Atlas Ocean Voyages has appointed James Rodriguez as its new President and CEO, taking over the helm of the new luxury adventure cruise line following the recent departure of Alberto Aliberti.
Rodriguez brings more than 20 years of success in the industry to Atlas Ocean Voyages and he joins the company at a pivotal time of brand development and growth.
With the launch of World Navigator in August 2021 and the upcoming November launch of the brand’s second vessel, World Traveller, Rodriguez’s extensive experience in the areas of sales, marketing, operations, human resources and guest experience will be crucial in propelling the brand forward in the areas of innovation, trade partnerships and guest acquisition.
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“James’ entrepreneurial experience in helping build and market successful brands will be a key advantage as we continue to introduce our new brand to the North American market,” said Mário Ferreira, Chairman of Mystic Invest Holdings, parent company of Atlas Ocean Voyages.
“James has an unwavering passion for the cruise industry and a reputation for being a champion of travel advisors,” Ferreira said.
“We are confident that, under James’ leadership, Atlas Ocean Voyages will be the best small luxury expeditions cruise line in short order.”
Rodriguez, who previously worked with the likes of Crystal Cruises and most recently Oceania Cruises for 18.5 years, said he was “deeply honoured” to join Atlas Ocean Voyages.
“Only one year in service, Atlas is already an established cruise brand with
elegantly designed expedition ships that sail to bucket-list destinations and an exceptional staff and crew who deliver excellent service. Looking forward, we will continue to build upon that success by further enhancing the guest experience aboard our luxurious ships.”
“In addition, we are committed to strengthening and expanding our relationships with the trade community,” Rodriguez said, “as we highly value our travel partners and are grateful for their support in recommending Atlas.”
At Oceania, Rodriguez served as Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing and helped build the brand in the areas of omni-channel marketing, sales, corporate communications, loyalty programs, guest services, new product development, sustainability initiatives and corporate philanthropy.
World Navigator and World Traveller both feature 98 suites, solo suites with no single supplements, and staterooms, and are the line’s first two small expedition ships bringing travellers to smaller, authentic, and exclusive locales. Three additional sister ships, World Seeker, World Adventurer and World Discoverer, will join the fleet through 2024.