MSC Group, parent company of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, has appointed Katrina McAlpine as Managing Director, Australia & New Zealand of its Cruise Division, a newly created role to lead the regional strategy and growth of both cruise brands.
McAlpine has extensive commercial leadership experience with a strong track record across luxury and premium cruise brands in Australia and New Zealand, including Carnival Australia and Imagine Cruising.
Well-known in the local cruising sector, she brings her considerable industry knowledge to the role, most notably from her almost 14-year tenure with Carnival Australia, where she was most recently ANZ Commercial Director at Cunard.
Both MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise line, and Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s luxury ocean travel brand, rank Australia and New Zealand among their key markets globally.
MSC Group Cruise Division Vice President International Sales Antonio Paradiso said the appointment underscores the region’s significance for the Group’s Cruise Division and the commitment to further strengthen and grow its market presence.
“I am delighted to welcome Katrina to the company. She brings with her a wealth of experience and will play a key role in strengthening our brands in Australia and New Zealand,” he said.
“This appointment reinforces our growing presence in the region and showcases our determination to continue delivering on the goals and commitments we’ve established for this important market.”
Based in Sydney, McAlpine will formally commence in her new role on 12 January 2026.
On LinkedIn, McAlpine expressed her excitement for the new role: “I’m really excited to join the MSC Group family and work with the incredible local team. Two very impressive and inspiring brands that I now have the privilege to work on! Bring on January!”
Find out more at mscgroup.com.
