Holland America Line, Princess Alaska Operations Announce Key Government Affairs Leadership Update
Ralph Samuels announces retirement; Micaela Fowler is named new vice president of government affairs
Seattle, Wash., May 19, 2026 — The Alaska operations of Holland America Line and Princess announced a leadership transition within its Alaska government affairs team, marking the retirement of a long-tenured executive and the promotion of a rising leader. In Alaska and Yukon, Holland America Line and Princess jointly manage Carnival Corporation’s combined land operations business supporting Holland America and Princess Cruises.
After nearly 18 years of distinguished service, Ralph Samuels, vice president of government affairs, will retire effective June 2, 2026. A trusted advisor to the organization, Samuels has built strong relationships across federal, state and local stakeholders in support of Carnival Corporation's commitment to Alaska.
“Ralph’s steady leadership, integrity and deep understanding of our industry have left a lasting mark on our business,” said Robert Morgenstern, senior vice president of Alaska operations. “We are grateful for his many contributions and wish him the very best in a well-earned retirement.”
Following Samuels’ retirement, Micaela Fowler has been promoted to vice president of government affairs. Fowler joined the organization a year ago as the director of southeast alaska government and community relations, after serving as Alaska’s Deputy Commissioner of Commerce where she oversaw various government functions and initiatives. Since joining the Alaska operations of Holland America Line and Princess, she has played an integral role on the government affairs team, guiding the business through strong policy expertise, collaborative leadership and the creation of valuable community relationships.
“Micaela has quickly become a trusted voice for Alaska and Yukon operations for Holland America and Princess,” said Morgenstern. “She is well positioned to build on the strong foundation Ralph established and to continue our strong partnership in the state of Alaska.”
About Holland America Line & Princess Cruises
Holland America Line maintains a deep and longstanding presence in Alaska as it approaches 80 years exploring The Great Land. In addition to cruise operations across the region, the company supports land-based experiences, including Holland America Denali Lodge at the doorstep of Denali National Park, Holland America Skagway Inn and the Holland America Dawson City Inn in the Yukon, with a major Denali Lodge expansion to be completed in 2027. Operating both at sea and on land, Holland America Line works closely with local communities, partners and government stakeholders to strengthen its long-term commitment to the region.
Princess Cruises owns and operates a portfolio of five lodges in Alaska, including Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge, and Copper Rover Princess Wilderness Lodge, along with rail services that connect guests from ship to shore. Princess partners with local communities and partners to support sustainable tourism.