Azamara Quest near the stunning Hubbard Glacier in Alaska. Credit: Azamara Cruises
Azamara Cruises is set to make an exciting return to Alaska in the summer of 2026 after a seven-year hiatus. Known for its intimate small-ship experiences, Azamara is ready to take guests on immersive journeys through Alaska’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. With a focus on deeper connections to destinations, the company plans to offer unique itineraries that allow travellers to appreciate this remarkable region fully.
Starting in May 2026, guests will embark on voyages aboard the Azamara Pursuit, which will last between 10 and 13 days. These cruises will include extended stays in port, allowing guests to enjoy ten hours or more in each location. This extended time is designed to give travellers ample opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of Alaska, engage with its vibrant wildlife, and learn about the local cultures through carefully curated shore excursions. Highlights will include whale watching, bear spotting, and even glacier hiking, providing guests with an up-close experience of Alaska’s natural wonders.
Michael Pawlus, Azamara's Head of Itinerary Planning, expressed excitement about reintroducing Alaska as a key destination. “Our guests have long requested a return to this extraordinary region, and we are pleased to meet that demand by offering enhanced itineraries and land experiences that truly capture the essence of Alaska,” he stated. Pawlus emphasized the unique opportunities that these specially tailored cruises provide, including extended time in smaller ports and a chance to witness the stunning Hubbard Glacier.
Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises, also highlighted the company’s commitment to immersive travel. She stated, “We’ve listened to the feedback from our guests and now we’re delivering on what we’ve promised. Our commitment to Destination Immersion means that we don’t just take our guests to Alaska; we immerse them in its rich culture.” This approach allows guests to visit places that larger ships can’t access, enhancing the overall experience.
Azamara’s Alaska itineraries will feature several exciting highlights:
- Extended Port Stays: The cruises will offer extended visits to various ports, including Juneau, Wrangell, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as Nanaimo and Victoria in British Columbia. This extended time allows guests to delve deeper into each unique location.
- Access to Remote Destinations: Travelers will have the chance to explore lesser-known areas like Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, and Icy Strait Point, which are known for their incredible whale-watching opportunities.
- Late-Night Departures: With twenty-seven late-night departures, guests can maximize their time in port, enjoying more of what each location has to offer before setting sail for the next destination.
- AzAmazing Evening Events: A signature feature of Azamara Cruises, the AzAmazing Evening will immerse guests in local culture. In Ketchikan, for example, attendees can participate in “An Alaskan Adventure: Timber, Traditions & Toasts,” which includes cocktails featuring local beers, traditional dance performances, and even an exclusive lumberjack show.
Overall, Azamara’s return to Alaska promises to offer travellers a rich and unforgettable experience, blending adventure, culture, and nature in one of the most stunning regions on the planet.
