Gus Antorcha was named president of Holland America Line today. He previously served as COO for Carnival Cruise Line but will now report directly to Stein Kruse, group CEO of Holland America Group and Carnival UK.
Antorcha will lead one of Carnival Corporation’s most storied brands, Holland America Line, an award-winning, premium cruise line known for immersive, authentic experiences onboard and shoreside. In this role, he will guide Holland America Line’s return to cruise operations and plans for future growth, including sales and marketing, revenue management, deployment and itinerary planning, public relations, guest services operations and strategic planning.
As an industry veteran with over nine years of service at Carnival Cruise Line, Antorcha held several key leadership roles supporting the brand’s continued growth and popularity amongst cruisers. Prior to becoming chief operations officer, Antorcha served as Carnival Cruise Line’s executive vice president, guest services, responsible for onboard operations, and senior vice president, guest commerce. He previously served as a partner and managing director for Boston Consulting Group.
“When you think of longevity and success among global cruise lines today, Holland America Line is arguably among the top, with a proud history of nearly 150 years,” said Antorcha. “On each ship, the guest experience attracts cruisers back again and again with the best live music at sea, a culinary program that rivals the best land-based restaurants, and engaging talks and activities that seek to deepen each guest’s appreciation of the places they visit.
“I am eager to begin working toward our future with the dedicated and talented people that have been important in establishing the brand’s reputation as the go-to cruise line for cultural immersion,” noted Antorcha. “Likewise, I look forward to collaborating with our travel advisor community to continue supporting them and helping them build their Holland America Line business.”
