MIAMI — Royal Caribbean Group says Barbara Muckermann will depart Royal Caribbean Group after 14 years with Silversea to pursue other opportunities.

As part of that update, Royal Caribbean Group also announced that effective today, Bert Hernandez will succeed Muckermann as president of Silversea.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Barbara since 2018 when Silversea joined Royal Caribbean Group, first in her role as chief marketing and commercial officer and later as brand president,” said Jason Liberty, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Barbara has helped position Silversea as the world’s top ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, and the brand further solidified its leadership with the official inauguration of Silver Nova earlier this year, a ship hailed as ushering in a new era of luxury at sea.”

Liberty added: “I would also like to congratulate Bert on his appointment as the next brand president of Silversea. With deep industry knowledge, experience in markets around the world, and past leadership of a luxury cruise line, I know Bert is well positioned to chart a smart course for Silversea’s continued growth and success. At Royal Caribbean Group, we are committed to delivering the very best experiences in the ultra-luxury and expedition space, and I am confident in Bert’s ability to find opportunities to take the brand to the next level.”

Hernandez has been with the Royal Caribbean Group for the past 20 years and brings to the role commercial and operational experience. Most recently serving as senior vice president, international, he worked with his team to further position Royal Caribbean International as the vacation brand of choice in more than 80 countries. He also served as president of China operations for Royal Caribbean International, where he built the brand into China’s leading cruise line. He also served as chief operating officer for the group’s former luxury cruise line, Azamara, delivering the line’s most profitable year while it was part of the Royal Caribbean family of brands.

“I have long admired the wonderful brand that Barbara and team have built over 30 years and respect how they have been driven to create the most unique and memorable experiences in travel,” said Hernandez. “The opportunity to lead and grow such a beloved brand is a great honour, and I couldn’t be more excited to work with the experienced Silversea leadership team. The future of the brand has never been brighter as we continue the tradition of delivering best-in class experiences with the arrival of Silver Ray later this year.”