Gus Antorcha named Princess Cruises president amid Carnival Corp shake-up
Harry KembleHolland America Line (HAL) president Gus Antorcha has been named the new boss of Princess Cruises, replacing John Padgett, who is stepping away from the line’s parent Carnival Corporation in February 2025.
The move is a part of a leadership reshuffle which will also see Beth Bodensteiner, senior vice-president and chief commercial officer of HAL, become the line’s president from 2 December.
Bodensteiner will also have executive responsibility for Carnival Corporation’s ultra-luxury line Seabourn after its president Natalya Leahy accepted a new position outside of the company.
Mark Tamis will return to Carnival as Seabourn’s president, replacing Leahy. Tamis, who has previously had stints at Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line, brings more than 30 years’ cruising and expedition travel experience to his new role.
Both Antorcha and Bodensteiner will report into Josh Weinstein, Carnival Corp’s chief executive.
Weinstein said: “Gus and Beth are proven leaders who reflect the talent and capabilities of our organisation and who have a deep knowledge of our industry, our business, and what drives our success.
"Under their leadership, I have no doubt that Princess, Holland America and Seabourn will remain well-positioned for a bright future, and we look forward to the next chapter for these two world-class brands and their ongoing success."
Weinstein thanked Padgett for his “service and innovation” spanning more than decade. “John’s dedication and impact have been significant,” he added. “We wish him all the best.”
Under Antorcha’s leadership, HAL has achieved a number of milestones including amassing the largest single booking day in the line’s history and delivering the strongest financial results in 16 years.
Prior to becoming HAL president, Antorcha was Carnival Cruise Line’s chief operating officer.
On his new role, Antorcha said: “I have tremendous respect for the fantastic Princess onboard and shoreside teams and their dedication to creating memorable travel experiences, and it’s a privilege to lead this remarkable brand.
“I look forward to working with the talented team and their travel partners, and to continue delivering the distinctly effortless, personalised Princess MedallionClass vacation experience that has made Princess so popular."
Bodensteiner, meanwhile, said she “could not be prouder to take on the role of president”, adding: “This is a tremendous opportunity to work together with my trusted leadership team to continue building on our rich history of helping millions of guests explore the world with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to each destination."
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