NCLH Confirms David Herrera Exit; Sommer Steps In

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) said that David J. Herrera, who had been serving as president of Norwegian Cruise Line, left the company effective August 20.

In a filing released Wednesday, NCLH described the change as part of a “strategic leadership change.”

Harry Sommer, the company’s president and CEO—and formerly the brand’s president—will take on Herrera’s day-to-day duties on an interim basis while NCLH conducts a “robust search” for a new Norwegian Cruise Line president.

Herrera has held a range of roles at Prestige Cruise Holdings and NCLH since 2012, including leading the organization’s entry into the Chinese market. He became president of Norwegian Cruise Line in July 2023, succeeding Sommer after Sommer was appointed NCLH’s president and CEO.

During Herrera’s tenure, the brand introduced two new ships: Norwegian Viva in August 2023 and Norwegian Aqua in April 2025. He also drove itinerary adjustments that included cancelling seasons in South America and Africa in order to reposition vessels to core U.S. homeports.

Most recently, Herrera oversaw investment in the company’s private Bahamian destination, Great Stirrup Cay, where plans call for a new 19-slide waterpark and additional amenities beginning later this year.

Looking ahead, Norwegian Cruise Line is continuing a major fleet expansion with seven ships scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2036. In addition to further Prima Class vessels, the orderbook features a new class of larger ships slated to debut from 2030 to 2036—approximately 225,000 tons and accommodating over 5,100 guests.