Marc Kazlauskas, the new president of Norwegian Cruise Line, has long shown the instincts of a natural-born leader. He worked two jobs throughout high school — including a memorable stint caring for the seals and penguins at the New York Aquarium, which left a lasting impression on his guidance counselor — and has since built a wide-ranging career across the travel industry, spanning the hotel, cruise and retail travel sectors.

In this episode of Humans of Travel, listeners will hear about Kazlauskas’ introduction to travel through a French travel agency, as well as his career path, which includes roles at Jolly Hotels, Avoya Travel and Chase Travel Group, among others.

Now at the helm of Norwegian Cruise Line, Kazlauskas shares his vision for strengthening the brand’s luxury and family offerings, from private island enhancements to the debut of new ships such as Norwegian Luna and Norwegian Aura. He also discusses NCL’s decision to eliminate non-commissionable fares, and underscores the company’s continued commitment to travel advisors.

This episode is sponsored by the Globus Family of Brands.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Norwegian Cruise Line

From TravelAge West: Norwegian Cruise Line Permanently Removes NCFs

Contact Kazlauskas: mkazlauskas@ncl.com

ABOUT YOUR HOST 

Emma Weissmann is the Executive Editor of TravelAge West, a print magazine and website for travel advisors based in the Western U.S. She is also the co-host of Trade Secrets, a podcast created with sister publication Travel Weekly, and the Editor-in-Chief of print publication AGENTatHOME.

TravelAge West also produces events including Future Leaders in Travel, Global Travel Marketplace West, the WAVE Awards gala ad the Napa Valley Leadership Forum. 

ABOUT THE SHOW 

TravelAge West’s award-winning podcast, “Humans of Travel,” features conversations with exceptional people who have compelling stories to tell. Listeners will hear from the travel industry’s notable authorities, high-profile executives, travel advisors and rising stars as they share the highs and lows that make them human.