In one of three major moves in the cruise industry, SeaDream Yacht Club appointed Pamela Conover as its CEO effective Jan. 2, 2013. Conover was president and CEO of Seabourn Cruise Line during the introduction of the Odyssey class ships and president of Cunard Line during the introduction of Queen Mary 2. SeaDream’s owner and founder, Atle Brynestad, has been in the role of CEO since Larry Pimentel’s departure in 2009. SeaDream’s President Bob Lepisto remains onboard in the same position.
In other news, Gabriela Gonzalez has been named VP – guest technology & photo operations for Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines. In this new role, Gonzalez is responsible for overseeing the company’s photo operation as well as all guest technology efforts, including Internet and voice and data communications. She is also responsible for the development and expansion of Carnival’s FunHub computer and mobile products. Gonzalez reports to Gus Antorcha, Carnival’s SVP of guest commerce.
Lastly, Mitchell J. Schlesinger announced his departure from Voyages to Antiquity. Schlesinger helped oversee the launch of the niche cruise line, and Jim Applebaum, formerly of Paul Gauguin Cruises, was named the VP of sales and marketing, North America. Applebaum recently served as the director of sales during his seven-year tenure at the five-star luxury cruise line Paul Gauguin Cruises. Before that Applebaum worked for First European Cruises and Travelsavers.