Wilkinson served in various roles at NCL, based out of Southampton, latterly as regional vice-president of business development for Israel, the Middle East and Africa.

NCL confirmed Wilkinson’s departure to TTG on Thursday morning (12 January). The line said it was grateful to Wilkinson for his contributions and wanted to wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

He is succeeded with immediate effect by Kevin Bubolz, who assumes responsibility for NCL’s sales efforts in Israel, the Middle East and Africa as vice-president and managing director CEMEA.

"We remain committed to our trade partners in Israel, Middle East and Africa and look forward to a successful future together," said an NCL spokesperson.

News of Wilkinson’s departure coincides with a major senior management shake-up at NCL in the US, one that sees Jason Krimmel, who has been with NCL for nearly two decades, take over as vice-president of international sales, reporting to senior vice-president of sakes Todd Hamilton.

In his new role, Krimmel will oversee NCL’s sales, marketing and brand communication efforts outside the US and Canada, and its ambitions to "expand the brand’s international footprint".

Hamilton said Krimmel’s "vast experience, international mindset and exceptional leadership" made him the perfect candidate to strengthen the NCL brand "with international trade and consumers".

He takes up his new role with NCL preparing to welcome an additional five Prima-class ships.