by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 11:20 AM ET, Mon January 6, 2025
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has appointed Jason Montague to the newly created position of “chief luxury officer.”
Montague, who will begin his new role on February 17, will oversee Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises. He’ll oversee the company’s multi-billion-dollar fleet expansion, which includes building five new ships and refurbishing many of the two brands’ current vessels.
“With over 20 years of expertise in luxury hospitality and a strong track record of driving excellence, Jason brings exceptional strategic expertise to our company and to our executive team,” says Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “Having already led Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the past, Jason is uniquely positioned to shape their future."
"His unwavering passion for these brands, coupled with his financial acumen, alignment with our corporate culture and strong focus on executing our Charting the Course strategy, make him the ideal leader for this next phase of growth," Sommer continued. "Jason is ready to hit the ground running from day one, and I am confident his leadership will propel our brands forward, setting new standards in upscale travel.”
For the last two years, Montague has served as a special advisor to the company. Before that, he was president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. He also previously served as president and chief operating officer of both the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. He also served as chief financial officer and executive vice president of Prestige, which Norwegian acquired in 2014.
Andrea DeMarco, the current president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will remain in her role through March 4. Frank A. Del Rio, current president of Oceania Cruises, will report to Montague.
“We are grateful to Andrea for her more than a decade of contribution to the company and for setting the foundation for Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ continued growth and success. We wish her the very best in her next chapter,” says Sommer.
Norwegian plans to “substantially increase” its ultra-premium and luxury presence in the coming years, according to the company. For Oceania Cruises, that means building three new ships between now and 2029, starting with Allura later this year. Marina will be refurbished in 2026, followed by Riviera in 2027. Regent Seven Seas Cruises, meanwhile, will get two new vessels in its fleet between now and 2029. Seven Seas Mariner will be enhanced in 2025, followed by Seven Seas Voyager in 2026.
“This is an exciting time for these two award-winning brands, as we are ready to execute on our commitment to delivering sophisticated mid-sized, upscale and luxurious ships with elegant designs and state-of-the-art offerings,” says Montague. “Also, the passion and exceptional talent of team members across each brand, both shoreside and shipside, are a true inspiration. I am confident we will set new standards and create unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
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