Seatrade Cruise News Announces 20 Under 40 Winners at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025

Miami Beach, FL., USA – 07 April 2025 – 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 programme is proudly sponsored by Telenor Maritime. Sveinung Sætre, Head of Sales Americas says, ‘We’re truly honoured to be part of the 20 Under 40 panel, celebrating the outstanding individuals shaping the future of the cruise industry. As a company committed to delivering cutting-edge digitalisation and connectivity solutions to vessels and platforms worldwide, we believe in the power of innovation and leadership.”

 

“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.

For more information on the 20 Under 40 Class of 2025, click here.
Photos will be available for download in the digital press room.

 

To register, please visit Seatrade Cruise Global’s official website.

About Seatrade Cruise Global:

Seatrade Cruise Global is the largest and longest-running event of its kind, bringing together every sector of the cruise industry, including cruise lines, suppliers, travel agents and partners. The event offers a comprehensive conference programme, a showcase of innovative products and services, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

Discover the full events calendar and keep up to date on LinkedIn and Instagram.
 

ALSO THIS WEEK:

F&B@Sea | 09-10 April 2025  

 

SAVE THE DATE:

Seatrade Europe | 10-12 September 2025 
 

About Seatrade Cruise

Serving the international cruise community since 1970, Seatrade Cruise is the industry’s leading platform for collaborating, innovating and connecting. Comprised of the largest cruise events and trades shows, news channels and coveted awards programs, the Seatrade Cruise portfolio reaches more than 20,000 professionals, 4,000+ suppliers, 120+ cruise line brands and 140+ countries.  

For more information on Seatrade Cruise Events visit www.seatradecruiseevents.com. For access to the latest news and industry updates visit seatrade-cruise.com. 

Seatrade Cruise Events are organized by Informa Markets; the largest B2B Events organiser in the world. To learn more and for the latest news and information, visit informamarkets.com.