American Queen Voyages has appointed Peter Szyszka to lead all expedition experiences for the cruise line.

Szyszka joins the team as director of expedition as the brand prepares for Ocean Victory’s inaugural Alaska season this year.

The 186-guest ship will sail between Vancouver, B.C. and Sitka on 13-day journeys, calling at the Canadian Inside Passage, Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet), Ketchikan, and more.

Szyszka has more than two decades of expedition experience, including over 60 journeys in Antarctica. American Queen Voyages said he had “played a key role in programme development and delivery for multiple leading expedition brands”.

Szyszka said: “Alaska is the ultimate destination for adventure travellers yearning to experience an expedition cruise and get up close and personal to its breathtaking nature and cultural experiences.

“Our expedition programming, paired with the innovation and the technology of the new Ocean Victory, will showcase Alaska in a very special way.”

American Queen Voyages chief operation officer Shawn Bierdz added: “Investing in top talent continues to be a priority at American Queen Voyages and the addition of Peter Szyszka further illustrates our commitment to bringing in leaders that share our passion to deliver amazing experiences.

“I look forward to Ocean Victory guests experiencing our expeditions led by Peter and his team and creating encounter travel moments in Alaska this summer.”

American Queen Voyages was formed following the merger of American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines in 2021.

The new brand is made up of American Queen Voyages River, American Queen Voyages Lakes & Ocean and American Queen Voyages Expedition, including Alaska and Central America expeditions.