Norwegian Appoints Marc Kazlauskas as New Brand President

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has announced that Marc Kazlauskas will become president of Norwegian Cruise Line on January 19, 2026, according to a press release.

Kazlauskas brings more than 30 years of executive experience across sales, operations, and innovation within the global travel sector. Most recently, he served as CEO of Avoya Travel, one of the largest travel companies in the United States and a major travel platform and host agency. His earlier leadership roles include president of FROSCH and managing director of Chase Travel Group, part of JP Morgan Chase.

NCLH noted that he has a strong history of driving commercial results, improving customer experience, and leading major modernization projects that support Norwegian’s priorities in pricing discipline, operational efficiency, and elevated guest offerings.

“Marc is a proven leader with deep commercial expertise and an unwavering commitment to the guest experience,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the Norwegian Cruise Line brand as we continue to see healthy demand for cruise, execute on our newbuild program and make significant progress on major initiatives, including enhancements to our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. Marc will be instrumental in further advancing the brand’s long-term performance and growth.”

“I am honored to join Norwegian Cruise Line at such an exciting moment,” said Marc Kazlauskas, incoming president at Norwegian Cruise Line.

“The momentum already underway sets NCL up for continued success, and I look forward to building on the company’s strong performance alongside its incredible team. With robust booking trends, the upcoming debut of Norwegian Luna, as well as the company’s strong pipeline of newbuilds through 2036 and major enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay, the company is well positioned for future success. As I step into this new role, I’m deeply grateful for my time at Avoya Travel and the remarkable people who’ve helped shape my journey leading to this exciting next chapter,” Kazlauskas added.

Earlier in his career, Kazlauskas held leadership positions at Insight Vacations, where he managed U.S. operations and achieved triple-digit revenue and profit growth, and at Tauck World Discovery, where he led global sales. He began his industry journey at Orient Cruise Line, formerly part of the Norwegian Cruise Line portfolio. He has also served on the Board of Directors for Signature Travel Network and advisory boards for several major airlines and travel organizations.