Explora Journeys – the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group – has appointed Christopher Austin President North America, with him based in Miami.
Mr Austin joined Explora Journeys in November 2020 as the brand’s Chief Sales Officer.
Prior to that, he spent nearly three decades in leading hospitality roles, including Senior Vice President Global Marketing & Sales at another luxury cruise line and Vice President Global Luxury & Leisure Sales for one of the leading global luxury hotel groups.
He has been appointed to assume full ownership of the North American teams and market for Explora Journeys, spanning the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Mr Austin said: “Taking the helm of Explora Journeys’ North American teams and market as President North America is both an honour and a thrilling challenge. I’m deeply committed to continuing the exceptional work of establishing our brand as a leader in luxury ocean travel.
“This new appointment represents not only a testament to our past achievements but also a boundless opportunity to shape the future of luxury hospitality at sea. I’m excited to lead our talented teams towards even greater success and to deliver unforgettable journeys to our discerning travellers across from the United States, Canada, and Mexico.”
Pierfrancesco Vago, Chairman Cruise Division MSC Group, said: “Chris is a highly respected leader in the luxury hospitality industry and was one of the founding members of the Explora Journeys leadership team, joining nearly four years ago.
“The appointment signifies not only his exceptional talent but also the boundless growth opportunities within our organisation. With his extensive expertise, Chris will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our business as we welcome new luxury ships to our fleet, with EXPLORA II launching this year. We are thrilled to have him as President North America, confident in his ability to deepen our partner penetration, drive increased demand, grow consumer awareness and brand adoption and continue to build the North America organization, including in early 2025 the move into new offices in downtown Miami.”
EXPLORA I is currently sailing in North America and the Caribbean. EXPLORA II will enter service in 2024 and liquefied natural gas-powered ships EXPLORA III and EXPLORA IV will join the fleet in 2026 and 2027 respectively. EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI will enter service in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
