MIAMI — Costa Cruises has appointed LaDonna Allen as head of sales for North America.

In this role, Allen will oversee strategic and national accounts, charter and incentives, and field sales, working closely with Costa’s team of business development managers to expand the company’s footprint in North America. 

Allen comes to Costa Cruises with 35 years of experience in the travel industry, most recently serving as director of travel advisor partnerships at NaviStone, a digital and direct marketing company. Prior to that, she was with Princess Cruises and Cunard for nearly 10 years where she held the roles of national account manager and business development manager, respectively. She began her career in 1989 as a travel advisor for 18 years.

Allen will report to Dario Rustico, general manager, North & South America for Costa Cruises. 

“We are thrilled to welcome LaDonna to the Costa team,” said Rustico. “With her deep wealth of experience as a travel advisor and experience in the cruise industry, LaDonna will be an asset as we work with our valuable travel partners to provide great cruise experiences with Costa to American guests.”

Allen says she is honoured to join the cruise line and lead its sales team in North America, adding: “Costa’s Italian heritage and commitment to responsible innovation in the cruise industry presents an exciting opportunity. I look forward to working with the team and our travel partners to introduce more North American travellers to Costa’s unique blend of Italian style and hospitality.”

To reach Costa Cruises’ sales team, email salessupport@us.costa.it or call 1-800-462-6782.