Experience a personal journey through the Last Frontier with an exclusive small-ship adventure, genuine local interactions, and one-of-a-kind immersive excursions.
Courtesy Azamara Cruises – MIAMI, October 17, 2024: Azamara Cruises – the small-ship cruise line recognized for its Destination Immersion® and Extended Destination Days – is excited to announce its much-awaited return to the stunning vistas and wild landscapes of Alaska during the summer of 2026. After a seven-year break, Azamara Cruises will resume its intimate voyages to one of the world’s most pristine regions, featuring reputable onshore excursions and experiences designed to connect guests deeply with Alaska’s breathtaking natural beauty, extraordinary wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Starting in May 2026, Azamara Pursuit® will launch a series of 10- to 13-day cruises with thoughtfully designed itineraries that include stops at remote Alaskan locales (with port stays of 10+ hours), cultural experiences with indigenous communities, and wildlife adventures like whale watching, bear viewing, and glacier hikes.
“We are thrilled to bring back Alaska as one of our primary summer destinations for 2026,” stated Michael Pawlus, Head of Itinerary Planning at Azamara Cruises. “Our guests have eagerly expressed their desire to revisit this remarkable area, and we are delighted to fulfill that request by offering enhanced itineraries and on-land experiences that authentically reflect Alaska. From navigating the Hubbard Glacier to enjoying longer stays in smaller ports, our specially designed cruises promise an unforgettable, immersive experience that fosters a deeper connection with the destination.”
“We’ve carefully considered our guests’ feedback and are excited to deliver on our commitments,” remarked Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. “Our dedication to Destination Immersion means that we not only bring our guests to Alaska, but we fully immerse them in its rich culture and unique sites that larger ships cannot access. With extended stays and curated land experiences, we are eager to provide the Azamara experience in a destination that continues to enchant travelers.”
Key features of Azamara Cruises’ return to Alaska include:
- Extended stays in ports like Juneau, Wrangell, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as Nanaimo and Victoria, BC, allowing plenty of time for exploration.
- Access to remote areas such as Kodiak, celebrated for its natural beauty and wildlife; Dutch Harbor, a gateway to the Aleutian Islands; and Icy Strait Point, well-known for excellent whale watching and adventure activities.
- A total of 27 late-night departures to maximize time in port before heading to the next destination.
- The signature AzAmazing Evening – a unique private event for Azamara Cruises that immerses guests in the local culture. Each Alaska sailing features a special AzAmazing Evening in Ketchikan titled “An Alaskan Adventure: Timber, Traditions & Toasts.” The evening starts with a cocktail hour showcasing some of Alaska’s finest brews, followed by local activities such as axe throwing, traditional Tlingit dance performances, and delightful culinary offerings. The event culminates with a private show at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, where top lumberjacks compete in thrilling events like chopping, sawing, and log rolling. This unforgettable experience offers a captivating insight into Alaska’s timber industry while combining culture, excitement, and camaraderie, perfectly encapsulating Ketchikan’s spirit.
With a commitment to immersive travel, Azamara Cruises ensures that every moment spent in Alaska is part of a transformative journey filled with awe, discovery, and lasting memories for guests.
About Azamara Cruises:
Azamara Cruises is a premier small-ship cruise line specializing in Destination Immersion® experiences. Featuring a fleet of four intimate vessels—Azamara Journey®, Azamara Quest®, Azamara Pursuit®, and Azamara Onward®—the cruise line enables travelers to access prominent destinations worldwide while also reaching smaller, off-the-beaten-path locales. Azamara Cruises is devoted to delivering immersive experiences for guests through Extended Destination Days (10 or more hours in port) that lead to more meaningful travel. With a strong emphasis on hospitality and exceptional service, guests enjoy a boutique hotel experience at sea. Through Always Azamara, guests can count on what’s always included: diverse dining choices, room service, unlimited beverages including beer, wine, and spirits, tips & gratuities, exclusive cultural experiences, and complimentary self-service laundry; while also setting expectations for hassle-free travels, avoiding crowds, and accessing unique and iconic destinations, including overnight stays and Extended Destination Days. Moreover, guests can benefit from exclusive loyalty rewards through the Azamara Circle Program.
Cover photo Hubbard glacier credit Azamara
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Azamara Cruises
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Azamara Pursuit
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