Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO at Azamara Cruises, discusses the resurgence of the cruising industry post-pandemic, expansion plans, pricing for Eastern Caribbean cruises, and challenges for female executives in C-suite roles. The podcast also highlights a story from Bloomberg Opinion, AI capabilities in business, and The Hartford's insurance coverage.
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Quick takeaways
Azamara Cruises aims for fleet expansion to meet growing demand in destination-focused cruise market.
Rising prices and increased bookings indicate strong post-pandemic rebound and overall industry growth for immersive travel experiences.
Deep dives
Growth and Demand in Cruising Industry
The podcast delves into the growth and demand in the cruising industry, especially focusing on Azamara Cruises. With a fleet of four mid-sized ships offering intimate experiences for about 700 guests, Azamara Cruises caters to affluent travelers seeking immersive experiences in various global destinations. The CEO highlights the industry's rebound post-pandemic, boasting a 107% increase in bookings compared to 2019, with 2025 showing even stronger prospects.
Azamara Cruises' Market Position and Future Expansion
Azamara Cruises, established in 2007, distinguishes itself by offering intimate voyages across diverse destinations like Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia. The company's CEO expresses a desire for growth, aiming to expand the fleet to accommodate more travelers and explore new locations. Owned by Sycamore, discussions on company expansion and potential new ship acquisitions are ongoing to meet the growing demand.
Pricing and Booking Trends in Cruising
In terms of pricing, Azamara Cruises offers various cabin categories, with suites starting from $10,000 per person and balcony cabins at $5,000 to $6,000 per person. The podcast reveals a rising price trend, with a strong 33% increase in bookings for 2025 compared to the previous year. The company strategically plans bookings in advance, targeting a wider demographic, particularly attracting travelers seeking immersive, destination-focused experiences.
Watch Carol and Tim LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO at Azamara Cruises, discusses the business of Destination Immersion cruises. Bloomberg Opinion Columnist Beth Kowitt shares the details of her Businessweek Magazine story Corporate Women’s Gains Stalled by Anti-Woke Backlash. Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.