CLIA has announced the appointment of Sascha Gill as vice-president, sustainability.

The move will strengthen the association’s sustainability credentials in Europe, according to a statement.

Gill previously worked as vice-president of nautical operations at Viking and has held the positions at leading hotel brands, namely Marriott, Intercontinental and Hilton.

His cruise experience also includes roles on board with Seabourn and Cunard.

CLIA Europe director general Marie-Caroline Laurent said: “Europe is a global leader with its sustainability ambitions and the future of cruising has sustainability at its core.

“Further strengthening our expertise and capability in Europe will enhance our ability to support our members as they navigate the pathways to achieve our vision of net zero carbon cruising by 2050.”

Cruise leading sustainability innovation

Gill added: “I am delighted to be joining CLIA at such a critical time for the industry.

“The cruise industry has shown its ability to lead environmental innovation within the maritime sector and I’m looking forward to working closely with our members and partners across Europe to help the industry to achieve its ambitions.”

The issue of sustainability is growing in importance, according to research unveiled at last year’s ABTA conference.

In a survey carried out by ABTA in August 2022, a total of 54 per cent of respondents stated that the travel industry should operate in a greener way than it did before the pandemic.