Royal Caribbean International has appointed Michael Bayley as president and chief executive.
He has switched with immediate effect from sister upmarket operator Celebrity Cruises where he held the equivalent role of president and chief executive.
Royal executive vice-president operations Lisa Lutoff-Perlo has moved in the other direction to Celebrity to take on the job of president and chief executive.
Richard Fain, chairman and chief executive of parent brand Royal Caribbean Cruises, said: “This is a happy day for Michael and Lisa, and a proud day for all of us at the company.
“To recognise these two incredibly talented people with these vital leadership positions after years of dedication, effort and innovative thinking is gratifying for everyone here. I am impressed with the skills they have demonstrated over the course of their careers, and I am excited to see where they take these powerful brands next.
“No one who has seen either of these two exceptional executives in action can be surprised by their continuing growth as leaders. As a company, we have a mantra of continuous improvement; in Michael and Lisa, we have two talented leaders who will help us continue to deliver on that commitment to our shareholders, employees and guests.”
Before his Celebrity role, Bayley served in several senior roles at Royal Caribbean International, including executive vice president of operations. He is credited for playing a key role in the company’s international expansion, helping launch company operations in markets around the world.
Bayley said: “Royal Caribbean International is a brand with an incredible history – and unlimited potential.
“The ships, personified in the new Quantum class, are some of the best and most innovative in the world. And the crews that service Royal Caribbean International guests have a track record of delighting guests from every culture around the world. I look forward to an exciting future as we raise our game to an even higher level of performance.”
Lutoff-Perlo, who most recently served as executive vice president of operations at Royal Caribbean, played a critical role in the recent launch of Quantum of the Seas.
She said: “Celebrity Cruises has done a remarkable job differentiating itself in a crowded and competitive premium marketplace, and with its newly announced Edge class ships, the brand has the opportunity to push its leadership position even farther.
“I’m excited to tackle that challenge with a team of men and women I know well, including crews that consistently exceed our guests’ highest expectations.”