Joseph Grimley and David Chidley will take up two newly created business development manager roles with the line. Viva said the appointments reflected its "long-term commitment" to growing business through the trade.

Grimley will join the line on 11 May, looking after agents in the north, Scotland and Northern Ireland. He brings more than 25 years' cruise and travel industry experience to his new role following spells with Riviera Travel, Scenic and Emerald Cruises, and Fred Holidays.

Chidley, meanwhile, will join Viva on 15 June. He will look after the line's relationships with agents in the south. Like Grimley, he brings nearly 30 years' industry experience with Royal Caribbean, Uniworld, Fred River Cruises and Hurtigruten to his position.

Grimley and Chidley will both report into Viva's UK and Ireland country manager Michelle Daniels. "Their extensive knowledge and passion for the industry will play a key role as we continue to build the Viva Cruises brand across the UK and Ireland, while strengthening relationships with both new and valued trade partners," said Daniels.

"Alongside Stephen Sands, who continues to support the business in Ireland, they form a highly experienced and dedicated UK and Ireland sales team focused on driving sustainable growth."

Andrea Kruse, chief executive and co-founder of Viva Cruises, added: "Strengthening our presence within the UK and Ireland travel trade is central to our growth strategy. Joseph and David are both highly regarded within the industry and bring a wealth of experience, insight and established relationships.

"Their appointments demonstrate our long‑term commitment to supporting our trade partners and investing in a knowledgeable, dedicated sales team that can work closely with agents across all key regions."