MSC Group’s luxury lifestyle ocean cruise company Explora Journeys has promoted Christopher Austin as President North America after a distinguished career and amid fleet expansion with five new ships due for delivery by 2028.
Based in Miami, Florida, Austin joined Explora Journeys as Chief Sales Officer in November 2020 and has spent 30-plus years in the industry.
His prior positions include almost four years as Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Marketing at Seabourn and 18.5 years at Starwood Hotels & Resorts with his most recent role as Vice President of Global Leisure, Luxury & TMC Sales.
In his new role, Austin will helm the North American team and market, which includes the US, Canada and Mexico, focusing on strengthening Explora Journeys’ presence in these countries and driving consumer awareness and demand.
MSC Group Cruise Division Chair Pierfrancesco Vago said: “Chris is a highly respected leader in the luxury hospitality industry and was one of the founding members of the Explora Journeys leadership team.”
“With his extensive expertise, Chris will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our business as we welcome new luxury ships to our fleet with EXPLORA II launching this year.”
Austin said: “Taking the helm of Explora Journeys’ North American teams and market as President North America is both an honour and a thrilling challenge.”
“I’m deeply committed to continuing the exceptional work of establishing our brand as a leader in luxury ocean travel.
“This new appointment represents not only a testament to our past achievements but also a boundless opportunity to shape the future of luxury hospitality at sea.”
Find out more at explorajourneys.com
