Dondra Ritzenthaler takes over as CEO of Azamara Cruises

Her appointment was announced in November but Ritzenthaler was waiting out a non-compete agreement with Celebrity Cruises, where she was SVP sales until retiring in May a year ago.

'Eagerly awaited'

For the past six months, Azamara has been overseen by Chairman Dan Hanrahan, an advisor to its parent company, Sycamore Partners. 

'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,' Hanrahan said.

In an earlier interview with Seatrade Cruise News, Hanrahan said Azamara delivers a 'fabulous product with really impressive net promoter scores,' yet 'flies under the radar.' He's confident Ritzenthaler will raise awareness, particularly among travel advisors and, as a result, consumers.

Ready to energize and inspire

For her part, Ritzenthaler said: '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.'