Crystal Cruises has appointed Karl Muhlberger as the company’s new chief operating officer (COO), reporting directly into president and CEO, Tom Wolber.

Based in the company’s Miami headquarters, Muhlberger’s new role will see him oversee facets of Crystal Cruisess fleet, including hotel services, entertainment, food and beverage operations, concessions, technical services, reservations and guest relations for the lines’ existing experiences and those in development.

Wolber said: “I am delighted to welcome Karl to the Crystal Family at a particularly exciting time for our company, as his esteemed career in luxury travel and expertise in launching new ships and programmes for global travellers will be a great asset to our teams ashore and onboard as we navigate new waters.

“His beginnings in the culinary industry helped create a spirit of welcoming hospitality, which is integral to our guests’ experience, while his experience spearheading company and fleet expansions brings an important perspective to Crystal’s position in the market.”

A native of Austria, Muhlberger began his career age 15 as a culinary apprentice in Salzburg and went on to become the first and youngest Austrian chef to receive a Michelin Star and 17 points from the famed Gault & Millau at age 23.

He also held prominent chef positions at other Michelin and Gault & Millau-rated restaurants, including the five-Star Relais & Château Hotels in Belgium and Austria.

From this foundation, he led the culinary departments for Cunard and Seabourn and held executive chef positions aboard Seabourn and Silversea Cruises.

This leadership carried him to Norwegian Cruise Line, first as vice president of food and beverage operations, then to vice president of hotel operations for the company’s 17 vessels.

Muhlberger said: “Crystal represents the pinnacle of luxury in the cruise industry and to join a company so dedicated to this exceptional standard is an honour

“I am happy to lead these teams as we move into the next chapter for Crystal and welcome the challenge of finding ways to enhance what is already the very best in our business.”

For more information on Crystal Cruises, visit crystalcruises.com.