07 July 2009

Industry veteran to head Azamara Cruises

Cruise industry veteran Larry Pimentel has been named in the newly created position of president and CEO of Azamara Cruises.

The former CEO of Seadream Yacht Club takes responsibility for the strategic direction and leadership of the deluxe Royal Caribbean Cruises brand.

Pimentel has more than 25 years of travel industry experience including time as president and CEO of Cunard Line and Seabourn Cruise Line.

He also held the position of president and CEO of Classic Hawaii.

RCCL chairman and CEO Richard Fain said: "It is time for Azamara to stand on its own, after a successful two years of operation.

"The onboard experience and brand recognition of Azamara is due to the leadership, dedication and commitment of Dan Hanrahan and his Celebrity Cruises team."

Celebrity Cruises president and CEO Dan Hanrahan said: "I'm very proud of my management team here in Miami and on board our ships, and thank them for their accomplishments in successfully launching and developing Azamara Cruises.

"I welcome Larry to the company and look forward to partnering with him to build on the success this brand has already achieved, and to capitalize on its great promise."

by Phil Davies