Both will report directly to chief executive Michael Ungerer and be based in the luxury brand’s headquarters in Geneva.

Stiekema will be responsible for all business-related aspects of the brand and will support the launch of Explora I, bringing more than 30 years’ experience across a range of roles with Costa Cruises, The Walt Disney Company and KLM. 

Vollmann, meanwhile, will be responsible for all human resources related topics at the brand’s headquarters in Geneva and will also be working across markets on HR related topics for all shoreside employees of the brand.

Ungerer said: "As we gear up for the launch of our first vessel, Explora I, later this year and the subsequent launch of our entire fleet of six vessels in a five year window, we need the best team to allow our brand to reach to achieve its true potential in the luxury cruise segment."

Explora I is currently being built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone and will depart for its maiden journey on 17 July from Southampton.