The first woman to lead Silversea Cruises as CEO, Barbara Muckermann, has left the company effective today and been replaced by Bert Hernandez, Royal Caribbean International’s senior vice president, international.
Hernandez, who has been named Silversea president, has worked with Royal Caribbean Group for 20 years. His most recent role focused on positioning Royal Caribbean International as the vacation brand of choice, the company said.
He has also served as president of China operations for Royal Caribbean International and chief operating officer for Azamara when Royal Caribbean Group owned the line.
In an email, Muckermann said she has decided to embrace a “new challenge.”
“It has been a privilege to serve this amazing brand, in this amazing industry, with the best press professionals I ever met! Stay tuned knowing that our professional paths will cross again!” she said.
Muckermann had worked with Silversea for 14 years, although not consecutively. Most recently, she served as CEO for 15 months with previous positions as chief commercial officer and chief marketing officer.
Muckermann took the role of Silversea CEO in early 2023, replacing Roberto Martinoli, her husband, who had served in that position since 2016.
Muckermann’s career includes more than 25 years of experience in travel and hospitality, with stints at Norwgeian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and CLIA from 2005 to 2016.
During her time at Silversea, the brand debuted the first of its Muse class vessels, the Silver Nova. Its sister, the Silver Ray, will debut in the Mediterranean in June.