Fowler to Lead Alaska-Yukon Affairs for Cruise Brands
Fowler joined the organization a year ago as director of southeast Alaska government and community relations after serving as Alaska’s deputy commissioner of commerce.
Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have named Micaela Fowler to succeed Ralph Samuels as vice president of government affairs for their joint Alaska and Yukon operations, effective June 2, 2026. Samuels is retiring after nearly 18 years.
The move puts Fowler in a senior government-relations role for two brands with extensive cruise-and-land programs in Alaska, including Denali-focused tours and, for Holland America, itineraries that can extend into the Yukon.
Fowler joined the organization a year ago as director of southeast Alaska government and community relations. Before entering the cruise companies’ Alaska operation, she served as Alaska’s deputy commissioner of commerce, a role that included oversight of government functions and initiatives.
Robert Morgenstern, senior vice president of Alaska operations, said Fowler had already become “a trusted voice for Alaska and Yukon operations for Holland America and Princess.” He said she is “well positioned to build on the strong foundation Ralph established” and continue the companies’ partnership in Alaska.
Morgenstern credited Samuels with “steady leadership, integrity and deep understanding of our industry,” adding that the companies were grateful for his contributions and wished him well in retirement.
Princess Cruises’ Alaska cruisetours combine its seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers sailings with rail travel and stays at Princess-owned wilderness lodges. Holland America’s Land+Sea Journeys pair Alaska cruises with rail travel, stays at Holland America Denali Lodge and, on longer programs, Yukon destinations such as Dawson City.
Fowler takes over the government-affairs post with the companies’ summer Alaska and Yukon programs already in operation.
