CLIA Announces MSC Cruises’ Pierfrancesco Vago as its New Global Chairman

CLIA Global Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, has been appointed to a two-year term as Global Chairman of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

He will assume his position immediately.

Vago served as CEO of MSC Cruises from 2003 to 2013, during which time the company experienced over 800 percent growth. As Executive Chairman, he continues to propel MSC’s growth, cementing its position as one of the largest providers of cruise vacations in the world.

He also served as Chairman of CLIA Europe in 2014.

Vago assumes the position of CLIA Global Chairman following an unprecedented year for the cruise industry and the entire travel sector.

“This is a highly critical juncture for our industry globally. I am honored and grateful for the support and trust of my peers as we work to resume the business of creating unforgettable experiences for our treasured guests, as well as generating economic impact and job opportunities benefitting millions of people worldwide who are touched in so many ways by our industry,” Vago said.

“With over 200 sailings that have taken place since last summer in various markets around the world, all with strict measures in place to promote public health, we have proven that a return to cruising is possible,” he added.

Looking ahead, CLIA and its members remain focused on continuing to advance the resumption of cruise travel around the world as well as building upon its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.

“We will benefit tremendously from Vago’s ideas, insights, and direction as we look to overcome the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and support the restart of the cruise industry internationally and in the United States in particular,” said CLIA President and CEO Kelly Craighead.

Vago succeeds Adam Goldstein, who recently completed his second term as Global Chairman of CLIA.