Norwegian Cruise Line, a brand of NCLH, has appointed a new President. The shipping company believes it is well equipped for the future.
Marc Kazlauskas has been appointed President of US cruise operator Norwegian Cruise Line. He brings more than 30 years of experience in senior leadership positions in the global travel industry, including sales, operations and innovation.
Most recently, Kazlauskas was CEO of Avoya Travel, one of the largest travel companies in the US. He has also held positions at Frosch International Travel and Chase Travel Group, where he served as President and Managing Director, respectively. In these roles, he led large teams, managed “multi-billion dollar businesses” and oversaw partnerships with airlines, tour operators and cruise lines.
“Marc is a proven leader with deep business expertise and an unwavering commitment to the guest experience,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), which owns the line. “His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Norwegian Cruise Line brand. We continue to experience strong cruise demand, successfully execute our new build program and make significant progress on key initiatives, including the modernization of our private island Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Marc will be instrumental in further enhancing the long-term performance and growth of the brand.”
“I am honored to join Norwegian Cruise Line at this exciting time,” said Kazlauskas himself. “The momentum already in place is paving the way for continued success for NCL, and I look forward to working with the great team to build on the company’s strong performance. With robust bookings, the upcoming maiden voyage of Norwegian Luna, a strong new build pipeline through 2036 and extensive refurbishments at Great Stirrup Cay, the company is well positioned for future success. I am very grateful for my time at Avoya Travel and the remarkable people who have guided me on my journey to this exciting next chapter.”
A cruise fleet of 20 ships
Norwegian Cruise Line is the fourth largest cruise line in the world by market share, with a current fleet size of 20 ships, the majority of which were built by Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany. The last delivery from Meyer was the “Norwegian Encore” (169,116 GT) in 2019, the last ship in the four newbuilds of the “Breakaway Plus” class. Three more ships, built by Fincantieri, have followed in recent years. The most recent newbuild is the “Norwegian Aqua” (156,300 GT), which was delivered this year.
In addition to the shipping company, NCLH’s portfolio also includes the brands Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Just a month ago, Regent ordered another newbuild from Fincantieri in Marghera. The planned sister ship of the “Seven Seas Prestige” is scheduled for delivery in 2033.
