Fathom has engaged 44-year cruise industry veteran Maurice Zarmati to work with the new cruise line, according to a statement.

“Maurice has been a trusted advisor to Carnival Corporation and me for more than four decades, beginning in 1972 when my father invited Maurice to be among the small group of founding members of the Carnival Cruise Lines team,” said Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation. “I look forward to Maurice’s wealth of industry expertise furthering the success of this new category of cruise being pioneered by Fathom.”

Zarmati’s career spans 40-plus years and includes executive-level positions with Carnival Cruise Lines and Costa Cruises. After retiring from his role as president and CEO of North America for Costa almost four years ago, Zarmati began providing consulting services to a range of cruise line companies and cruise industry suppliers, assisting with worldwide sales, marketing and passenger-traffic initiatives.  

“Maurice was on the frontlines selling Carnival Cruise Lines when the company had just three ships and carried only 160,000 passengers a year, so he has an insider’s perspective on the exciting journey from start-up to industry-leading global venture,” said Arnold Donald, chief executive officer of Carnival Corporation. “His insight and relationships are a great addition to our Fathom team.”

According to Zarmati, working with the Fathom team is an exciting opportunity for him to apply his background and skills in new and different ways and make a positive difference in the world, as he helps market the unique Fathom experiences. 

“The Fathom team is doing something remarkable – it’s harnessing the assets and resources of the world’s largest travel and leisure company for the greatest possible transformative impact, globally. It is gratifying to be on the ground floor of building something that will for the first time provide travelers the opportunity to build community with like-minded travelers, become immersed in another culture, and work alongside its people to create enduring social impact,” said Zarmati.

“At our first meeting, I knew Maurice could be an incredible resource for Fathom,” said Tara Russell, president of Fathom and global impact lead for Carnival Corporation. “Maurice is well-known and highly respected throughout the cruise industry. His first-hand knowledge and multicultural expertise will complement our current programs supporting travel professionals who are selling Fathom to the passionate and growing number of travelers seeking mindful, purpose-driven experiences.” 

Zarmati resides in Miami. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in foreign languages and literature and general and marketing management from the University of Miami.