EVP Christian Sauleau has left Silversea

He oversaw marine, technical, hotel, crewing and entertainment, based in the Monaco headquarters.

New structure under Royal Caribbean

Sauleau's exit is believed related to a new organizational structure being crafted subsequent to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. taking a two-thirds stake in the luxury line.

Sauleau spent more than 20 years in total at Silversea, most recently since September 2017, when he returned to the job he held there before decamping to Crystal Cruises for a year as SVP operations and total guest satisfaction.

Sauleau has had an extensive career in luxury cruising. Starting in the mid-1990s, he was instrumental in developing Silversea's reputation for personalized service and hospitality. He has overseen the construction and launch of several newbuilds and last year managed Silversea's first ship lengthening, of Silver Spirit.

Earlier positions were with brands including Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Royal Viking Line.

Innovative partnerships

At past companies Sauleau also oversaw newbuilding and facilitated innovative partnerships and on-board offerings with the likes of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Paris and with the late, legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Other endeavors included a partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society to offer the Ambassadors of the Environment program for young travelers.

Industry sources expect a future cruise line role for the energetic and engaged Sauleau.