Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced today that cruise industry veteran Roberto Martinoli has been appointed president and chief operating officer. In this senior leadership role, he is responsible for all aspects of fleet operations, including the construction of NCL’s largest Freestyle Cruising vessel, Norwegian Epic. He reports to Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer, who maintains responsibility for all other areas of NCL’s business.

“We are so pleased to welcome Roberto to NCL as he brings a vast amount of expertise in operations to the company,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer. “Under his leadership, NCL’s legacy of innovation will continue and take us through to our next generation of Freestyle Cruising with the arrival of Norwegian Epic.”

Prior to his appointment Martinoli was working in Europe as advisor to Apollo Management, a private equity company that is also one of NCL’s shareholders. Martinoli has more than 30 years experience in the shipping and cruise business. His previous roles include executive vice president, operations at Carnival Cruise Lines; senior vice president, operations at Costa Crociere and managing partner at Martinoli Group, a ship management and consulting company.

“I am very eager to join NCL and thank Kevin for the opportunity to contribute to its success. NCL’s fleet is not only the youngest of the North American contemporary market, but its ships are also built with the highest industry’s standard and are uniquely designed around the customer’s needs,” said Martinoli. “During my tenure at Apollo Management, I had the fortune to meet many of NCL’s executives and I look forward professionally and personally to joining this remarkable and strong team.”

Martinoli holds a master’s degree in naval architecture and mechanical engineering from the University of Genoa.