MIAMI — Silversea Cruises has tapped Barbara Muckermann as its next president and CEO, following Roberto Martinoli’s transition to the role of senior advisor to Royal Caribbean Group.
Muckermann, who currently serves as Silversea’s Chief Commercial Officer, will assume the role on Jan. 1, 2023 when Martinoli, who has been Silversea’s president and CEO since 2016, officially becomes senior advisor to parent company Royal Caribbean Group.
Muckermann, who will also join the Group’s Executive Committee, will become the second woman to lead one of Royal Caribbean Group’s three wholly-owned brands, joining Celebrity Cruises President and CEO Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. She will oversee all of Silversea’s employees and crew, and will report to Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.
Describing Muckermann as the “ideal executive” to succeed Martinoli, Liberty said: “Her global perspective and team-first leadership style are a recipe for success for both the Silversea Cruises brand and Royal Caribbean Group.”
On Martinoli’s contributions during his tenure, Liberty added: “Roberto has built Silversea Cruises into the category leader that it is today – 11 ships strong with more on the way. He is one of the most innovative and knowledgeable leaders in the maritime industry. As senior advisor, Roberto will continue to provide strategic guidance that further cements Royal Caribbean Group’s status as a leader in the travel and hospitality industry.”
Under Martinoli’s leadership since 2016, Silversea’s fleet has grown to include 11 ships. In summer 2023, it will welcome Silver Nova, the first hybrid luxury cruise ship utilizing fuel cells and emitting zero harmful emissions while in port, an industry first. In 2024, Silversea will also welcome Silver Ray, the second ship in its Nova Class.
Earlier this year, Martinoli led the acquisition of Silver Endeavour to help the cruise line access both polar regions. Silversea now sails to over 900 destinations across all seven continents each year, more than any other cruise line.
Muckermann, who brings more than 25 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry to her new role, first joined Silversea in 2001, and held several roles at other luxury and cruise brands from 2005 to 2016 before returning. In her current post as Silversea’s Chief Commercial Officer, she oversees all aspects of sales, marketing, revenue management and guest relations, as well as strategic communications and brand and product strategy.
“This is an exciting moment for Silversea as we continue to add new ships and return to the Asia market,” said Muckermann. I am thrilled to build on our achievements under Roberto and focus on growth in the years ahead.”
For more information about Royal Caribbean Group’s executive leadership, go to https://www.royalcaribbeangroup.com/about/.