End of an era. After a long, illustrious and decorated career as a cruise industry executive, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings CEO Frank Del Rio is stepping down from his post. Del Rio will also be giving up his seat on the company’s board of directors as of June 30th, 2023. Stepping into the position will be Harry J. Sommer who has been the CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line since 2020.
Mr. Del Rio has been a cruise industry “lifer” and has been considered an innovator and a visionary by many of his peers. With a career spanning over three decades, Del Rio has worked for Prestige Cruise International and actually founded Oceania Cruises. This was considered to be a new market category called “upper premium” which would give guests an elevated level of luxury on their cruise vacation.
Del Rio will stay on, in a reduced capacity, as a senior advisor through 2025. “Leading Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career,” said Del Rio. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Harry, the board and our management team during the coming months to ensure a seamless transition and I am delighted to continue to serve as a Senior Advisor to the Board after the transition.”