By
Rebecca Gibson |
Richard Vogel has succeeded Jorges Vilches as president and CEO of the Pullmantur Group, which manages both Pullmantur Cruises and Croisieres de France.
Vilches has opted to leave the group after parent company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. sold its majority stake in the firm. The transfer saw 51% of the company sold to Springwater Capital Group, with Royal Caribbean retaining the remaining 49%.
“It's been a privilege to lead the Pullmantur Group,” said Vilches. “I am proud of what we have accomplished, and I leave the company with the comfort of knowing that she is now stronger than when I arrived and [a] leader in our markets."
Vogel, who joined Saga Cruises as non-executive director in 2014, previously spent nine years as president of TUI Cruises, another Royal Caribbean brand.
“Richard Vogel brings strategic and dynamic vision we need to bring growth [to] Pullmantur,” said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “His success within the company TUI Cruises gives us full confidence in the future and Pullmantur Cruises in France."
Vogel said: “I am impressed by the culture of the company as evidenced by Pullmantur Cruises and employees of France both in France and Spain, and their commitment to meet the requirements of all customers. With this passion to guarantee guests a unique edge to stay, we can achieve great things together and raise our market position."
Pullmantur’s ships sail itineraries in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Norwegian fjords and the Caribbean.