By
Alex Smith |
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has appointed Harry J. Sommer as its new president and CEO following the retirement of Frank J. Del Rio after a 30-year career in the cruise industry.
Del Rio has led NCLH since his appointment in 2015, following his leadership of Prestige Cruise International from 2002 until its acquisition by Norwegian. He also founded Oceania Cruises in 2002. During his tenure as president and CEO, NCLH has added eight new ships to its fleet, as well as a second private island destination, Harvest Caye.
“On behalf of the board and the entire organisation, I thank Frank for his invaluable contributions to this company and the cruise industry throughout the last 30 years,” said Russell W. Galbut, chairman of the board of directors of NCLH. “He has delivered superior financial results, expanded our fleet with luxurious and innovative ships, strengthened our global footprint and delivered unparalleled experiences for our guests. His passion and dedication will have a lasting impact on both our business and the industry at large.”
Sommer, who has served as president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) since 2020, will also join the company’s board of directors, effective 1 July 2023. He has previously held roles in the cruise industry across sales, marketing, revenue management, passenger services, itinerary development and international business development and operations. He had expanded his role in recent months to include oversight for all of NCLH’s revenue generating areas, including Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and the tri-branded onboar revenue department.
“I am incredibly humbled to succeed Frank as this iconic company’s next president and CEO, and I’m grateful to have the unwavering support of him and the board to lead the company as we embark on the next chapter for our storied brands,” said Sommer. “I am proud to have been a part of the company’s successes during the last 15 years, and I look forward to the bright future ahead, including the transformational growth we have in the pipeline. I am honoured and excited to lead and work alongside what is unquestionably the best team in the industry to deliver on our business and financial goals.”
Sommer will be succeeded in his role at NCL by David J. Herrera, who has served as chief consumer sales and marketing officer for the cruise line since 2021. Herrera has been with NCLH since 2015, holding senior leadership roles within the organisation. He also previously served as senior advisor to the CEO and chairman of Prestige Holdings between 2012 and 2015.
“I am honoured and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead the passionate and incredible team at NCL, as well as to continue to work alongside Harry and our stellar leadership group to build on our strong momentum,” said Herrera. “It is going to be another milestone year for us as we continue the Prima Class rollout, and I am looking forward to leading our team and guests along this exciting journey.”