Thomas McAlpin has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of ResidenSea, Ltd., the management company responsible for operations, administration, sales and marketing for the only residential community at sea, The World. His appointment will be effective July 20.

McAlpin’s experience, creativity and insight are attributes that are an ideal match for the distinct lifestyle and premise of The World.

An industry veteran with more than 20 years of domestic and international experience in ship management and operations, McAlpin spent 14 years at Disney Cruise Line; most recently as its President. During his tenure with Disney, he demonstrated success by delivering a superior customer experience and exciting new product offerings and itineraries. He crafted the original business plan for the successful launch of Disney’s entry into the cruise industry and he led the expansion efforts to add two new ships to the Disney fleet. Prior to joining Disney in 1994, McAlpin was the Director of Corporate Planning and Analysis for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line / Admiral Cruises for eight years.

His immediate understanding of the exceptional and unique travel experience offered aboard The World will enable him to enhance and build on the ship’s well-established reputation.

“I am incredibly excited about this opportunity to lead an organization that created one of the most unique lifestyles in the world for its Residents and Guests,” McAlpin said. “I am equally honored by the confidence that the Residents place in me to continue to deliver the “best of the best” in all aspect of the business.”

McAlpin joined the Make-A-Wish Foundation® National Board in April 2006 and currently chairs the Audit & Finance committee. He is a member of the Board of Governors for Florida State University’s College of Business. He has also served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality, and is a member of their Advisory Board. McAlpin holds a bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance from Florida State University and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Miami.

In 2009, The World will visit over 25 countries, promising another year of travel adventures, in-depth exploration and unforgettable journeys.