Starting on January 11, he will be responsible for managing the cruise operator’s UK sales team while developing and growing travel trade relations.

Herbert brings with him a wealth of experience of the travel industry having worked for British Airways, Cosmos, Keycamp and Holiday Extras where he was promoted to sales director.

He has also run the UK operation of Holiday Taxis and headed up global travel partnerships for Bicester Village owners Value Retail. Throughout 2015, he worked as a consultant in the travel industry.

Herbert said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and will continue to develop and nurture strong partnerships with the UK travel trade, building on the great work that has already been achieved by Lol Nichols and his team.

“My key objective is to build even stronger relationships with existing partners and to help to deliver new partnership opportunities to support the Fred. Olsen brand and products.”

Nathan Philpot, sales and marketing director, added: "Neil brings with him many years of sales experience within the UK travel trade, and is well-respected within the industry.

“His appointment marks our continued efforts to support our agent and tour operator partners, and cements our commitment to grow Fred Olsen’s UK business through the trade over the coming years.

“Neil’s enthusiasm, knowledge and sales expertise will be a huge asset to Fred. Olsen, and we are all looking forward to working with him. I feel sure that our key partners will, too.”