Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has appointed Jason Montague in a new role of chief luxury officer to oversee the expansion of the company’s premium brands Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
The new leadership structure for the brands will see Oceania president Frank Del Rio Jr report into Montague, while Regent president Andrea DeMarco will step down on March 4 following a transition period.
The company said the appointment would “underscore its focus on its Charting the Course strategy”, which includes adding five newbuilds to its upscale brands’ fleets and plans to refurbish nearly all their existing vessels.
Montague previously held several senior positions within Oceania and Regent and with the lines’ parent company Prestige Cruise Holdings before its acquisition by NCLH in 2014.
He was president and chief operating officer of both lines from December 2014 to August 2016, before focusing on Regent as president and chief executive until December 2022.
Prior to the acquisition, he was Prestige’s chief financial officer and was instrumental in launching Oceania in 2002.
He became a special advisor to NCLH in January 2023, when DeMarco stepped up from her role as Regent’s chief sales and marketing officer to become the line’s president.
At the same time, Oceania chief sales and marketing officer Del Rio Jr took over as president from Howard Sherman.
Harry Sommer, NCLH chief executive, said: “With over 20 years of expertise in luxury hospitality and a strong track record of driving excellence, Jason brings exceptional strategic expertise to our company and to our executive team.
“Having already led Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the past, Jason is uniquely positioned to shape their future. His unwavering passion for these brands, coupled with his financial acumen, alignment with our corporate culture and strong focus on executing our Charting the Course strategy, make him the ideal leader for this next phase of growth.
“Jason is ready to hit the ground running from day one, and I am confident his leadership will propel our brands forward, setting new standards in upscale travel.”
NCLH previously announced plans to add three newbuild vessels to the Oceania Cruises between now and 2029, starting with Allura later this year. The brand’s existing ships Marina and Riviera will also be refurbished in 2026 and 2027 respectively.
Two new vessels are planned for Regent Seven Seas Cruises between now and 2029, with enhancements also planned for Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager in 2025 and 2026 respectively.
Montague said: “I am deeply honoured to once again lead Regent Seven Seas Cruises and collaborate with Frank in leading Oceania Cruises.
“This is an exciting time for these two award-winning brands, as we are ready to execute on our commitment to delivering sophisticated mid-sized, upscale and luxurious ships with elegant designs and state-of-the-art offerings.
“Also, the passion and exceptional talent of team members across each brand, both shoreside and shipside, are a true inspiration. I am confident we will set new standards and create unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
Crediting DeMarco’s “instrumental” role in the success of Regent Seven Seas Cruises in recent years, Sommer added: “We are grateful to Andrea for her more than a decade of contribution to the company and for setting the foundation for Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ continued growth and success. We wish her the very best in her next chapter.”