A former executive with Spanish line Pullmantur has joined Scenic Group as vice president of global cruise operations.
Twenty five-year cruise industry veteran Benny Weidacher will oversee all operational aspects of the company’s hotel services, food, expedition teams and technical departments for the river and ocean cruising yacht fleet for Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Cruises brands.
He was most recently vice president, ship operations marine and hotel for Madrid-based Pullmantur Cruise Lines.
He was previously new build and fleet design project manager for Royal Caribbean and also held a variety of leadership positions for both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises.
Scenic Group chief operating officer Rob Voss said: “Benny has a tremendous track record and reputation of success in the cruise industry and his knowledge and experience in all components of cruise operations, including hotel operations, guest services, crew performance and managing revitalisation projects and new builds, will be invaluable to us as Scenic Group continues to grow.
“Benny’s proven ability to develop unique and memorable experiences will bring even greater opportunities for us to check off the bucket lists of our guests, bringing them the wow moments of travel that are talked about for years.”
Weidacher added: “I am delighted and honoured to join the Scenic Group family – one that shares my passion for the highest level of guest satisfaction while maintaining a daily focus on new health and safety protocols, maximising efficiencies and creating a work atmosphere that is professional, respectful and encourages new ideas.
“With the 2019 launch of Scenic Eclipse, the new builds of Scenic Eclipse II and Emerald Azzurra, and an owner like Glen Moroney, who’s endless energy and passion for travel continues to set even higher standards in the ultra-luxury cruise market, I am excited to start a journey with a company that is at the forefront of the cruise industry and will always be a driving force.”