Luxury cruise line SeaDream Yacht Club has appointed former travel agency owner Walter Littlejohn as its new chief sales officer.

Bringing more than three decades of experience in the cruise industry, including several executive and leaderships roles, Littlejohn will assume the responsibility of overseeing the line’s global sales efforts across all markets globally.

“Walter brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our growing SeaDream team, with a proven track record in driving performance and fostering team success in the luxury segment. I am thrilled to welcome him to the SeaDream family,” said SeaDream’s Andreas Brynestad.

“Walter joins us at a time of growth. His deep knowledge and passion for the cruise industry combined with attention to details, strategic mindset and team spirit is a unique combination that will be crucial in writing the next chapter in the story of SeaDream Yacht Club.”

Littlejohn joins SeaDream after a long-term consulting engagement with Silversea Cruises, where he has been working on a variety of strategic initiatives. Prior to that, Littlejohn spent six years as SVP and managing director of Crystal River Cruises.

“I am truly excited to join SeaDream Yacht Club, a company that for decades has set the standard for modern, casual luxury in the cruise industry,” he said.

“It is a unique product that goes above and beyond any other. At the same time, SeaDream is the best kept secret in the industry, with a tremendous potential for further growth. I am really looking forward to letting more people in on the secret and working closely with travel retail partners to welcome more guests on board.”

Littlejohn appointment latest in string of hires from SeaDream

He began his career in the industry as a summer intern while in college and after graduation joined Carnival Cruise Lines to become regional sales manager. Littlejohn also has strong ties to the travel agent community, having founded his own agency, which he owned for over a decade, after his stint at Carnival. Based in Miami, Littlejohn will report to Brynestad.

The appointment means SeaDream Yacht Club’s president Bob Lepisto, who until recently has overseen the company’s global sales activities, will continue to spearhead SeaDream’s exclusive charter business and continue to report directly to Brynestad.

“Continued growth of our charter business is crucial for our future success. I am thrilled that Bob will take on this important role and utilise his network, knowledge and skills focusing on further improving the way we work with charters,” said Brynestad.

The appointment of Walter Littlejohn is the latest in a series of new senior and key appointments at SeaDream. Recent additions include Mark Schmitt, sales director UK and Ireland, as well as Rune Thomas Ege, senior vice president of communications.