Variety Cruises has appointed Steven Simao as vice president of sales for North America. A cruise veteran, Simao has honed his skills in the industry for 30 years, working for companies such as Norwegian Cruise Line and Holland America. Most recently, he served as vice president of global sales at Windstar Cruises.
“With the growing consumer interest in small-ship cruising, I am very excited to support the North American tour operator and travel agency community in growing their sales with Variety Cruises,” said Simao.
Simao eyed a career in the cruise industry during his first cruise at 14 years old. He officially launched his cruising career by sailing for seven years (including two world cruises) before transitioning to sales and marketing roles. Following his decades-long career—and having visited more than 100 countries across all continents—he joins Variety Cruises with solid relationships in all consortia, key accounts, host agencies and front-line travel advisors. Based in Allentown, PA, Simao will be working closely with Variety Cruises’s global team in Athens and New York, strategically aiming to increase brand awareness and achieve the company’s revenue goals in the NAM market.
“We are confident that his experience, passion and drive will add value to our North American and global teams and that our collaboration will generate outstanding results for us all in growing the North American market, by far representing 50 percent of our clientele, and in achieving our vision of creating a ‘Better World at Sea,’” said Malvina Vonta, chief commercial officer, Variety Cruises.
The small ship cruise line recently announced a major rebrand as the third generation officially took the wheel honoring the founder’s lifelong mission of providing seven-day, life-enriching experiences at sea to new destinations outside of Greece, as the company expands its operations abroad.
For more information, visit www.varietycruises.com.
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