Seatrade Cruise News revealed the global cruise sector’s brightest rising stars with the announcement of 2025’s 20 Under 40 honourees.
Awardees were given recognition on Monday, 7th April, at a dedicated ceremony today at Seatrade Cruise Global which is currently ongoing in Miami, FL.
The latest 20 Under 40 Honours programme is yet another milestone as Seatrade Cruise Global celebrates its 40th anniversary.
In keeping with the theme of “Milestones,” the programme highlighted the importance of looking ahead to the next generation of leaders in the cruise industry.
Laurels for a new generation
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.
According to Seatrade Cruise group director Mary Bond: “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.”
Sveinung Sætre, head of sales in the Americas for 20 Under 40 sponsor Telenor Maritime, remarked: “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.”
Andrew Coggins, cruise industry analyst for Pace University in New York and a member of this year’s deliberation panel, added: “The calibre was outstanding. I was very impressed, congratulations to everyone.”
The 2025 20 Under 40 Honours list
- 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
