Silversea Cruises appointed cruise industry veteran Katina Athanasiou as senior vice president of sales, effective Dec. 1, 2021. In this position, Athanasiou will drive Silversea’s sales strategy in the Americas across all channels, reporting to Mark Conroy, Silversea’s managing director, the Americas.

With an illustrious career in the cruise industry that spans 21 years, Athanasiou is perfectly placed to apply her wealth of experience and expertise to the boutique approach of the leading ultra-luxury cruise line, a press release said. The executive most recently served as chief sales officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, where she developed, implemented and led profitable business development strategies, while nurturing the long-term success of travel partners and leading high-achieving teams through her focus on performance and culture.

“Athanasiou has a proven record of developing strong partnerships to deliver successful sales strategies, which will prove invaluable as we continue on our ambitious growth trajectory as part of the Royal Caribbean Group,” Barbara Muckermann, chief commercial officer, Silversea Cruises, said in the release.

“I’m delighted to join Silversea Cruises during this exciting period, as we optimize all channels towards the company’s long-term growth,” Athanasiou said in the release. “With its aggressive shipbuilding program and leadership position in luxury and expedition cruising, this is an incredible time for our guests and travel advisor partners. I’m thrilled to return to the luxury cruise space and look forward to engaging with all internal and external stakeholders to deliver and unlock deep, meaningful experiences in luxury travel.”