Bert Hernandez has taken up the role of president of Silversea Cruises after the departure of Barbara Muckermann.

Muckermann, who took up the role of president on January 1, 2023, has left to “pursue other opportunities” after 14 years with the business.

Effective today (April 12) Hernandez has assumed the role of president. Most recently serving as senior vice-president, international, Hernandez has worked in the Royal Caribbean Group for 20 years, previously working as chief operations officer of Azamara.

He said it is a “honour” to be the line’s new president, and hailed the “wonderful” work Muckermann achieved in her tenure.

“The opportunity to lead and grow such a beloved brand is a great honour and I couldn’t be more excited to work with the experienced Silversea leadership team,” he said.

“I have long admired the wonderful brand that Barbara and team have built over 30 tears and respect how they have been driven to create the most unique and memorable experiences in travel.

“The future of the brand has never been brighter as we continue the tradition of delivering best in class experiences with the arrival of Silver Ray this year.”

Jason Liberty, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean Group, congratulated Hernandez on his appointment, saying: “I know Bert is well positioned to chart a smart course for Silversea’s continued growth and success.”

He continued: “At Royal Caribbean Group, we are committed to delivering the very best experiences in the ultra-luxury and expedition space, and I am confident in Bert’s ability to find opportunities to take the brand to the next level.”

He added: “I have had the pleasure of working with Barbara since 2018 when Silversea joined Royal Caribbean Group, first in her role as chief marketing and commercial officer and later as brand president.

“Barbara has helped position Silversea as the world’s top ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line and the brand further solidified its leadership with the official inauguration of Silver Nova earlier this year, a ship hailed as ushering in a new era of luxury at sea.”