Costa Cruises taps LaDonna Allen to head North America sales

She'll oversee strategic and national accounts, charter and incentives, and field sales, working closely with Costa’s business development managers, and report to Brazil-based Dario Rustico, GM for North and South America.

Deep wealth of experience

'With her deep wealth of experience as a travel advisor and experience in the cruise industry, LaDonna will be an asset as we work with our valuable travel partners to provide great cruise experiences with Costa to American guests,' Rustico said.

Allen has 35 years in travel, most recently as director of travel advisor partnerships at NaviStone, a digital and direct marketing company. Before that she was with Princess Cruises and Cunard for nearly 10 years, holding the roles of national account manager and business development manager, respectively. Her travel career began in 1989, and she spent 18 years as a travel advisor before joining Princess.

'Exciting opportunity'

'Costa's Italian heritage and commitment to responsible innovation in the cruise industry presents an exciting opportunity,' Allen said. 'I look forward to working with the team and our travel partners to introduce more North American travelers to Costa's unique blend of Italian style and hospitality.'

Erik Jaramillo had briefly held the North America head of sales role, culminating 28 years with Costa, before leaving in the spring.