With more than two decades of experience in one of the planet’s most biodiverse and awe-inspiring destinations, Celebrity Cruises has redefined expedition travel in the Galápagos Islands. From purpose-built ships to sustainable practices and curated land extensions, they offer a seamless and enriching experience. We sat down with Celebrity Cruises to learn more about what sets their Galápagos journeys apart.

What makes Alaska such a compelling destination for your guests?

Alaska is one of those rare places where nature, culture, and adventure converge in breathtaking ways. From towering glaciers and misty fjords to vibrant native communities and frontier towns, it offers a sense of awe and authenticity that deeply resonates with our guests. It’s not just about seeing Alaska — it’s about feeling it.

How does Azamara’s Destination Immersion philosophy come to life in Alaska?

In Alaska, Destination Immersion means going beyond the postcard views and truly connecting with the spirit of the region. We offer longer stays and late nights in ports like Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway and Wrangell, giving guests time to explore local markets, meet artisans, and experience cultural traditions firsthand. Onboard, Alaska comes alive through regional cuisine, expert-led talks, and curated programming that deepens understanding of the destination. And one of the highlights is our AzAmazing Evening — a lively lumberjack show that celebrates Alaska’s rugged heritage and frontier charm, giving guests a fun, authentic taste of local culture in a way only Azamara can deliver.

Can you share examples of how extended stays enhance the Alaska experience?

Absolutely. In Juneau, for example, guests can take a glacier trek in the morning, enjoy fresh-caught salmon for lunch, and still have time for a scenic floatplane ride or a visit to the Alaska State Museum in the afternoon. In Ketchikan, a late-night stay means guests can attend a local performance, stroll the historic Creek Street boardwalk or dive into the town’s rich Indigenous and frontier history at a relaxed pace. These longer stays turn a visit into a deeper connection.

Onboard Shoreside Experiences

Why are AzAmazing Evenings like the lumberjack show so special?

A: AzAmazing Evenings are designed to surprise and delight by showcasing the soul of a destination. In Alaska, we bring our guests to an exclusive high-energy lumberjack show. These events aren’t just entertainment — they’re a celebration of place, and they reflect our commitment to meaningful, culturally rich travel.

How does Azamara help guests see Alaska’s wildlife?

We partner with expert naturalists and local guides to offer excursions that maximize wildlife viewing opportunities — whether it’s bear-spotting in Haines, whale-watching in Icy Strait Point or eagle sightings along the Inside Passage.
Our smaller ships also allow us to get closer to nature, anchoring in areas where wildlife is abundant and accessible.

How does Azamara incorporate local cuisine into Alaska sailings?

We source regional ingredients and collaborate with local purveyors to bring authentic Alaskan flavors onboard — from wild salmon and halibut to seasonal produce and regional wines.
Guests can enjoy Destination Entrées in Discoveries Restaurant, a Signature Alaskan Chef’s Table with curated wine pairings and even a specialty lunch at Aqualina featuring fresh seafood towers and King Crab Legs. Our Jazz Brunch will spotlight locally sourced dishes and drinks, while beverage seminars will highlight Alaska’s microbreweries and fruit wines. It’s all part of our commitment to celebrating local provenance and delivering a truly immersive culinary experience. We also offer culinary excursions ashore, so guests can taste Alaska in its natural setting — whether it’s a seafood boil on the shore or a tasting at a local brewery.

How were the new Cruisetours curated?

We worked closely with local experts and travel partners to design land programs that complement our immersive philosophy. These itineraries blend iconic sights with off-the-beaten-path experiences, ensuring guests get a full picture of Alaska’s natural beauty and cultural depth. It’s about creating a seamless narrative from ship to shore.

Which land experiences will resonate most with guests, and why?

The luxury dome railcars to Denali are a standout — guests can relax in comfort while taking in panoramic views of Alaska’s wild interior. Girdwood’s glacier-carved valleys offer a serene contrast to the rugged coastlines, and the Rocky Mountaineer journey adds a layer of elegance and storytelling that’s truly unforgettable. Each experience is designed to evoke wonder and connection.

How does Azamara ensure a seamless cruise-to-land transition?

We handle all logistics — from transfers and accommodations to guided tours — so guests can focus on enjoying the journey. Our land programs are hosted by experienced travel professionals who stay with guests throughout, ensuring consistency, comfort and personalized service every step of the way.

The Azamara Difference

How does ship size influence the Alaska experience?

Our smaller ships allow us to access remarkable ports that larger vessels simply can’t reach — like Wrangell, where guests can explore ancient petroglyphs and take jet boat adventures up the wild Stikine River; Klawock, a Tlingit village known for its rich Indigenous heritage and impressive totem park; Valdez, surrounded by towering glaciers and dramatic fjords; and Nanaimo, a vibrant harbor town on Vancouver Island with a thriving arts and culinary scene. These intimate destinations offer fewer crowds, deeper cultural encounters, and excursions that feel personal and authentic. It’s this kind of access that defines the Azamara experience — where guests aren’t just visiting Alaska, they’re truly engaging with it.

How does Alaska fit into Azamara’s broader vision?

Alaska is a natural extension of our commitment to immersive travel. Just like our Mediterranean or South American itineraries, Alaska offers layers of culture, history and natural beauty that reward deeper exploration. It’s not
just a destination — it’s a story waiting to be told, and we’re proud to help our guests write it.

What advice would you give to first-time Alaska cruisers considering Azamara?

Come curious — and definitely pack layers! Alaska is full of surprises, from sudden wildlife sightings to spontaneous cultural encounters, and with Azamara’s longer stays and immersive approach, you’ll have the time and access to truly take it all in. If you’re looking for a cruise that goes beyond the surface, Alaska with Azamara is the perfect place to start. And for those who want the full picture, I always recommend extending your journey with one of our Alaska Cruisetours, which combines a cruise with a multi-night land tour, before or after your sailing. You only see about 20% of the state from the coastline alone — venturing inland to places like Denali National Park is absolutely transformative. It’s a chance to experience Alaska’s majestic interior landscapes, and in my opinion, it’s a must.