Celebrity Cruises executive Dondra Ritzenthaler, who will join the company in May 2024.

Dan Hanrahan, the company’s chairman, will oversee the team until Ritzenthaler joins.

“Azamara provides a unique and exciting offering within the luxury cruise space, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the company into its next chapter,” said Ritzenthaler. “I look forward to working with the talented team and their travel partners to better serve the customer base and grow the Azamara brand.”

The company also announced that Alain Ferzli would be joining the senior management as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. Ferzli has more than 20 years experience at companies including Virgin Voyages and in various financial leadership roles with Royal Caribbean.

Hanrahan said: “Our team has worked diligently to maintain a solid foundation for Azamara amid unique industry-wide challenges over the last several years. Dondra and Alain’s deep knowledge of and experience leading cruise lines will support the shift of our focus to expanding our business and realising Azamara’s full potential.”