As Oceania Cruises enters a "new phase of growth and evolution", the line said, Carter has taken the opportunity to focus on his personal goals.
 
Oceania praised Carter for being an "integral" part of the team, taking the line from strength-to-strength in the EMEA region. His 18-year tenure has seen the EMEA operation grow from just him to a pan-European team and the establishment of the Southampton headquarters.
 
During a transition period, the three EMEA sales leads, Louise Craddock, director of sales UK and Ireland; Maik Schluter, director of business development DACH and Riet Goetschalckx, director of sales CEMEA, will report to Nikki Upshaw, senior vice president global sales.
 
Upshaw said: "It is never easy when an esteemed colleague departs for new horizons. I would like to offer my personal gratitude to Bernie for all he has done and achieved during his time with Oceania Cruises.

"Bernie will be fondly remembered by the Oceania Cruises family, the EMEA travel partner network and many industry friends for his passion, his professionalism and unfettered zeal for the travel industry, specifically the cruise sector which has been his home for more than 30 years."

Carter said: "After 18 hugely rewarding and successful years at Oceania Cruises, which has seen the brand grow significantly, both globally and within the EMEA region, it is with a great deal of pride, and not a little sadness that I am stepping down to allow for the next generation to elevate Oceania Cruises’ standing further still.

"I have been fortunate to work with the best, and I know that Oceania Cruises will reach new heights under the most dynamic leadership team in the industry.  I am also thankful for the loyalty and support my team and I have received from our amazing travel partners and media friends – it really has been an amazing ride."