The cruise industry’s brightest rising stars have been revealed, as Seatrade Cruise News announces the winners of the highly anticipated 20 Under 40 programme for 2025 during a dedicated ceremony today at Seatrade Cruise Global.
The esteemed 20 Under 40 Honours programme returns for the 40th-anniversary edition of Seatrade Cruise Global. In keeping with the theme of ‘Milestones’, the programme highlights the importance of looking ahead to the next generation of leaders in the cruise industry.
The initiative recognises individuals aged 40 or under who are making remarkable contributions across cruise lines, ports and destinations, shipbuilding, and service provision, shining a spotlight on the next generation of talent driving innovation, transformation, and leadership across the global cruise industry.
Thank you to Telenor Maritime, the proud sponsor of the 2025 programme, for displaying their dedication to the future of cruise industry talent.
“As the cruise industry continues to evolve, it’s vital that we recognise and celebrate the people who are helping to shape its future. The 20 Under 40 programme is our way of shining a spotlight on the exceptional initiative, unwavering work ethic and exemplary leadership that exists among the next generation. These individuals are not only driving innovation today – but they’re also laying the foundations for a stronger, more sustainable industry tomorrow.” – Mary Bond, Group Director, Seatrade Cruise
Seatrade Cruise News is delighted to announce the 20 under 40 winners are:
· Farah Barhorst, Director Onboard Revenue – Holland America Line and Seabourn
· Marie Andree Blanchet, Director, Cruise and Port Ecosystem – Quebec Port Authority
· Darien Flowers, Group Vice President of Maritime Policy and Government Affairs – MSC Group
· Sarah Fury, VP Guest Operations – Victory Cruise Line
· Tom Goetter, VP Hotel Operations – Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours
· Patricia Gonzalez, VP of Marketing – Windstar Cruises
· Maureen Hayes, Director, Maritime Policy – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
· Steve Jones, Director of Fundraising & Operations – ORCA
· April Laws, Director, Travel Services – Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
· Alan O’Reilly, Operations Director – MJM Marine
· Harriet Read, Manager, Onboard Connectivity Product Owner – Carnival UK
· Benny Retnamony, Founder & CEO – Quvia
· Natalia Rolle, Director People & Culture – Heinemann Americas, Inc.
· Natasha Salzedo, Director, Itinerary Planning and Shore Excursions – Virgin Voyages
· Claudio Sammartano, Head of Onboard Revenue – Azamara Cruises
· Stan Schmal, Director Digital & AI – Lufthansa Industry Solutions US
· Ryan Simpson, Head of Technology – Ambassador Cruise Line
· Nicole Thornton, Director of Expedition Development – Lindblad Expeditions
· Piervalerio Vignola, Director, Fleet Operations Center & Nautical Technologies – Carnival Cruise Line
· Hande Ipek Yamanel, Chief Officer – Virgin Voyages
Selected from a competitive pool of international nominations, this year’s Class of 2025 was chosen by an esteemed panel of judges comprising:
· Mary Bond, Group Director, Seatrade Cruise
· Andrew Coggins, Cruise Industry Analyst, Pace University, New York
· Jason Gelineau, Principal, JAG Hospitality
· Roberta Jacoby, Executive Advisor, Jacoby Advisors
· Joost van Ree, Group Director Cruise & Yachts, Ocean Technology Group
· Sveinung Sætre, Head of Sales Americas, Telenor Maritim
“The calibre was outstanding. I was very impressed, congratulations to everyone,” said Andrew Coggins, Cruise Industry Analyst, Pace University, New York.
With thousands of cruise industry professionals already through the doors today, there’s still so much more to look forward to as the rest of Seatrade Cruise Global gets underway. With 600+ exhibitors, world-class conference sessions and unrivalled networking opportunities, the event promises to deliver inspiration, innovation and valuable connections at every turn
