Dietmar Wertanzl has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer for small-ship cruise line Cruise West. He joins the cruise line from Tauck World Discovery, where he served as chief operating officer.  Wertanzl replaces Jeff Krida who retired in January 2008.

As President and CEO, Wertanzl will be responsible for overall performance of Cruise West’s business, and will help execute the company’s short- and long-term strategies.  Richard (Dick) West will continue as Cruise West’s Chairman & Managing Director.

“Dietmar’s depth of knowledge will be extremely valuable to Cruise West,” said West. “The company has grown substantially in the last few years and Dietmar’s leadership and seasoned experience will be invaluable in bringing the company to the next level.”

Wertanzl comes to Cruise West with more than 25 years experience in the cruise and hospitality industry. He served as senior vice president, fleet operations at Celebrity Cruises and managing director of Xpeditions, where he oversaw the line’s entire marine and hotel operations and co-created the cruise concept in the Galapagos. He also managed the overall cruise experience and all new-build and refurbishment projects. Before joining Celebrity, Wertanzl held a number of key management positions with Crystal Cruises, Royal Viking and hotel properties in Switzerland.