Norwegian Cruise Line announced that David J. Herrera has stepped down as president, effective August 20, 2025, after just over two years in the role.
Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), has assumed Herrera’s responsibilities on an interim basis while the company conducts a formal search for a new brand president.
The leadership change was disclosed in an August 20 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
In a statement, Sommer said the transition supports Norwegian’s strategic growth efforts as the brand prepares for several major developments.
“Aligned with our continued strategic evolution and focus on our Charting the Course Strategy and 2026 targets, NCL is entering a transformative chapter in its nearly 60-year history that will elevate the guest experience even further,” Sommer said. He pointed to seven new ships on order and the large-scale expansion of Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s private island, as key growth opportunities.
Herrera had been with Norwegian Cruise Line and its parent company since 2012. Before becoming president in April 2023, he served in senior leadership roles across finance, strategy, and marketing.
During his tenure as president, Herrera oversaw the launches of Norwegian Viva in 2023 and Norwegian Aqua in 2025. He also led efforts on the upcoming Norwegian Luna, scheduled to debut in April 2026 from PortMiami.
Earlier this year, Norwegian Epic and Pride of America completed major dry dock refurbishments under his leadership. The company also announced plans for a new waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay featuring 19 waterslides, an 800-foot lazy river, and a 170-foot-tall slide tower.
Sommer previously held the role of Norwegian Cruise Line president before being promoted to lead NCLH in 2023. He now returns to the day-to-day leadership of the cruise line while the company works with an executive search firm to find a permanent successor.
NCLH reported record second-quarter revenue of $2.52 billion across its three brands in July. Combined occupancy reached 103.9 percent for the quarter.
