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Andy Stuart to step down as Norwegian Cruise Line CEO after 31 years with company

Andy Stuart is to retire from his position as CEO for Norwegian Cruise Line following the launch of the company’s last Breakaway-Plus class cruise ship Norwegian Encore.

Stuart, whose tenure with NCL spans more than 30 years, will be replaced by Harry Sommer, currently President of International for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (the parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line).

Harry Sommer (right) with Frank del Rio (left)

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In addition to NCL, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings also owns Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises.

“I could only have dreamed about my journey at Norwegian when I joined the company in 1988 and am extremely fortunate to have witnessed firsthand the incredible evolution of this pioneering brand,” said Andy Stuart, President & Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Andy Stuart, President, Norwegian Cruise Line

“I am honored to have played a role in the leadership position Norwegian now holds in this incredible industry and continue to be proud of the commitment, dedication and passion of our team for delivering a best-in-class vacation experience. I have worked closely with Harry and am confident he is the right person to take the helm and continue the journey for Norwegian Cruise Line,” he added.

Stuart will officially step down as CEO on December 31st, 2019, but will remain with the cruise line as a Senior Advisor until March 31st, 2020, to ensure a smooth transition.

Stuart will shepherd the final Breakaway-Plus class cruise ship Norwegian Encore into service before stepping down

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“Andy has accomplished everything possible in the cruise industry, including leading its most storied and innovative brand,” said Frank Del Rio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “We are extremely grateful for his leadership and contributions to Norwegian Cruise Line, our company and the cruise industry.”

“The Board and I are confident that Harry is the right person to succeed Andy as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Norwegian Cruise Line brand and look forward to him leveraging his breadth of knowledge and extensive experience in the industry and our Company to take the brand to new heights,” Del Rio added.

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