Mike Rodwell has officially stepped down as managing director of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.

The industry stalwart, who initially joined the Fred Olsen group in 1987, first revealed his intention to retire in November 2018, saying that he would “look back at those 30-plus years with immense pride at all we have achieved together and I know I will miss it”.

He became managing director in 2004, following an eight-and-a-half year stint as commercial director. Rodwell’s replacement, Peter Deer, was most recently Fred Olsen’s commercial director.

Rodwell – who was one of two recipients of the coveted John Honeywell Award at the 2019 Wave Awards – said: “I would like to thank all of the many people whom, perhaps without even realising, have made my long career with Fred Olsen such an enjoyable one.

“Over the years, I have worked in a number of varied roles at Fred Olsen and have seen the cruise lines enterprise grow from humble beginnings, with only one ship, to the hugely successful operation that it is now, with four ocean ships, our new river ship Brabant and a customer base that continues to expand, despite the market being more competitive than ever.”

Fred Olsen chairman Fred. Olsen Jnr said: “Mike has been an integral part of the success of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines for the last 30 years. In his time as managing director he has been key in developing our unique style of cruising, which has placed us in such a strong position for the future growth of the business.

“Having worked very closely with Mike over the years, I will miss his wise counsel and good humour. Everyone at Fred Olsen wishes him the very best for the next stage of his life.”

Deer added: “I am extremely grateful to Mike for his invaluable advice and support over the many years that we have worked together and I wish him an enjoyable and well-deserved retirement.

“I am proud to be taking the helm of our passionate, multi-award-winning cruise line, on the next leg of our historic journey. I am inheriting a first-class team, both on board and ashore, dedicated to providing unforgettable holidays across our fleet of friendlier, smaller ships.”