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Movers + Shakers: NCLH appoints Jason Montague as Chief Luxury Officer to lead fleet expansion

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has created a new leadership structure, appointing Jason Montague as Chief Luxury Officer to oversee Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises as they execute their long-term newbuild and refurbishment program.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has created a new leadership structure, appointing Jason Montague as Chief Luxury Officer to oversee Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises as they execute their long-term newbuild and refurbishment program.

President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Andrea DeMarco, will step down and President of Oceania Cruises, Frank A. Del Rio, will report to Montague.

The new structure comes as the group prepares to execute its multibillion-dollar fleet expansion for its ultra-premium and luxury cruise brands. 

Montague will take up his position of Chief Luxury Officer for NCLH on 17 February, 2025, utilising his extensive industry expertise and track record previously leading these brands.

Seven-Seas-Prestige-on-the-water_1000x648
Seven Seas Prestige will be the first of two new Prestige Class vessels for RSSC

The group’s ‘Charting the Course’ strategy will include adding five newbuilds to its upscale brands’ fleets and plans to refurbish nearly all their existing 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,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO at 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. 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.”

Oceania Riviera cruises through Amalfi
Oceania Riviera cruises through Amalfi, Italy

NCLH plans to substantially increase its presence and positioning in the ultra-premium and luxury markets. Oceania Cruises is expecting three newbuilds through 2029, starting with the launch of Allura later in 2025. Additionally, the brands’ ships Marina and Riviera will be refurbished in 2026 and 2027, respectively. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will see two new vessels added through 2029, in addition to planned enhancements to Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager in 2025 and 2026, respectively.

“I am deeply honored to once again lead Regent Seven Seas Cruises and collaborate with Frank in leading Oceania Cruises,” said Montague, incoming chief luxury officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. 

“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. 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.”

Prior to this appointment, Montague served as a Special Advisor to NCLH for two years after leading the Regent Seven Seas Cruises brand as President and Chief Executive Officer until 2022. Before that, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer for both the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. 

Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises will remain in her role through March 4, 2025 to provide transition support. 

“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,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO, NCLH. 

For more information visit nclhltd.com