Valentine joined Havila four years ago from Hurtigruten where he was head of sales and developing markets, EMEA. 

In his new position at Havila, Valentine will retain day to day responsibility for his existing regions – UK, US, Canada, Australia and Spain, The Netherlands and Belgium – as well as others globally. 

Valentine will report into chief sales officer Johanna Hansli. 

She said: “Having known Matthew for many years, I have no doubt that his commercial acumen and wealth of experience will prove invaluable in growing the Havila Voyages brand globally. 

“We have ambitious plans for our business, and this new position will be key to making them happen.”

Valentine added: “I’m very much looking forward to working with the team to explore new opportunities and build on their successes around the world. 

“Havila Voyages is already sailing on battery power through the fjords, but we are on target to operate our whole 11-day voyage emission free by 2030.

“I firmly believe our environmental credentials, combined with our fleet of modern, spacious ships, leave us well positioned for growth in the years ahead.”