Scenic names new boss of global cruise operations

Scenic names new boss of global cruise operations

Cruise industry expert Benny Weidacher has joined Scenic Group as its vice president of global cruise operations.

Weidacher will oversee all operational aspects of the company’s hotel services, culinary programs, expedition teams and technical departments for the river and ocean cruising yacht fleet for Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Cruises brands.

He will report directly to Rob Voss, Scenic Group’s chief operating officer.

As a 25-year cruise industry veteran, Weidacher most recently served as the VP of ship operations for its marine and hotel divisions for Madrid-based Pullmantur Cruise Lines.

Prior to that role, he was the project manager of new build and fleet design for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (now Royal Caribbean International).

Weidacher has also held a variety of other leadership positions during his career, including hotel director for both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises.

Voss said Weidacher has a “tremendous” track record and reputation of success in the cruise industry and his knowledge and experience in all components of cruise operations will be invaluable to Scenic.

“As Scenic’s guest-centric focus is always top of mind, Benny’s proven ability to develop unique and memorable experiences will bring even greater opportunities for us to check off the bucket lists of our guests, bringing them the ‘wow’ moments of travel that are talked about for years,” he said.

Commenting on his appointment, Weidacher said: “I am delighted and honoured to join the Scenic Group family – one that shares my passion for the highest level of guest satisfaction, while maintaining a daily focus on new health and safety protocols, maximising efficiencies and creating a work atmosphere that is professional, respectful and encourages new ideas.

“With the 2019 launch of the Scenic Eclipse, the new builds of Scenic Eclipse II and Emerald Azzurra, and an owner like Glen Moroney, whose endless energy and passion for travel continues to set even higher standards in the ultra-luxury cruise market, I am excited to start a journey with a company that is at the forefront of the cruise industry and will always be a driving force.”

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